15 Best Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles
Need ideas for weekend getaways from Los Angeles? As a California native who has traveled all around the state, I’ve rounded up the destinations that make the best weekend trips.
LA’s creative, buzzing energy is exciting, but it can also wear you down. When the fast pace starts to feel like too much, it’s time for a couple of restful days away.
Within a few hours' driving distance, you’ve got stunning deserts, charming coastal towns, and spa and wellness destinations that make it easy to unwind and reset.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful desert retreat, an outdoorsy adventure, or a luxurious coastal escape, these are the best weekend getaways from Los Angeles.
Cambria & San Simeon
Cambria is a tiny coastal town with boutique hotels and cozy coffee shops. Both Highway 1 and the Santa Rosa Creek run right through Cambria.
San Simeon is best known as the home of Hearst Castle — a historic estate that offers a variety of guided tours of the gorgeous house and gardens.
These two towns are less than 10 miles away from each other, which is why I’ve grouped them here. They are both cozy, peaceful towns along California’s Central Coast, just north of San Luis Obispo.
This is one of the farthest destinations on this list, but it still comes in under 4 hours (closer to 3.5 hours) of driving.
Visit Cambria and San Simeon for a weekend getaway from Los Angeles if you’re looking for a quiet spot with walking trails along the coast, mom-and-pop shops and restaurants, and charming inns.
Distance from Los Angeles: 230 miles (370 km)
Where To Stay
White Water: Luxurious beachfront hotel, perfect for a restful weekend getaway.
Cambria Beach Lodge: Beachfront lodge with beachy decor, sun terrace, and nearby cycling paths.
The Rigdon House: Three-star hotel in a vibrant teal historic building offering more affordable stays (for the area).
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo (SLO) is a laid-back college town, home to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. It has a delightful downtown full of shops and restaurants, plus a giant weekly farmers’ market.
In addition to Cal Poly, SLO is also home to the world-famous Madonna Inn. The eclectic themed rooms and unique bathrooms in the lobby have made this hotel a weekend getaway destination in and of itself.
San Luis Obispo’s location on the coast gives you access to gorgeous beaches, like Avila Beach and Pirates Cove Beach. The gross-but-cool Bubblegum Alley is a must-visit to leave your mark (a chewed piece of gum) on the wall.
A weekend getaway from Los Angeles can either be a full weekend of exploring San Luis Obispo and its beaches, a romantic stay at the Madonna Inn, or both!
Distance from Los Angeles: 190 miles (305 km)
Where To Stay
Granada Hotel & Bistro: Gorgeous hotel with brick walls, a rooftop terrace, and an on-site bistro in downtown SLO.
Madonna Inn: Quirky luxury hotel with maximalist pink design and uniquely decorated rooms. There’s an on-site café and a steak house, as well as an outdoor pool. This is a bucket-list hotel!
Apple Farm Inn: Charming cottage-style inn near Cal Poly SLO with a pool and daily breakfast.
Paso Robles
Photo by Brenda Lai on Unsplash
Paso Robles is an ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles for wine lovers who want a weekend in the vineyards, but don’t want to travel all the way up the state to visit Napa Valley.
With over 200 wineries, you have plenty of options for wine tastings and vineyard visits. If you’re interested in wine tasting, you can create your own itinerary, follow one of the wine trails, or book a guided tour!
Not a wine drinker? There are still plenty of activities to do that don’t include wine tasting! For an adventure, go horseback riding or start your morning in a hot air balloon.
If a relaxing getaway is more your speed, Paso Robles is home to sulfur hot springs that can be booked for a soak at River Oaks Hot Springs Spa.
Distance from Los Angeles: 215 miles (345 km)
Where To Stay
The Ava Hotel: Luxurious Hilton Curio Collection hotel in downtown Paso Robles with three on-site restaurants (one on the rooftop), gorgeous rooms, and a saltwater pool.
Paso Robles Inn: Historic inn with a pool and jacuzzi, on-site restaurant, and beautiful rooms. Perfect for a couple's getaway!
Oxford Suites: Hotel with sleek suites that have a lovely kitchenette (including a full fridge) at affordable prices.
Solvang
Solvang is one of the most charming towns in California. All the buildings are Danish-style, there are yummy Danish bakeries, tons of Danish restaurants, and so many more fun things.
