Southern California is one of those places that can feel like several vacations packed into one region. You can spend the morning on a beach, visit a major city attraction in the afternoon and finish the day watching the sunset over the Pacific. Drive inland, and the scenery changes completely to desert, mountains and small historic towns.

As a travel journalist, I travel more than most people, and I have spent quite a bit of time exploring Southern California. I have visited many of the destinations in this guide with my family, including Los Angeles, Anaheim, Newport Beach, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Palm Springs and Temecula.

The hardest part of planning a Southern California trip is deciding what to include. The distances can be larger than they appear, and traffic can turn a short drive into a much longer one. It is usually better to choose one or two regions than to try to see everything in a single trip.

This guide includes famous Southern California destinations, smaller coastal communities, mountain escapes and desert landscapes. Whether you want theme parks, beaches, museums, hiking or a relaxing weekend away, these are the best places to visit in Southern California.

For this guide, I am using a broad road-trip definition of Southern California. I have included Santa Barbara and Death Valley because both are commonly combined with trips through Los Angeles, San Diego, and the surrounding region, even though they may fall outside stricter geographic boundaries.

How to Plan a Southern California Trip

Southern California looks manageable on a map, but its attractions are much more spread out than many first-time visitors expect. You will need a car for most of these destinations, and traffic can turn what appears to be a short drive into a much longer trip.

Rather than trying to visit all 25 places, choose two or three areas that fit your interests. Los Angeles, Malibu, Santa Monica, and Pasadena can be grouped together. Anaheim and the Orange County beach towns make another natural group, while San Diego, Coronado, La Jolla, and the northern San Diego County towns work well together.

Palm Springs and Joshua Tree can be combined for a desert getaway. Big Bear is better treated as a separate mountain trip, particularly in winter. Death Valley is much farther away and should never be squeezed into an already packed itinerary.

Allow extra time whenever you are driving through Los Angeles or along the coast. Traffic is unpredictable, parking can take longer than expected, and some of the best moments come from stopping for viewpoints, beaches, or meals along the way.

If you have one week, I would concentrate on Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. With ten days or two weeks, you can comfortably add Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Santa Barbara, or another destination that fits your interests.

 

Best Time to Visit Southern California

Southern California is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on whether you want beaches, theme parks, desert scenery, or snow.

Spring

Spring is one of the best times for a Southern California road trip. Temperatures are usually comfortable for sightseeing, hiking, and visiting the desert. Depending on winter rainfall, you may also see wildflowers in places such as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and the Flower Fields in Carlsbad.

Coastal mornings can be cloudy, but afternoons are often pleasant. Spring-break weeks bring larger crowds to Disneyland, LEGOLAND, and the beaches.

Coastal Southern California can experience “May Gray” and “June Gloom,” when low clouds and fog make mornings cooler and grayer than visitors expect. The clouds often clear later in the day, but sunny beach weather is not guaranteed.

Summer

Summer is best for beach vacations, boating, and water activities. It is also the busiest season along the coast, so expect higher hotel prices, crowded parking lots, and heavier weekend traffic.

Avoid planning strenuous desert activities during summer. Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Anza-Borrego, and Death Valley can become dangerously hot. If you visit a desert destination, remain close to your vehicle, carry plenty of water, and limit outdoor activity.

Fall

Fall is another excellent time to visit. Coastal temperatures often remain warm, while summer crowds begin to disappear. September and October can be particularly good for combining beaches with city sightseeing.

This is also apple season in Julian. Desert temperatures generally become more comfortable later in the season, although early fall can still be extremely hot.

Winter

Winter is ideal for visiting Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and the major cities. I have visited Southern California in February and loved the sunny weather, although it was not always warm enough for swimming at the beach.

Big Bear may receive snow and offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow play. Winter storms can also create chain requirements and difficult mountain driving, so check road conditions before leaving.

For the best balance of comfortable weather and manageable crowds, I would choose March through May or late September through November.

 

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1. Los Angeles: Best for First-Time Visitors

I have visited Los Angeles almost a dozen times, and I still find new things to love about it. The city is enormous, so the best Los Angeles trip is not necessarily about checking off every famous attraction. It is about choosing a few neighborhoods and giving yourself enough time to enjoy them.

My favorite place is the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax. I could stay there forever, wandering between the food stalls and deciding what to eat next. It is easy to combine with The Grove, but the historic market itself is what keeps bringing me back.

I also love Santee Alley in the Fashion District, the restaurants and energy of West Hollywood, and Olvera Street for its colorful shops, food and connection to the city’s early history. Santa Monica is another favorite, although it deserves its own place later in this list.

