Looking for the best short weekend trips from San Diego? Whether you want quick road trips from San Diego or long weekend getaways from San Diego, you’ll find it here. These are the 36 best easy weekend getaways from San Diego for every type of traveler.
Southern California is like nowhere else on earth.
With five major climate types occurring in close proximity, you can easily drive from the sea to the snow to the desert all within one single day. One single day!
And while I love to take road trips all around Southern California and beyond, sometimes it can be tough to decide where to go.
Finally, after more than a decade of living in sunny SoCal, I’ve put together the absolute best list of weekend getaways from San Diego.
In this list, I will give you 35 options on the best weekend trips from San Diego for any occasion. Furthermore, I’ve split this list into several sections for easy sorting:
- Best Short Trips from San Diego in Less Than One hour
- Weekend Road Trips From San Diego in Up To Four Hours
- Best San Diego Weekend Getaways in Over Four Hours
Whether you’re brainstorming last minute vacations from the San Diego area or quick and easy road trips, you’ll definitely find something here!
The 36 Best Weekend Trips From San Diego By Car
These weekend road trips from San Diego are divided by distance. Simply jump to the timeframe you are looking for to get the best suggestions.
Best Short Trips from San Diego in Less Than One hour
Let’s start out with a collection of the best short trips from San Diego. Each of these trips could be completed in one single day, but are definitely way better if you spend a whole weekend exploring.
1. San Diego Beaches
Time from San Diego: 30 mins
Can’t Miss: Torrey Pines State Park, Carlsbad Flower Fields, La Jolla
Even if you live in San Diego, I’m willing to bet that you don’t do many staycations at the local San Diego beaches.
This is the easiest of all the short trips from San Diego, because you can get to each of these in around 30 minutes or less, depending on where in San Diego you are starting from.
First, Torrey Pines State Park is home to some gorgeous views and fun beachfront hiking trails. I just recently revisited Torrey Pines and remembered exactly why it is so special. Vibrant yellow and purple flowers were blooming and the water was so blue!
Or, you could opt to visit La Jolla to enjoy the beautiful rocky waterfront, the upscale shops and stores, and delicious food options. From the cliffs, you can watch the famous seals and sea lions lounging and splashing on the beaches below!
Pro Tip: New to La Jolla? Consider an electric bike tour to see the wonderful coastal town! You’ll see the sea lions and ride to four different beaches as you learn about the area (and get some exercise!) BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE!
If you are planning your trip in the springtime, consider visiting Carlsbad to experience the seemingly endless fields of ranunculus at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.
This stop is incredible, and will take a couple of hours to fully explore. While here, you can also explore an orchid greenhouse, a butterfly garden, and several food trucks for snacks and treats.
2. Temecula, CA
Time from San Diego: 1 hour
Can’t Miss: Old Town Temecula, Oak Creek Winery, Bella Vista Winery
If a wine-filled weekend getaway from San Diego sounds good, the nearby Temecula Valley is definitely for you! At just a one hour away from the city, this is one of the easiest weekend trips from San Diego.
Temecula has a warm Mediterranean climate that allows grapes to blanket over 40 wineries’ vineyards. Some of the best-loved wineries in Temecula include the Oak Mountain Winery, Bella Vista, and Hart Winery.
Pro Tip: Visitors, and especially first-timers, should consider booking the TOP-RATED All-Inclusive Wine Tasting Tour in Temecula! All tastings and transportation is included in this tour, and it is specifically tailored to the season you visit. So, depending on what special events are happening, your guide will plan around those. BOOK YOUR WINE TOUR HERE!
Temecula Valley Wine Country also hosts several events each year, including harvest celebrations, concerts, and food festivals.
Old Town Temecula is a collection of historic buildings, including hotels, museums, and restaurants, so there is plenty to do and see here, even if you’re not up for wine tasting.
3. Long Beach
Time from San Diego: 1 hour
Can’t Miss: Aquarium of the Pacific, the RMS queen Mary, Museum of Latin American Art
Long Beach is a fun coastal city just that often gets overlooked. With a wide range of activities and sights, there’s a lot to see in Long Beach! It’s one of the easiest weekend trips from San Diego, too, at just one hour away.