It’s a magical place to visit year-round, but especially during the holiday season because it has a wonderful small-town feel, a cheerful energy, and countless holiday decorations for the annual Julefest.
I love feeling like I’ve been transported to Denmark while still being in California. In addition to the cute downtown, there’s also a farm nearby where you can feed ostriches and emus.
Although Solvang can be easily done as a day trip from Santa Barbara, it’s also a great spot for a unique and cozy weekend getaway from Los Angeles.
Distance from Los Angeles: 130 miles (209 km)
Where To Stay
Hotel Ynez: Gorgeous 5-star accommodations with a garden, terrace, and outdoor pool outside of downtown Solvang.
Hotel Corque: Boutique hotel in downtown Solvang with a pool and jacuzzi, on-site restaurant, and lovely rooms. Some rooms have views of Solvang Village!
Royal Copenhagen Inn: Danish-themed inn for a quintessential Solvang weekend in the heart of downtown, in the center of the bakeries, shops, and restaurants of Solvang Village.
The Hamlet Inn: Danish-inspired rooms at budget prices in downtown Solvang with bright blue walls and Danish flags in each room.
Los Alamos
Los Alamos is a tiny community that spans just a few square miles in the Santa Ynez Valley wine country. Despite its small size, Los Alamos is a popular destination for wine lovers and foodies.
Bell Street, the main street in Los Alamos, is home to the famous 1880 Union Hotel, a Michelin-starred restaurant (Bell’s), antique shops, and wineries.
The Union Hotel has a colorful history, serving as a stagecoach stop, general store, and lodge in its early days. It has hosted Johnny Cash, Michael Jackson, and Paul McCartney. Today, it’s used as a venue for weddings and other events.
Los Alamos is a quiet, rustic cowboy town with upscale shops and an impressive food scene in the seven-block-long downtown.
This is the place to go for a relaxing weekend getaway spent visiting wine bars without the crowds, indulging at high-end restaurants, and exploring the western roots that founded Los Alamos.
Distance from Los Angeles: 140 miles (225 km)
Where To Stay
Victorian Mansion B&B Inn: Luxurious stay in a historic mansion with uniquely themed rooms and daily breakfast delivered to your room, right in downtown Los Alamos.
SkyView Los Alamos: Mid-century 21 & over motel on a hilltop that has been renovated into a boutique stay with an on-site restaurant, beautiful pool, and an iconic “MOTEL” sign that can be seen from Highway 101.
Alamo Motel: Western-style motel with upscale rooms, on-site tasting room, and cozy courtyard with a firepit in central Los Alamos just steps away from downtown.
Santa Barbara
My favorite place in California is Santa Barbara, and it’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway from Los Angeles. It’s close enough to be an easy drive, but it’s still an idyllic vacation destination.
Growing up, I visited Santa Barbara multiple times a year because it’s where my dad grew up and still has most of his relatives. I also lived there for a few years myself, and now travel back multiple times a year!
Santa Barbara has a warm climate, an abundance of delicious restaurants, and absolutely stunning beaches. It’s beautiful to visit all year-round — it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in California during winter.
Visit Santa Barbara for a laid-back coastal getaway with days spent relaxing at the beach, walking along the waterfront, shopping downtown, and enjoying dinners downtown.
From the Spanish-style buildings to the gorgeous coastline, there is no other place in California that’s more ideal for a weekend getaway from Los Angeles.
Distance from Los Angeles: 95 miles (153 km)
Where To Stay
Palihouse Santa Barbara: Gorgeous hotel in downtown Santa Barbara with a year-round pool, restful guest rooms, and an on-site restaurant and bar.
Harbor View Inn: Beachfront inn near Stearns Wharf with an on-site spa, pool and jacuzzi, and steps away from the beach and coastal bike path.
Casa Riviera: Boutique hotel apartments in the heart of Santa Barbara’s downtown, with chic rooms for a restful stay. This is the ideal spot if you’re staying for a while!
Inn by the Harbor: This beautiful Spanish-style inn is just a short walk from the Santa Barbara Harbor with unique guest rooms on a lush property.
Ojai
Ojai is an eclectic, artsy community tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the coastal towns. There’s a large focus on wellness, with a weekly farmers market and plenty of organic, vegan-friendly eateries.
