Day Trips from Los Angeles by Train, Bus, or Car: Coastal, Desert & Mountain Adventures
Los Angeles might be a sprawling city, but beyond its urban buzz lies an incredible variety of landscapes just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re craving a beachfront escape, a desert adventure, or a mountain retreat, these day trips will take you beyond the city limits—no matter your mode of transport.
From coastal gems to rugged desert hideaways and snow-capped peaks, these destinations offer the perfect break from LA’s hustle. So grab your sunglasses, charge your phone for the ultimate road trip playlist, and let’s dive into the best day trips from Los Angeles by train, bus, or car.
Santa Barbara – A Coastal Escape by Train
Hop aboard the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, and in just over two hours, you’ll find yourself in Santa Barbara, a seaside paradise with Spanish charm. The train ride alone is worth it—panoramic ocean views, rolling hills, and the occasional dolphin sighting make for an unforgettable journey. Once there, explore Stearns Wharf, the Santa Barbara Mission, and the Funk Zone, a lively arts and wine district.
For a true coastal experience, rent a bike and cruise along Cabrillo Boulevard, stopping at East Beach or Butterfly Beach. If you have time, take a short Uber ride to Lotusland, a stunning botanical garden that feels like an exotic dream. The best time to visit is spring or fall when the weather is perfect, and the crowds are manageable.
San Juan Capistrano – History & Charm by Train
A quick Metrolink or Amtrak ride from LA brings you to San Juan Capistrano, home to one of California’s most historic sites. The Mission San Juan Capistrano, with its 400-year-old ruins and lush gardens, is a must-see. Stroll through Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California, where charming adobe homes have been transformed into cafés, boutiques, and galleries.
For a leisurely afternoon, grab lunch at Ramos House Café, famous for its rustic, garden-side dining. If you’re visiting in March, watch for the return of the swallows, a celebrated migration event that draws nature lovers from around the world.
Palm Springs – A Desert Retreat by Car or Bus
If you’re up for a two-hour drive or a FlixBus ride, Palm Springs delivers an irresistible mix of mid-century glam and desert adventure. Soak in the retro vibes along Palm Canyon Drive, filled with vintage shops, stylish cafés, and colorful murals. Then, take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up Mount San Jacinto for breathtaking views and a cool escape from the desert heat.
For something truly unique, explore the windmill farms, take a detour to Joshua Tree National Park, or relax in the natural hot springs of nearby Desert Hot Springs. Winter and early spring are the best times to visit, with cooler temperatures and blooming desert landscapes.
Laguna Beach – Art & Ocean Views by Car or Bus
A scenic one-hour drive down the coast lands you in Laguna Beach, a dreamy seaside town known for its artistic heritage, dramatic cliffs, and pristine coves. Walk through Heisler Park, where the Pacific stretches endlessly before you, or explore Thousand Steps Beach, a hidden gem with tide pools and sea caves.
Art lovers should visit the Laguna Art Museum or time their visit for the Sawdust Art Festival or Pageant of the Masters, both showcasing the area’s rich creative culture. If you’re traveling by bus, take OCTA Route 1, which runs along the coast and offers stunning ocean views.
Big Bear Lake – A Mountain Getaway by Car
When the city heat gets unbearable, Big Bear Lake offers a cool, pine-scented escape just two hours away by car. In winter, it’s a snow lover’s paradise, with skiing and snowboarding at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. In summer, enjoy hiking, boating, and zip-lining through the treetops.
Stroll through Big Bear Village, packed with cozy restaurants and rustic shops. If you’re up for an adventure, hike to Castle Rock for panoramic lake views or rent a kayak to explore the crystal-clear waters of Boulder Bay. The best time to visit? Winter for snow, fall for stunning foliage, and summer for endless outdoor fun.
Solvang – A Taste of Denmark by Car
A picturesque two-and-a-half-hour drive up the coast leads to Solvang, a charming Danish-style village nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley. Stroll past windmills, half-timbered buildings, and bakeries overflowing with Danish pastries. Stop by OstrichLand USA for a quirky experience, or explore wine country with tastings at nearby Los Olivos or Santa Ynez wineries.
Don’t miss the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum or the iconic Little Mermaid Fountain, a nod to the village’s Scandinavian roots. The best time to visit? Spring for the wildflowers or December for the magical Christmas decorations.
Ojai – A Relaxing Bohemian Escape by Car
Less than two hours from LA, Ojai is a laid-back retreat known for its spiritual energy, boutique wineries, and artistic community. Browse the town’s eclectic shops and galleries along Ojai Avenue, or unwind with a spa treatment at Ojai Valley Inn.
For nature lovers, a hike through the Los Padres National Forest rewards you with scenic canyon views. Stay for sunset—Ojai is famous for the “pink moment,” when the surrounding mountains glow in shades of rose and lavender. Fall and spring offer the most pleasant weather for exploring.
Catalina Island – A Tropical Escape by Ferry
Just an hour-long ferry ride from Long Beach, Catalina Island feels like an entirely different world. The moment you arrive in Avalon, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters, Mediterranean-style architecture, and an island pace of life. Rent a golf cart to explore the scenic hills, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the colorful marine life below.
For adventure seekers, zip-lining across Descanso Canyon or hiking to the Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden are must-dos. The island is perfect for a visit year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for snorkeling and kayaking.
