Quick weekend getaways from LA include Catalina Island, Palm Springs, Ojai, Laguna Beach, Carlsbad, Santa Barbara, Newport Beach and other unique towns in California. If you are traveling with children, our list includes destinations with kid-friendly attractions, hotels and restaurants. Couples will find a selection of scenic beach resorts, unique weekend trips, day tours, affordable inns and relaxing spas.
Carlsbad - Cape Rey Resort and Spa - 1 hour 50 minutes from Los Angeles
Set on the stunning coastline with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the luxurious Cape Rey Resort and Spa is stylish, sophisticated and relaxing. Elegantly appointed accommodations include deluxe guest rooms and suites designed and decorated with chic contemporary furnishings and spellbinding ocean views. Cool off in the resort’s beautiful swimming pool, and keep fit in the state-of-the-art health and fitness center.
1 Ponto Road, Carlsbad, California 92011, Phone: 760-602-0800
Where to Eat: | Chandler's Oceanfront Dining, Burger Lounge, Seasons Restaurant |
Nearby: |
La Jolla - La Valencia - 2 hour Getaway from Los Angeles
Guest rooms and suites at the pink-colored La Valencia in La Jolla are just steps from the beach.
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe - 1 hour and 45 minutes Los Angeles
Plan a relaxing weekend getaway at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe in San Diego's North County. The inn is located on 21 acres with beautiful pathways and cottages featuring fireplaces, patios and kitchenettes. Guest cottages are surrounded by flower gardens, perfect for a romantic trip. There is also croquet, tennis, a swimming pool, whirlpool and a health spa. Nearby attractions include the Del Mar race track, shopping, galleries, restaurants and several beaches. The resort is a two-hour drive from LA.
5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067, Phone: 858-756-1131
Paso Robles - Hotel Cheval - 3 hours from LA
Plan a trip to Paso Robles to enjoy wine tasting, restaurants, art galleries and local farmers' markets. Check into the 16-room Hotel Cheval which is located just off the town square. The hotel has stylish guest accommodations, many with fireplaces, vaulted ceilings and outdoor patios. Attractions and activities in the area include Hearst Castle, San Miguel Mission, California Coast beaches, horseback riding, biking and fishing. The hotel offers custom private wine tours in a luxury SUV, accompanied by in-house wine guides and a certified Sommelier (from $100 per hour with a 4-hour minimum on weekends). The hotel is located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. This is a pet-friendly getaway.
Hotel Cheval, 1021 Pine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, Phone: 805-226-9995
Santa Barbara - El Encanto - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Los Angeles
Santa Barbara, 90 minutes from LA, is famous for its beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Weekend activities include wine tasting, biking, kayaking, art museum and, of course, relaxing on the beach. There is plenty to see and do for an active couple. Add some extra romance to your trip and take the Pacific Surfliner train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara.
Since it's easy to get around Santa Barbara on foot or by bike, leave the car at home and read a book on the train instead. Stay at the newly restored romantic El Encanto which has a spa and luxury suites. Canary Hotel has a rooftop swimming pool, perfect for relaxing in the sun while you are not out sightseeing. The recently renovated Presidio Motel and Franciscan Inn offer affordable rooms. Summer weekends are very popular, so it's a good idea to book early, particularly during the holidays.
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, Phone: 805-845-5800
Ojai Valley Inn
Offering everything you need for an active or a relaxing weekend getaway, the Ojai Valley Inn is scenically located in a coastal valley, surrounded by 220 wooded acres. Needless to say, the accommodation options are luxurious. On-site amenities include a legendary golf course, a fabulous full-service spa, four sparkling swimming pools and no fewer than 7 restaurants and bars. Other activities include visiting the apiary for a tour and honey tasting, attending a wine tasting talk or learning a new craft.
905 Country Club Road, Ojai, CA 93023, 855-697-8780
Desert Hot Springs - The Spring Resort and Spa - 2 hours from LA
Boasting breathtaking views of Palm Springs and the surrounding snow-capped mountains of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, The Spring Resort and Spa is a relaxing hideaway. The establishment features natural mineral springs in three pools and offers special treatments such as massages and other spa services. The source of the ancient springs gushes out at 170 degrees with healing, restorative minerals, and the sparkling clear, curative mineral spring waters have been nourishing bodies and soothing minds at the resort since 1956.
12699 Reposo Way, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240, Phone: 760-251-6700
Newport Beach - Whale watching - 50 minutes
About one hour from Los Angeles, Newport Beach is a seaside getaway with great shopping, a choice of hotels and many leisure activities. Watch the whales migrating from right from the beach from May through August which is also the best time for a summer weekend getaway. Visit the quaint Balboa Island which is more like a town you would encounter on the East Coast.
Big Bear Lake - 2 hours
Get away to Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County which offers swimming, boating and hiking in the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest. About 80 miles from Los Angeles, this getaway is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who like to stay active on vacation. The Lodge at Big Bear Lake offers 147 guest rooms and suites with gas-burning fireplaces, spa-style bathtubs and wet bars. If you are looking for fun weekend getaways with affordable rates, this is a great place to visit.
630 Bartlett Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, Phone: 800-424-4232 Big Bear Lake Video
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa, Palm Springs - 2 hours from LA
Located less than 2 hours from Los Angeles, The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa is a great weekend getaway destination that the whole family will enjoy. There are great facilities for all ages including 2 championship golf courses, desert hiking trails, tennis courts, outdoor swimming pools (with a great water park) and lazy poolside cabanas. You can be as active as you like or dedicate the weekend to relaxation and regeneration at the spa.