The slow-paced lifestyle offers a relaxing vibe for visitors looking to unwind on a weekend getaway from the loud and busy Los Angeles. Treat yourself to a spa day at one of the many spas in town or enjoy a leisurely walk in the nature preserve.
Even when there are lots of people walking around downtown, Ojai still feels calm and relaxing. Being in Ojai made me feel at ease, with friendly locals who treat you like a friend, tasty and nourishing meals, and local shops in place of big box stores.
Ojai has small-town charm while still being home to gorgeous art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy restaurants. You could easily fill a whole weekend with just meandering through the shops and enjoying farm-to-table meals.
Be sure to catch “The Pink Moment” at Ojai Meadows Preserve when the Topatopa Mountains glow pink as the sun sets!
Distance from Los Angeles: 80 miles (129 km)
Where To Stay
Su Nido Inn: Rustic suites at a four-star hotel just two blocks from the main street in downtown Ojai. These suites have kitchenettes, living rooms, and terraces for a home-away-from-home feel.
Caravan Outpost: Stay in your very own airstream in a hidden retreat surrounded by palm trees. There’s a lovely outdoor area, and each airstream has a bed, kitchenette, bathroom, and seating area.
The Emerald Iguana Inn: This charming inn is styled with wood accents and warm tones for a comfortable weekend getaway. It’s set back from downtown for a quiet stay, yet is still easily walkable from the shops and restaurants.
Catalina Island
Catalina is the best weekend getaway from Los Angeles if you want to feel completely transported to another destination.
Its coastline is reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast, the walkable streets make it fun to explore, and it’s an island!
You can choose between a more relaxing getaway or an outdoorsy, adventurous weekend trip.
For relaxation, spend your weekend enjoying the views, exploring via golf cart, and staying at one of the boutique inns. For adventure, get outside for snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking!
Spend your weekend getaway in Catalina for all the perks of an island getaway without having to travel far. Daily ferries (about 45 minutes long) depart from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point.
Fun personal fact: Once upon a time, back in the 80s, my parents met on Catalina Island while visiting during college spring break!
Distance from Los Angeles: 25 miles (40 km) to Long Beach + a boat ride
Where To Stay
Hotel Atwater: Stay at a classic Catalina hotel built in 1920 and remodeled in 2019 into an elegant accommodation. It’s just one block up from Avalon Bay in the center of downtown Avalon.
The Edgewater: Just a few blocks over from Hotel Atwater and right on the edge of Avalon Bay, this is a no-frills hotel. It’s perfect for a laid-back getaway just steps from the beach, shops, and restaurants.
Aurora Hotel: Boutique hotel a few blocks up the hill from the waterline with views overlooking the gorgeous bay. The rooms are simple and comfortable, ideal for coming back to after a full day of exploring the island.
Catalina Courtyard Suites: This boutique hotel is down near Avalon Bay with straightforward rooms at affordable prices. It’s perfect for a luxury getaway on a budget for couples, families, or a group of friends.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a stunning beach town in Orange County. It has been featured in many shows, including Laguna Beach, The OC, Selling OC, and Dead to Me.
Between the sparkling coastline, affluent neighborhoods, and ocean-view hotels, Laguna Beach is definitely a luxury destination. There’s a strong art culture here, with many galleries and an annual live art festival.
Many people consider Laguna Beach one of the most beautiful places in California! The beaches and downtown are your quintessential California scenes with palm trees and gorgeous water.
Check out the Victoria Beach Pirate Tower, visit during Pageant of the Masters (July & August), and walk the Laguna Beach Coastal Trail.
Distance from Los Angeles: 50 miles (80 km)
Where To Stay
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa: This is a boutique seaside hotel from the early 1900s with a gorgeous Spanish Colonial design that was restored in 2000. Its proximity to the beach, on-site spa and wellness center, and modern rooms make for a lovely weekend getaway from Los Angeles.
Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach: Stunning four-star hotel with modern, chic decor and gorgeous poolside chaises. It has a daily breakfast, on-site restaurant, and easy beach access for a luxurious coastal getaway.
Costa Art Hotel: Beachside hotel with renovated rooms close to downtown Laguna and the beach. Spend your days at the beach or by the pool for a relaxing weekend.
Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree has stunning rock formations, sprawling desert views, and otherworldly landscapes. The surrounding area offers a variety of activities and attractions, including outdoor art, cool shops, and delicious restaurants.