My kids especially loved the Petersen Automotive Museum. Its collection of unusual, historic and movie-related vehicles is entertaining even for visitors who are not normally obsessed with cars.

Other major Los Angeles attractions include Griffith Observatory, which has excellent views of the city and Hollywood Sign, and Universal Studios Hollywood for movie-themed rides and the Studio Tour.

The biggest challenge is traffic. A destination that looks close on a map may take much longer to reach than expected. Add extra time to every drive and group attractions by neighborhood instead of crossing the city several times in one day.

Plan at least three days for Los Angeles, and longer if you want to include beaches or theme parks. Fly into whichever regional airport works best for your itinerary rather than automatically choosing LAX.

Best for: First-time Southern California visitors who want food, museums, neighborhoods and famous city sights.

2. Santa Monica and Venice Beach: Best Classic Beach Experience

Santa Monica has a cool factor that is hard to explain until you visit. I love the pier, the wide beach and the fact that so much of the area is easy to explore on foot. In my experience, the beach has also felt less overwhelming than some of Southern California’s other famous beaches.

Santa Monica Pier has rides, arcade games, food stands and beautiful views along the coast. You do not have to spend the entire day at the amusement park to enjoy it. Walking to the end of the pier and then spending time on the sand gives families the classic Southern California beach experience.

Santa Monica also has an excellent food scene. I have eaten some genuinely wonderful Thai food there, so it is worth exploring beyond the restaurants directly beside the pier.

Venice Beach is nearby, but it has a completely different atmosphere. The beach itself is great, and the boardwalk is undeniably interesting, but the surrounding area can feel like a chaotic spectacle. My kids were overwhelmed when they were younger, so I would be cautious about taking small children.

The Venice Canals provide a calmer contrast to the boardwalk, with pedestrian bridges, waterfront homes and quiet paths. If you want to experience both communities, walk or bike part of the beachfront path between them rather than moving your car.

Parking can be expensive and frustrating. Santa Monica is connected to central Los Angeles by the Metro E Line, making it one of the easier beach destinations to visit without driving.

Best for: Travelers who want an iconic pier, a walkable beach and two very different sides of Southern California’s coastal culture.

3. Malibu

I have visited Malibu a couple of times, usually while driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. The beautiful coastal scenery is a large part of Malibu’s appeal. The entire area feels upscale, and even simply driving through it can be a memorable part of a Southern California trip.

My favorite place to visit in Malibu is the Getty Villa. Designed to resemble an ancient Roman country house, the museum is filled with Greek and Roman antiquities. The building, gardens, and coastal setting are just as beautiful as the collection itself.

Admission to the Getty Villa is free, but you need to reserve a timed-entry ticket in advance, and there is a charge for parking. Allow at least a couple of hours to explore the museum and grounds.

Although Malibu is known for celebrity homes, I have never taken a celebrity homes tour. I also do not have one particular Malibu beach that I always visit. For me, Malibu is more about the gorgeous scenery, the drive along the coast, and visiting the Getty Villa.

Best for: Coastal scenery, art, architecture, and a scenic drive
Don’t miss: The Getty Villa
Good to know: Check current Pacific Coast Highway conditions before leaving because construction and recovery work can cause lane closures and delays.

4. Pasadena

Pasadena feels like a different world from Los Angeles, even though the two cities are so close together. It is quieter, more relaxed, and filled with beautiful neighborhoods and historic buildings. We have spent time simply driving around town, admiring the homes, and eating at some great restaurants.

We have also visited the Rose Bowl Flea Market, which is held at the Rose Bowl Stadium on the second Sunday of every month. It is enormous, with vendors selling everything from antiques and vintage clothing to art and unusual collectibles. You could easily spend several hours browsing, so wear comfortable shoes and arrive early if you want the best selection.

Old Pasadena is another good place to walk around, shop, and find somewhere to eat. If you have more time, Pasadena is also known for the Norton Simon Museum, The Gamble House, and Kidspace Children’s Museum. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is nearby in San Marino and could easily take up most of a day.

Families can also combine Pasadena with a visit to the Los Angeles Zoo. The zoo is not actually in Pasadena—it is located in Griffith Park—but it is close enough to include during the same part of your trip. Our kids loved visiting it.

Best for: Historic neighborhoods, restaurants, museums, and families
Don’t miss: The Rose Bowl Flea Market if your visit falls on the second Sunday of the month
Good to know: Pasadena is a great alternative if you want to stay near Los Angeles without feeling as though you are in the middle of the city.

