moon southern california road trips

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Home / Moon Southern California Road Trips

Moon Southern California Road Trips

Hit the beach, hike hidden trails, or soak up some desert sun: the outdoor adventures are endless with  Moon Southern California Road Trips .

Inside you’ll find:

• Pick Your Road Trip:  Find flexible getaways throughout SoCal like three-day routes up the coast, through Death Valley, Ojai, and more, or combine them for an epic two-week driving tour
• Eat, Sleep, Stop and Explore:  With lists of the best beaches, hikes, wineries, and more, you can tour backlots in Los Angeles, feel like a kid again at Disneyland, and feast on tacos and craft beer in San Diego. Climb Joshua Tree’s rock formations to stunning views, ski and surf in the same day, and get a taste of the laidback lifestyle in Santa Barbara and Palm Springs
• Maps and Driving Tools:  Easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the highway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, detailed directions, and full-color photos throughout
• Local Expertise:  San Diego native, brew enthusiast, and avid surfer Ian Anderson shares his tips on where to stop and what to see
• How to Plan Your Trip:  Know when and where to get gas and how to avoid traffic, plus tips for driving in different road conditions and suggestions for LGBTQ travelers, seniors, travelers of color, and road-trippers with kids
• Coverage  of Los Angeles, Disneyland, beaches from Malibu to La Jolla, San Diego, Anza Borrego State Park, Palm Springs & Joshua Tree, Route 66, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Hearst Castle, plus Las Vegas

With flexible itineraries for weekend getaways and practical tips for driving the full loop, Moon Southern California Road Trips gets you ready to fill up the tank and hit the road.

How to Visit the Mountains, Desert, and Beach on A Southern California Road Trip

By: Author Gabi

Posted on Last updated: March 10, 2024

This post is sponsored by Avalon Travel and includes tracking links. For more information about tracking links and how to opt-out, please visit All About Do Not Track prior to clicking any links found in this post.

Tourists have long spoken these words like a rumor…”I hear you can ski and surf on the same day.”Born and raised in San Diego, I initially overlooked SoCal’s diverse offerings. Traveling globally for five years enlightened me to appreciate our backyard—surfing mornings, snowboarding evenings, and desert nights make it a top-tier destination.

Southern California has every adventure imaginable and it can all be experienced on a road trip!

California’s diversity makes it an ideal destination for thrilling road trips. With cost-effective travel and the convenience of roadways, it’s our top choice for exploration.

Whether you have 1 day, 1 week, or 1 month to travel, Southern California gives you the ability to explore the mountains, desert, and sea in whatever constraint of time you have.

Though you could see so much in 1 day, there is never enough time to see it all and you could spend weeks in the backcountry, at BLM campgrounds, and beaches.

SoCal isn’t all coastal cities and suburbs as it may seem. Though the coastline is very urbanized from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, it’s quick to get away to the wilderness and this makes it an awesome destination for outdoorsmen.

In this blog, we’ve highlighted the top 3 beaches, deserts, and mountain towns that make a trip to Southern California so amazing.

Moon Travel Guides has an amazing guidebook to help you make the most of your next road trip through southern California. With everything from insider tips to top destinations, scenic drives, route recommendations, top eateries, trails, and more, the Moon Southern California Road Trips guidebook is the ultimate guide to planning your Southern California road trip adventures .

Table of Contents

3 Beautiful Beaches

Cardiff-by-the-sea.

Neighboring the hipster town of Encinitas, the small community of Cardiff by the Sea is my home beach but even though I’ve spent more days than I can count on these beaches, I can never get enough of this beautiful coastline.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea boasts miles of stunning, protected coastline—Swami’s to San Elijo, Cardiff Reef, and Seaside Reef offer breathtaking vistas and crystal-clear waters against high cliffs.

Speaking of reefs, Cardiff by the Sea is home to some of the best surf breaks in all of California. The dozens of peaks along Cardiff by the Sea are catered to all skill levels of surfers and in the summer, it’s one of the best places in the world to learn to surf.

The best part about Cardiff beaches though is the pedestrian-friendly town square right across the street with amazing food options including breweries, cafes, and artisan food markets.

Related: Guide to Surfing the California Coast

Pismo State Beach

Unlike the calm, crystal-clear perfection of Cardiff’s coastline, I find Pismo Beach to be one of the most stunning beaches in California for its raw and rugged features.  The 17-mile-long Pismo Beach is characterized by wind-swept white sand dunes backed by a lush forest. 

What I love about Pismo Beach is that it provides solitude as well as options. Pismo Pier is a great surf beach and low tide here provides the opportunity to run, bike, or walk on the beautiful beach. The Pismo sand dunes on the south end of the state park are great for off-roading and don’t miss the Butterfly grove in the winter.

Related: California Coast Road Trip

Moonstone Beach in Cambria

Cambria isn’t just about Hearst Castle; its real charm lies in its coastal beauty and small-town allure. Moonstone Beach, nestled along Cambria’s shore, offers serene beauty with abundant sea glass and great tide pooling.

