Best Weekend Getaways from LA 2026
by Anonymous
Los Angeles residents have exceptional weekend escape options within a few hours' drive, from desert hot springs and mountain retreats to coastal wine country and beach towns. The best getaways offer a dramatic change of pace from city life with minimal travel time. Joshua Tree, Santa Barbara, and Palm Springs remain perennial favorites for short breaks from the Southern California sprawl.
Palm Springs
2 hours
drive time from la
$150-400/night
average hotel cost
Spa, mid-century architecture
top activity
Oct-Apr (cool desert)
best season
Retro luxury, relaxation
vibe
Santa Barbara
1.5 hours
drive time from la
$200-500/night
average hotel cost
Wine tasting, beach
top activity
Year-round
best season
Coastal elegance
vibe
Joshua Tree
2.5 hours
drive time from la
$100-300/night
average hotel cost
National Park hiking, stargazing
top activity
Oct-May (avoid summer heat)
best season
Desert bohemian
vibe
Big Bear Lake
2 hours
drive time from la
$120-300/night
average hotel cost
Skiing, lake activities
top activity
Dec-Mar (ski), Jun-Sep (lake)
best season
Mountain casual
vibe
San Diego
2 hours
drive time from la
$150-350/night
average hotel cost
Zoo, beach, Gaslamp Quarter
top activity
Year-round
best season
Beach city energy
vibe
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