This desert park is covered in Yucca Trees, affectionately known as Joshua Trees. Though the trees are a main attraction, I think the rock formations are the most beautiful part of the park!
There are tons of hiking trails in Joshua Tree, ranging from easy to strenuous. If you like camping, there are also lovely campgrounds throughout the park. The town outside of Joshua Tree NP, called Twenty-Nine Palms, is also a must-see while you’re in the area.
Arrive in the park early to avoid crowds, wear/pack layers, as temperatures can change drastically throughout the day in the desert, and visit between October and May to avoid the summer heat.
Distance from Los Angeles: 130 miles (209 km)
Where To Stay
Sacred Sands: Enjoy a private weekend getaway in the desert at this guest house with an outdoor bathtub and shower (as well as an indoor bathroom). It’s just a mile from the entrance to Joshua Tree NP for a luxury, outdoorsy getaway.
Estrella Perdida: This three-bed/two-bath home offers a comfortable place to relax with sweeping views of the desert close to Joshua Tree NP. It has everything you need for a peaceful weekend getaway from Los Angeles.
The Castle House Estate: Joshua Tree is known for its unique accommodations, and these castle estates are no exception. The property offers multiple options, including tents, castle-like guard towers, a one-bedroom villa, and three-bedroom villas.
Palm Springs
I think of Palm Springs as the mid-century modern capital of California, with architecture, art, and clothing that make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Palm Springs is the ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles for a fun couple’s getaway, bachelorette trip, or girls' weekend.
The combination of mid-century modern aesthetic, surrounding mountains, and palm tree-lined streets is a stunning sight to see. It’s one of the most eclectic places I’ve visited in California!
Palm Springs is in the desert, just an hour away from Joshua Tree National Park — you can do an easy day trip between the two! It’s home to a vibrant community that embraces mid-century modern style in every aspect of town.
Visit in summer if you like hot temperatures (115ºF+) and zero tourists, visit in spring/fall for more ideal weather, or visit in winter (January) for the annual film festival.
Distance from Los Angeles: 110 miles (177 km)
Where To Stay
Casa Palma Hotel & Bungalows: Mediterranean-style accommodations with white plaster exterior, bright rooms, and a large pool and jacuzzi. Stay here for a luxurious desert getaway surrounded by the picturesque mountains and palm trees.
The Cactai: Adults-only hotel with a terrace, garden, and outdoor pool. The rooms are bright and clean with a charming property in a peaceful neighborhood.
El Noa Noa: Adults-only boutique hotel with an adorable pink-rimmed pool, spacious suites with spa baths and kitchens, and close to downtown. This is a fun stay for couples or friends!
Encinitas
This tiny, popular beach town in North County San Diego, just south of Carlsbad, is the ultimate summer weekend getaway from Los Angeles.
Encinitas is the quintessential California summer destination, with a walkable downtown, amazing restaurants, insanely beautiful beaches, and practically year-round warm Southern California weather.
Some of my favorite weekends were spent in Encinitas when I lived in San Diego. It’s a laid-back beach town with a hippie community, juxtaposed with affluent neighborhoods.
A perfect weekend getaway in Encinitas for me includes indulging in brunch at Better Buzz, spending time at the beach, swimming in the ocean, and walking through the meditation garden.
Though it’s most popular in summer, Encinitas is ideal for a weekend getaway any time of the year!
Distance from Los Angeles: 95 miles (153 km)
Where To Stay
Alila Marea Beach Resort: A Hyatt Resort just north of downtown Encinitas, perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The grand beachfront rooms paired with the infinity pool and sun terrace make this the ultimate spot for an upscale getaway.
Moonlight Beach Motel: Steps away from one of the best beaches in Encinitas, this motel is a mid-range accommodation with ocean views and a garden. Perfectly situated for days spent enjoying the beach and downtown.
Leucadia Beach Inn: Quaint inn north of downtown Encinitas with colorful rooms at affordable prices.
La Jolla
La Jolla is another gorgeous town in North County San Diego, less than 20 miles south of Encinitas. It’s upscale with a sparkling coastline, high-end restaurants, and art galleries.
It’s the perfect combination of luxury, beach, and adventure. In one day, you can go from a bougie brunch to a sweaty hike at Torrey Pines to a romantic sunset at Windansea Beach.