Moonstone is also home to lots of wildlife but if wildlife is what you love, be sure to head a few miles further up the coast to Piedras Blancas, an exciting Elephant Seal gathering spot. You might even spot zebras grazing on the lawns of Hearst Castle.

Aside from the beach, it’s hard not to love the quaint town of Cambria home to many galleries and cafes.

Related: San Diego to Big Sur Road Trip

3 Epic Deserts

Death valley national park.

Having lived in Southern California my entire life, I only recently made the effort to explore Death Valley last winter. Despite its ominous name, it’s anything but desolate and dreary.

Death Valley National Park stands as Southern California’s most spectacular desert, boasting colorful hills, rolling sand dunes, vast salt flats, and unique titles: “The Hottest Place on Earth” and the “Lowest Point in North America.” Its diverse landscape and ecosystem are unparalleled.

The Moon Southern California Road Trips guidebook is super helpful in planning your trip to Death Valley. The guidebook is perfect for finding out which destinations within Death Valley are worth prioritizing depending on the amount of time you have in the National Park. Moon guidebooks give you an example itinerary plus amazing information on camping, accommodation, hikes, adventures, and restaurants.

Joshua Tree

To be honest, Joshua Tree is the pride and joy of Southern Californians, especially for outdoorsmen. Locals love the boulder-strewn desert of Joshua Tree and for a good reason, it’s home to a variety of adventures from hiking, to rock climbing, camping, stargazing, and exploring.

No trip to Joshua Tree National Park is complete without camping among the Joshua Trees themselves. The night skies are amazing and many of the sites are strewn with boulders you can scramble and explore.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Located just an hour east of San Diego, Anza Borrego is a vast state park home to sweeping deserts, epic star gazing, hiking, OHV riding, and more. Taking up such a large region, Anza Borrego has something for everyone.

Personally, our favorite activity in the Anza Borrego desert is riding quads and dune buggies in the Ocotillo sand dunes. Anza Borrego has all sorts of OHV riding. You can explore endless 4X4 routes through canyons in the state park, ride the 80,000 acres of desert terrain in Ocotillo Wells State Recreation Area, or explore the sandy BLM area to the south of Anza Borrego.

Anza Borrego is also a great hiking destination, best experienced in the spring during the famous spring super blooms.

Related: Southwest National Parks Road Trip

3 Stunning Mountain Adventures

Big Bear’s mountains, though not as grand as Central and Northern California, offer a unique blend of mountainous terrain near the beach and desert, which is amazing.

Big Bear in Southern California offers year-round alpine adventures. From winter skiing at Snow Summit to summer activities like boating on Big Bear Lake, rock climbing at Holcomb Valley, and exploring backcountry trails for mountain biking, camping, hiking, and backpacking. The scenic drive along Rim Of The World Scenic Byway is an attraction in itself.

San Luis Obispo

SLO, short for San Luis Obispo, sits just outside Southern California. Despite its calm pace, it’s vibrant and offers an adventurous spirit akin to California’s Boulder. Known for cycling, mountain biking, and stunning hikes at Nine Morro peaks, it’s an outdoor haven. Downtown SLO charms with artisanal food, historic beauty, tree-lined streets, outdoor dining, and a strong sense of community.

Find the best restaurants, sights, and hikes inside Moon Guides Southern California Road Trips .

Idyllwild in the San Jacinto Mountains

Perhaps one of the most under-the-radar destinations in Southern California is the mountain hub of Idyllwild. While Idyllwild itself isn’t epic, it’s the central point for dozens of adventures in the San Jacinto Mountains.

Idyllwild boasts top-notch rock climbing at Tahquitz and Suicide Rocks, hailed by locals as among California’s finest. Beyond climbing, explore the incredible backcountry trail system, catering to all levels, from conquering an 11,000-foot summit to family-friendly strolls. Idyllwild offers serenity amidst forests and peaks, a stark contrast to bustling outdoor destinations like J-Tree or Death Valley.

For detailed guidance on Idyllwild’s trails, camping, and accommodations, check out Moon Southern California Road Trips.

Southern California Weekend Itinerary: An Amazing Sea to Summit Road Trip

A weekend barely scratches the surface of exploring these 3 destinations in SoCal; a week per place feels more fitting. Yet, a stellar road trip spanning the desert, mountains, and beach awaits in just a brief weekend.

Day 1: Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Begin your trip in sunny San Diego. Surf enthusiasts can explore top breaks like Seaside Reef, Cardiff Reef, Pipes, or Swamis while respecting local etiquette, especially at Swamis. Beginners can learn at the San Elijo State Beach surf school.

After surfing, visit Sambazon Cafe for an acai bowl and relax on the beach. Enjoy fresh meals at Seaside Market and visit Lost Abbey Brewery. Find excellent accommodations in Cardiff by the Sea and discover great restaurants in Encinitas in the Moon Southern California Road Trips guidebook.

Bonus: In the summer, hit the water for a sunset surf sesh on the stunning coast.

Related: Local’s Guide to Visiting San Diego

Day 2: Big Bear Lake

Rise and shine bright and early so you can take your time enjoying the spectacular scenic highway to Big Bear, Rim of the World Scenic Byway.

