Escape LA: Day Trips You Can Drive to in Under 2.5 Hours

Pioneertown

For the Oregon Trail survivors

Location: 1.5 hours W of Downtown LA

Just a lasso’s distance away from Joshua Tree you’ll find a movie set used by all the classic Westerns, now an actual incorporated town known as Pioneertown. Stop in for boutique shopping, rootin’ tootin’ dining, and - most importantly - a chance to kiss the former mayor, a goat named Sam. 

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Salton Sea

For the desert people

Location: 2.5 hours SE of Downtown LA

Actually a shrinking saltwater lake in the middle of the desert, Salton Sea is a unique destination that’s home to a wildlife refuge, “mud volcanoes,” and Bombay Beach - an abandoned resort once a favorite among classic Hollywood stars. Nearby you’ll find Salvation Mountain, which is part Bible verses, part mural, part folk art. A visit to this area may give you the creeps - to shake it off just stop by the International Banana Museum on your way home.

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Carlsbad

For the influencers

Location: 1.5 hours S of Downtown LA

Even if Legoland is not for you, Carlsbad has plenty to offer! Every spring (until May 11 this year), the iconic flower fields are open to visit - including a butterfly encounter, sweet pea maze, and wagon ride - but don’t fret if you miss it! Carlsbad offers beautiful beaches, several golf courses, nature trails, and water sports. It’s also home to 3 unique museums: Gemological Institute of America, Museum of Making Music, and (neighboring) Craftsmanship Museum. 

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Channel Islands

For the Darwinians

Location: 1.5 hours W of Downtown LA + 1-2 hours ferry ride

A national park right around the corner from LA, the Channel Islands are known as North America’s Galapagos. The ferry ride alone is worth the trip - watch pods of dolphins swim alongside the boat and if you’re lucky you may even spot a whale! On the islands you can enjoy the unspoiled scenery and wildlife by hiking or kayak. For the adventurous souls among us, bring a tent and camp for up to a week on one of these beautiful islands!

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Balboa Island

For the meanderers

Location: 1 hour S of Downtown LA

As cute as a button and about the same size as one, Balboa Island is a gem of Newport. This island is host to boutique shopping, eating, and people watching. Stop in at the Balboa Island Museum for a history lesson then reward yourself with a chocolate covered frozen banana at one of the very same (rival) spots that inspired Arrested Development’s banana stand. For the athletic among us, check out one of the many water sports offered from the island and finish your day with dinner at the famous Wilma’s before heading home.

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Summerland

For the beach bums 

Location: 1.5 hours NW of Downtown LA

Take a break from the LA hustle at Summerland, a charming small seaside town known for sunshine and beaches. Shop boutiques and antiques on Ortega Hill Rd, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, or rent a bike to explore the area before stopping in at Feast for dining with ocean views.

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Calico Ghost Town

For the ghost hunters

Location: 2 hours NE of Downtown LA

Unlike its Hollywood cousin, Pioneertown, Calico is an actual historic mining town established in the late 1800s. Now a regional park, you can walk through the town, shop, dine, and even do “park” things like camp, hike, and off-road. Wondering where the ghosts come in? Take a ghost tour of the town or visit in October to join a “ghost haunt” camping party.

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Vasquez Rocks

For the hikers

Location: 1 hour N of Downtown LA

Bring your Simba stuffie (or your cat) for an iconic picture at Vasquez Rocks, the inspiration for the Lion King’s Pride Rock. Hike through this gorgeous park for stunning views and stop by the interpretive center to learn about the flora and fauna. If you work up an appetite, stop into Maria Bonita for chimichangas before heading home.

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Remington Hot Springs

For the adventurers

Location: 2.5 hours N of Downtown LA

If LA isn’t hot enough for you, head up to the Remington Hot Springs along the Kern River. This spot has a fairyland look with three pools handmade with stones. Fairies and humans alike, please note that these pools are clothing optional! After your dip, break up the long drive home with a stop in Bakersfield for a brewery or wine trail (clothing required).

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Dana Point

For the surfers

Location: 1.5 hours S of Downtown LA

Halfway between LA and San Diego you’ll find stunning beaches, good surfing, coastal hikes, and all the whale watching your heart could desire. Nurture your mind at the Ocean Institute then hike down about half a mile to Pirate’s Cave (only at low tide, mateys). For a slow paced but unique experience, don’t miss the funicular at Strands Beach.

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