They include close-to-home destinations like Palm Springs and Southern California wine country, while others will take a couple days to reach like Moab and the Tetons. The great news is that all of our destinations are less than 1000 miles from downtown, so they can be tackled in a couple hours or a couple days.

So start loading up the carand updating those music playlists so you can hit the road and visit one of these amazing locales. How lucky are to live just a road trip away from such a diverse list of destinations?

The Best Road Trips from San Diego

1. Palm Springs

Total Distance from San Diego: 140 miles, 2 hours 20 minutes

Palm Springs is located in the Coachella Valley, an area home to some of the best golf resorts and spas in the country. If you are looking for a short road trip that will feel like you are a world away, this is a great place to visit.

One of my favorite things to do in Palm Springs (besides spending time at the pool) is heading up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to to the Mountain Station which sits at 8,500 foot in elevation on Mount San Jacinto.

Temperatures are typically 30-40 degrees cooler than they are on the valley floor, and there is often snow during the winter months! Where else can you trade sun-kissed palm trees for snow-blanketed white firs in just 10 minutes? 

If you love to hike you should definitely head to nearby Indian Canyons which are lush, palm-filled canyons fed by the shallow aquifer. For a small fee, guests can gain access to these canyons which are great for hikes and picnics. Don’t miss Murray Canyon which has a 3.9-mile trail leading to the Seven Sacred Sisters Waterfall.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Some of my favorite resorts in the area include Omni Rancho Las Palmas, La Quinta Resort & Club, JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa, and the Westin Rancho Mirage.

2. Santa Barbara

Total Distance from San Diego: 218 miles, 4 hours

Every time I visit Santa Barbara I want to drop everything and move there. It is just such an amazing city with classic Mission-style architecture, towering mountains, and gorgeous beaches. No wonder uber-rich celebs like Oprah and Price Harry live there!

Us common folks can still live like royalty when we take a road trip up the coast to spend a couple days in Santa Barbara. Downtown is a great place to explore the city’s Urban Wine Trail which has more than two dozen tasting rooms with wines from the area’s celebrated wine region.

You will also want to spend time strolling down State Street and through Paseo Nuevo, admiring the cute shops along palm-lined streets. Then walk down to the beach and enjoy some time on the pier or head to sand and bask in the sun.

If you love to take pictures, head to the Mission Santa Barbara which is known as the Queen of the Missions and is the inspiration behind the city’s red-roofed architecture. The Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens are another photogenic spot to explore.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: I love the location and gorgeous architecture of the Mar Monte Hotel by Hyatt. East Beach is right across the street! Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is another solid choice with an ideal location and expansive, manicured grounds.

3. Monterey via Highway 1

Total Distance from San Diego: 475 miles, about 8-9 hours

My favorite road trip in all of California is the drive up Highway 1 from Southern California up to Monterey Bay (or vice versa). This are is some of the most, rugged, and scenic landscapes in the entire state.

Make a stop at Malibu’s Point Mugu State Park for gorgeous beaches and 70 miles of hiking trails- the best of both worlds! Take the trail into Sycamore Canyon (which is especially beautiful in the spring) or climb atop Point Mugu and take in the sprawling views.

As you make your way up the coast you will also want to stop in Santa Barbara (see above, Montana De Oro State Park and Morro Bay which are great for California sea otter spotting, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and its marvelous McWay Falls which drops down from a cliff onto the beach, and take in all the magnificent views as you win your way up Highway 1.

As you get closer to Monterey, make time to stop at Point Lobos State Marine Reserve, one of the most gorgeous state parks in the country. It is filled with wildlife basking in the aquamarine waters just off shore and the moody cypress trees that cling to cliff’s edge are truly works of art. Point Lobos is just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, an adorable yet upscale beach town with a walkable downtown filled with cute shops.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Located downtown overlooking Fisherman’s Wharf, Portola Hotel & Spa is a updated resort with a pool, spa, dining and large, coastal-themed rooms.

4. Las Vegas

Total Distance from San Diego: 332 miles, 5 hours 30 minutes

The drive to Las Vegas is probably one of the most popular road trips from San Diego. I know I have taken that journey to Sin City more times than I can count.

Many times people visit Las Vegas to enjoy all that the famed Strip has to offer (casinos, shopping,food, indulgences galore) and that is a great reason to visit, but I want to highlight some of the amazing outdoor offerings this area has to offer because I think that they sometimes fly under the radar.

West of The Strip you will see red-rocked tinged mountains in the distance. What you are looking at is Red Rock National Conservation Area, a wonderful place to hike, climb, and enjoy the scenery.

October through May, you will need a timed reservation to enter the park. You can book this in advance on the website. If you don’t have a reservation, you will need to enter the park before 8am or after 5pm.

Thirteen-mile, one-way scenic drive from the Visitor’s Center with plenty of pull off at trailheads and scenic lookouts. Calico Tanks is a popular trail near the beginning of the loop that is 2.2 miles round trip and leads to a hidden water pocket in the red rocks.

Willow Springs is home to a shaded waterfall in a lush riparian habitat. You can rock climb in the Willow Springs area as well. The hike into Pine Creek Canyon includes Ponderosa pines and towering canyon walls

Valley of Fire State Park is another outdoor destination you won’t want to miss. It is about 45 minutes north of Las Vegas and the scenery rivals that of a national park. Desert Bighorn Sheep are commonly seen inside the park and the Fire Wave is a site you won’t want to miss. Take the White Domes Loop Trail to enjoy diverse desert scenery and a slot canyon on the 1.1-mile loop.

If you visit in the summer, consider spending the day on the water at Lake Mead or taking a rafting day trip just below the Hoover Dam on the mighty Colorado River.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: On the Strip, Mandalay Bay Resort has a pool area that can’t be beat. Off the strip near Red Rocks National Conservation Area, Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa is a solid choice. Be sure to book a room with a canyon view.

5. Grand Canyon

Total Distance from San Diego: 552 miles, 9 hours

If you haven’t been to the Grand Canyon yet- go! It isn’t “just a big hole in the ground” like my Dad told me when I was young- it’s an amazing natural wonder that truly has to be seen to understood.

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the easiest to reach from San Diego. It is also the most popular and open year round, so you can take this road trip any time of year. I always suggest the shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October, but the there really isn’t a bad time to visit.

The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is located at Mather Point, and it is a great place to start your adventure. Grab maps, chat with park rangers (or attend a ranger talk), and check out the Yavpai Geology Museum to get a better understand of the millenia of geology that you are looking at when you stare (or hike) down into the canyon.

Grand Canyon Village is the hub of activity on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Arrive by 9am during peak season if yo want to find a parking spot! This is a nice place to walk a portion of the Rim Trail, pick up the free Grand Canyon Shuttle which stops at several scenic visitas such as Hermits Rest and Pima Point, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area.

The bike hike down into the canyon is via the 10-mile Bright Angel Trail. It descends 4,380 feet into the Grand Canyon until it reaches the Colorado River. Temperatures at the bottom are often 20-30 degrees warmer than at the rim and remember- you have to hike back up that bad boy!

So unless you are fit a prepared, I suggest heading down to the rest house 1.5 miles in. This will lgive you a good idea of what it is like to be surrounded by the canyon walls. There is a toilet and water refill station to use before you start huffing and puffing your way back up. The elevation change is 1,131 feet. There is also a three-mile resthouse, but it will require you to hike 2,000 feet back up.

One other spot you won’t want to miss is Desert View. This is a good place to see the Colorado River snaking its way through the bottom of the canyon. You will also want to check out the Desert View Watchtower which has 360-degree views from the top.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: El Tovar is the most famous Grand Canyon hotel. It was built by the railroads and known for hosting a variety of famous figures such as Bill Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, and Paul McCartney. If you are looking for more budget friendly lodging inside the park, you will want to check out the Kachina Lodge or the Thunderbird Lodge.

6. Sedona

Total Distance from San Diego: 460 miles, 7 hours

I would say that Sedona is one of my happy places. I love the artsy vibe and tremendously beautiful scenery. I have alwayts though that living here would be what it would be a bit like living nside a national park. With all those great hiking trails and incredibly red rock monoliths rising above town, it is no wonder that town has turned into a major tourist destination.

