Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable road trip adventure from Los Angeles, California? The City of Angels serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and natural wonders that surround it. From breathtaking coastal drives to awe-inspiring national parks, there are countless destinations within driving distance that are waiting to be discovered. So fasten your seatbelts, fuel up your car, and get ready to hit the road as we unveil the best road trips to take from Los Angeles.
One of the most iconic road trips from Los Angeles is driving along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This scenic route stretches along the majestic California coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Start your journey in Santa Monica, where you can soak up the sun on the picturesque beaches before hitting the road. As you cruise along the PCH, you'll pass through Malibu, known for its beautiful beaches and celebrity homes. Continue your drive to the charming coastal town of Santa Barbara, where you can explore the historic downtown area and visit the stunning Santa Barbara Mission.
Further north, the PCH takes you through the mesmerizing landscapes of Big Sur. Marvel at the rugged cliffs, towering redwood trees, and panoramic ocean views as you navigate this scenic stretch of the highway. Don't miss the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, a perfect spot for a photo op.
Continue driving north until you reach Monterey, a charming coastal city famous for its aquarium and Cannery Row. From here, you can explore the picturesque 17-Mile Drive, which offers breathtaking coastal vistas and passes through famous landmarks such as Pebble Beach and the Lone Cypress Tree.
For a unique desert experience, embark on a road trip to Joshua Tree National Park, located east of Los Angeles. Known for its striking desert landscapes and iconic Joshua Trees, this national park offers a surreal and captivating adventure.
Drive east from Los Angeles until you reach Joshua Tree. As you enter the national park, you'll be greeted by a mesmerizing desert scenery adorned with otherworldly Joshua Trees and massive rock formations. Explore the park's various hiking trails, such as Hidden Valley or Barker Dam, where you can witness the park's unique flora and fauna up close.
For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit to Joshua Tree National Park during the evening. The park's remote location away from city lights makes it an ideal spot for stargazing. Marvel at the vast expanse of the night sky and be awed by the countless stars that illuminate the desert.
Venture into the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains with a road trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Known for their towering sequoia trees and stunning alpine landscapes, these parks offer a true escape into nature's grandeur.
Drive north from Los Angeles until you reach the entrance of Sequoia National Park. Marvel at the colossal sequoia trees as you explore the park's famous sites, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume, and the awe-inspiring Tunnel Log.
Continue your journey into Kings Canyon National Park, where you'll be treated to breathtaking mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and serene alpine lakes. Don't miss the opportunity to hike along the Mist Falls Trail, which rewards you with spectacular views of a powerful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
If you're in search of a desert retreat, look no further than Palm Springs. This popular destination is known for its warm weather, luxurious resorts, and vibrant mid-century modern architecture.
Drive east from Los Angeles, and as you approach Palm Springs, you'll be greeted by the majestic San Jacinto Mountains. Explore the city's downtown area, stroll along Palm Canyon Drive, and discover an array of trendy shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
For a unique experience, take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which transports you from the desert floor to the pristine wilderness of the San Jacinto Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views as you ascend to over 8,000 feet, where you can embark on hiking trails or simply revel in the tranquility of nature.
If you're a wine enthusiast, a road trip to Santa Barbara Wine Country is a must-do from Los Angeles. Just a short drive north of the city, this region offers scenic vineyards, award-winning wineries, and a relaxed and picturesque atmosphere.
Drive along the picturesque Highway 154, also known as the San Marcos Pass, which takes you through the Santa Ynez Mountains. As you descend into the Santa Ynez Valley, you'll be greeted by rolling hills and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Visit the charming towns of Los Olivos and Solvang, known for their quaint streets, boutique wineries, and Danish-inspired architecture. Take your time to explore the various tasting rooms, sample exceptional wines, and savor the flavors of the region.
Los Angeles, with its prime location and easy access to diverse landscapes, offers an array of incredible road trip opportunities. From the stunning coastal drives to the majestic national parks and charming destinations, there's a road trip adventure for every type of traveler. So hop in your car, roll down the windows, and let the open road take you on an unforgettable journey from the City of Angels.
Ensuring a seamless booking experience is our top priority. By checking hotel availability, you can effortlessly plan your stay with confidence. Our system provides real-time updates on room availability, allowing you to secure the best accommodations that suit your needs.
Don’t miss out on your preferred dates, check availability now to guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Ages 0 to 17
About Author
Sarah produces creative and informative content based on her travel experience. She keeps her blogs up-to-date with the latest information.