12 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles in Under 2 Hours

Los Angeles has a little bit of everything. Beaches, culture, nightlife—life in La-La-Land is exciting, no question. However, it’s also undeniably a hustle city. Between traffic, packed schedules, and the constant buzz, it’s easy to forget just how much is waiting beyond the city limits. The good news? You don’t have to go too far for a reset. A day trip from Los Angeles awaits! 

When traffic starts to feel endless and your calendar fills up a little too quickly, the best move is to get out of the city altogether. Some of Southern California’s most scenic coastal towns, mountain escapes, and desert landscapes are all within a couple of hours from Los Angeles, making it easy to plan a quick getaway without the stress of a full, multi-day vacation. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Los Angeles, these 12 spots offer the perfect mix of scenery, food, and local charm: no overnight bag required. 

Beach & Coastal Day Trips from Los Angeles 

It’s hard not to feel refreshed with the ocean breeze against your skin. The following destinations make the most out of their stunning vistas and friendly environments, making them the perfect getaways when you’re looking for some fun under the California sun. 

1. Malibu 

With mild weather yearlong, white sandy beaches, and a relaxed, luxury lifestyle, there’s little not to love about Malibu. Malibu is one of the easiest and most iconic day trips from Los Angeles. Luxurious Malibu stretches along the Pacific Coast with dozens of miles of scenic shoreline, making it one of the most beautiful coastal drives in California. It’s less of a traditional “downtown” destination and more about experiencing the landscape around you. 

• What to do: Spend time at Zuma Beach or simply cruise along the coastline with a few scenic stops along the way.  

• What to eat: Casual seafood, beachside cafés, and grab-and-go options are perfect for a laid-back day. If you’re wanting to enjoy Malibu’s notorious luxury, don’t be afraid to splurge on some fine dining options for a dinner to remember. 

• What to know: Traffic can build quickly, especially on weekends. An early start makes a big difference!  

2. Laguna Beach  

Laguna Beach blends coastal beauty with a distinctly artistic spirit, making it the perfect destination for your day trip from Los Angeles. Somehow, Laguna Beach feels more intimate and curated than your typical California beach town, and it’s all thanks to its unique geography. Tucked along the cliffs of Orange County, Laguna Beach is known for hidden coves, walkable streets, and a long-standing creative community.  

• What to do: Explore tide pools, walk along scenic coastal paths, and pop into local galleries scattered throughout the downtown area. The beaches here feel a bit more tucked away, which adds to the charm.  

• What to eat: Fresh seafood, lighter California fare, and plenty of options that lean both balanced and seasonal. 

• What to know: Parking is limited near the main beaches, so arriving early or using local transit options like trolleys can make your visit smoother. 

3. Santa Barbara 

Want a getaway without the long haul? Look no further than sunny and historic Santa Barbara for a day trip from Los Angeles. Cradled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, the city is known for its red-tile roofs, white stucco buildings, and palm-lined streets that makes your road trip feel like an international getaway.  

• What to do: Spend time strolling State Street Promenade shopping and people-watching, then head toward the waterfront for a walk along Stearns Wharf. If you’re into wine, the Funk Zone district is packed with tasting rooms, art spaces, and converted warehouses that give the area creative, laid-back energy.  

• What to eat: Fresh seafood, fish tacos, and locally produced wines dominate here, with plenty of spots leaning into seasonal, coastal ingredients. 

• What to know: It’s one of the most popular day trips from Los Angeles, so weekends can feel busy. Arrive early or during weekdays to make the most of it. 

Charming Cities & Cultural Spots Just a Day Trip from Los Angeles Away 

Sometimes, a change in urban is all you need. If you’re craving walkability, history, and a change of pace, these cities will offer something different from LA’s typical sprawl. 

4. Pasadena 

The best thing about a day trip from Los Angeles to Pasadena is that you can get there in less than half an hour.  Just a short drive from central LA, Pasadena offers a refreshing change of pace with its historic charm and walkable streets. Known for its beautifully preserved architecture and tree-lined neighborhoods, it feels more relaxed and intentional than much of the surrounding cities.  

• What to do: Wander through Old Pasadena for boutiques and cafés, explore local museums, or simply take in the Craftsman-style homes that define the area. It’s the kind of place where a slow afternoon walk turns into the main event.  

• What to eat: Brunch is big here, along with bakeries, coffee shops, and a wide range of globally inspired dining options. 

• What to know: Its proximity makes it one of the easiest day trips from Los Angeles. This day trip is ideal when you want a quick reset without committing to a long drive. 

5. Long Beach 

Long Beach offers a blend of waterfront views and urban energy, creating a day trip from Los Angeles that can feel both active and relaxed. Its revitalized downtown and strong arts scene gives Long Beach a personality all its own.  

• What to do: Walk or bike along the shoreline, explore local shops and galleries, or spend time around the marina and waterfront areas. If you’re traveling with little ones, you might want to stop by El Dorado Frontier.  

• What to eat: A diverse mix of casual seafood, international cuisine, and laid-back dining options near the water. 

• What to know: It’s more city-like than other coastal towns, so expect a mix of beach and urban experiences. 

6. Anaheim 

If you’re looking for a day trip from Los Angeles with non-stop fun, you’ll want to head to Anaheim.  As the second-largest city in Orange County, Anaheim is home to world-class attractions that will have you making memories until past sunset.  

• What to do: What not to do in Anaheim? Hold back. Anaheim is home to the Anaheim Convention Center, two professional sports teams, and plenty of breweries, beaches, and foodie adventures. For the kids and kids-at-heart, Anaheim is famously the home of Disneyland Resort.  

