Everyone needs a getaway sometimes, but taking a trip and traveling a distance can take up time you may not wish to expend. There’s a solution, though: a day trip! These are our four favorite luxury day trip ideas when you need to get out of Los Angeles. Whether you chose to stay for just the day making it an actual day trip, or if you decide to stay a night or two, each of these destinations will provide the respite you need.
Temecula
Located about 90 miles from Los Angeles, if you time it right this drive may take just 90 minutes. Though, in LA terms, it may be more realistic to budget a little more than two hours. The drive is inconsequential, though once you arrive in the Temecula Valley and point your wheels to one of their more than 40 wineries. Another stop that will showcase the charm of the area is Old Town Temecula. It “combines the region’s storied past and its exciting up-and-coming future in a unique blend of shops, restaurants, hotels, entertainment, and event opportunities in one walkable, easy-to-navigate hub for visitors to explore.” according to Visit Temecula Valley. Up the romance level and soar over the valley in a hot air balloon to gain a full appreciation of the lush vineyards and the rolling hills of the region.
Solvang
Part kitsch and pure fun, Solvang is a lovely day trip from Los Angeles that plunges you into a village filled with Danish-style architecture and a host of wineries with its position in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country. Their Convention and Visitors Bureau notes, “Explore our old-world Danish architecture and treat yourself at our delicious Danish bakeries. You’ll find boutique shopping and international cuisine plus 20 wine tasting rooms and more than 120 Santa Barbara County wineries to discover and savor. When traveling California’s central coast, do not miss Solvang – the Danish village with so much to offer!”
Laguna Beach
Nothing feels more southern Californian than a trip to a little beach community and one of our favorites is Laguna Beach. While offering a wide range of luxury from shops and restaurants to hotels and spas, the city is still an artist colony in its heart. Another destination in which the timing of the drive will be imperative to an easy drive, even if you get stuck in some traffic, once you arrive in Laguna Beach, you’ll feel that wave of beach vibes wash over you. Visit Laguna Beach calls the city “Southern California’s premier coastal destination.” They go on to note, “Located midway between Los Angeles and San Diego, this seven-mile stretch of sand and surf offers a year-round retreat for art lovers, nature enthusiasts and beachgoers.”
Catalina
One of California’s Channel Islands, Santa Catalina Island – or Catalina as we so affectionately call it – is known for wildlife. You will also love its quaint towns (Two Harbors and Avalon), diving opportunities, and its highest peak – Mt. Orizaba. You can take the Catalina Express from either Long Beach or Newport Beach. Either way, you’ll arrive on the island in less than an hour. We’d recommend strolling, shopping, dining, and cocktails, but we’d also recommend renting a golf cart to explore the area. It may seem silly, but it’s the most effective means of transportation on the island.
While you can catch the Catalina Express back at the end of the day, we’d suggest staying a couple nights and taking full advantage of the isolation the island offers which will help you find peace and full relaxation. Because of its tourist appeal, there are several packages for accommodations and activities with the Catalina Island Company.
Living in Los Angeles (or even just visiting) places you in close proximity to a wide array of activities, special places, and unique adventures including some amazing day trip destinations. So, tell us, which of these day trip ideas from Los Angeles will you try? If you’re too busy to get away for the day, try something interesting and fun for dinner at a Unique Concept Restaurants in Los Angeles.