Don’t miss the famous Aquarium of the Pacific, which showcases hundreds of species of sea life. Explore the many exhibits and interactive displays, or take a narrated tour and learn how the ocean has shaped human history.
Explore the charming Shoreline Village, where you can indulge in shopping and dining experiences. Inspired by the quaint fishing villages of Cape Cod, this picturesque destination is a prime spot for some gorgeous sunsets.
You can also stroll along the Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, or splash in the water at Junipero Cherry Beach.
Art lovers should definitely visit the Museum of Latin American Art. It showcases more than 1,300 artworks, including the sculpture garden.
One great can’t-miss excursion is the nearby Naples Island, known as California’s “Little Italy,” for its resemblance to Venice. Rent a kayak for the day, explore the canals, or book a gondola ride during your visit.
Weekend Road Trips From San Diego in Up To Four Hours
Willing to go a bit further? These road trips from San Diego will take between 2-4 hours to reach. Depending on traffic, of course!
4. Anza Borrego Desert State Park, CA
Time from San Diego: 1.5 hours
Can’t Miss: The Slot, Palm Canyon Trail
Anza Borrego Desert State Park is a vast and sprawling park, covering more than 500,000 acres.
Though many think of the desert as dry and lifeless, there is actually a lot to see here! From wildflowers to palm groves and cacti to bighorn sheep, this state park features the desert at it’s finest.
There are plenty of opportunities for exploring, including my two favorite hikes in the park – The Slot, and the Palm Canyon Trail. The Slot winds you down into a steep slot canyon, and the Palm Canyon Trail leads you to an oasis in the desert.
They are both spectacular! Anyone needing a taste of the outdoors should consider Anza Borrego.
Additionally, Anza Borrego is a designated International Dark Sky Park. Camping here is truly profound. You will see an endless expanse of stars in the night sky, unpolluted from the far away cities.
Anza Borrego Desert State Park is a must-see.
5. Julian
Time from San Diego: 1.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Famous Julian apple pies, live music venues
Jul is a historic gold mining town nestled in the Cuyamaca mountains, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours northeast of San Diego, depending on your starting point.
This picturesque destination is renowned for its famous apple pies from the Julian Pie Company. It offers a quaint small-town ambiance perfect for “getting away from it all.”
Visit the local shops, restaurants, and scenic countryside. Or, pick your own apples at Julian Farm and Orchard.
History enthusiasts can delve deep into the tunnels of a genuine gold mine at Eagle Mining Company. And, Julian offers the unique opportunity to witness the Milky Way with the naked eye, as it stands as one of the few towns in America with unobstructed views of the Dark Sky.
6. Laguna Beach
Time from San Diego: 1.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Pacific Ocean Sunsets, the Pirate Tower, beach days.
Another easy weekend getaway from San Diego, Laguna Beach is a short 1.5 hours away. This coastal community is known for its stunning beach cliffs, art galleries, hiking trails, and more.
On hot sunny days, head to Main Beach, where you can explore small tide pools, and walk the boardwalk to Heisler Park. Crystal Cove State Park is a local favorite for anyone who wants to see historic beachfront homes and hiking trails.
Laguna Beach is also home to the famous “pirate tower” on Victoria Beach. It was once a staircase for one of the homes, so explore respectfully. And, afterwards, enjoy the bright orange sunsets.
7. Catalina Island
Time from San Diego: 2 hours (including driving and a ferry ride from Dana Point to Avalon)
Can’t Miss: Kayaking, ice cream on the beach, camping and hiking
A weekend in Catalina Island is one of the quintessential SoCal experiences. This is one of the most iconic weekend trips from San Diego that you must do!
The island is a short ferry ride from San Diego, originating at Dana Point in Orange County and ending at Avalon on Catalina Island.
Catalina Island’s rugged landscape and clear blue waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, as well as cultural attractions such as museums and art galleries.
In addition, the island is home to a variety of wildlife including dolphins, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and native plants. I’ve even seen foxes and deer while camping here!