In the winter or early spring, enjoy a day of getting your skies in snow at Big Bear Mountain and Snow Summit Ski Resort. In the summer, rent a boat and cruise the lake. Fall is great for climbing or hiking in nearby Holcomb Valley.

Moon guides SoCal experts recommend a memorable stay at Sky Forest Inn which provides beautiful mountain views from their suites.

Day 3: Death Valley

For your final day, prepare to be blown away by the otherworldly beauty of Death Valley. Discover the lively Artist’s Palette, wander the Mesquite Sand Dunes, see the desolate Badwater Basin, 280 feet below sea level, and enjoy a sunset at beautiful Zabriskie Point.

Bonus: Spend a night in Death Valley to score the park at sunrise the next morning.

Discover SoCal’s diverse essence with Moon’s guidebook, featuring myriad activities from Anza Borrego to Route 66. Unveil the spectrum of experiences from coastlines to peaks in Southern California’s breathtaking scenery.

Moon guidebooks offer insider tips for planning unforgettable weekend getaways, and inspiring fantastic road trips through Southern California!

Check out Moon Southern California Road Trips guidebook now and start planning your next SoCal road trip !

• Guide to Surfing the California Coast
• California Coast Road Trip
• San Diego to Big Sur Road Trip
• Southwest National Parks Road Trip
• Local’s Guide to Visiting San Diego
• Top Outdoor Adventures in San Diego

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The Complete Southern California Road Trip Route

Post Summary: The Ultimate Southern California Road Trip Itinerary

Craving a little sunshine?

Go where people play in the sun all year long – Southern California!

There are so many gorgeous places to see in Southern California, where do you even begin planning your Southern California itinerary? 

This is where we come in. We’ve escaped the gloomy PNW plenty of times and driven through this part of the west coast plenty of times! Why choose a few stops when you can see everything in one epic Southern California road trip?

In this post, we’re sharing exactly how to plan the best Southern California itinerary , and all the best stops to have the most memorable trip ever. 

Let’s hop in the car!

The Ultimate Southern California Road Trip Itinerary

Where is southern california.

Southern California is located in the southwest contiguous United States. Its rough borders are generally as north as San Luis Obispo, as east as Death Valley National Park, and as south as the Californian USA/Mexican Border.

Its general geography consists of a desert landscape, dry climate, and often sunny conditions . 

Where Do I Start My Southern California Road Trip?

There are many different places to start your Southern California road trip itinerary. The easiest way to reach southern California is by flying into one of its main cities. Here are the easiest and most convenient starting cities below:

• San Diego (San Diego International Airport – SAN)
• Los Angeles (Los Angeles International Airport -LAX, Ontario International Airport – ONT, John Wayne Airport – SNA, Hollywood Burbank Airport – BUR, Long Beach Airport – LGB)
• San Francisco (San Francisco International Airport – SFO, Oakland International Airport – OAK)

What do we recommend? We recommend flying into San Diego! It’s the most southwest point you can reach, which makes it easy to plan your road trip in a nice, neat loop.

How To Rent a Car In Southern California

Now, what you want to do during your Southern California road trip will depend on what kind of car you should rent for the journey. Here are a few tips to know when trying to rent a car in Southern California:

Staying in B&B’s, resorts, and hotels? Rent a regular car. This kind of car fits easily in tight parking spaces (believe us, you’ll encounter those) and allows you to zip around town without a problem. 

We recommend booking from RentalCars.com . They have the biggest selection of cars and prices, to fit your exact type of road trip!

Want to go camping and do outdoorsy things? Reserve an epic campervan with Outdoorsy . They’ve got a huge selection of vintage VW vans, sprinter vans, and RVs for your perfect outdoor trip. It will be a bit more of a challenge parking this kind of vehicle in the city, but this minor inconvenience is nothing when you think about all the money you’ll save sleeping in your car!

How Many Days Should I Plan for My Southern California Road Trip?

If you want to try and visit all the stops we will list in this post, we suggest planning a one-week Southern California road trip .

This will allow you to break up the trip into bite-sized pieces (aka not spending all day in the car!) and experience areas a little bit deeper than just passing through.

Read More: Use These Road Trip Planner Tools and Apps to Mark Your Route!

When Is The Best Time To Plan A Southern California Road Trip?

The best time to plan a Southern California road trip is during the spring and fall season .

This is because the wintertime can bring quite frigid temperatures in the desert, and then oppositely the summer can bring unbearable hot temperatures during the day.

Spring and Fall bring milder temperatures, which makes for a more comfortable southwest road trip !

The Best Stops On A Mega Southern California Road Trip

(Scroll all the way down for our downloadable google map route!)

1. San Diego

Following the route in our blog post, San Diego is going to be an easy place to begin your Southern California itinerary. San Diego is a large city, with easy access to grocery stores, bulk food places, outdoor gear stores, and any other place you may need to pick up last-minute items. 

Make sure to stop by Balboa Park , La Jolla Cove , and a quick jaunt around Old Town before heading out on your adventure. For a fun trip to the beach, try driving out to Coronado Beach for some sunny, secluded waves!

2. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Often referred to as “the Badlands of Southern California” the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a geographical wonder with deep slot canyons, cactus-covered terrain , and gorgeous oases covering this area of the state. Flash-floods and earthquakes constantly change the geography here, so you can come back time and time again to discover new things about the area. 

Hike the Palm Canyon trail near the water, watch the sunset at Font’s Point , visit the Pumpkin Patch (they look like rock bowling balls!), and stay up late to view the starts from this amazing Southern California state park. 

Read More: 10 Amazing American Southwest Destinations You Have To See To Believe

3. Joshua Tree National Park

Located 30 minutes from Palm Springs, this relatively small national park is surprisingly full of amazing attractions, natural and historical alike! Located close to Southern California cities like San Diego and Los Angeles, this is a popular place for people to come for a quick weekend trip, especially if you love rock climbing!

Make sure to stop by famous landmarks like Arch Rock , the Cholla Cactus Garden , the Keys View , and the Skull Rock Nature Trail . We liked visiting these spots during dawn and dusk – this is when the temperature was comfortable and there were few visitors as well!

Looking for a camping spot near the park? There are actually tons of free camping around the park – click here to read all about how to find free camping spots near your favorite places!

4. Palm Springs, California

If you are looking for a fun break from driving your Southern California road trip route, Palm Springs is absolutely worth a stop! It’s known for its mid-century architecture and bright pastel colors . You’ll find a lot of incredible photo opportunities and fun antique stores here! 

Not only can you resupply and do laundry here, but you can also spend some time relaxing resort pools and indulging in fancy brunch spots. It’s not really an outdoor destination (as far as hiking and exploring go), but it’s a great spot to stay and experience this Coachella-hosting desert escape.

Want to stay overnight? The Korakia Pensione is a swanky, bucket-list hotel perfect for a dreamy few nights. Stay awhile, enjoy the scenery, and rest up from your road trip!

5. Mojave National Preserve

The Mojave National Preserve spans 1.6-MILLION acres of rolling sand dunes, secret mines, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers. This is the perfect Southern California destination if you are seeking solitude and quiet. This place is big enough for you to spread out and not see anyone else…if you choose!

Stop by the Kelso Depot Visitor Center  to get more information about the area. You can also discover what events are happening during the season you visit.

Some of the most popular things to do in the Mojave Desert is camping ( Hole-In-The-Wall Campground and Mid-Hills campground are the most popular). You can also take easy hiking trails like Lake Tuendae Nature trail and T eutonia Peak trail .

SoCal Road Trip Tip: This place rarely gets cell service, so make sure you have the right road trip planner apps to navigate offline. Download offline maps on Google to help you navigate around the desert. 

6. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a must-see destination on your Southern California road trip.

While the name isn’t actually that fitting (there’s actually an abundance of life here!) , living beings like kangaroo rats, coyotes, and bats can be found mostly at night!

Many of these attractions can be seen in Death Valley in one day (let’s say 24 hours), making it a perfect overnight stop. Arrive in the evening to catch the sunset at Dante’s View , camp in the backcountry spots nearby. 

In the morning, watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point . Afterwards, hurry down to check out Badwater Basin before it gets too hot outside! On the way out of the park, make quick stops at the Devil’s Golf Course, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes , and Father Crowley Overlook.

 Have a little extra time? Take a super long detour to the Racetrack or Ubehebe Crater for less-visited Death Valley attractions. 

Read More: How The Plan The Perfect Trip To See Death Valley In One Day

7. Kings Canyon National Park

Boasting dramatically huge sequoia trees, epic views of the Sierra-Nevada Mountains and its 14ers, and tons of wildlife, Kings Canyon National Park is a must-see stop on your SoCal road trip.

Kings Canyon National Park was named after its rugged, glacier-carved canyon . It is a land of giants and “a rival to Yosemite,” according to the national park entrepreneur and preservation advocate, John Muir.

Much of the park is designated wilderness . This means that the park is a choose-your-own-adventure type of stop on your Southern California road trip. With tons of summer and winter activities, you and the family can stay in Kings Canyon National Park for as long or as little as you’d like!

Best Camping Spots In Kings Canyon National Park:

• Atwell Mill Campground (Three Rivers, CA)
• Sentinel Campground (Kings Canyon National Park, CA)
• Moraine Campground (Dunlap, CA)
• Canyon View Group Sites (Hume, CA)
• Meadow Campground (Fresno, CA)
• Big Meadows Cabin (Sequoia National Park, CA)

8. Sequoia National Park

While on your Southern California road trip, you must stop at Sequoia National Park .

Sequoia National Park was established in 1890. This was to protect the giant sequoia trees that cover the southern Sierra-Nevada Mountains! It is enjoyed by over 1 million visitors each year!

Within Sequoia National Park, you can find the largest tree in the world (the General Sherman Tree). Visitors can also drive the scenic General’s Highway , which shows off a group of some of the largest trees in the world, climb Moro Rock , and more.

Some other must-see stops in Sequoia National Park include any of the park’s visitor centers and museums , and hiking any of the Cedar Grove trails .