5. Anaheim and Disneyland

Anaheim is best known as the home of Disneyland, and for many families, that is the entire reason to visit. I went to Disneyland Park about 20 years ago, although this was not a trip with my kids. It is the original Disney park, with classic attractions, themed lands, parades, and the castle that most people picture when they think of Disneyland.

The resort has changed tremendously since my visit and now includes both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. If Disney is the main purpose of your trip, allow at least one full day for each park rather than trying to rush through both.

We also visited Knott’s Berry Farm in nearby Buena Park and liked it so much. It has a more relaxed, old-fashioned amusement park atmosphere, along with roller coasters, family rides, entertainment, and its historic Ghost Town. It is only about ten minutes from the Anaheim resort area, making it very easy to add to a Disneyland vacation.

Even if Disney is your main reason for staying in Anaheim, I would consider setting aside an additional day for Knott’s Berry Farm. It offers a completely different experience and ended up being one of the highlights of our visit.

Best for: Theme parks and family vacations
Don’t miss: Disneyland Park
Also worth visiting: Knott’s Berry Farm in nearby Buena Park
Good to know: Disneyland tickets, park reservations, ride systems, and policies have changed significantly since my visit, so check the current details before planning your days.

6. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is the place to experience Southern California’s classic surf culture. Known as Surf City USA, it has a wide sandy beach, a lively downtown, and one of the most recognizable piers on the California coast.

Start with a walk along the Huntington Beach Pier, which extends into the Pacific Ocean from the intersection of Main Street and the Pacific Coast Highway. You can watch surfers from above before exploring the restaurants and shops along Main Street.

Families can spend the day swimming, biking along the beach trail, playing volleyball, or staying for a sunset bonfire. The designated fire rings at Huntington State Beach are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless they have been reserved as part of a picnic area.

For a quieter experience, visit the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Its wetlands and walking trails provide an entirely different view of the coast and make it one of the area’s best places for spotting birds.

Best for: Surfing, beach days, biking, and bonfires
Don’t miss: A walk along Huntington Beach Pier
Good to know: Beach parking can fill quickly on warm weekends, so arrive early.

7. Newport Beach

We loved Balboa Island, with its waterfront views, small shops, and relaxed atmosphere. You can reach it by car or take the Balboa Island Ferry from the peninsula. The ferry has carried pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles across Newport Harbor since 1919 and is a fun little experience in itself.

The rest of our visit was spent at one of Newport Beach’s public beaches. My kids rented boogie boards and played in the water while I sat in the sand and read a book. It was a simple beach day, but honestly, those are often some of the best days on a Southern California vacation.

My biggest warning about Newport Beach is the parking. We spent almost an hour looking for a space, and it was frustrating. Beach and parking areas are first come, first served, so arrive early—especially on a warm weekend or during the summer. Look up the city parking lots before leaving rather than assuming you will find street parking near the beach.

Best for: Balboa Island, family beach days, and waterfront scenery
Don’t miss: Riding the Balboa Island Ferry
Good to know: Parking can be extremely difficult, so arrive early and know which public lot you are aiming for.

8. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach combines small coves, dramatic cliffs, and sandy beaches with a surprisingly strong arts scene. It feels more like an artistic coastal village than a typical Southern California beach city.

Main Beach is the easiest place to begin. It is located directly beside downtown and has a boardwalk, volleyball and basketball courts, a grassy park, and easy access to nearby shops and restaurants. From there, walk north through Heisler Park for some of the best coastal views in town.

Laguna Beach is also filled with galleries and public art. The Laguna Art Museum focuses on California art, while the city’s summer arts festivals attract visitors from across Southern California.

For more time outdoors, explore the beaches, hiking trails, and tide pools at nearby Crystal Cove State Park. Remember that tide pools are protected environments—look carefully, but do not touch or remove anything.

Parking can be challenging, particularly on summer weekends. Laguna Beach operates free trolley routes that connect downtown with beaches and outlying parking areas. Check the current trolley schedule before your visit because routes and hours vary by season.

Best for: Scenic coves, coastal walks, art, and photography
Don’t miss: Walking from Main Beach through Heisler Park
Good to know: Use an outlying parking lot and the free trolley when possible.

9. San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano is one of Southern California’s most interesting destinations for history. Its compact and walkable center makes it easy to visit the major attractions in a single day.

The main attraction is Mission San Juan Capistrano, known as the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Visitors can explore its gardens, original buildings, historic Serra Chapel, and the ruins of the Great Stone Church. Admission includes access to a complimentary audio tour, which helps explain the mission’s layered history.