Pro Tip: Make the most of your time on Catalina Island and see all the highlights on a private golf-cart tour. Choose from a variety of tour times and then hop onto a golf cart for a tour of the island. Learn about iconic landmarks like the Catalina Casino, Pebbly Beach, the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden, and more. BOOK YOUR CATALINA TOUR HERE!
Avalon, on the east end, is the main hub for tourism. It has many shops and restaurants and the green-tiled Catalina Casino. No matter what you’re looking for – adventure or relaxation – there’s something to suit every taste here.
8. Borrego Springs
Time from San Diego: 2 hours
Can’t Miss: The sculptures in Galleta Meadows, Anza Borrego Desert State Park, an overnight stay in a rustic wild west themed hotel.
Borrego Springs is a quirky desert town you can reach in just a two hour road trip from San Diego. I would describe Borrego Springs as Wild West meets Art in the Desert – because that is exactly what you’ll get!
Definitely don’t miss the large metal sculptures in Galleta meadows. You’ll find horses, dinosaurs, elephants, and much more – all larger than life and scattered haphazardly throughout the desert.
You’ll have easy access to Anza Borrego from here, since the town of Borrego Springs sits in the center of the park. Seriously!
Pro Tip: Book your hotel stay in this quirky place, which is set up like an old wild west town. You’ll have a comfy room, and easy access to town. There is even a tasty restaurant with live music on site. 10/10 would stay here again! BOOK YOUR HOTEL STAY NOW!
If you happen to visit during springtime, check if the area is experiencing a superbloom. It is unforgettable!
Two swipe my itinerary of to find out more, check out all the best things to do in Borrego Springs.
9. Los Angeles
Time from San Diego: 2 hours
Can’t Miss: LACMA, Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad Museum
With over four million residents, LA is the second-most populous city in the country, so you know this is one of the best weekend getaways from San Diego for city-lovers.
There are endless things to see and do in Los Angeles. The city is filled with amazing food, expansive beaches, and lots of art. You’ll be sure to find something that suits your tastes.
For the best of LA’s nightlife, head to Hollywood or Downtown Los Angeles. Both areas are home to some of the hottest clubs and bars in the city. Whether you’re into live music or DJs, there’s plenty to explore in both areas.
Those looking for a more low-key experience can check out any one of LA’s many parks and outdoor spaces, like the Venice Boardwalk or Griffith Park. Both are great spots for people watching and soaking up the sun – especially during sunset!
No visit to Los Angeles is complete without experiencing some of LA’s best known art venues. Check out LACMA, or The Getty Center, or The Broad Museum for the best of the best.
10. Santa Monica
Time from San Diego: 2 hours
Can’t Miss: Santa Monica Pier, Bike ride on the beach
Santa Monica, California, is a popular beachfront city located in the west side of Los Angeles. It is one of the most famous destinations in Southern California, known for its beaches, pier, promenade, and great climate.
While in town, visitors should not miss a stroll on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park, aquarium, and various dining options.
And, the nearby Third Street Promenade offers a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and tons of street performers.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or biking along the oceanfront path, as well as relaxing on the sandy beaches. Santa Monica is one of the convenient short trips from San Diego that everyone should experience at least once.
11. Pasadena
Time from San Diego: 2 hours 15 mins
Can’t Miss: The iconic Rose Bowl, the Huntington Library, Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Pasadena is home to the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium and the annual Tournament of Roses Parade. Many other performances and events happen here year round, so check here to see if anything strikes your fancy!
Located northeast of downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena offers a fun blend of history, culture, and quiet nature. Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining in the quiet neighborhoods, or check out several notable museums.
The Norton Simon Museum and the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens are all found in Pasadena.
12. Palm Springs, CA
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: The Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, a hike at Andreas Canyon.
A weekend in Palm Springs is hard to beat.
Sparkling blue pools, vintage vibes, and bright sun all year round are just some of the draw. The desert trails, and gorgeous botanical garden, is the cherry on top.
First timers need to take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway! It’s the largest rotating tramway in the world, and will provide a birds eye view of the entire valley.