Best Camping In Sequoia National Park:

• Azalea Campground (Grant Grove, CA)
• Crystal Springs Campground (Hume, CA)
• Sunset Campground (Hume, CA)
• Potwisha Campground (off of Generals Highway)
• Buckeye Flat Campground (Sequoia National Park, CA)

9. San Luis Obispo

Located near the coast of California, San Luis Obispo (or, “SLO,” or simply “San Luis” as the locals say) is a cute SoCal town with big adventures.

During this Southern California stop, do some relaxing! Sunbathe at Pismo Beach , go wine tasting in SLO’s wine country , or explore Montaña de Oro State Park .

Within the huge oceanside Montaña de Oro State Park, you can enjoy the solitude of the beach. For a more active time, hike popular trails like the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail (easy, 4.1-mile trek with 229’ elevation gain), or go on a scenic drive throughout the park.

Don’t forget to walk through downtown San Luis Obispo and grab a bite to eat and a souvenir!

10. Big Sur

Exploring this iconic drive down Highway 1 is a must-add to your Southern California road trip itinerary.

While driving Big Sur , you’re guaranteed epic views of the incredible California coastline and numerous jaw-dropping places to stop along the way.

Malibu , McWay Falls ( park pass required ), and Pfeiffer Beach are among the many amazing stops along Big Sur that you simply must explore.

If you have time for more, check out Bixby Creek (Canyon) Bridge , stay at the luxury Alila Ventana Big Sur Hotel , or camp at Limekiln Campground .

11. Santa Barbara

Just north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is another great stop on your Southern California road trip.

Some of the best things to do in Santa Barbara include visiting the Old Mission Santa Barbara , relaxing at East Beach (free!), exploring the Santa Barbara Zoo , walking the State Street Promenade , and meandering through the Ganna Walska Lotusland .

With easy mountain access and beachside views, Santa Barbara is a wonderful stop while driving through SoCal.

12. Los Angeles

Los Angeles is not only a bustling city of entrepreneurs and movie stars , but it’s also a unique stop on your next Southern California road trip with tons to discover for yourself.

While in Los Angeles, Santa Monica , Hollywood , Getty Villa Museum , and Venice Beach are among some of the most popular attractions.

Up for a longer visit? Camp at Chino Hills State Park and take a few days exploring the nearby Disneyland Park and Universal Studios !

Read More: How To Spend a Fun Weekend In West, Hollywood California

13. Orange County

This is the perfect stop on your Southern California road trip. There are so many free things to do in Orange County !

Huntington Beach , Newport Beach , and Crystal Cove State Park are just a few of the best free things to do in Orange County. However, exploring art galleries in Laguna Beach and visiting the Muckenthaler Cultural Center are also fun free things to do on your road trip.

Looking for Southern California hikes? Try the East Ridge View Trail (moderate, 4 miles with 482’ elevation gain) or walk around the Fullerton Arboretum !

If you’re up for spending a few bucks, check out Disneyland Park and Universal Studios .

Read More: Gorgeous Places To See In Orange County This Weekend

14. Encinitas, California

For great restaurants and beaches, visit Encinitas, California during your SoCal road trip!

Here, you’ll find the lovely Moonlight Beach , excellent surfing at Leucadia State Beach (Beacon’s) , and epic tidepooling at Swami’s Beach .

You can also visit the regular farmer’s market in Encinitas (every Sunday, 2-10PM). If you have time, check out the Butterfly Farms , go wine tasting at Solterra Winery , or go shopping in downtown Encinitas.

This fun little part of Southern California is meant for you to explore!

15. San Diego, California

San Diego, California is downright gorgeous . With fantastic plants and succulents that will make you say, “That’s real?!” and jaw-dropping scenery, San Diego is a must-see stop on your SoCal road trip.

While in San Diego, be sure to explore La Jolla . Here, you can walk along the La Jolla Coast Walk Trail near the La Jolla Cove . Check out Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve , visit the San Diego Zoo , walk through Balboa Park , and stop at any of the city’s unique beaches.

For top-notch bread and baked goods, visit Izola Bakery in downtown San Diego. If you go, be sure to make a reservation to get a loaf of bread, as they sell out FAST each day!

Another fun attraction near San Diego is Coronado Island , which has cute shops, delicious restaurants, the relaxing Coronado Beach , and the famous Hotel del Coronado (or “Hotel del,” as the locals say).

Read More: How To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway From San Diego To Seattle

Southern California Road Trip Map

Below, you’ll find our complete Southern California road trip map, with all the major stops to plan along your way. Click on the icon in the far left corner to open it in a new browser. Save in on your own google maps for reference!

Have you ever taken a Southern California road trip? Did we miss any of your favorite spots? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

More california adventures.