• What to eat: International cuisine thrives in Anaheim. Head to the Packing District or the Platinum Triangle for the best eats in the city.  

• What to know: There’s no such thing as a low-crowd day in Anaheim. It actually follows rental trends, since Anaheim was one of the most competitive rental markets in 2025. The best times to visit for lighter crowds and milder weather are January through early March, and then September through early October.   

Nature & Outdoor-Centric Day Trips from Los Angeles 

To fall in love with a big city again, sometimes, you need to get away from skylines and noise. These day trips from Los Angeles are perfect for when you need fresh air, scenic views, and a break from city life.  

7. Big Bear Lake 

Big Bear Lake is one of the most versatile outdoor escapes within two hours of Los Angeles. Surrounded by forest and centered around a scenic alpine lake, it offers a completely different landscape from the city—one that shifts with the seasons. 

• What to do: In warmer months, rent a kayak, hike nearby trails, or relax along the shoreline. During winter, the area transforms into a hub for skiing and snowboarding. The village area adds a bit of charm with shops and casual spots to explore between activities.  

• What to eat: Expect hearty, comforting meals. Think of homey eats like burgers, mountain-style breakfasts, and cozy après-ski options in colder months. 

• What to know: The drive includes winding mountain roads, so plan ahead and check weather conditions before heading out. 

8. Idyllwild 

Idyllwild is a small town with an artsy edge—perfect for a day trip from Los Angeles. It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle with horizons full of pine forests and rugged terrain underneath. It feels intentionally low-key with a backdrop of nature’s beauty, creativity, and the art of slowing down.  

• What to do: Hike scenic trails, explore small art galleries, and take in the crisp mountain air. The town itself is compact and easy to explore on foot.  

• What to eat: Rustic comfort food at small cafés and locally owned spots that match the town’s relaxed vibe. 

• What to know: It’s quieter and less developed than other mountain destinations, which is part of its appeal. 

9. Angeles National Forest  

Angeles National Forest is one of the most accessible ways to step into nature during a day trip from Los Angeles, offering a dramatic shift in scenery within an hour’s drive. Within minutes, the city will give way to winding roads, oak trees, and expansive mountain views. 

• What to do: Choose from a range of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and picnic areas. It’s ideal for a quick reset or a spontaneous outdoor day.  

• What to eat: This will be more of a pack-your-own-food kind of trip. Bring snacks or a picnic to enjoy along the way. 

• What to know: Cell service can be limited in some areas. Make sure to pack other communications devices and have a safety plan in place to enjoy this off-the-grid trip.  

Deserts & Unique Landscapes for the Perfect Day Trip from Los Angeles 

Trade ocean breezes and skylines for wide-open skies and dramatic scenery. Just a couple of hours from Los Angeles, the landscape can shift into sun-soaked desert terrain, where rugged rock formations, expansive views, and slower-paced towns create a completely different kind of escape. These spots offer a refreshing change of pace and a reminder of just how diverse Southern California can be. 

10. Palm Springs  

If you want to be completely transported during your day trip from Los Angeles, Palm Springs has just what you need. Palm Springs trades LA’s constant motion for open space, sunshine, and stunning mid-century designs. Surrounded by desert landscapes and dramatic mountain drops, it’s equal parts easygoing as it is visually striking.  

• What to do: Spend the day poolside, explore design-forward neighborhoods, or take the aerial tramway up into the mountains for cooler temperatures and panoramic views. Downtown offers a mix of boutiques, galleries, and walkable streets perfect for a leisurely afternoon.  

• What to eat: Brunch culture thrives in Palm Springs, along with modern American fare and retro-inspired dining that nods to the city’s vintage roots and aesthetics. 

• What to know: Desert temperatures can rise quickly, especially in late spring and summer. Plan outdoor activities earlier in the day and dress accordingly. Also, don’t forget a strong SPF! 

11.  Joshua Tree National Park 

Joshua Tree stands out because of its otherworldly landscape. Rugged rock formations and twisted desert trees create a setting like no other nearby. Its landscape is thanks to the fact that Joshua Tree National Park stands where two distinct desert ecosystems come together, the Mojave and the Colorado. 

• What to do: Hike through the national park, explore rock formations, and stay for sunset if you can. It’s one of the highlights of the experience!  

• What to eat: Either pack your own food or enjoy the homecooked vibes of the eateries outside the park.  

• What to know: Joshua Tree is as off-grid as it gets. There are no places to get food, gas, water, lodging, and other services within the park, and few areas in the park have cell coverage. Keep this in mind and make note of surrounding necessities.  

12. Antelope Valley/Lancaster 

Antelope Valley offers wide-open landscapes and a quieter, more rural side of Southern California. It’s best known for its seasonal wildflower blooms, which can transform the area into a vibrant stretch of color in the spring. 

• What to do: Visit the poppy reserve during bloom season, take in scenic desert views, or explore the area’s open spaces.  

• What to eat: Casual, local dining options and classic roadside stops. 

• What to know: Timing is everything. Wildflower blooms can depend on rainfall, so check conditions before you go. 

Ready for Your Next Move? Apartments.com Is Here for You. 

Whether a little distance made the heart grow fonder during your day trips from Los Angeles or you’re feeling inspired to explore somewhere new, a change of scenery can turn into something permanent. When you’re ready to make a move, whether it’s across town or somewhere entirely new, Apartments.com makes it easy to explore listings, compare neighborhoods, and find a space that makes every day feel like a getaway.