Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is not just about glitz and glamour. It's also a gateway to some of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the United States. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend getaway or a tourist seeking to explore Southern California's diverse landscapes, these road trips offer an unforgettable journey. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the rugged Angeles Crest Highway, we'll guide you through the best road trips that start right here in LA. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and let's hit the road!
Pacific Coast Highway: Santa Monica to Santa Barbara
Before embarking on your road trip adventure, consider renting a car in LA if you don't have your own vehicle. This can be a great option for tourists or even locals looking to try out a different type of car for their journey.
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is arguably one of the most famous scenic drives in the world. Starting from Santa Monica, this route takes you through some of California's most picturesque coastal towns and beaches. The journey to Santa Barbara is about 95 miles and can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your stops. But trust us, you'll want to make plenty of stops along this stunning stretch of coastline.
Scenic Route 1 Navigation and Landmarks
As you embark on your journey north from Santa Monica, you'll find yourself on Route 1, also known as the PCH. This well-maintained highway hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on your left. Keep an eye out for notable landmarks such as the Santa Monica Pier, which marks the official end (or beginning) of Historic Route 66. As you continue, you'll pass through Malibu, Oxnard, and Ventura before reaching Santa Barbara.
One of the most iconic spots along this route is Point Mugu Rock, a massive volcanic rock formation that juts out into the ocean. It's a popular spot for photographers and a great place to stretch your legs. Remember to drive carefully, especially around the curvy sections near Point Mugu State Park.
Malibu's Hidden Coves and Oceanfront Dining
Malibu is more than just a celebrity haven; it's home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California. As you drive through, consider stopping at El Matador State Beach, known for its dramatic rock formations and secluded coves. It's a bit of a hike down to the beach, but the views are well worth it.
For a taste of local flavors, pull over at Malibu Farm Restaurant on the Malibu Pier. This farm-to-table eatery offers stunning ocean views and fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch break before continuing your journey.
Santa Barbara's Spanish Colonial Architecture Tour
As you arrive in Santa Barbara, you'll be greeted by the city's distinctive Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The red-tiled roofs and white stucco walls are a testament to the city's rich history and Mediterranean climate. Park your car and take a walking tour of the downtown area to fully appreciate the architectural beauty.
Start at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, an ornate building completed in 1929. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and the ocean beyond. Then, make your way to the Santa Barbara Mission, founded in 1786 and known as the "Queen of the Missions" for its graceful beauty.
End your architecture tour with a stroll down State Street, the main shopping and dining thoroughfare. Here, you'll find a mix of historic buildings housing modern businesses, creating a unique blend of old and new.
Angeles Crest Highway: Mountain Terrain Expedition
For those seeking a different kind of scenic drive, the Angeles Crest Highway offers a thrilling mountain adventure. This 66-mile route takes you through the heart of the San Gabriel Mountains, providing a stark contrast to the coastal views of the PCH. The journey begins in La Cañada Flintridge, just north of Los Angeles, and ends in Wrightwood.
Navigating Switchbacks and Elevation Changes
The Angeles Crest Highway is not for the faint of heart. With its numerous switchbacks and significant elevation changes, it demands focused driving and a vehicle in good condition. The road climbs from about 1,300 feet in La Cañada Flintridge to over 7,000 feet at its highest point near Mount Waterman.
As you navigate the winding road, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the Los Angeles Basin and the surrounding mountains. The landscape changes dramatically as you ascend, transitioning from chaparral to pine forests. Keep in mind that weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations, so check the forecast before setting out and be prepared for cooler temperatures.
La Cañada Flintridge to Mount Wilson Observatory Drive
One of the highlights of this route is the drive to Mount Wilson Observatory. About 14 miles from the start of Angeles Crest Highway, you'll find the turnoff for Mount Wilson Road. This 5-mile detour takes you to the historic observatory, where Edwin Hubble made groundbreaking discoveries about the expansion of the universe.
The observatory offers guided tours on weekends, allowing you to see the massive 100-inch Hooker Telescope. Even if you don't take a tour, the views from the observatory are spectacular, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Los Angeles area and beyond.
Angeles National Forest Hiking Trail Stops
The Angeles Crest Highway provides access to numerous hiking trails within Angeles National Forest. One popular stop is at Charlton Flats Picnic Area, about 24 miles from the start of the highway. From here, you can access several trails, including the Silver Moccasin Trail, which offers beautiful forest views.