Pro Tip: Buy your ticket in advance to avoid long wait times. Trust me, on busy holiday weekends I’ve seen waits of up to three hours long. GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!
At the top of San Jacinto Mountain, enjoy a hike on one of the many trails, or just hit the restaurant and gift shop. Whatever you do, don’t miss these views.
Hikers can head to the nearby Indian Canyons for the best trails. My personal favorites are Andreas Canyon and the Palm Canyon Trail.
And, you just can’t miss the awesome family-run Moorten Botanical Garden. You’ll learn all about cacti and succulents around the world. It’s one of my favorite stops in the city!
13. Malibu, CA
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: El Matador State Beach, the Malibu Pier, Leo Carillo hikes
Just a short jaunt from San Diego, Malibu is a quiet oceanside town that is often misunderstood.
Malibu has more of a small-town vibe than, say, the ritzy and glitzy Beverly Hills. In fact, small mom and pop shops still line many of the streets and much of the land is left wild. This makes for excellent hiking trails in places like Leo Carillo State Park.
Don’t miss the beautiful El Matador State Beach, with its awesome cliffs and tidepools. The rocky caves are awesome at sunset. In the summer, don’t forget your swimsuit.
Malibu is also a well-known wine destination in SoCal. Check out Malibu Wines for seasonal specials and great live music.
There is plenty to see in Malibu, from beaches to restaurants to hikes and camping. It is a very worthwhile weekend getaway!
14. Venice Beach
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Muscle Beach, the Venice Boardwalk and Canals
Venice Beach is located in Los Angeles, California and is well-known for its unique culture and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a popular spot due to its beautiful beaches, iconic boardwalk, and artsy vibes.
The beachfront is lined with street performers and vendors selling souvenirs from their carts. The boardwalk is an especially popular spot for visitors.
Venice Beach is also home to Muscle Beach where bodybuilders work out in the open air gymnasiums.
15. Salvation Mountain
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: the quirky folk art
Salvation Mountain is a folk art installation created by the late Leonard Knight in Imperial County, California. Though I had visited many times before, I recently brought a friend for her first visit and she thought it was simultaneously weird and cool.
The mountain itself stands 50 feet tall and spans 150 feet in width, a maze of colorful paint that has become an iconic landmark in the California desert.
Knight dedicated his life to making Salvation Mountain as a monument to his faith in God and spent over 30 years working on it before his passing. It is free to visit but they accept donations for upkeep.
16. Salton Sea
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Bombay Beach art installations and the beach
The Salton Sea makes for one interesting weekend trip from San Diego! Known both as a ghost town and an outdoor recreation area, this landlocked lake in southern California is wild.
Due to polluted runoff water, the lake has become 50% saltier than the Pacific Ocean. Although it is increasingly toxic, it serves as a significant breeding ground for numerous bird species.
Nestled in the northeastern part of the lake, the Salton Sea State Recreation Area is somewhat of an oasis. The enchantingly desolate town of Bombay Beach, where echoes of a once-vibrant resort community still linger, sit in semi-ruins, just waiting to be discovered.
17. Lake Arrowhead
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Water activities, summer concerts
Though one of the sometimes-forgotten weekend trips from San Diego, a drive to Lake Arrowhead is a great choice!
Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead is an ideal destination for anyone in San Diego. An only 2.5 hours drive will leave you feeling a world away!
Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating on Lake Arrowhead. Lots of great hiking trails are found here, including the Seeley Creek Trail and its crazy rock formations.
Explore Lake Arrowhead Village for the best local restaurants and shops. In the summer, check out the Arrowhead Center Stage Concert Hall for summer concerts and even fall festivals.
18. Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: El Cielo winery for dinner and drinks
Looking for a different vibe altogether? Consider heading south of the border and driving into Mexico. This is one of my favorite short road trips from San Diego because, it’s no secret, I love Mexico.
Valle de Guadalupe is a fun and easy destination for great Mexican food, long stretches of vineyards, and lush green nature. The award-winning wines are gaining in noteriety and the vineyards themselves are stunning.