If you want to get out into the desert on four wheels, join a Pink Jeep tour and explore Sedona’s off-road trails with fun names like Diamondback Gulch and Chicken Point. Guides navigate the rough terrain while passengers hang on and learn about the geological history of the area while taking in the views.

You will defintely want to stretch your legs on a hike while in the area. Bell Rock is fun to scramble up and the views from this massive rock formations are especially magical at sunset. Another popular trail, Fay Canyon, winds along the creek through a forested canyon and is more of an easy stroll.

We also love the hike to Boynton Canyon trail to the Subway Cave, Bell Canyon at sunset, taking the Soldier Pass trail past the seven sacred pools to a hidden cave, and to the top of Cathedral Rock via the Baldwin Trailhead so we include some time along lovely Oak Creek.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: We keep coming back to the Hilton Sedona Resort. It is located near Bell Rock and Courthouse Rock, great places to hike and enjoy sunsets. Beyond the scenery, you will enjoy the property’s spacious suites, on-site golf, spa, and refreshing pools.

7. Zion National Park

Total Distance from San Diego: 493 miles, 8 hours, 15 minutes

Zion National Park is one of my favorite places to visit, no matter the time of year. Yes, it can be blazing hot in the summer, but that is when you can conquer the Narrows! And if it snows in the winter, the roads are cleared quickly and the red rocks pop even more against the white drifts atop the peaks.

For most of the year, visitors park at the Zion Visitor Center or in the gateways town of Springdale and then take the free shuttle into Zion Canyon where the bulk of the major attractions are located.

Highlights of Zion Canyon include Emerald Pools (which when combined with the Kayenta Trail make for a great day hike), Weeping Rock, Angels Landing (permit required), and the iconic Zion Narrows.

Biking in Zion Canyon is a great option if you don’t want to deal with the often-crowded park shuttle. There are places in Springdale to rent E-bikes, regular adult bikes, and children’s bikes, or bring your own. We love our foldable Centris ebikes that are perfect for travel.

Beyond hiking and biking, Zion is a great place to try out canyoneering, go tubing, or book a guided backcountry experience.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Cable Mountain Lodge rooms feature full kitchens, large living areas, and plenty of space to spread out. The pool area has magestic views of red rock canyon walls, making it a great place to cool off after a morning of hiking.

8. Temecula Wine Country

Total Distance from San Diego: 60 miles, about an hour

Temecula has really come into its own over the past several years, placing itself firmly on the map of California wine growing regions you don’t want to miss.

Early risers can can book balloon rides whic begin bright and early at dawn, and include beautiful sunrises over the vineyards and mimosa toasts.

If you would rather stick closer to the ground, try a horseback ride instead. Wine Country Trails by Horseback has 90-minute rides out on the hills and through the vineyards of Maurice Car’rie Winery.

There are nearly 50 wineries in the region and it always more fun to go wine tasting when someone else is driving. Temecula Valley Jeep & Wine Tours will drive you to three wineries, give your access to a barrel room, and on a back-road vineyard tour.

If you are planning a weekend getaway for a group, a limo tour is a better option. Temecula Limo Wine Tasting can accommodate groups of up to 14 people. They offer discount tasting tickets for seven different wineries and even have lunch packages.

Animal-based fun can be found at The Alpaca Hacienda where you can feed and pet alpacas and shop for alpaca goods. We booked an experience here for Mother’s Day and it was a hit for my everyone in my animla-loving family.

If you want to try something unique and fun, head into the hills south of town to mine for gems like tourmaline, aquamarine, quartz, and garnet at the Oceanview Mine. My family had a great time hunting for treasure and touring the mine. We all came home with special gems.

Old Town Temecula is a hub of shopping, dining, and lodging, all set in an Old West atmosphere, complete with wooden boardwalks. There are several breweries and bars in the area.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Pont Vineyard Inn is located in the heart of Temecula Wine Country. Rooms are spacious and most have outstanding views of the property’s pond or surrounding vineyards.

The pool is a great place to lounge with a a cocktail and take in the scenery. Three wineries are within walking distance and dozens more are a short, Uber ride away.

9. Yosemite National Park

Total Distance from San Diego: 430 miles, about 8 hours

Yosemite National Park is the most popular park in California for good reason. It is home to towering waterfalls, remarkable granite features like Half Dome and El Capitan, abundant wildlife, vast Sequoia groves, High Sierra splendor, and pristine meadows.

Read about all the animals in Yosemite you might encounter.

But good things do sometimes come with a cost. Yosemite, especially Yosemite Valley, can become a bit of a circus during the height of the summer. There are just too many people for my taste and dealing with the reservation system during peak times is a pain.

Instead, I suggest visiting in late spring when the waterfalls are roaring or early fall before the rain and snow settles in. I been on mid-week October visits to the park when I felt like I had portions of the Yosemite Valley nearly all to myself. I have also been mid-week in mid-May and had zero issues parking.

Beyond the Valley, Yosemite is home to three Sequoia groves and plenty of high Sierra backcountry to explore. You will definitely want to make time to explore Tioga Pass (open summer and early fall only) which has some great trails and cooler weather. Hetch Hetchy is another less-visited-but-still-worthy spot where you can hike near a reservoir to a waterfall.

If you can’t stretch your road trip into a multiday visit. you may want to check out this Yosemite in One Day itinerary which will give a full day to explore the park after you drive up the night before.

There are so many great day hikes in Yosemite National Park that you won’t want to miss. They include trails to gushing waterfalls, verdant green meadows, and crystal clear waterways. Here are the 16 best easy hikes in Yosemite National Park.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: The Yosemite View Lodge in El Portal is the closest lodging to Yosemite Valley that is outside of the park. It is a lovely property right along the Merced River off Highway 140.

The lodge has large rooms with kitchenettes, several pools, a store, a pizzeria, a restaurant, a game room, and a playground. Plus, the Lodge is right on the YARTS bus line so you can take public transport right into the park and skip all the reservation system and parking madness!

10. Death Valley

Total Distance from San Diego: 352 miles, 6 hours 15 minutes

Death Valley is one of my favorite places to escape and enjoy the true vastness of California. It might be known for its summer temps which can surpass 130 degrees, but it is a wonderful place to hike and explore in the winter, early spring, and late fall.

Standing at lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, and seeing 11,331-foot Telescope Peak reflect off the temporary waters of Lake Manly was definitely one of my California travel highlights. And if you visit the park after a good rainfall year, the wildflowers are epic.

While most national parks require you to stay on trail, Death Valley welcomes you to get off trail which makes exploring this enormous park that much more fun! If you are looking for an impressive canyon to hike, check out Sidewinder Canyon, Mosaic Canyon, or Golden Canyon.

You will also make time to roll down the Mesquite Sand Dunes, gaze at the impressive Ubehebe Crater, and watch fighter jets fly overhead near the tiny town of Darwin.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: The Ranch at Death Valley is a cute little resort in the heart of th park which is styled to look like a bit like an Old Western town. There are restaurants, shops, and even a spring fed pool onsite.

11. Redwoods and the North Coast

Total Distance from San Diego: 805 miles, 13 hours 20 minutes

How can the vast deserts of Death Valley and the dense rain forests of the Redwood Coast be in the same state? That is what makes California so amazing! Tucked up in the northwest corner of the state is a region vastly different from San Diego, and home to the tallest trees on planet Earth!

The national park up in this part of the state operates in conjunction with a bunch of state parks which protect the redwoods inlcuding Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

Besides marveling at the tall trees you will want to make time to visit Gold Bluffs Beach where elk are commonly seen hanging out by the sand. Also make time to visit Fern Canyon where lush ferns cover 30-foot canyon walls. Walking through this special place feels like stepping into a scene from Jurassic Park.

Keep in mind that the park service now requires Day Use Permits to access Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon from May 15th – September 15th. Reservations can be made six months in advance.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: There are several neat VRBOs in the area including a vintage farmhouse and homes with waterfront views. The Holiday Inn Express Klamath is highly rated and only eight miles from Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

12. Sacramento

Total Distance from San Diego: 505 miles, 8 hours 20 minutes

I lived in the Sacramento area for over a decade and during that time I discovered that our capital city actually has quite a bit to offer. Most know that Sacramento is rich in Gold Rush history and there are several spots to enjoy if you history is your vibe.