The 24-Hour Guide To Yosemite National Park

Amazing Outdoor Activities To Do In San Francisco

An Epic Day Trip To Big Sur, California

What To Expect at Shark Fin Cove

The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary

The Perfect Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary (Washington to California)

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Moon Southern California Road Trips: Los Angeles, Malibu, Santa Monica, Orange County Beaches, San Diego, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree & Death Valley National ... Las Vegas, and Santa Barbara (Travel Guide) Kindle Edition

• Pick Your Road Trip: Find flexible getaways throughout SoCal like three-day routes up the coast, through Death Valley, Ojai, and more, or combine them for an epic two-week driving tour
• Eat, Sleep, Stop and Explore: With lists of the best beaches, hikes, wineries, and more, you can tour backlots in Los Angeles, feel like a kid again at Disneyland, and feast on tacos and craft beer in San Diego. Climb Joshua Tree's rock formations to stunning views, ski and surf in the same day, and get a taste of the laidback lifestyle in Santa Barbara and Palm Springs
• Maps and Driving Tools: Easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the highway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, detailed directions, and full-color photos throughout
• Local Expertise: San Diego native, brew enthusiast, and avid surfer Ian Anderson shares his tips on where to stop and what to see
• How to Plan Your Trip: Know when and where to get gas and how to avoid traffic, plus tips for driving in different road conditions and suggestions for LGBTQ travelers, seniors, travelers of color, and road-trippers with kids
• Coverage of Los Angeles, Disneyland, beaches from Malibu to La Jolla, San Diego, Anza Borrego State Park, Palm Springs & Joshua Tree, Route 66, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Hearst Castle, plus Las Vegas
• Print length 858 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publisher Moon Travel
• Publication date June 27, 2023
• File size 34669 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BH4LW8N9
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Moon Travel; 2nd edition (June 27, 2023)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 27, 2023
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 34669 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 858 pages
• #557 in Auto & RV Travel
• #968 in Pacific U.S. Regional Travel
• #1,158 in Hiking & Walking Travel

About the author

Ian anderson.

Ian Anderson spends his days writing about food, drinks and culture in his home city of San Diego, whether reviewing local restaurants, reporting on craft beer or keeping up with regional coffee roasters. His interest in history takes him to great cities, his fondness for surfing to great beaches and his passion for writing and music follows wherever his passport may take him.

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Southern California Road Trips

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Angeles Crest Highway

30 miles. Are you searching for an enjoyable and fast road trip near Los Angeles? Look no further than the Angeles Crest Highway! Beginning at the City of La Canada, this highway traverses the rugged terrain of the San Gabriel Mountains and reaches a height of over 10,000 feet at its peak. You may catch glimpses of the Antelope Valley in the distance as you go along the road.

Mulholland Highway Road Trip

50 miles. Mulholland Highway is a scenic drive where weekend warriors and Hollywood’s famous rub elbows on any given weekend. Winding its way through the Santa Monica Mountains, Mulholland Highway is named after William Mulholland, constructed in the 1920s and billed as the highway “to take Angelinos from the city to the ocean.”

Highway 39 San Gabriel Canyon

The distance for a round trip from the San Gabriel Canyon Gateway Center to Crystal Lake is almost 45 miles. We recommend buying an Adventure Pass, which costs only five dollars. San Gabriel Canyon is a well-liked destination to escape the summer heat and can become quite crowded. Planning a visit during Spring or Fall is advisable for the best experience.

Ortega Highway 74

60 miles. California Route 74, or Ortega Highway, stretches just over 21 miles from beautiful San Juan Capistrano in the west to growing Lake Elsinore Valley in the east. The road has a lot of tight turns and changes in elevation. There are numerous turnouts for taking breaks and pictures for those who want to enjoy the scenery.

Highway 126  Heritage Valley

70 miles. State Route 126 connects Interstate 5 in Santa Clarita to U.S. Route 101 in Ventura. Highway 126 passes through the towns of Piru, Fillmore, Santa Paula, and the national landmark of Spanish Rancho Camulos, all bursting with citrus and avocado orchards, roadside stands, as well as historic landmarks, antique airplanes, and railroad history.

Lake Arrowhead

80 miles. Lake Arrowhead, also known as “the Alps of Southern California,” offers abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat to unwind with a book after a hectic day. Whether you seek a romantic escape from Los Angeles, a laid-back family road trip, or an exhilarating outdoor adventure, Lake Arrowhead has something to offer.

National Old Trails Highway

Take a road trip along National Trails Highway. Only a few ghostly shadows remain of the many towns that used to service travelers along the mother road. We journey 175 miles from Victorville to Needles, California, along this iconic highway through the Mojave Desert.

Oak Glen San Bernardino Mountains

90 miles. Your first stop in Oak Glen should be for what else, apples! Many local orchards offer the chance to bring the family and handpick a basket. But first, drop by the Oak Glen School House Museum and Park on South Oak Glen Road.

Ojai Valley

90 miles. Ojai is located in the middle of a mountain range that runs east to west, giving it a one-of-a-kind sunset that is hard to find in other towns. This sunset, known as the “Pink Moment,” is a stunning display of the sun setting over the Pacific Coast that is reflected onto the mountainside. The result is a beautiful pink glow that lasts for several minutes on the Topatopa Bluffs, located at the eastern end of the Ojai Valley.