Grab outdoor lunches, visit cave-chilled wine, and don’t miss dinner at El Cielo.
Pro Tip: Explore the Valle de Guadalupe on this private tour. Visit three different wineries, a restaurant, and explore the diverse region at your own pace. Enjoy a worry-free day of wine tasting without stressing about who will be driving! This is the ultimate private excursion for those looking to truly experience the Valle de Guadalupe. BOOK YOUR VALLE DE GUADALUPE WINE TOUR HERE!
Lodging is cheap and the wine is award-winning. I’ve visited this area several times now and it’s such an easy weekend escape. San Diego residents – don’t miss this one!
You May Also Like: Ten Reasons to Visit Mexico Now!
19. Joshua Tree National Park, CA
Time from San Diego: 2.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Arch Rock, Cholla Cactus Garden, Hall of Horrors
For those willing to venture out into the desert, the famous Joshua Tree National Park is another ruggedly beautiful destination to explore. Spoiler alert – it is one of my all time favorite spots!
It’s true that you can cram a visit to Joshua Tree in one day, but to really experience the entire park, a weekend trip is best.
With towering and wild yucca plants and giant boulders plopped onto the desert floor, Joshua Tree is an otherworldly escape in Southern California.
Artists and creatives will find endless options for photography and there is a never-ending supply of breathtaking sunrise hikes. Consider camping inside of the park to make the most of your time.
Joshua Tree is hands down one of the best weekend trips from San Diego that you can take!
You May Also Like: A San Diego to Joshua Tree Road Trip
20. Big Bear Lake
Time from San Diego: 3 hours
Can’t Miss: Hiking, skiing, and boating, depending on the season
Big Bear Lake is an ideal nature getaway, conveniently located a few hours from San Diego. This is a popular spot for those living in Los Angeles, too, becuase there is a lot to see!
Situated in the San Bernardino Forest, this small Southern California community is a great place to visit in both summer and winter.
In summer, Big Bear offers activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and boating. Ladies, stock up on the best hiking gear for women before visiting!
In winter, it transforms into a popular ski town, with Big Bear Mountain Resort providing opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, sledding, and snowmobiling. Check out the resort here.
If you want a popular nature getaway and summer or winter sports, this is the place for you.
21. Santa Barbara, CA
Time from San Diego: 4 hours
Can’t Miss: The Funk Zone, Gaviota Wind Caves, Mission Santa Barbra, Chromatic Gate
If you’re in the mood for a Spanish inspired seaside town, Santa Barbara is an excellent option. Along the coast north of Los Angeles, this charming beachside town has it all.
For creatives, art studios and museums are an easy option. The Funk Zone is full of galleries and artists at work, as well as trendy bars and taverns.
Stroll along the beautiful beaches, hike the interesting Gaviota Wind Caves nearby, or enjoy a sunset on the famous Stearns Wharf.
Explore Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786, renowned as one of the country’s most beautiful Missions. The 15-acre property houses Franciscan friars and a museum offering stunning Pacific views and well-maintained gardens.
22. Ojai
Time from San Diego: 4 hours
Can’t Miss: Hiking, luxury stays
Consider a weekend getaway in Ojai, a small town north of LA. You can find everything from rugged hikes to luxury for a fun little getaway from San Diego.
Anyone who wants a challenge should hike Sisar Canyon. The summit of the bluffs stands at an elevation of nearly 4,000 strenuous feet. This trail is for experienced hikers only.
The initial two miles of Sisar Canyon trail traverse a scenic stream and a forest composed of sycamores, bay laurel, and large oak trees.
If you’d rather relax, check into the 5-star Ojai Valley Inn for a luxurious retreat. Since its establishment in 1923, the resort has captivated visitors with its picturesque grounds, exceptional spa facilities, and an acclaimed golf course, making it a beloved destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway.
Nestled in a picturesque valley within the Topatopa Mountains, this city’s charming center is dotted with art galleries and shops – perfect for a sunset stroll.