Check out Sutter’s Fort, the State Capitol building, and the California Railroad Museum to learn more about the city’s past. Then hang out and shop in Old Sacramento which is filled with historic buildings, wood plank walkways, and lots of dining options. Don’t miss miss my favorite shop, Evangelines, which is filled with all sorts of interesting treasures.

Old Sacramento was built on top of the original street level, which is now underground. You can take a cool guided tour via the Sacramento History Museum to explore the hidden underground tunnels and learn about the history of the city.

Sacramento is known as “River City”, because two important rivers, the Sacramento and the American, merge here. Bring your bikes and explore the American River Parkway, a 23-mile stretch of parkland along the American River. Or rent a boat and cruise the Sacramento River for the day. You can even board a riverboat and cruise the Sacramento River which is especially beautiful at sunset.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: I love the location of the Embassy Suites Sacramento Riverfront Promenade. It is within walking distance of Old Sacramento and the Sacramento Rivercats’ stadium, an awesome place to catch a minor league baseball game. Bonus- the A’s are also playing here in 2024 while they await their new stadium in Vegas to be built.

13. Mammoth Lakes

Total Distance from San Diego: 400 miles, 7 hours

Mammoth is another one of my California happy places. I just simply adore the Eastern Sierra and all of its granite spires and crystal clear lakes. I think so many people already know Mammoth is an epic ski destination with the longest snow season in the country, but I prefer it more in the summer when things are less busy and hiking is at its peak.

This is another great place to bring an e-bike on your road trip. Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake George, Lake Mamie, and Horseshoe Lake are all connected via a paved bike path.

Speaking of bikes, when the snow melts, mountain bikers flock to Mammoth Mountain Resort to take the gondola up to the 11,000-foot summit and ride some of the 80+ miles worth of trails that traverse the mountain. Those newer to the sport will enjoy the Discovery Zone which has easier trails, a skills park, and a lift that is suitable for beginners.

If flyinf down a hill on a mountain bike isn’t your jam, you can still take the scenic gondola ride up to the top of the mountain and enjoy the views. Or, try a different type of adventure- via ferrata. It is basically a safer, easier version of rock climbing with safety cables and iron rungs to help you along the way. 

You can also take a shuttle from the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center down to Devil’s Postpile National Monument where there is an awesome hike to the national monument as well as 100-foot Rainbow Falls.

In town, there is still plenty of fun to be had, no matter the season. We love grabbing a drink at Mammoth Brewing Company. And there is an axe throwing spot in town which is always a fun way to spend a couple hours.

Devil’s Creek Distillery makes their own bourbons and rye whiskeys and they are open for tasting Friday and Saturday from 3-6pm. Shelter Distilling in Mammoth Village serves up housemade sprits and beers as well as a great food menu.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: We usually rent a VRBO vacation home when we visit Mammoth. There are also so many amazing campgrounds in the area but book early or check for cancellations because those suckers go quick. Twin Lakes is one of our favorites.

14. Lake Tahoe

Total Distance from San Diego: 529 miles, 9 hours 30 minutes

Lake Tahoe is one of those places that could have easily been a national park. With crystal-clear blue waters, sweeping mountain views, and an abundance of wildlife this mountain resort destination is a place you will want to road trip to no matter the season.

In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. In the summer, there’s boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. And, give its location on the California/Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is also a big gambling destination with plenty of nightlife in the casinos.

In South Lake Tahoe you will find a variety of things to do, from skiing at Heavenly Mountain Resort in the winter to spending the day on the lake boating or waterskiing. You will also want to make time to visit Emerald Bay State Park and hike and picnic at lovely Fallen Leaf Lake.

In North Lake Tahoe, Palisades Tahoe, Alpine Meadows, and Northstar all have varied terrain and offer some of the best sking in the country. Summer fun includes floating on the Truckee River or hiking on the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Granlibakken Tahoe is situated on 74 acres in Tahoe City and is filled with onsite activities no matter the season. On the south side of the lake, Camp Richardson is a beloved historic resort just outside of town with a beach, marina, camping, and lodging. 

15. Oregon Coast

Total Distance from San Diego: 900 miles, 15 hours 15 minutes

When I was growing up, we would often take a summer road trip up the California and Oregon Coast on our way to see my aunt in Washington. These trips shaped my love of travel, especially in California and along the scenic West Coast.

One of the first towns you will come to in Oregon is Brookings. It is a quiet town with lovely beaches like Harris Beach State Park which is known for its sandy beach, tide pools, and sea stacks. Its a nice place to have a picnic or fly a kite when the weather is cooperating. Stop by the Hungry Clam for a warming bowl of clam chowder or some tasy fish and chips.

One of my favorite places to hang out along the coast is Gold Beach. This coastal down is located at the mouth of the Rogue River. One of the best things to do here is take a jet boat up the Rogue River and retrace the route that mailboats have for over 100 years. It is also a great way to enjoy the scenery and wildlife of the area.

Another thing I love to do in this part of the country is visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The dunes stretch for nearly 40 miles and are so much fun to roll down, sand board down, and explore. You can even rent a dune buggy and have a blast in the sand at the OHV area.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: The WildSpring Guest Habitat is a B&B that has cabin suites filled with art and antiques on five acres in a private forest filled with 100-ft trees. There is a hot tub overlooking the ocean, the perfect place to warm up after a day of exploring.

16. Spring Training in Phoenix

Total Distance from San Diego: 357 miles, 5 hours 30 minutes

If you are a fan of baseball and haven’t done the road trip from San Diego out to the Phoenix area, what are you waiting for? The weather is typically gorgeous and the atmosphere is casual and fun. This is a great way to see your favorite players (and maybe snag some autographs) up close without breaking the bank.

Each of the stadiums have their own vibe. I personally like the stadium in downtown Scottsdale because I can can enjoy some shopping and dining within walking distance of the ball park. I also like Salt River Fields at Talking Stick which is home to the Colroado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks.

While you are enjoying the beautiful weather accompanying Spring Training you should also take a daytrip out to the Salt River to see the wild horses. I recommend booking a guided kayak tour with Riverbound Sports. On a recent trip I saw dozens of wild horses and two bald eagles. It was incredibly peacful and scenic the entire way.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: I recently stayed at the Andaz Scottsdale Resorts in one of their bungalows and fell in love. The bungalows are so spacious and cozy and the bathroom is to die for. I was ready to move into my massive shower! Plus, the pool is the perfect spot for sunbathing with a cocktail in hand.

17. Tucson

Total Distance from San Diego: 407 miles, 6 hours

We love Phoenix, but I think that Tucson deserves much more love and attention than it receives. The desert mountain landscapes around Tucson are gorgeous and it is an easy road trip along Interstate 8 and 10 to reach this southern Arizona city that is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

My favorite time to visit is spring when the weather is lovely and the wildflowers are dotting the desert landscape. Saguaro National Park showcases the beauty of the Sonoran desert and protects forests filled with saguaro cacti. There are two sides to this park, which is divided by the city of Tucson.

If you begin at Rincon Mountain District in the cool of the morning, keep your eyes out for wildlife on the west side like road runners, jackrabbits, coyotes, Gila monsters, and javelinas. The one-way Bajada Loop Drive is awesome at both sunrise and twiglight.

Hikers will want to head up the Hugh Norris Trail which heads up a mountainside filled with desert flora. The trail is 9.5 miles in length, so take it as far as you would like and then backtrack.

Sabino Canyon is a great place to hike, bike, and enjoy the outdoors. A narrated tram ride takes guest high up into Sabino Canyon. There are nine stops along the way so folks can hop on and off as desired to explore the area. If you visit in the warmer season and want to cool off, take a short hike to Hutch’s Pool and The Crack, swimming holes that can be found at the last tram stop.

One of my most favorite places to visit in Tuscon is the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum which is part zoo, part museum, and part botanical garden- all dedicated to showing off the beauty of the Southwest. 90% of the museum is outdoors, so visit early in the day if you come when it is warmer out.

History and airplane buffs won’t want to miss the Pima Air & Space Museum which houses approximately 400 different aircraft, both outside and in their six indoor hangars.