Santa Barbara

100 miles. A great way to get acquainted with Santa Barbara is by renting a beach cruiser from one of the rental shops lining the beach near Stearns Wharf. There are miles of bike paths to explore; however, most people follow the trail from Stearns Wharf to Shoreline Park and back.

Palm Springs

110 miles. When checking off the list of reasons, you should plan a visit to Palm Springs, including the sunshine, outstanding resorts, shopping, outdoor adventures, museums, and spectacular scenery. This beautiful oasis in the Mojave Desert has it all.

Santa Ynez Valley

130 miles. Set among the stunning Santa Ynez Mountains to the south and the San Rafael Mountains to the north; the Santa Ynez Valley consists of six unique and diverse communities that make up the Santa Barbara wine country.

Calico Ghost Town

130 miles. Calico is perched upon a hill overlooking the Mojave Desert, and on a clear day, you can see for miles. Calico is a fun place to visit, and if you are lucky, you might even see a gunfight on the main street. At its height, Calico boasted a population of 1,200 people and over 500 silver mines. Today Calico is mainly populated by tourists.

Solvang Village

140 miles. If you’re taking a day trip to Solvang, you can try the local wines at wine-tasting cellars in the town. Additionally, the city offers Danish bakeries, restaurants, antique stores, museums, and friendly shopkeepers dressed in authentic Danish costumes.

Julian California

140 miles. Julian is a popular year-round road trip with shops ranging from tawdry tourists to normal small-town fixtures like hardware and drug stores, antique malls, book boutiques, and restaurants. The   downtown district is only about three blocks long and four blocks wide, making the town small enough to walk easily.

Joshua Tree National Park

140 miles. Joshua Tree National Park Day sits on the border of Riverside and San Bernardino counties and covers nearly 800,000 acres. While seeing many of the park’s attractions in one day is possible, we recommend camping there for at least one night. If camping is not your thing, Palm Springs offers numerous hotels and is not too far away.

Lake Isabella- Kern River

160 miles. Lake Isabella is Nestled in what is known as the Kern River Valley between two sections of the Sequoia National Forest. From fishing to boating, camping to picnicking, the lake offers some of the best fresh-water recreation experiences.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

150 miles. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park eroded badlands provide a different view into the region’s tropical past. The inland of southeastern California was not always a desert. Fossils found include preserved plants, a variety of invertebrate shells, animal tracks, and a vast array of bones and teeth.

Rosarito Beach Mexico

150 miles. Rosarito Beach is a charming destination that offers a rich cultural experience and a variety of activities. Here, you can enjoy world-class surfing, rent a jet ski, savor authentic Baja cuisine, or explore the bustling nightlife at one of the area’s famous nightclubs. Come and escape to a world of Old World charm and adventure.

Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks

200 miles. Tucked side by side in the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, east of the San Joaquin Valley. Both parks are connected by a single road that provides nearly 866,000 acres of outdoor adventure in the “Land of the Giants.”

Alabama Hills Owens Valley

210 miles. Take a drive in the Alabama Hills’ “movie flats” and walk in the footsteps of the Lone Ranger, Russell Crowe, Gene Autry, and Mel Gibson. Or enjoy the natural beauty of one of California’s most delightfully weird outdoor destinations while hiking, biking, or climbing.

Hearst Castle

240 miles. This huge estate is about five miles inland and sits atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Hearst Castle is surrounded by a 40,000-acre ranch, some of which is still owned by the Hearst family. Cars are not allowed to drive up the hill to Hearst Castle. You must board one of the buses (included with the tour) and then take the winding road to the estate.

Big Sur Coast

260 miles. Big Sur, California, is one of the most beautiful regions globally. There are many places to stop, look at the scenery, take photographs, or explore the beaches and waterfalls. Many people make it a day trip to drive up this scenic coast. This drive along Pacific Coast Highway is a picturesque adventure for your bucket list.

Las Vegas Nevada

270 miles. Las Vegas and the surrounding area offer so much more than casinos. Las Vegas provides numerous scenic treasures within driving easy distance of the city. Ghost towns, state parks, snow-covered mountains, and spectacular desert destinations.

Death Valley National Park

290 miles. Some tourists visit in the summer just for bragging rights about experiencing the 100 degrees plus heat. During the spring, the valley floor can be covered with wildflowers. Winters are cold, and summers are scorching hot. Whatever time of the year you visit Death Valley, there is an almost endless list of remarkable points of interest.

Mammoth Lakes

310 miles. Summertime in Mammoth Lakes offers visitors various activities, attractions, and events. Wintertime Mammoth is one of the largest ski resorts in the area, with four lodges, three gondolas, 25 other chairlifts, and 150 named trails.

Yosemite National Park

310 miles. Yosemite is a beautiful spot to visit year-round. From the bustling summer season to the quiet, snow-covered winter months, the beauty of Yosemite changes with each season. Year-round camping options visit Yosemite are fun and affordable.

California Train Rides

Knott’s berry farm, living desert zoo.