After visiting the mission, walk across the railroad tracks to the Los Rios Historic District. The neighborhood has historic adobe buildings, small shops, restaurants, and the old train depot. It feels completely removed from Southern California’s larger cities.

San Juan Capistrano is also one of the easiest destinations on this list to visit without a car. Metrolink and Pacific Surfliner trains stop in the historic center, within walking distance of both the mission and Los Rios Street.

Best for: California history, architecture, and an easy day trip
Don’t miss: Mission San Juan Capistrano and the Los Rios Historic District
Good to know: Check train times carefully because service is less frequent than urban public transportation.

10. Dana Point

Dana Point is a relaxed coastal destination best known for its harbor and whale-watching excursions. It is a good choice for travelers who want ocean activities and beautiful scenery without the busier atmosphere found in some of Southern California’s larger beach cities.

Begin at Dana Point Harbor, where you can walk beside the water, eat at a waterfront restaurant, rent a paddleboard, or book a whale-watching cruise. Whales and dolphins can be spotted off the coast throughout the year, although the species you are most likely to see varies by season.

Families should also consider the Ocean Institute, which offers exhibits and educational experiences focused on marine science and maritime history. Nearby Baby Beach has calm harbor water, while Doheny State Beach is better known for surfing, tide pools, and its small visitor center.

For coastal views, walk part of the approximately three-mile Dana Point Headlands trail system. The trails connect scenic overlooks, protected open spaces, beach access points, and the Nature Interpretive Center. Pets are not permitted on the Headlands Conservation Area trails.

Best for: Whale watching, harbor activities, and coastal walks
Don’t miss: A whale-watching or dolphin-watching excursion
Good to know: Dana Point works well as a day trip, but it is also a quieter base for exploring the Orange County coast.

11. Catalina Island

Catalina Island feels much farther from Southern California than it actually is. The island’s main town, Avalon, has a compact waterfront lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels, while the undeveloped interior offers hiking trails and opportunities to see wildlife.

Passenger ferries travel to Catalina from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. The trip from Long Beach to Avalon takes approximately one hour, making a day trip possible. However, staying overnight gives you more time to enjoy the island after many of the daytime visitors have left.

Avalon is small enough to explore on foot, although renting a golf cart is a popular way to see the hills and viewpoints above town. Visitors can also go snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, zip-lining, or take a guided tour into the island’s interior. These tours offer the possibility of seeing Catalina Island foxes and the island’s free-roaming bison from a safe distance.

If you plan to hike beyond Avalon and into the island’s wildlands, obtain the required hiking permit from the Catalina Island Conservancy. Never approach the bison, which are wild animals and can be dangerous.

Best for: An island escape, snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife
Don’t miss: Exploring Avalon and taking in the harbor views
Good to know: Reserve ferry tickets in advance and leave enough time to reach the terminal before departure.

12. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is one of those places that feels perfect for a relaxed day by the coast. I visited with my husband, and we started with brunch before spending time on the beach. I also loved the cute downtown, with its Spanish-style architecture, shops, restaurants, and palm-lined streets.

One of the best parts of the day was simply getting there. We drove along the Pacific Coast Highway, and the ocean views made the journey feel like part of the trip rather than just transportation.

State Street runs through the heart of downtown toward the waterfront, making it easy to combine shopping and a meal with time at the beach. If you have more time, walk out onto Stearns Wharf for views of the harbor, coastline, and Santa Ynez Mountains.

Santa Barbara makes a particularly good couples’ getaway, although families will also find plenty to do. You can keep the day simple with brunch and the beach, or add Old Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Zoo, a bike ride along the waterfront, or one of the city’s museums.

Best for: Couples, brunch, beaches, and a scenic coastal escape
Don’t miss: Exploring downtown before walking toward the waterfront
Good to know: Allow extra time for the drive so you can enjoy the coastal scenery rather than rushing to arrive.

13. Ventura and Channel Islands National Park

Ventura is a laid-back coastal city and the primary gateway to Channel Islands National Park. Its walkable downtown, beaches, harbor, locally owned restaurants, and small-town atmosphere make it a pleasant destination even if you do not travel to the islands.

Begin at the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center in Ventura Harbor to learn about the five islands protected by the park. From the harbor, the park’s authorized concessioner, Island Packers, operates boat trips to the islands throughout the year. Advance reservations are required.

A visit to Channel Islands National Park requires more planning than a typical national park trip. Your arrival and departure times are controlled by the boat schedule, and weather or ocean conditions can affect the journey. There are no stores, restaurants, or hotels on the park islands, and drinking water is available in only a few locations. Bring all the food, water, sun protection, and layers you will need for the day.