If you are looking for a spot to take amazing pictures, head to Mission San Xavier del Bac. The architecture has a definite “Hotel California” vibe and is begging to be photographed.

If you arelooking for great places to eat, shop, and enjoy a vibrant arts scence, head to HIstoric Fourth Avenue and El Presidio HIstoric District. Check out El Charro Cafe which opened over 100 years ago and is said to be ldest Mexican restaurant in the U.S. continuously operated by the same family.

LaCo Tucson is another standout with outhwestern, Mexican, and American dishes that can be enjoyed in a courtyard with live music and a relaxed, bohemian vibe. The courtyard is in the Old Town Artisans complex, surrounded by historic buildings and shops filled with art.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: We love the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort which has golf, tennis, hiking, and an awesome pool complex all backing up to desert park land. Trekaroo has a guide highlighting all the best Tuscon resorts for families.

28. Paso Robles

Total Distance from San Diego: 325 miles, 5 hours 40 minutes

Paso Robles is at the heart of California’s Central Coast wine country, and a great place to visit on a road trip from San Diego. There are dozens of wineries to tour in the area, including standouts like JUSTIN Vineywards, Daou Vineyards, and Eberle Winery.

Beyond wine, there is still plenty to enjoy in this town. Field of Light at Sensorio mesmerizing light installation by artist Bruce Munro. This light experience features over 100,000 glowing bulbs which merge art, light, and technology in a marvelous way.

If you love olive oil, head to Pasolivo Olive OIl Ranch and experience a curated olive oil tasting experience. You can also sample their olive oils at their tasting room downtown. Downtown you will also find shopping, more wine tasting, and cute galleries filled with treasures.

If the weather is warm, you may want to head to the coast for a couple hours and check out Hearst Castle in nearby San Simeon. This California landmark belonged to famed publishing tycoon William Randolf Hearst and played host to countless celebrities during the 1920s and 30s. There are several tour options offered of these remarkable grounds fileld with history and beauty.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a Tuscan-inspired spa and resort destination that makes for a romantic and luxurious getaway.

19. Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Total Distance from San Diego: 360 miles, 6 hours 30 minutes

When the masses flock to Yosemite, head to a park a bit closer to home and filled with just as much wow factor. Technically two parks operated in tangent, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks protect the largest trees in the world as well as some of the most splendid Sierra scenery around.

The largest tree on the planet, General Sherman, makes his home in Sequoia National Park. He is certainly worth seeing but so are the many other Sequoia groves within both parks, filled with trees that are thousands of years old.

Some of my other go-to destinaitons inside of Sequoia include the trail to Tokopah Falls or the sweeping views of the Great Western Divide atop Moro Rock.

Meanwhile, in Kings Canyon, you will want to head down the mountain to a valley that gives Yosemite Valley a run for its money. Hike the Zumwalt Meadow loop and float in the Kings River, taking in the tremedous beauty framed by granite peaks.

On your way in or out of the canyon, stop at Boyden Cave. This marble cave is located deep in Kings Canyon and is open for guided tours.

Here are our favorite hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: We love Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia National Park. Rooms are comfortable and contemporary, and it is just a short drive from several of the park’s giant Sequoia groves

20. Park City

Total Distance from San Diego: 752 miles, 12 hours

Park City is home to the best snow on earth, making it an ideal winter road trip destination for all you winter sports enthusiasts out there. But it is also an awesome summer desintation as well, thanks to its temperate climate and plethora of outdoorsy things to do.

Park City was home to the 2002 Winter Olympics and there are plenty of related attractions to enjoy. The Utah Olympic Park offers tours where guides share the scoop about bobsledding and skeleton racing and a shuttle ride to the top of the nordic ski jumps is sure to make you gasp and ask yourself- how do they jump from that?

The Utah Olympic Park is also only one of two places in the US where you can experience a bobsled ride for yourself.

There are three ski resorts in Park City – Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley, and Woodward Park City. Deer Valley is a ski-only resort but the other two resorts offer plenty to snowboarders, including terrain parks.

In the summer, Park City Mountain Resort hosts a variety of attractions including a mountain coaster, alpine slide, hiking, mountain biking, zip line, and plenty of musical entertainment.

When the weather warms up, head to the water! The Provo and Weber Rivers are popular spots to take rented kayaks and tubes down the river. There are several local outfitters that will lead guided trips as well like Utah Mountain Adventures.

Nearly every Sunday from June through September visitors head into downtown to experience the Park Silly Sunday Market. This open-air market on Main Street is filled with food and shopping vendors, as well as games and activities for kids.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: There are lots of condos and cabins in Park City with plentyof space to spread out. Newpark Hotel is a modern property with deluxe suites that sleep 4-8. These suites have a fully stocked kitchenette and private hot tubs. 

21. Jackson, WY and Grand Teton National Park

Total Distance from San Diego: 997 miles, 16 hours 20 minutes

If you haven’t been to the Tetons yet, stop what you are doing and start planning! These mountains are the most jaw-dropping in the country, and the views will leave you breathless.

Jackson is the gateway city to the Tetons, and a destination in its own right. Jackson’s town square is famous for its elk antler arches that beg to be photographed, and there are great shops, restaurants, and art galleries surrounding the area.

In the winter, attractions like skiing at Snow King Mountain Resort or Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, dog sledding, and taking a sleigh ride through the National Elk Wildlife Refuge are true highlights.

In the summer, wildlife spotting is a prime attraction and there are plenty of pros that will take you into Grand Teton National Park to spot a variety of big critters in the wild, including bears, moose, bison, and elk.

Beyond wildlife spotting, Grand Teton National Park is a wonderful place to hike, boat, and relax. Take the Jenny Lake ferry shuttle service across the lake to experience memorable desintations like Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, and scenic points beyond deep in Cascade Canyon.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and head to String Lake, one of the most scenic and clear lakes you will ever see. You can also take a lovely walk along the lakeshore from String Lake to Leigh Lake.

If you want to take a boat out onto the water yourself, head to the north end of the park and rent a boat from Coulter Bay to enjoy the views and sunshine on Jackson Lake.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: It is tough to beat the Four Seasons Resort at Jackson Hole. It offers ski and out access during the winter, suites that sleep up 12, and the serrvice and quality that the brand is known for. If camping is more your vibe, snag a site at one of the park’s campgrounds like Gros Ventre or Jenny Lake.

22. Santa Fe

Total Distance from San Diego: 832 miles, 13 hours

This past fall, I left my heart in Santa Fe. I knew I would enjoy the art galleries and the food scene, but the numerous outdoor adventures and distinct culture truly exceeded my expectations. With a mild climate and tons of sunshine, Santa Fe is a place that speaks to the artisan and the adventurer in all of us.

One spot you won’t want to miss is Meow Wolf, a weirdly wonderful and interactive art installation fileld with room after room to explore. It originated as an art collective in 2008, founded by a group of artists, musicians, and writers that came together to create unconventional and collaborative art projects.

The artists use lots of different forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, video projections, and sound installation to create a fantastical and otherworldly atmosphere. You truly have to see it to believe it.

For a more traditional art experience, head to Santa Fe’s famed Canyon Road, home to some of the area’s most famed galleries. A vairety sculpture and art with varying styles from Southwest to contemporary modern can be seen from the road, as well as inside the many studios.

Another grat place to enjoy and purchase art is along the portal of the Palace of the Governors (1610), which also happens to be the the oldest continuously occupied structure in the United States. This space is home to the Native American Vendors Program where visitors can purchase one-of-a-kind handmade wares made and sold directly by Native American artists.  

There are several national parks nearly Santa Fe. My favorite is Bandelier National Monument where youcan climb up tall ladders into ancient cliff dwellings. Take the Alcove House Trail from the Main Loop. It is only about a 1/2 mile before you reach the base of the alcove which is 140 feet above the floor of Frijoles Canyon. You can climb into it via four long, wooden ladders and several stone stairs. 

Pecos National Historical Park is another cool place to visit. It includes the Glorieta Pass Battlefield, a site of a significant Civil War battle (yes, in New Mexico!). It is also a great place to take a ranger-led tour to learn about the signifance of the site and climb down into kivas which are underground rooms used by Puebloans for religious ceremonies and social gatherings.

