Los Angeles, USA-day-trips

Discover the Best Day Trips in Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles is a vibrant city with endless options for entertainment, culture, and adventure. But sometimes, it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the surrounding areas. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, LA has plenty of amazing day trip destinations that are easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some of the best day trips in Los Angeles:

1. Santa Monica Pier and Beach

  • Distance from LA: 15 miles (24 km), 30-40 minutes by car
  • What to do: Ride the historic Ferris wheel, play games at the trapezoid-shaped amusement park, and enjoy the beach and ocean views.

2. Malibu Coast

  • Distance from LA: 30 miles (48 km), 45-60 minutes by car
  • What to do: Hike in Solstice Canyon, visit the Getty Villa, and enjoy the stunning coastline and beaches like Surfrider Beach and Zuma Beach.

3. Pasadena and The Huntington Library

  • Distance from LA: 11 miles (18 km), 20-30 minutes by car
  • What to do: Visit the Norton Simon Museum, stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens at The Huntington Library, and explore Old Town Pasadena.

4. Laguna Beach

  • Distance from LA: 55 miles (89 km), 1 hour 15 minutes by car
  • What to do: Enjoy the picturesque coastline, visit the Laguna Art Museum, and explore the charming downtown area with its many shops and restaurants.

5. Catalina Island

  • Distance from LA: 22 miles (35 km) by ferry, 1 hour journey
  • What to do: Take a scenic hike, visit the Catalina Island Museum, and enjoy water activities like snorkeling or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Avalon Bay.

6. Ojai Valley

  • Distance from LA: 70 miles (113 km), 1 hour 30 minutes by car
  • What to do: Hike in Los Padres National Forest, visit the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, and explore the charming downtown area with its many shops and restaurants.

7. Venice Beach and Marina del Rey

  • Distance from LA: 15 miles (24 km), 30-40 minutes by car
  • What to do: Bike or skate along the beachfront bike path, visit the Venice Canals, and enjoy the marina views and seafood restaurants in Marina del Rey.

8. San Fernando Valley Wine Country

  • Distance from LA: 25 miles (40 km), 45-60 minutes by car
  • What to do: Visit wineries like San Antonio Winery and Rosenthal Wine Bar, and enjoy a wine tasting tour in the scenic San Fernando Valley.

These day trips offer a variety of experiences, from beach relaxation to cultural exploration, and are easily accessible from Los Angeles. So pack a picnic lunch, fill up your gas tank, and get ready to discover the best of LA’s surrounding areas!