Looking for the best road trips near Los Angeles? You’ll be spoilt for choice because several epic overland adventures await just a short drive away from the City of Angels. You won’t have to venture too far to escape the hubbub of the city, either.
Escape to cool places in SoCal this weekend with these road trips – they’re all under 2 hours drive from the largest city in The Golden State and each is ideal for a weekend escape. From blissful beach towns to magnificent mountain retreats and soothing wellness spas, here are our top picks for places to explore by road, all within easy reach of Los Angeles.
Huntington Beach
Stunning coastal views and consistently good surf
Huntington Beach is the ideal mini road trip when time is of the essence – this laidback Orange County town is less than an hour away from downtown Los Angeles. If you’re not in a rush, take the scenic route down the Pacific Highway to enjoy sweeping views of Seal Beach and Sunset Beach.
Laguna Beach
Spectacular scenery and a cool community
Laguna Beach is a bodacious bohemian destination complete with chic cafes and glamorous galleries. Aside from the thriving arts and dining scene, the town is well-known for its ensemble of beautiful beaches and coves.
Balboa Island
A hip, urbanized island by Newport Beach
Balboa Island is a beautiful harborside community about an hour south of central Los Angeles. The upmarket district comprises 3 artificial islands you can access via the Marine Avenue Bridge. Alternately, get there from the scenic Balboa Peninsula by sailing over the bay on the vintage Balboa Island Automobile Ferry.
Glen Ivy Hot Springs
A wellness spa built on a natural mineral spring
Soothing Glen Ivy Hot Springs is the ultimate escape for stressed-out city dwellers in need of serious rest and relaxation. Tucked away beneath the majestic Santa Ana Range, these natural mineral springs have been attracting day-trippers for over 150 years. The day spa resides an hour’s drive from Los Angeles and is particularly popular among glamorous socialites who want to take a road trip out of the city.