Of course, you can’t talk about Santa Fe without talking about the food! New Mexican food is some of the best on the planet and I could live on the red and green chile sauce that comes with nearly everything. The options are nearly endless and you have to work hard to have a bad meal.

Grab a Frito Pite from the Five and Dime at the edge of the Plaza, sip on the most decadant chocoate at Kakawa Chocolate House, scarf down blue corn enchiladas at The Shed, choose from over 100 different margaritas at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen, and go wine tasting at Gruet’s tasting room while you are in town.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: The Inn of the Governors  is a tremendous value, given its central location downtown, amazing full service breakfast, and lovely accomodations.

The complimentary sherry by a roaring fire at hospitality hour every evening was the perfect warmup after spending a few hours in the chilly weather during our most recent visit over Thanksgiving.

23. Moab

Total Distance from San Diego: 787 miles, 12 hours 30 minutes

If you love outdoor adventure, look no further than Moab. Its slick rock trails are wildly popular with mountain bikers, and the town serves as the perfect home base for exploring two national parks, Canyonlands and Arches National Park.

Moab a great spot to take a Jeep tour or rent an ATV for the day. The Colorado River winds through the region as well and is a great place to go rafting or boating with a variety of trips to suit all thrill levels.

The most popular attraction in Moab is Arches National Park, home to 2,000 natural arches and several great hikes. I highly suggest you rise early when you visit this park to take advantage of the magical sunrises, cooler weather, and to avoid crowds.

Highlights of this national park include the scenic, 18-mile drive and fun hikes to famed arches like Landscape Arch, the longest arch in the world, and Delicate Arch, the most famous arch on the planet.

Arches National Park’s sister park is Canyonlands National Park, located 30 miles outside of Moab. There are three districts that make up Canyonlands, but Islands in the Sky is the most popular and easiest to visit as a day trip. This portion of the park sits on a mesa 1500 feet above the wild expanses below, with views for days.

Mesa Arch is a “must visit”. It on the edge of the mesa and acts as a window to sprawling canyon views that go on for miles. It is especially beautiful at sunrise.

Before heading back into town from Canyonlands, stop at Deadhorse Point State park which is known for its impressive view of a gooseneck bend in the Colorado River 2,000 feet below.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: Under Canvas Moab is glamping at its finest. It allows you to enjoy a camping experience without having to sleep on the ground or pack all the gear.

24. San Francisco

Total Distance from San Diego: 500 miles, 8 hours 20 minutes

San Francisco has long been a favorite road trip destination. The city is certainly one of the most beautiful around, and Its distinctive neighborhoods, cultural diversity, and endless options for fun and food keep us coming back again and again.

This city is is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the cable cars. It also has some of the best museums in the state, including including the de Young Museum, the Exploratorium, California Academy of Sciences, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

If you want to enjoy the natural beauty of the city, head to Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, or the Marin Headlands across the Golden Gate and enjoy sweeping views of the skyline from the bluffs.

Grab a carnitas super burrito from La Taqueria in the Mission District, dim sum at Wing Sing in Chinatown, incredible Burmese food at Burma Superstar in the Richmond District, and pizza worth writing home about at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in Little Italy. Top it off with some sourdough from Boudin and a sundae at Ghiradelli’s.

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: The Stanyan Park Hotel in the Haigh-Ashbury borders Golden Gate Park and has plenty of luxurious Victorian charm and budget-friendly rates. 

25. Sonoma County

Total Distance from San Diego: 562 miles, 9 hours 16 minutes

Sonoma County is a geat destination for wine lovers, nature lovers, and coastal escapes. There are over 30 tasting rooms located in downtown Healdsburg, as well as many wineries in the surrounding countryside, including The Francis Ford Coppola Winery and Movie Museum just north of town in Geyserville.

Bodega Bay is located along the rugged Sonoma Coast, a scenic and relaxing destination. This is a place to enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and kayaking in the harbor. Bodega Bay is known for its fresh seafood, including Dungeness crab and oysters, which are harvested locally and can be enjoyed at many of the town’s restaurants.

If you are looking for a unique adventure, head to Safari West, an African wildlife safari destination home to 800 animals on 400 acres near Santa Rosa. It made our list of the best zoos in California.

While you can visit Safari West as part of a day tour, the best way to enjoy this incredible place is by staying overnight in one of their 30 luxury safari tents or cottages. Imagine listening to the sounds of wildlife in the evenings (ear plugs are provided if they get too noisy).

Where to stay on your road trip from San Diego: If you aren’t up for staying the night at Safari West, we love Wildhaven Sonoma which has heated glamping tents steps fom the Russian River.

From the desert to the coast, there is just so much to see and do in Southern California. Here are 25 of my favorite day trips from San Diego, along with travel times and tips on what to do once you arrive.

Fun Day Trips from San Diego

1. Anza Borrego State Park

Distance from San Diego: 86 miles, about 2 hours

How lucky are you to be just two hours away from the largest state park in the United States? Anza-Borrego is located in eastern San Diego County and protects 600,000 acres of diverse desert landscapes ranging in elevation from sea level to over 6,000 feet.

Start your day early to make the most of your visit. Begin your day at the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center which is located in Borrego Springs and built into a hillside. It is a great place to learn about the flora and fauna within the park, watch the park video, and get trail conditions and recommendations.

Start your exploration with a hike on the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, a three-mile round-trip hike that leads to an oasis of California fan palms inside of a gorge. You will also want to make time to explore one of the park’s unique slot canyons on the Slot Canyon Trail or the Wind Caves Trail.

For lunch, I suggest you pack a picnic and enjoy a meal outdoors surrounded by nature in one of the park’s designated picnic areas. Pack plenty of water as well because facilities are limited in this expansive park.

The biggest attraction at this park is the spring wildflower bloom. Some years are certainly more impressive than others, but during heavy rain years sections of the desert are dotted with all sorts of wildflowers. Wildflowers are usually in bloom from February to April, which is the best time to take this day trip from San Diego.

End your day with one of Anza-Borrego’s memorable desert sunsets. Popular spots to enjoy the change of light and color include Fonts Point and the Yaqui Well Trail. If you stay until evening on a day with less moonlight, you will be rewarded with a night sky filled with stars.

Keep in mind that Anza Borrego is extremely hot in the summer months, and the most pleasant visits happen in the late fall, winter, and early spring.

Anza Borrego made our list of the best state parks in California. See what other special spots made the list!

Spend the night: Borrego Springs has several different lodging options worthy of a stay, including Borrego Springs Resort and Spa.

2. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from San Diego: 170 miles, about 3 hours

With its towering boulders, diverse desert life, and iconic namesake trees, Joshua Tree National Park is a special place. This national park is home to two different desert environments, the Mojave high desert and the Colorado low desert.

The best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is the spring when wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is mild. If you visit during the winter snow is possible, but most days are chilly and dry. I would avoid a summer day trip due to the soaring temperatures which make hiking dangerous.

Check out our epic Joshua Tree National Park day trip itinerary.

We love heading to Joshua Tree to enjoy rock climbing and bouldering, and there are plenty of fun options for novices and experts alike. It is also a great place to hike, with 800 miles of trails within the park boundaries.

The trail to Barker Dam is a 1.1-mile loop trail with plenty of boulders to climb on, prehistoric rock art, and even the occasional appearance by desert bighorn sheep.

If you want more of a challenge, hike the 1.5-mile trail to the top of Ryan Mountain. It gains 1,000 feet in elevation in that short distance, but the 360-degree views of the park from the 5,461′ summit are worth the effort.

Additional highlights of this park include Skull Rock, the Keys Ranch tour, bouldering in Hidden Valley, and the sprawling vistas at Keys View. Joshua Tree is another great place to enjoy the night sky without the city lights pollution.

Stay the night: There is no lodging inside of Joshua Tree National Park, except for campsites. Luckily, there are some great VRBOs right outside of the park.

3. Laguna Beach

Distance from San Diego: 80 miles, about 90 minutes

Just up the coast from San Diego is Laguna Beach, an artsy beach city known for its galleries, restaurants, wilderness parks, and beaches.