44600 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, CA 92210, 760-776-1234
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort in Scottsdale - 5 hours and 30 minutes
Scottsdale is a 6-hour drive from Los Angeles, so it's probably best to plan a 3 day long weekend to allow for plenty of relaxation on your trip. Scottsdale offers a choice of several resorts with relaxing pools, golf courses and spas. Visit in the winder months to enjoy warm sunny days. In the summer, you can find cheap prices and high temperatures - forget golf and head to the spa instead. Families should check into the luxurious Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort in Scottsdale which has a water playground with a water slide.
Idyllwild - Strawberry Creek Inn
A two-hour drive from LA, Strawberry Creek Inn Bed and Breakfast in Idyllwild offers couples a chance to relax in a rustic setting surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains. The inn has nine individually decorated rooms and a private cottage with a view of the creek.
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage - 1 hour and 50 minutes
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage features a 24,000 square foot La Prairie Spa, complete with yoga and meditation spaces, 16 treatment rooms and an outdoor relaxation lounge. If you are looking for relaxing getaways from San Diego, Los Angeles or San Francisco, check into this luxury hotel. This scenic getaway in California's Palm Springs area is located 650 feet above the floor of Coachella Valley. The property has an outdoor pool, luxury poolside cabanas and a spa.
Fine Wine and Food in Carmel Valley - 5 hours
About 6 hours from Los Angeles, Carmel Valley offers scenic golf, romantic beaches and gourmet restaurants. Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming coastal town with cobblestone streets, boutiques and wineries. Visit Carmel during the warmer season so that you can enjoy its natural beauty to the fullest. Stay at the five star Bernardus Lodge which has luxury guest rooms and a great spa.
If you are looking for quick day trips from Los Angeles, have a relaxing massage followed by a lunch with a view of the ocean at Terranea. Video
LEGOLAND - 1 hour and 30 minutes
Carlsbad, just 2 hours from Los Angeles, is home to LEGOLAND, skate parks and family-friendly restaurants.
The Huntley in Santa Monica - 20 minutes from LA
Santa Monica is a great starting point for exploring the nearby Venice, Malibu, Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The Huntley is a perfect relaxing weekend escape and you will find a lot of stuff to do nearby, including free activities. Plan a romantic lunch and dinner at the hotel restaurant with views of the coastline.
Temecula Creek Inn
Nestled in the rolling hills of California’s wine country, Temecula Creek Inn is a beautiful Southern Californian golf resort that offers luxurious accommodations, fine wine country cuisine, indulgent spa services and a 27-hole championship golf course.
44501 Rainbow Canyon Road, Temecula, CA 92592, Phone: 888-976-3404
Andaz San Diego
The rooftop pool at Andaz San Diego offers some of the best city views, plush cabanas and five star service. If you are looking for a stylish place to relax and cool off during the weekend, check into this stylish hotel to get access to the pool. During the day, RoofTop600 serves American cuisine with a SoCal spin, incorporating organic, locally sourced ingredients.
600 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101, Phone: 619-849-1234
Weekend in Las Vegas - 4 hours
When you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, there is always a hot new hotel to check out, a new restaurant or a hit show. Whether you are looking for a luxury weekend filled with shopping and five star dining, or you are traveling on a budget, there is plenty to choose from in Las Vegas.
Redondo Beach - Hotel Portofino - 30 minutes from LA
Hotel Portofino is the perfect place to kick back and relax in style.Contemporary and modern, this luxurious seaside hotel offers a comfortable getaway for the whole family.
The hotel has been designed to highlight the magnificent ocean views with spacious, open-plan living spaces that surround a beautiful garden and pool area. Cool, clean minimalist lines house elegant, contemporary interiors in natural accents that reflect the surrounding landscape. Floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors invite in the view, and a manicured garden and pool area are perfect for relaxing.
260 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277, Phone: 310-421-4195
Avalon Hotel Palm Springs - 1 hour and 45 minutes
Palm Springs, about 110 miles from LA, if famous for its warm desert weather and relaxing natural hot springs. Surrounded by lush courtyards with pools and gardens, Avalon Hotel Palm Springs is an oasis for the senses. Couples can spend their vacation relaxing next to the three stylish pools, indulging in treatments at the spa and shop at boutiques.
415 S Belardo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262, Phone: 760-318-3012
San Clemente - Casa Tropicana Boutique Hotel - 1 hour 30 minutes
Situated a mere stone’s throw from one of California’s most stunning beaches, Casa Tropicana Boutique Hotel is a renowned seaside retreat that combines a superb location with excellent accommodation, superb cuisine, and friendly hospitality.
610 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, CA 92672, Phone: 949-492-1234
South Coast Winery Resort and Spa
Nestled in the heart of Temecula wine country, the South Coast Winery Resort and Spa is the perfect place for wine lovers to spend an indulgent weekend of wining, dining and relaxation.
34843 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591, 951-566-4622
Catalina Island
Santa Catalina, one of the Channel Islands about 22 miles southwest of Los Angeles, California, at only 22 miles long and six miles wide, it is rocky and surrounded by beautiful reefs. It is known for its abundant wildlife, excellent scuba diving and the famous Catalina Casino. Mt. Orizaba, at 2,097 feet, is highest point on the island.