Once on an island, visitors can hike, watch wildlife, explore beaches, or join a guided kayaking excursion. The isolation is exactly what makes the park special—it feels surprisingly wild despite being just off the Southern California coast.

After returning to the mainland, spend time walking around Ventura Harbor or downtown Ventura and have dinner before continuing your trip.

Best for: Hiking, wildlife, kayaking, and uncrowded natural scenery
Don’t miss: A boat trip to one of the Channel Islands
Good to know: Reserve transportation well in advance and pack as though no supplies will be available after you leave the mainland.

14. San Diego

San Diego is one of my favorite Southern California destinations because it combines a real city with beautiful parks and some of the best beaches in the region. There is enough to do for a long weekend or an entire week without feeling as hectic as Los Angeles.

I love Balboa Park. It covers more than 1,000 acres and contains museums, gardens, walking paths, beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and the San Diego Zoo. You can pay to enter individual museums, but admission to the park grounds and most of the gardens is free. It is easy to spend an entire day here.

The USS Midway Museum is another San Diego highlight. The enormous aircraft carrier is docked along the downtown waterfront, and admission includes a self-guided audio tour. You can explore the ship’s interior, see historic aircraft, and walk across the flight deck while looking out over San Diego Bay.

San Diego’s beaches are unbeatable, so leave time for at least one beach day. Coronado was one of my favorite places, but it deserves its own section because it feels like a separate destination from downtown San Diego.

Best for: Families, museums, beaches, and a longer Southern California vacation
Don’t miss: Balboa Park and the USS Midway Museum
Good to know: San Diego is spread out, so group attractions by area instead of crossing the city several times in one day.

15. Coronado

Coronado feels like an escape from San Diego even though it is just across the bay from downtown. It has a charming downtown, a famous historic hotel, and one of the most beautiful beaches I visited in Southern California.

We walked through downtown Coronado and visited the Hotel del Coronado, the enormous Victorian resort that has stood beside the ocean for more than 130 years. You do not have to stay at the hotel to appreciate its architecture, beachfront setting, and history.

We also spent time going from beach to beach. It was not quite warm enough to swim during our visit, but the weather was sunny and the beach was glorious. Coronado is the kind of place where simply walking along the sand feels like enough of an activity.

One of our most memorable experiences was taking a private gondola ride through the canals of the Coronado Cays. It was peaceful and completely unexpected—it really did feel like a small taste of Venice in Southern California.

You can reach Coronado by driving across the Coronado Bridge or taking the passenger ferry from downtown San Diego. Once there, the central part of town is easy to explore on foot.

Best for: Beaches, couples, beautiful architecture, and a relaxing day trip
Don’t miss: Coronado Beach and the Hotel del Coronado
Something special: Take a gondola ride through the Coronado Cays
Good to know: The gondola rides are popular, so reserve one before your visit.

16. La Jolla

La Jolla is known for dramatic coastal cliffs, sea caves, protected marine habitats, and some of the best wildlife viewing around San Diego. It is an especially good destination for travelers who want to do more than sit on the beach.

Begin at La Jolla Cove, where you can follow the coastal walkway and watch sea lions and seabirds from a safe distance. The cove is part of an ecological reserve, so fishing and removing shells, plants, animals, or other natural objects is prohibited.

Continue toward the Children’s Pool, where harbor seals frequently rest on the sand. The beach itself closes to public access during harbor seal pupping season from December 15 through May 15, but visitors can still observe the animals from designated viewing areas.

For a more active experience, book a guided kayak tour from La Jolla Shores. Depending on the weather and water conditions, tours may travel past kelp beds, marine life, cliffs, and the famous La Jolla sea caves. La Jolla Shores is also a good choice for families because its summer waves are generally gentler than those at many other San Diego beaches.

Best for: Marine life, kayaking, coastal scenery, and families
Don’t miss: Walking along the coast around La Jolla Cove
Good to know: Never approach, touch, or block seals and sea lions, even if they appear comfortable around people.

17. Carlsbad

Carlsbad is one of the best places to visit in Southern California with younger children. It combines a relaxed beach town with major family attractions, particularly LEGOLAND California Resort.

LEGOLAND includes the main theme park, SEA LIFE Aquarium, a seasonal water park, and two LEGO-themed hotels. The rides and hands-on attractions are designed primarily for families with younger children, making it a good alternative to Southern California’s larger and more intense theme parks. The water park requires admission through the main LEGOLAND theme park, so check ticket options before buying.

In spring, visit the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Approximately 55 acres of colorful ranunculus flowers bloom for about eight to ten weeks, usually from early March through early May. Exact opening and closing dates change each year.