The hub of Laguna Beach is the downtown area right across the street from Main Beach. There are lots of shops, galleries, and restaurants to enjoy in this area. We like eating at Nick’s Laguna Beach and Carmelita’s. Finney’s Crafthouse and Brewery has become one of my favorites lately. It is across the street from the beach and the menu is varied and tasty.

From downtown you can hop on the Laguna Beach Trolley and head to one of the area beaches or up into Laguna Canyon to check out the Sawdust Art Festival and Pageant of the Masters which are popular summer events.

During Pageant of the Masters locals dress up as characters from famed works of art and pose to recreate the paintings and sculptures. During the winter holiday season the Sawdust Festival also hosts a Winter Fantasy art festival.

Laguna’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the state. Some of my favorites include Treasure Island Beach and Crescent Bay Beach, but it is hard to go wrong at any beach in this town.

If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss the trails at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (I love the Serrano Ridge/Little Sycamore Canyon loop) or the Morro Canyon portions of Crystal Cove State Park. Both are exceptionally beautiful in the spring when the hillsides are lush and sprinkled with wildflowers.

If you want to get out on the water, consider taking a whale watching cruise out of nearby Dana Point. December through March is prime gray whale watching season and Dana Wharf offers half price whale watching on Tuesdays!

Stay the night: Surf and Sand Resort is a beachfront resort with a great location. You are so close to the Pacific that the staff offers ear plugs to guests if they don’t want to listen to the relaxing sound of waves crashing!

4. Palomar Mountain State Park

Distance from San Diego: 62 miles, 1 hour and 45 minutes

A day trip to Palomar Mountain State Park from San Diego is an easy way to escape into a tranquil mountain environment. The park is nearly 2000 acres in size and while a big hunk of the park is coniferous forest, there are also wetlands and meadows.

The park is home to the famous Palomar Observatory, one of the world’s most famous astronomical research facilities. This is a great place to go star viewing, especially when the skies are clear and there is a meteor shower. You may even get a chance to use the impressive Hale Telescope!

Your first stop should be the park’s visitor center where you can grab maps, learn about the area’s natural history, and get the most up-to-date details on trail conditions. The park has three trail loops that are fun to explore. The French Valley Loop is mostly level, making it an easy three miles. Scotts Cabin Loop is only four miles and gains about 600 feet along the way, but it is mostly forest so it isn’t anything too hard.

If you want the hike with the best view, check out the Boucher Loop which climbs up to the park’s high point, 5,400′. It is three miles and leads you to the Boucher Fire Lookout which has sprawling views. Volunteers working the fire tower on the weekends often offer free tours.

There is no food for sale in the park, so pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the park’s picnic sites.

Stay the night: Since this park is so great for night sky viewing, you may want to consider camping inside the state park. Reservations are highly recommended.

5. Mission Trails Regional Park

Distance from San Diego: 12 miles, 30 minutes

Mission Trails Regional Park is a large urban park that is perfect for an easy day trip filled with lots of nature and hiking.

The park is home to Cowles Mountain, the highest point in the city of San Diego. The trail is only three miles round trip, but it does gain 912 feet in elevation, so it’s a great workout! Be on the lookout for mountain bikers as you hike since they do share the trail and can be little speed demons coming down the hill. You will be rewarded with great views of downtown and even Mexico!

If you are looking for something easier but still scenic, check out the Lake Murray Trail. It is close to six miles out and back, but you can make it as long or as short as you would like. The trail follows the shoreline of the Lake Murray Reservoir and is great for biking, walking your dogs, or even pushing the little ones in a stroller. If you want, you can also rent boats and take them out on the lake!

The park does offer guided nature walks which begin at the visitor center every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:30am. They also have special birding walks and wildlife tracking walks to take part in on a regular basis.

6. Julian

Distance from San Diego: 60 miles, 90 minutes

Julian is a cute little mountain town in the Cuyamaca Mountains just east of San Diego. It had its very own little gold rush in the late 1800s which helped shape the town’s historic vibe. Two of the area mines, Eagle and High Peak Mines, offer tours.

The best time to take a daytrip to Julian is in the fall. Julian is also well known for its apple orchards, and you can pick your own apples straight from the trees. Of course, you can enjoy apple pie, apple butter, and apple cider at the local cafes any time of year. Stop in the Julian Pie Company on Main Street for delicious pies in flavors like Apple Mountain Berry and Caramel Apple.

Visit Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures on the weekend if experiences like archery, tomahawk throwing, and paintball slingshotting sound like your idea of fun. Experiences must be booked in advance and include the opportunity to say hi to the farm’s barn animals and reptiles. They also have a Lilac Festival in the spring.

Animal lovers will certainly want to visit the California Wolf Center, a nonprofit dedicated to returning wild wolves to their natural habitat through captive breeding that is open for public tours Friday through Sunday. They have been successful at breeding critically endangered Mexican gray wolves.

Stay the night: Julian Gold Rush Inn is a historic landmark hotel that was built in the 1890s. Rooms are tastefully decorated with vintage decor and feature touches like claw-foot tubs and cast-iron fireplaces.

7. Temecula

Distance from San Diego: 60 miles, 90 minutes

Temecula is a growing wine region northeast of San Diego that has become one of Southern California’s most popular day trip destinations.

Wine tasting is the main draw, thanks to around 50 wineries in the area. If nobody in your group wants to be designated driver, I suggest booking Temecula Valley Jeep & Wine Tours which will take you to three award-winning wineries, into a barrel room, and on a back-road vineyard tour. If your group is large, book Temecula Limo Wine Tasting which can accommodate groups of up to 14 people.

There is more than just wine to enjoy in Temecula! Early risers will want to watch the sunrise from above on a hot air balloon ride above the vineyards. Animal lovers will want to visit the Alpaca Hacienda where you can feed and pet alpacas as well as Sugarplum Farm which is home to zebras, camels, and miniature horses, as well as incredible chocolates.

If you are ready to shop and eat? Old Town Temecula is a hub of shopping, dining, and lodging, all set in an Old West atmosphere, complete with wooden boardwalks. There are several breweries and bars in the area as well.

Stay the night: Pont Vineyard Inn is located in the heart of Temecula Wine Country. Rooms are spacious and most have outstanding views of the property’s pond or surrounding vineyards.

8. Carlsbad

Distance from San Diego: 34 miles, 45 minutes

Located in North County, Carlsbad is a destination that can turn into several different day trips depending on your interests.

Families with young children will want to make the pilgrimage to LEGOLAND, and celebrate all things bricktacular. In addition to the amusement park, the LEGOLAND complex also has an aquarium and waterpark, so locals may even want to consider a season pass.

Carlsbad is also a shopping destination. The Carlsbad Premium Outlets are definitely worthy of a day trip, and the new food hall housed in the city’s iconic Windmill building just off of Interstate 5 has lots of options for foodies.`Spend a couple hours shopping and eating, and then head to Carlsbad State Beach to watch the sunset.

Spring is bloom season and the Carlsbad Flower Fields are the perfect place to spend an April afternoon. Dress cute and get those “doin’ it for the ‘gram” shots or just take time to stop and smell the vibrantly colored flowers. Make time to pick strawberries to take home at the nearby U-pick field.

Stay the night: The Omni La Costa Resort and Spa is an amazing staycation destination with golf, amazing spa, and a fantastic pool complex that includes a tranquil adult pool as well as a pool with water slides.

9. Newport Beach

Distance from San Diego: 90 miles, 1 hour 45 minutes

Newport Beach is an awesome day trip destination because there are so many great ways to enjoy the area.

If you have children, take the tiny (but fun!) car ferry from Balboa Island to the Balboa Peninsula where the kids can enjoy the old fashioned rides and arcade at the Balboa Fun Zone. Then grab a frozen banana (of Arrested Development fame) and head to the pier. There is a great beach with a playground.

If you have plant lovers in your group you will definitely want to head to Roger’s Gardens, my favorite nursery in all of Southern California. The garden has a tremendous selection of indoor and outdoor plants, a wonderful variety of gifts, and a nice restaurant. I especially love visiting during the spring to pick from a huge variety of tomato plants, October for their impressive Halloween decor displays, and December for Christmas decor and gifts that will blow you away.

