Summer is here and there’s no better time to take a day trip in Southern California. With warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, SoCal offers delightful excursions you can experience in a day – and most of these destinations are just a short ride away from major cities like Los Angeles.
Whether you’re craving mountain views, desert magic, or brisk ocean breezes, these SoCal escapes are the perfect getaway from the daily grind. Take your special someone, your besties, or the whole family! Southern California has something for everyone.
At Xpress Shuttles, we’ve transported passengers almost everywhere across the region. SoCal has so many amazing places that it’s hard to narrow them down! But we’ve done our best to select the best day trips in Southern California.
SoCal Travel Tips
Before we dive into the best day trips in Southern California, make sure you prepare! Even if you’re only going out of town for a day, preparing for your getaway can make your experience that much smoother and more enjoyable. We recommend:
- Get an Early Start: Summer temperatures in SoCal can be very hot, so an early start will help you feel more refreshed and energized.
- Dress in Layers: Even though it’s summertime, ocean breezes and mountain tops can get slightly chilly – especially if you’re out after dark. Bring a light sweater or jacket so you stay comfortable. The right clothing, such as UPF shirts, can also help protect you from the sun.
- Sun Protection: Speaking of the sun, in Southern California it’s no joke! Always pack sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and light layers to protect your skin when you’re taking day trips in Southern California.
- Stay Hydrated: Hot summer days in SoCal can drain you fast, so don’t forget to pack a water bottle and stay hydrated – especially if you’re visiting a local winery and consuming alcohol, which can cause dehydration, or traveling out to the desert.
- Book a Ride: If you’re looking for the benefits of a road trip without the stress, consider booking a private ride from Xpress Shuttles. Our drivers know SoCal like the back of their hand and love to help you experience the best that our region has to offer.
Best Day Trip Getaways in Southern California
No matter which direction you head this summer, these day trips in Southern California offer a little bit of everything – coastline, culture, adventure, and escape. Sometimes the best vacation is the one you can do in a single day.
1. Ojai
Nestled in a scenic valley about 90 minutes northwest of Los Angeles, Ojai is a favorite for travelers looking to unwind. The town is known for its artsy vibe, boutique shops, and peaceful trails. Spend the day perusing the local galleries, enjoying a farm-to-table lunch, or catching Ojai’s famous sunset when the surrounding mountains glow.
If you time your trip with the Sunday farmers market, you’ll also get a taste of the region’s best local produce, handmade goods, and live music.
2. Solvang
Solvang offers a whimsical mix of old-world Danish charm and laid-back Central Coast appeal. Cobblestone streets, windmills, and bakeries selling aebleskivers (Danish pancakes) make it feel like a storybook village.
While you’re there, take a detour to nearby Los Olivos or Santa Ynez for wine tasting and rolling vineyard views. It’s the kind of place where you can go from pastry hopping to sipping rosé under an olive tree – all in one afternoon.
3. Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a coastal gem that offers one of the most iconic day trips in Southern California. Laguna’s beaches are postcard-perfect, with coves, tide pools, and soft sand. The town itself is just as appealing, full of art galleries, cafes, and ocean-view walking paths.
If you visit in July or August, don’t miss the Festival of Arts or the one-of-a-kind Pageant of the Masters, where classic paintings are brought to life on stage.
4. Palm Springs
Yes, Palm Springs gets hot in the summer, but this desert town is so cool that it’s worth the heat! Go early, hydrate, and make lunch plans somewhere air-conditioned.
You’ll find vintage shops, mid-century modern architecture, and more than a few resort pools perfect for day passes. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mount San Jacinto for panoramic views and cooler air, or explore the quirky art installations at Desert X.
5. Temecula
Temecula blends the best of SoCal’s wine scene with historic small-town character. Start in Old Town, where rustic storefronts and antique shops line the wooden sidewalks, then head to the wineries in the surrounding hills. Most wineries offer tastings, tours, and picnic-friendly patios.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. It’s one of the most unforgettable ways to see the valley and makes Temecula a wonderful day trip for romance.
6. Joshua Tree
If you’re up for a desert escape, Joshua Tree offers some of the most unique landscapes in the state.
Spend the day hiking in the National Park among boulder formations, visiting the Cholla Cactus Garden, or snapping photos of the park’s namesake trees. It’s also a fantastic place to stargaze if you decide to stretch your day trip into the evening.
Just be sure to check the weather and pack plenty of water. Like Palm Springs, Joshua Tree can get hot even early in the day. The National Park can also see heavy traffic, even during the hot summer, so book a private ride to avoid the hassle of driving and parking.
7. Catalina Island
Catalina feels like a tropical vacation, just an hour away by ferry. Once you arrive in Avalon, rent a golf cart or bike and explore the island’s scenic overlooks, charming shops, and turquoise coves. Activities like snorkeling, ziplining, or simply lounging with a cocktail or an ice cream cone make it a fun escape for all kinds of travelers!
Ferries depart from ports in Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, or Newport Beach – just be sure to book tickets ahead during peak season.
8. Idyllwild
Tucked away into the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is a woodsy retreat that’s perfect when you need a break from the SoCal summer heat. It’s a cozy town filled with pine-scented air, quirky boutiques, and plenty of hiking trails.
Enjoy a laid-back lunch on a shaded patio or browse the local galleries and music shops. The ride up offers sweeping views of the desert below, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Travel in Style with Xpress Shuttles
From beach towns and mountain retreats to desert landscapes and wine country charm, these day trips in Southern California offer something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or just break out of your usual routine, each destination is an easy way to make summer memories without straying too far from home.
Sometimes the best adventures really are just a day away. So pick a spot, plan your route, and enjoy the ride – with transportation from Xpress Shuttles!