Carlsbad also has seven miles of coastline and a walkable village filled with locally owned shops and restaurants. That makes it easy to balance a busy theme-park day with a quieter afternoon at the beach.

Best for: Families with younger children, beaches, and spring flowers
Don’t miss: LEGOLAND California Resort
Best in spring: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Good to know: The LEGOLAND Water Park and Flower Fields are seasonal, so verify operating dates before planning your trip.

18. Oceanside

Oceanside is a casual beach city with a strong surfing culture and a less polished feel than some of Southern California’s resort towns. Its beaches, harbor, museums, and walkable downtown make it an easy day trip or an affordable base for exploring northern San Diego County.

The Oceanside Pier is the city’s best-known landmark. A fire damaged the western end of the pier in 2024, but approximately 90 percent of it remains open. Check the city’s website for reconstruction updates before your visit.

To learn more about the area’s surfing culture, visit the California Surf Museum in downtown Oceanside. Its collection traces the history of surfboards and wave riding through artifacts, photographs, and rotating exhibits.

Oceanside Harbor is another good place to walk beside the water, find a restaurant, or rent equipment for kayaking and paddleboarding. Whale-watching and fishing excursions also leave from the harbor.

For a look at an earlier period of California history, visit Mission San Luis Rey. Founded in 1798, the site includes an interpretive museum and remains home to a Franciscan community.

Best for: Surf culture, beaches, harbor activities, and a relaxed coastal stay
Don’t miss: The Oceanside Pier and California Surf Museum
Good to know: Most of the pier is open, but its fire-damaged western end remains closed during reconstruction.

19. Julian

Julian offers a completely different side of Southern California. Located in the Cuyamaca Mountains about an hour east of San Diego, this historic gold-mining town has four distinct seasons, old-fashioned storefronts, hiking trails, and a reputation for excellent apple pie.

Walk through the compact downtown, browse the small shops, and follow the self-guided history walk. You can also tour a former gold mine and learn how the discovery of gold shaped the town during the 1870s.

Fall is Julian’s busiest season because of the apple harvest. Local orchards offer apple picking when the crop is available, while bakeries serve apple pie throughout the year. Apple-picking dates vary depending on the weather and harvest, so contact individual orchards before making the drive.

For hiking, head to nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. The park has more than 100 miles of trails through oak woodland, pine forest, and meadows.

Julian sometimes receives snow in winter, which can make it feel almost nothing like coastal San Diego. However, mountain weather can also create difficult driving conditions and chain requirements.

Best for: Apple pie, fall trips, history, and mountain scenery
Don’t miss: A slice of Julian apple pie
Good to know: Fall weekends become extremely busy. Visit on a weekday when possible and check road and chain conditions during winter.

20. Palm Springs

Palm Springs feels like you have been transported back in time. I love the city’s midcentury-modern architecture, with its low-slung homes, geometric lines, colorful doors, and dramatic mountain backdrops.

I traveled to Palm Springs alone and loved walking around downtown, browsing the shops, and seeing the architecture. It was also fun to get into the car and drive beyond town into the desert. The wide-open landscape feels completely different from Southern California’s busy cities and beaches.

An architecture tour is one of the best ways to understand Palm Springs. You can join a guided tour or follow a self-guided driving route past some of the city’s most distinctive buildings and neighborhoods.

For even more desert scenery, visit Indian Canyons, the ancestral homeland of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Its trails pass through palm oases, rock formations, and desert landscapes. Another popular option is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which climbs to an elevation of more than 8,500 feet and offers a much cooler mountain environment above the desert.

Palm Springs worked beautifully as a solo destination for me. I could walk downtown when I wanted activity and then drive into the desert when I wanted quiet.

Best for: Architecture, solo travel, desert scenery, pools, and warm winter trips
Don’t miss: A self-guided midcentury-modern architecture drive
Good to know: Summer temperatures can be extreme. Plan outdoor activities early in the day, carry plenty of water, and check whether the aerial tramway is undergoing its annual maintenance closure.

21. Joshua Tree National Park

I visited Joshua Tree National Park once and what I remember most is feeling as though we had landed on a different planet. The twisted Joshua trees, enormous piles of rounded boulders, and wide-open desert landscape looked unlike anywhere else I had seen.

That otherworldly quality still makes Joshua Tree one of Southern California’s most distinctive destinations. Two desert ecosystems—the Mojave and Colorado deserts—meet within the park, creating noticeable changes in elevation, plants, and scenery as you drive through it.