Everything looks great. Is this an organized club or do people just pick and choose the various functions and then pay. If this is not similar to the MEETUP Groups do people at least know at lest a few others attending? Very interested, retired, and ready depending on how it works Please enlighten. Thank You Steven Feiles

These are just suggestions for road trips. We do not offer guided trips. Meetup would be a good place to find groups interested in going on road trips together.

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ebook ∣ Moon Travel Guide

By ian anderson.

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9781640491267

Moon Travel Guide

Ian Anderson

Avalon Publishing

07 January 2020

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• Pick Your Road Trip: Find flexible getaways throughout SoCal like three-day routes up the coast, through Death Valley, Ojai, and more, or combine them for an epic two-week driving tour
• Eat, Sleep, Stop and Explore: With lists of the best beaches, hikes, wineries, and more, you can tour backlots in Los Angeles, feel like a kid again at Disneyland, and feast on tacos and craft beer in San Diego. Climb Joshua Tree's rock formations to stunning views, ski and surf in the same day, and get a taste of the laidback lifestyle in Santa Barbara and Palm Springs
• Maps and Driving Tools: Easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the highway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, detailed directions, and full-color photos throughout
• Local Expertise: San Diego native, brew enthusiast, and avid surfer Ian Anderson shares his tips on where to stop and what to see
• How to Plan Your Trip: Know when and where to get gas and how to avoid traffic, plus tips for driving in different road conditions and suggestions for LGBTQ travelers, seniors, and road-trippers with kids
• Coverage of Los Angeles, Disneyland, beaches from Malibu to La Jolla, San Diego, Anza Borrego State Park, Palm Springs & Joshua Tree, Route 66, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Hearst Castle, plus Las Vegas

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California trip with 4 kids - Road Trips Forum

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We are new to Southern California (live in Palm Springs) and wanted to plan a 7d trip splitting time between a beach location (3d) and somewhere with great outdoors activities (4d) this summer. We have 4 young children under 5yo so places with kid friendly activities, minimal traffic preferred. Would love some suggestions on destinations, routes, activities.

4 replies to this topic

You'll probably get more specific responses if you post this request on the California forum.

Torrey Pines State Beach near Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is good for kids.

West coast beaches are not like east/ gulf coast. Due to the coastal mountain ranges you don’t have as many beaches snd they tendto be smaller in size.

On the east/ gulf the ocean has a very gradual decline. This allows for bigger beach creation. If the coast line it too steep beaches can’t form.

Also , the west coast beaches are much colder. The area from Santa Barbara down south to San Diego the water temp only gets to near 70 at best. That's late in September. The prevailing current is south from alaska brining cold weather. In shallow waters along the beach temps can be slightly warmer with sun out.

Once you get into the central coast you will see folks wearing body suits to help protect them from long exposure to colder water. Youdont get as much water playing like you do in the east.

In the larger Southern California coast from Santa Barbara down to San Diego you have many different towns. Unlike the east coast where many towns people visit, you have regulars live in this area so these places are regular cities and not so much beach tourist,

San Diego area has one of the best zoos in the country. It also has Lego land. Off Santa Barbara between its coast and the Channel Islands national park therr is a regular population of whales. Thry have whale watching yours and boats thst take you over to the channel islands to visit.

On the north side or Santa Barbara on the other side of the coastal mountains there is solvang which was built be danish immigrants mimicking danish buildings. Vsnderbirg military base cuts off part of the coast. Pismo beach is a nivpce beach area as is morto bay thst is a lityke away from the big city like many of the towns in LA area are.

go the Eastern Sierras (Mammoth, June Lake Loop) and Yosemite....

there are ghost towns, swimming beaches, hiking, bike riding, etc.

If you want a beach vacation couple it with san diego.

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Moon Northern California Road Trips

Drives along the Coast, Redwoods, and Mountains with the Best Stops along the Way

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By Stuart Thornton

By Kayla Anderson

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Description

• Pick Your Road Trip: Find flexible getaways throughout NorCal, like three-day routes through Wine Country, Lake Tahoe, Monterey and Big Sur, and more, or combine them for an epic 21-day driving tour
• Eat, Sleep, Stop and Explore: With lists of the best places for hikes, day trips, wine-tasting, and more, you can take on the steep streets of San Francisco, sample wine at its source in Sonoma, and pitch a tent in the pines of Yosemite. Spot whales in Bodega Bay, hike through towering redwoods or up to the peak of Mount Lassen, and raft down the Sacramento River
• Maps and Driving Tools: Easy-to-use maps keep you oriented on and off the highway, along with site-to-site mileage, driving times, detailed directions, and full-color photos throughout
• Local Expertise: Northern Californians Stuart Thornton and Kayla Anderson share their tips on where to stop and what to see
• How to Plan Your Trip: Know when and where to get gas and how to avoid traffic, plus tips for driving in different road and weather conditions and suggestions for LGBTQ travelers, seniors, travelers of color, and road-trippers with kids
• Coverage of San Francisco, Wine Country, the Sonoma and Mendocino Coasts, the North Coast and Redwoods, Shasta and Lassen, Lake Tahoe, the Eastern Sierra, Yosemite National Park, Monterey and Big Sur, and Ashland, Oregon
• United States
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