Newport Beach is a fun place to get out on the water as well. Whether you rent a Duffy boat and wander around Newport Bay, take a kayak into Newport’s Back Bay which is filled with wildlife, or head out on a whale watching trip, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery.

Stay the night: Go the swanky route and book a stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill. Take a dip in their circular pool as the sun sets and then enjoy a memorable meal at Pelican Grill & Bar. You will also want to make time for a spa treatment at this five-star resort.

10. San Clemente

Distance from San Diego: 60 miles, 70 minutes

San Clemente is one of my favorite day trip locations in Southern California. I love that they have a long walking path right along the beach that is pet friendly, and the city’s pier is my favorite in all of Orange County.

The Outlets at San Clemente have great stores and incredible ocean views. These are definitely my favorite outlets to shop for that very reason. Plus, they never seem to be as jam packed with people as some of the others. If you prefer more boutique-style shopping, head down to Avenida del Mar.

If you love microbrews, San Clemente has three small breweries you will want to check out. Lost Winds has great beer, frequent food truck offerings, and trivia Tuesdays. They also have some killer hard seltzers. Los Molinos serves up tasty weekend brunch options, taco Tuesday, and microbrews. Artifex has a tasting room on Del Mar downtown or you can visit their brewery in the Talega portion of town.

Of course, San Clemente is a great place to have a beach day as well. Head down to San Onofre to surf some of the best waves in SoCal.

Stay the night: Enjoy the best climate in the world and rent a beach house so you can relax and breathe in that salty air.

11. Crystal Cove State Park

Distance from San Diego: 83 miles, 1 hour 45 minutes

Crystal Cove State Park is a throwback to the Orange County of days gone by. Large cliffs block the views of luxury homes on the hillsides up above, allowing you to enjoy the beach without a reminder you are in a large metropolitan area.

Crystal Cove is home to a historic district which is filled with restored bungalows that were built to house crew during movie filming from the 1920s-1940s. 

These cottages are reasonably priced and right on the beach, so that means they are also very popular. Cottage reservations are released daily, six months in advance. Be on the website at 8am if you want to snag one. They just released a new set of restored cottages right on the sand!

While the beach can be busy right next to the historic district and The Beachcomber restaurant, you will be rewarded with privacy if you walk a couple hundred yards down the beach. Keep your eyes out for dolphins which I often spot while taking in the views here. There are also tide pools to explore.

Crystal Cove also has several great hiking trails which lead back into the hills and canyons on the other side of Pacific Coast Highway. The No Dogs/Moro Canyon loop (~ 3 miles) is one of my favorites. It begins with a climb up the rolling hills with ocean views and ends with an easy stroll through beautiful Moro Canyon. From there, you can celebrate with some beach time.

12. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Distance from San Diego: 32 miles, 45 minutes

I make the day trip to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park at least a couple times a year. This park is much different than the fabulous San Diego Zoo and is definitely worth the time of any animal lover. The park is very spread out which also makes it a great place to get those steps in while you enjoy the wildlife.

This park is most well known for its Africa tram tour where visitors can see African animals like giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and antelope walking about among each other in the massive, 240-acre enclosure. There are also cart safaris you can take into the Asia and Africa enclosures to get even close to the wildlife in a more intimate experience.

Some of my favorite habitats in the park are the Gorilla Forest, Tiger Trail, and Australian walkabout where you can enter the enclosure that kangaroos and wallabies call home. It is so neat to have them walk right past you! Also make sure to visit Condor Ridge. The San Diego Safari Park was instrumental in helping save the California Condor from extinction.

13. Palm Desert

Distance from San Diego: 122 miles, 2 1/2 hours

Palm Desert is located in the Coachella Valley near Palm Springs. It is home to the Living Desert, a great zoo that specializes in showcasing desert-dwelling wildlife from around the world. They have special experiences where you can feed giraffes or rhinos which are great ways to make life-long memories.

There are over great golf courses in Palm Desert and dozens more in the surrounding communities including Desert Willow Golf Resort which was named one of the best places to play by Golf Digest. Many offer reduced twilight rates to make the links more affordable.

If you love to hike you should definitely head to nearby Indian Canyons which are lush, palm-filled canyons fed by the shallow aquifer. For a small fee, guests can gain access to these canyons which are great for hikes and picnics. Don’t miss Murray Canyon which has a 3.9-mile trail leading to the Seven Sacred Sisters Waterfall.

Stay the night: There are so many amazing resorts in the Palm Desert that it is hard to choose but  the waterpark at Omni Rancho Las Palmas will be sure to keep smiles on the faces of kids if you happen to be traveling as a family.

14. Long Beach

Distance from San Diego: 113 miles, 2 1/2 hours

Over the last couple decades, Long Beach has gone from being gritty and a bit sketchy to being filled with hip, revitalized neighborhoods and world-class attractions.

Head down to the waterfront and visit Aquarium of the Pacific, the largest aquarium in Southern California. Book a behind-the-scenes tour to get up close and personal with seals, sea lions, penguins, and sea otters.

You can also book whale and dolphin watching cruises as well as harbor tours via the Aquarium. The waters off Long Beach are great places to see whales, especially in the winter.

Across the street from the Aquarium is The Pike, an outdoor outlet mall filled with brand name shops and dining. Shoreline Village is also nearby and features fun little shops in Easter egg-colored buildings.

Long Beach’s most iconic attraction is the Queen Mary. Today, the Queen Mary is a hotel and attraction, but in its heyday, it made 1001 transatlantic crossings.

I love Long Beach’s Naples neighborhood which is a trendy area filled with shops, restaurants, and beautiful homes lining the area’s canals and waterways. It is a great place to kayak, paddleboard, or take a chartered gondola ride at sunset.

Stay Here: The Hyatt Regency Long Beach is located in the heart of Long beach’s tourist center and is within walking distance of Shoreline Village, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and The Pike.

15. Salton Sea

Distance from San Diego: 117 miles, 2 1/2 hours

The Salton Sea is the largest lake in California, but it has only been around since 1905. During that year, the Colorado River flooded through farm irrigation channels in the Imperial Valley, forming the lake. 

The Salton Sea quickly became a big tourist destination. It had a yacht club, golf course, marina, and was a popular destination for Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra. The area boomed and 30,000 homes were built near the lake.

Sadly, in the 1980’s agricultural runoff from the Imperial Valley brought too much salt and pesticides into the lake and massive fish die off occurred. The towns along the lake turned to ghost towns.

Today, the Salton Sea is now 50% saltier than the ocean and shrinking at a rate of about 3% per year but visitors enjoy bird watching, fishing for tilapia, and checking out the remnants of the thriving tourist towns that used to be. Make time to visit Bombay Beach, one of the communities along the Salton Sea. It has a surreal and somewhat eerie atmosphere due to the lake’s unique history.

While in the area you will also want to check out Salvation Mountain. It is the brainchild of Leonard Knight, a self-described “visionary American folk artist’. He built a mountain east of the Salton Sea out of adobe bricks mixed with straw and sprinkled in with old tires and car parts.

The mountain is covered with several murals with Bible verses and other Christian sayings which were created with thousands of gallons of paint, much of it donated. It is truly a sight to see.

16. San Juan Capistrano

Distance from San Diego: 66 miles, 80 minutes

San Juan Capistrano is an Orange County city filled with history. It is home to the oldest residential neighborhood in California and the beloved “Jewel of the Missions”, Mission San Juan Capistrano.

I think the best way to get to SJC is to take the train. The San Juan Capistrano Depot is a historic train station that now houses a museum. It drops you off in the heart of town, steps from the mission and Los Rios Historic District.

The small downtown area has unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. You’ll find a mix of boutique stores, souvenir shops, and local eateries in a setting that reflects the region’s Spanish heritage.

Mission San Juan Capistrano was founded in 1776 and is one of California’s oldest missions. Explore the beautiful gardens, chapels, and historical exhibits. There are often demonstrations on how to make adobe and other hands-on activities on weekends. Don’t miss the iconic Serra Chapel and the ruins of the Great Stone Church.

My favorite place to eat in SJC is the Ramos House Cafe in the Los Rios Historic District. It is a very cute little house and patio that has been transformed to one of the best brunch destinations in Southern California. If you have little kids you will want to visit to Zoomars Petting Zoo. It’s a family-friendly attraction where children feed various farm animals and go for pony rides.

