Los Angeles-day-trips

Best Day Trips in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city that’s perfect for exploring, but sometimes it’s nice to get out of the city and into nature. Here are some of the best day trip ideas from LA:

1. Hiking in Runyon Canyon

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: 3 miles round-trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Explore one of LA’s most iconic hiking spots, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. The hike is dog-friendly and features a mix of paved paths and dirt trails.

2. Santa Monica Pier

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Various attractions within walking distance

Head to the beachside town of Santa Monica, where you’ll find an iconic pier filled with shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides. Take a stroll along the beach, grab some lunch at one of the many eateries, or ride the famous Ferris wheel.

3. Beverly Hills

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Walking distance to shopping and dining

Experience the luxury of Beverly Hills with a day trip that’ll take you through some of the city’s most high-end neighborhoods. Stroll along Rodeo Drive, visit designer boutiques, or grab lunch at one of the many celebrity-studded restaurants.

4. Malibu Beach

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Various attractions within walking distance

Escape to the picturesque town of Malibu, where you’ll find stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails. Spend your day swimming in the ocean, watching for dolphins, or exploring the charming shops and restaurants that line the beachfront.

5. Pasadena

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Walking distance to attractions

Visit Pasadena, a city famous for its historic architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums. Take a stroll through the Gamble House, visit the Norton Simon Museum, or attend one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year.

6. Manhattan Beach

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Walking distance to shopping and dining

Head to Manhattan Beach, a charming coastal town filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and top-notch restaurants. Spend your day soaking up the sun on the beach, grabbing lunch at one of the many eateries, or taking a leisurely stroll along the pier.

7. Venice Beach

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Various attractions within walking distance

Visit Venice Beach, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that’s home to street performers, artists, and musicians. Spend your day browsing the boardwalk, grabbing lunch at one of the many eateries, or watching the sunset from the beach.

8. Catalina Island

  • Duration: Full-day trip (7-10 hours)
  • Distance: Various attractions within walking distance

Take a ferry to Catalina Island, a scenic island located just off the coast of LA. Spend your day exploring the island’s many hiking trails, visiting the historic town of Avalon, or simply relaxing on the beach.

9. Torrance Beach

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Walking distance to shopping and dining

Visit Torrance Beach, a charming coastal town filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and top-notch restaurants. Spend your day soaking up the sun on the beach, grabbing lunch at one of the many eateries, or taking a leisurely stroll along the pier.

10. Calabasas

  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Distance: Walking distance to shopping and dining

Head to Calabasas, a picturesque town nestled in the hills of Los Angeles. Spend your day exploring the charming shops and restaurants that line the streets, visiting the historic Pierce College, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

These are just a few ideas for day trips from LA, but there are many more options depending on your interests and preferences. Whichever destination you choose, be sure to have fun and enjoy the beautiful California scenery!