Another great hiking spot is Buckhorn Campground, located at mile marker 58. The Burkhart Trail starts here and leads to Cooper Canyon Falls, a beautiful 40-foot waterfall. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited along the highway.
Palos Verdes Peninsula Coastal Loop
For a shorter but no less scenic drive, the Palos Verdes Peninsula offers a beautiful coastal loop just south of Los Angeles. This approximately 14-mile drive takes you around the peninsula, offering stunning ocean views, access to beaches, and glimpses of luxurious homes.
Start your journey in Rancho Palos Verdes and follow Palos Verdes Drive South. As you round the peninsula, you'll pass several noteworthy stops. The Point Vicente Lighthouse, built in 1926, is a picturesque landmark and a great spot for whale watching during migration season. Further along, Abalone Cove Shoreline Park offers hiking trails and tide pools to explore.
One of the highlights of this drive is the breathtaking view from Wayfarers Chapel, also known as the "Glass Church." Designed by Lloyd Wright (son of Frank Lloyd Wright), this architectural marvel seems to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. It's a popular spot for weddings and quiet contemplation.
As you complete the loop, consider stopping at Terranea Resort for a meal with a view. Even if you're not staying at the resort, you can enjoy its restaurants and take in the panoramic ocean vistas.
Joshua Tree National Park Desert Odyssey
For a complete change of scenery, head east from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park. This desert wonderland, located about 130 miles from LA, offers a unique landscape that feels worlds away from the coastal and mountain drives we've explored so far.
Route 62 to Park Boulevard: Mojave Ecosystem Exploration
The journey to Joshua Tree takes you through the Mojave Desert ecosystem. As you travel east on Route 62, you'll notice the landscape becoming increasingly arid. The town of Joshua Tree marks the northwest entrance to the park. From here, turn onto Park Boulevard to enter the national park.
As you drive through the park, you'll be surrounded by the iconic Joshua trees, which are actually a species of yucca. These unique plants, with their twisted, spiky appearance, give the park its name and create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The park is also known for its massive boulder formations, which seem to have been dropped from the sky by giants.
Rock Climbing Pit Stops and Geological Formations
Joshua Tree is a mecca for rock climbers, and even if you're not a climber yourself, watching others tackle the park's massive boulders is entertaining. Some popular spots for climbing (or watching) include Hidden Valley and Ryan Mountain.
For those interested in geology, the park offers fascinating formations to explore. Stop at Split Rock, a massive boulder that appears to have been cleaved in two. The Arch Rock Nature Trail is another short hike that leads to an impressive natural arch formation.
| Location | Feature | Approximate Drive Time from Park Entrance |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Valley | Rock Climbing, Picnic Area | 20 minutes |
| Keys View | Panoramic Vista | 30 minutes |
| Skull Rock | Unique Rock Formation | 35 minutes |
Stargazing at Skull Rock and Keys View
Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for its dark skies, making it an ideal location for stargazing. If you can, plan to stay until after sunset to experience the park's spectacular night sky. Skull Rock, with its eerie skull-like appearance, makes for a dramatic foreground for night photography.
For expansive views of the Coachella Valley and, on a clear day, the San Andreas Fault, head to Keys View. This lookout point is especially beautiful at sunset, as the fading light paints the desert landscape in warm hues.
San Diego Scenic Byway: Interstate 5 South
Our final road trip takes us south from Los Angeles to San Diego along Interstate 5. While not as scenic as some of our other routes, this drive offers its own charms and can be combined with stops along the coast for a more picturesque journey.
The direct route from LA to San Diego is about 120 miles and takes around two hours without stops. However, we recommend taking your time and exploring some of the coastal towns along the way. Consider exiting I-5 to drive along the coast through cities like Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.
As you approach San Diego, take the time to explore some of its unique neighborhoods. Coronado Island, connected to the mainland by a sweeping bridge, offers beautiful beaches and the historic Hotel del Coronado. La Jolla, known for its upscale shops and restaurants, also boasts scenic coves and beaches where you might spot seals and sea lions.
Whether you choose to cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway, wind through the mountains on Angeles Crest Highway, loop around the Palos Verdes Peninsula, explore the desert landscapes of Joshua Tree, or head south to San Diego, each of these road trips from Los Angeles offers a unique perspective on the natural beauty of Southern California. Remember to check road conditions before setting out, especially for mountain and desert routes where weather can be unpredictable. And don't forget to enjoy the journey - these road trips are about more than just reaching a destination; they're about experiencing the diverse landscapes and communities that make Southern California so special.