Many of the restaurants in La Jolla are classic coastal California fare with fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes. As for the beaches, they’re some of the prettiest in the state (probably in the country, too)!
Spend your weekend in La Jolla for a luxurious coastal getaway full of gorgeous views and delicious food.
Distance from Los Angeles: 113 miles (181 km)
Where To Stay
The Shoal Hotel La Jolla Beach: Newly renovated boutique hotel from the 1950s, just steps away from the beautiful Windansea Beach and near downtown La Jolla.
Pantai Inn: Boutique inn across the street from the beach with Balinese-inspired suites adorned with hand-carved wood furniture to transport you to the bungalows of Bali.
Empress Hotel La Jolla: European-style boutique hotel with standard rooms, an on-site restaurant, and proximity to the beaches.
San Diego
Downtown San Diego, or San Diego proper, has a much different vibe compared to the North County towns. It’s a big city set on the coast, with skyscrapers, busy streets, and a thriving nightlife.
There’s a much faster-paced lifestyle and far more activities to pack into your itinerary. It has a little bit of everything for a non-stop, fun-filled weekend!
Spend your weekend visiting the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Little Italy, and the famous Old Town. Watch the sunset from Sunset Cliffs, go bar-hopping in the Gaslamp Quarter, and visit the museums.
Don’t expect tons of laid-back beaches here! Downtown San Diego is very much a big city. For beaches, head to Sunset Cliffs, Ocean Beach, or Mission Beach, or drive up to La Jolla or Encinitas.
Distance from Los Angeles: 120 miles (193 km)
Where To Stay
Pendry San Diego: Large hotel in downtown San Diego with a rooftop pool, on-site restaurant and bar, and bright and airy rooms overlooking the city. Perfect for a swanky weekend getaway in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Horton Grand Hotel: For those looking for a cozy getaway with old-world charm, there’s a gas fireplace in each of the charming rooms at this historic boutique hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter. It also has an on-site restaurant with a bar.
La Pensione Hotel: Boutique hotel in Little Italy with European-inspired style, chic accommodations, and proximity to lovely restaurants and cafes. Check out the farmers' market if you’re there on a Sunday!
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Photo by Taisia Karaseva on Unsplash
Head to the redwoods for a weekend in the great outdoors! Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are technically two parks, but they are often visited as one destination since they are next to each other.
Sequoia National Park is the more famous of the two, with the General Sherman Tree (the largest tree in the world, by volume) and the Giant Forest of towering Sequoia trees.
The majority of the park is wilderness, only accessible by foot or horse. You’ll likely want to stick to the front country with roads, easy walking trails, wildlife, and the famous Giant Sequoia trees.
Kings Canyon is larger, but it’s less popular since it doesn’t have the Giant Sequoia trees. That shouldn’t dissuade you from visiting, though. The main valley in Kings Canyon has granite walls, rivers, and meadows, similar to Yosemite.
For an easy way to explore the park without getting out of the car, drive the 50 miles of incredible views on Kings Canyon Scenic Byway!
These parks would be ideal for a long weekend, so you have plenty of time to explore both parks and see all the major sights.
Note: Parts of the parks may be closed in winter and early spring due to snow-caused road closures (and sometimes road damage).
Distance from Los Angeles: 225 miles (362 km)
Where To Stay
Soleil Luna: Charming two-bedroom / two-bathroom villa in Three Rivers, just two miles from the Sequoia NP entrance. Enjoy an outdoorsy getaway from Los Angeles with an outdoor fireplace, garden, and terrace surrounded by nature.
The Darling: Gorgeous Art Deco hotel in downtown Visalia in a former postal annex building. They have a wonderful rooftop restaurant and bar that overlooks the charming downtown. We stayed here and loved it!
The Sequoia Hut!: One-bedroom, fully-equipped tiny home conveniently located near Sequoia NP in Three Rivers. This home was a maid unit in the 1930s, but has since been renovated into a cozy guest house — perfect for a national park weekend trip.
I hope you’ve found some new destinations for weekend getaways from Los Angeles! California has such a wide variety of terrains, you have plenty of options for whatever type of trip you want!
Looking for more weekend getaways in California? Read my guide to Scenic Weekend Trips From San Francisco!