First-time visitors can follow the main park roads and stop for short walks at places such as Hidden Valley and the Cholla Cactus Garden. The Cholla Cactus Garden trail is only about a quarter-mile long, but it passes through an extraordinary concentration of teddybear cholla. Do not touch the cacti, no matter how soft they appear.

Joshua Tree is also known for its dark night skies, rock climbing, hiking, and sunsets. If possible, stay until after dark to see how different the desert feels once the stars come out.

There is no water available within the park’s interior, and cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent. Fill your gas tank, download an offline map, and carry more water than you expect to need.

Best for: Otherworldly landscapes, hiking, photography, and stargazing
Don’t miss: The Joshua trees and giant rock formations around Hidden Valley
Good to know: Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day and never rely on having cell service inside the park.

22. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers a quieter and more rugged desert experience than Joshua Tree. It is California’s largest state park, with sweeping badlands, palm oases, cacti, mountains, and more than 500 miles of dirt roads.

Begin at the visitor center near Borrego Springs to learn about current trail, weather, and road conditions. From there, explore a short nature trail, hike into a palm canyon, or take a scenic drive through the desert.

Spring wildflowers are one of the park’s biggest attractions, but the size and timing of the bloom depend entirely on winter rain and spring temperatures. Some years produce large carpets of flowers, while others have only scattered blooms. Check current reports before making a special trip to see them.

While driving around Borrego Springs, look for the enormous metal animals scattered across Galleta Meadows. The collection includes more than 100 sculptures of creatures ranging from elephants and horses to a massive serpent. The sculptures are on private land outside the state park, but they are easy to combine with a park visit.

Many of Anza-Borrego’s dirt roads require appropriate clearance or four-wheel drive. Road conditions can change after storms, so do not rely entirely on a navigation app.

Best for: Desert scenery, stargazing, wildflowers, and scenic drives
Don’t miss: The landscape around Borrego Springs and the Galleta Meadows sculptures
Good to know: Avoid hiking during extreme heat, carry plenty of water, and check road conditions before leaving paved roads.

23. Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake proves that Southern California is not all beaches and deserts. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, this mountain community offers skiing and snow play in winter, lake activities in summer, and hiking throughout much of the year.

Winter is the most obvious time to visit. Big Bear Mountain Resort includes Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, and Snow Valley, with skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and designated snow-play areas. Snowmaking helps supplement natural snowfall, but conditions and opening dates still vary each year.

During the warmer months, visitors can kayak, paddleboard, fish, boat, hike, and mountain bike. The Village is the town’s central area for restaurants and shops and is worth walking through during any season.

Big Bear sits at an elevation of approximately 6,750 feet, so temperatures are considerably cooler than those in Los Angeles. The elevation can also affect visitors who are not accustomed to it, so drink plenty of water and avoid beginning your trip with a strenuous hike.

Winter driving requires preparation. Mountain roads may be icy or snowy, and chain controls can take effect quickly. Carry the correct tire chains and know how to use them, even if you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Best for: Snow, skiing, cabins, lake activities, and mountain scenery
Don’t miss: The lake in summer or a designated snow activity in winter
Good to know: Check Caltrans road conditions and chain requirements immediately before driving into the mountains.

24. Temecula

Some of my experiences in Temecula were hosted as part of a separate press trip. As always, all opinions are my own.

I recently visited Temecula by myself on a press trip. I was there to write about places in the United States that feel like other countries, and Temecula absolutely belongs on that list. With vineyards spread across rolling hills and mountains surrounding the valley, it feels like a mixture of Italy and Spain rather than Southern California.

I visited several wineries and learned how grapes are grown and harvested in the region. I do not drink, but I still found the winery experience fascinating. Many of the vineyards have spectacular restaurants, beautiful grounds, and sweeping views, so there is plenty to enjoy without participating in a wine tasting. I ate some truly delicious meals overlooking the vineyards.

Old Town Temecula offers a completely different experience from wine country. Its historic buildings are filled with boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, and small local businesses. It is a fun place to shop, eat, and simply walk around for a few hours.

Temecula works particularly well for a couples’ getaway, solo trip, or relaxing weekend with friends. Hot-air-balloon rides are another signature experience and provide an especially beautiful view of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.

Best for: Beautiful scenery, vineyard dining, couples, and solo getaways
Don’t miss: A meal overlooking the vineyards and a walk through Old Town Temecula
Good to know: You do not need to drink wine to enjoy Temecula’s wineries. Many offer tours, restaurants, shops, and beautiful grounds.

25. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is the most remote and demanding destination on this list, but its enormous scale and stark scenery make it one of the most memorable. The park covers more than 3.4 million acres of salt flats, mountains, sand dunes, canyons, and colorful badlands.