Stay the night: The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection is the nicest hotel in town. It is located near the mission and a short walk from the train station so there is no need to bring a car.

17. Coronado Island

Distance from San Diego: 6 miles, 15 minutes

Not all day trips need to be long drives. Some are only a bridge or quick ferry ride away. Coronado Island is one of my favorite places to spend the day in San Diego County because Coronado Beach is picture-perfect and I always find myself relaxed when I spend the day here.

I am not a big fan of the Coronado Bridge, so I tend to take the ferry from over by the USS Midway across the bay to the island. Coronado is a bike-friendly place and it is fun to rent bicycles or surreys to explore the island at your own pace. The flat terrain and scenic views make for a casual ride.

Before hitting up the beach, head to Coronado Brewing Company to enjoy a casual lunch with some tasty brews. Then find a spot on the beach in the shadow of the famed Hotel Del Coronado. If you aren’t a “sit on the beach” type, rent a kayak, jetski, or SUP and get out on the bay!

Before you head back across the bay to the big city, consider enjoying dinner and drinks on the patio at Peohe’s Tropical. The view of the city lights from downtown are magical and Happy Hour runs from 3-5:30pm Monday through Friday, perfect for a winter sunset with some wine and a poke stack. Stay for dinner and enjoy seafood or steak worth writing home about.

18. Disneyland Resort

Distance from San Diego: 94 miles, 2 hours 15 minutes

How lucky are we to have Disneyland in our own backyard? People travel from all over the globe to visit the Happiest Place on Earth but we are only a day trip away!

These days Disneyland has definitely gone up in price but thankfully, they do offer Southern California discounts from time to time. Jump on those deals and then head up I5 to enjoy a day filled with rides, shows, and lots of tasty treats.

My favorite times of year to visit the park are at the beginning of the Halloween season (when crowds are lower), the first week in December to enjoy all that Disney holiday magic, and during the annual Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival in early spring. Their Sip and Savor Pass is a great way to sample a bunch of great food for a reasonable price.

Stay the night: The Hyatt Regency offers incredible value and comfortable accommodations for families of all sizes. Their 700 sq. ft. VIP Family Suite includes a master bedroom, bunk beds, two full-sized bathrooms, three 42 inch LCD TVs, and a parlor room with a pull out sleeper sofa. 

19. Whale Watching

Distance from San Diego: varies. Most tours originate out of Mission Bay.

San Diego is home to some of the best whale watching around because it is on the annual migration route that 20,000 gray whales take to Baja in order to give birth. The best time to see the gray whales is December through April.

From June through September you can go whale watching and see the largest creature on the planet- the blue whale- off the coast of San Diego. You can also see fin whales, humpback whales, minke whales, harbor seals, sea lions, lots of dolphins, and even the occasional orca pod.

Legacy Whale Watching has half price deals on weekdays in the winter which also happens to be prime whale watching season. It is hard to pass up a three-hour whale watching trip for $29.

20. Knotts Berry Farm

Distance from San Diego: 100 miles, 2 hours 20 minutes

For over 100 years, Knotts Berry Farm has been a Southern California mainstay. It began as an actual farm where the Knott family sold their berries, pies, and jams at a roadside stand. Add in some famous fried chicken, a replica ghost town, and a bunch of rides, and suddenly, the Knott family had a theme park!

The best times to visit Knott’s Berry Farm are the Boysenberry Festival, when amazing food stands filled with creative culinary treats pop up throughout the park, and Knott’s Scary Farm, when the park is transformed into a thrilling evening entertainment zone filled with haunted houses, rides, and plenty of opportunities to scare yourself silly.

21. Olvera Street

Distance from San Diego: 128 miles, 2 1/2 hours

I had memories of taking a field trip to Olvera Street in middle school but recently, my family decided to take a day trip to this wonderful spot in the heart of Los Angeles that is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city.

The heart of Olvera Street is its bustling marketplace filled with shops and stalls selling Mexican folk art, clothing, jewelry, pottery, and souvenirs. There are also several restaurants in the area, including Cielito Lindo which sells some of the best taquitos you will find anywhere. I wish I could dip something in their amazing avocado sauce every single day!

Make time to visit the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument which includes the Avila Adobe, built in the early 1800s. There are also street performers, mariachi musicians, fresas vendors, and lots of seasonal events to enjoy.

Skip the traffic and take the train from downtown San Diego to Union Station which is a short walk from Olvera Street.

Stay the night: The Westin Bonaventure is a good spot downtown. It has a six-story atrium and a nice steakhouse with a view.

22. Miracle Mile Museums

Distance from San Diego: 132 miles, 2 hours 45 minutes

The Miracle Mile of Los Angeles is home to some of the best museums in the region. The most famous of these museums is probably the La Brea Tar Pits Museum which houses the many Ice Age found in the immediate area.

Thousands of prehistoric fossils have been discovered in natural asphalt deposits and you can still walk about Hancock Park and see the asphalt seeping from the ground which is pretty cool to witness.

The museum has fossils of saber-toothed cats, mammoths, dire wolves, and other Ice Age animals found inside the pits. Visitors can also watch scientists working on fossils in the on-site laboratory. They are still making discoveries every day.

Across Hancock Park you will find the LA County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the new Academy of Motion Pictures Museum. LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States and has famous works from renowned artists like Rembrandt, Picasso, Monet, and Warhol.

The Academy of Motion Pictures Museum has exhibitions on cinema history, filmmaking techniques, and lots of pieces of iconic movie memorabilia. The exhibitions and memorabilia due change, making it a museum that you can visit every few years to experience something new. Make sure to head up to the glass-domed Dolby Family Terrace which has incredible views of the Hollywood Sign and the surrounding area.

If you have a car enthusiast in your family you will definitely want to head to the Peterson Automotive Museum. The museum has a large collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and automotive memorabilia. They even have some concept cars which will blow your mind as well as famous vehicles from movies and television.

Stay the night: Palihouse West Hollywood is on the old W Hotel property site and only 1.5 miles away. It has an indoor/outdoor pool lounge and super cute rooms with a chill-yet-sophisticated vibe.

23. Pechanga Resort and Casino

Distance from San Diego: 60 miles, 75 minutes

Why drive all the way to Vegas when you can take a day trip to Pechanga! This resort in Temecula has one the largest gaming floors on the West Coast, with thousands of slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat,and more. Plus, it is a smoke-free atmosphere which is a major win in my book.

Even if you aren’t much of a gambler then you might want to come to Pechanga for some entertainment. They house a variety of acts throughout the year featuring everything from Smokey Robinson to Jerry Seinfeld to Dancing with the Stars Live. There are several restaurants at the resort including a steakhouse, sushi, Italian, and Thai.

Pechanga is also a great place to enjoy a spa day. They have a full service spa menu featuring several types of massage, lots of facial treatments, body scrubs, and manicures and pedicures.

Stay the night: Pechanga has a full service resort hotel right on property, so it is easy to turn your visit into a weekend of fun.

24. Oasis Camel Dairy

Distance from San Diego: 45 miles, 1 hour 15 minutes

Eastern San Diego County is home to some really neat animal attractions. One of them is the Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona.

On select Saturdays from 12-2pm you can watch the bird and camel show, feed camels and mini sheep, take a camel ride, and shop for camel milk products like artisan soaps, lotions, chocolate and even camel milk to drink! If Saturday doesn’t work for you, you can book a private tour for your small group.

25. JAB Canid Education and Conservation Center

Distance from San Diego: 50 miles, 1 hour 15 minutes

Have you ever wanted to hug a fox? My family did that and more on our tour of the JAB Canid Education and Conservation Center in Santa Ysabel. The center is home to foxes, Arctic foxes, New Guinea singing dogs, coyotes, jackals, and their absolutely lovable goofball-of-a-wolf, Lucan.

This is the only place in the US to house domesticated Russian foxes. They also have some fur farm rescues in their kit of over 20 foxes. I highly recommend paying for the private experience where you will meet and greet the animals and have the chance to take pictures with them. Plus, you know that your financial donation for this experience is going to a great cause.