For a first visit, see Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. Zabriskie Point provides an easily accessible view across the golden badlands and is especially beautiful around sunrise. Depending on current road conditions, you can also drive Artists Drive or travel up to Dante’s View for a panoramic look over the valley.

Death Valley is best explored during the cooler months. Summer temperatures can exceed 120°F, and the National Park Service strongly discourages hiking at lower elevations during hot weather. Even temperatures in the 80s and 90s can become dangerous because of the intense sun and lack of shade.

The park is enormous, cell service is unreliable, and services are separated by long distances. Fill your gas tank before entering, carry at least one gallon of water per person per day, bring food, and download an offline map.

Flash floods can damage or close roads with little warning, even when the weather appears clear where you are. Always check the park’s current conditions map before driving.

Best for: Dramatic landscapes, photography, stargazing, and scenic drives
Don’t miss: Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point
Good to know: Visit during cooler weather and never underestimate the heat, distances, or isolation.

A 10-Day Southern California Itinerary

You cannot see all 25 destinations during one vacation, but this itinerary includes Southern California’s cities, beaches, theme parks, and desert scenery without requiring you to change hotels every night.

Days 1–3: Los Angeles and the Coast

Use Los Angeles as your base. Spend one day exploring the city, including the Original Farmers Market, Olvera Street, the Petersen Automotive Museum, or another attraction that fits your interests.

Use your second day for Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Malibu. Reserve a timed ticket to the Getty Villa and allow plenty of extra time for traffic along the coast.

On the third day, visit Pasadena or spend more time exploring Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Days 4–5: Orange County

Drive south to Orange County. Spend one day at Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, or another Anaheim attraction.

Use the following day to visit one or two coastal destinations. Newport Beach and Balboa Island work well together, while Laguna Beach and Dana Point make another good combination. Do not attempt to visit every Orange County beach town in one day.

Days 6–8: San Diego

Continue south and use San Diego as your base for three nights. Spend one day exploring Balboa Park and the USS Midway Museum.

Devote another day to Coronado, including Coronado Beach, the Hotel del Coronado, and downtown. On your final San Diego day, visit La Jolla or choose a relaxed beach day.

Days 9–10: Palm Springs and Joshua Tree

Drive inland to Palm Springs. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown and following a self-guided architecture route.

On the final day, visit Joshua Tree National Park. Enter early, carry plenty of water, and download an offline map before entering the park. You can then return to Palm Springs or continue to an airport that works with your travel plans.

If you prefer coastal scenery to the desert, replace Palm Springs and Joshua Tree with Santa Barbara and Ventura.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Southern California

What are the best places to visit in Southern California for the first time?

For a first trip, concentrate on Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Anaheim, San Diego, and one smaller coastal destination such as Laguna Beach or Coronado. If you have additional time, add Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park.

What is the prettiest place in Southern California?

That depends on the type of scenery you prefer. Laguna Beach is one of the prettiest coastal destinations, Santa Barbara combines mountains with the ocean, and Joshua Tree has the most unusual desert landscape. I also thought Coronado Beach was glorious.

How many days do you need in Southern California?

Allow at least seven days for Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. Ten days gives you enough time to add Palm Springs and Joshua Tree without rushing. With two weeks, you can include Santa Barbara, the mountains, or another desert destination.

Can you visit Southern California without a car?

You can visit parts of Los Angeles, Anaheim, San Diego, Santa Barbara, and San Juan Capistrano without a car. However, a car is the easiest way to reach the beaches, deserts, mountains, and national parks. If you do not want to drive for the entire trip, consider renting a car only for the more remote portions.

What is the best month to visit Southern California?

April, May, October, and November generally provide a good balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Summer is best for beach vacations but can be crowded, while winter is excellent for the desert and major theme parks.

What are the best places to visit in Southern California with kids?

Anaheim, San Diego, Carlsbad, Coronado, and Newport Beach are particularly good for families. Top family attractions include Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, LEGOLAND California, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the USS Midway Museum.

Where is it warm in Southern California during winter?

Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley generally offer some of Southern California’s warmest winter weather. San Diego, Los Angeles, and the Orange County coast are usually mild, although the ocean may be too cold for comfortable swimming.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Southern California

Southern California is one of those destinations that can feel like several completely different vacations in one. You can explore a major city, relax on the beach, drive through the desert, visit a theme park, or even play in the snow.

As a travel journalist, I have returned to Southern California many times, and I still find something new on every trip. Do not try to see everything at once. Choose a few destinations that fit the way you like to travel, allow extra time for traffic, and leave room for unexpected stops along the way.