23. Mojave National Preserve, CA
Time from San Diego: 4 hours
Can’t Miss: The Lava Tubes, Rings Loop Trail, Kelso Dunes
Back into the California Desert, the Mojave National Preserve is a hidden gem. It is relatively unknown to even those who live in California, so this is the place to go if you want to avoid crowds.
Some of the highlights include hiking, camping, and, believe it or not, the Mojave National Preserve is home to more Joshua Trees than Joshua Tree National Park (shhh!).
The Rings Loop Trail is a popular 1.5 mile hike that takes you past beautiful scenery and through wild rocks. Kelso Dunes stretch out into the distance. And, the incredible underground Lava Tubes are a real treat.
Be careful, some of these sights are best reached with 4WD!
You May Also Like: Desert Wear and Hiking Gear for the American Southwest
Best San Diego Weekend Getaways in Over Four Hours
For anyone wanting to explore the farther regions, this next sections of weekend trips from San Diego will take over 4 hours of driving to reach. Let’s dive in!
24. San Felipe, Mexico
Time from San Diego: 4.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Valle de los Gigantes, beaches
San Felipe is another great weekend getaway from San Diego that will take roughly 4.5 hours to reach. Located in Mexico, San Felipe is a beautiful yet natural tourist town with cute hotel options and great food.
Located on the Sea of Cortez, San Felipe is full of life and color. Honestly this little town exceeded my expectations and I can’t wait to go back!
Mariachi music is played live on the beach, and every manner of souvenir is available on the pedestrian walk near the beach
Hands-down my favorite place to visit in San Felipe is the Valle de los Gigantes park, which features endless cardon cacti stretching off into the distance. Self drive through part of the park with a regular sedan or explore the full loop in a 4WD vehicle.
25. Solvang, CA
Time from San Diego: 4.5 hours
Can’t Miss: The Elverhoj Museum, authentic Danish food
Solvang is located near Santa Barbara, so if you have the time, it might be nice to visit both on the same trip!
This easy San Diego weekend getaway will have you feeling like you’re in Europe in no time. Solvang is a small and touristy Danish town that was actually founded by settlers straight from Denmark.
In Solvang, you can rent a bike and ride around town, or visit the boutique shops like olive oil tasting and the Christmas-y year round venue, the Jule House.
Additionally, try some authentic Danish pastries, hit the breweries, and grab some abelskiver for dessert.
Don’t miss the Elverhoj Museum, where you can learn more about the original Solvang settlement and see a historical house full of authentic appliances and decorations.
26. Death Valley National Park
Time from San Diego: 5 hours 30 mins
Can’t Miss: The Artists Palette, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Badwater Basin
Visiting Death Valley National Park is a must-do for any travel bucket list. Located in Nevada and California, it is the hottest and driest elevation in the US.
The park provides a distinct and ethereal experience with its expansive sand dunes, salt flats, and vibrant badlands. All of this stretches across the largest national park in the contiguous USA, and one of the best national parks in the southwest, no doubt.
Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for a striking contrast of sand and mountains. The sand dunes in this area reach 100 feet high- perfect for sandboarding. Head to Zabriskie Point for sunrise or sunset and gaze in awe at Badwater Basin.
Pro Tip: Carry lots of water in Death Valley, especially in the summer months. I love my hydration pack for desert locales like this! You also should consider a portable car kit as the temperatures can sit in the triple digits and there is no cell service in much of the park.
27. San Luis Obispo
Time from San Diego: 5.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, Bubblegum Alley
Though it’s a roughly 5-hour drive from San Diego, San Luis Obispo is a worthy weekend trip from San Diego! This small town boasts a bustling downtown area adorned with boutique shops, delectable restaurants, and a thriving art scene.
History buffs will love visiting the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, which is a Spanish mission and museum built in the 1700s. It’s a great place to learn more about California’s history and check out the artifacts on display. You can even spend some time in the tranquil garden.
Visitors should also be sure to explore San Luis Creek, where you can enjoy walking trails along with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding terrain.
For those who prefer a more quirky sights, head to Bubblegum Alley. This alley is filled with chewed bubblegum from visitors over the years and, be forewarned, it smells sickeningly sweet as you walk through it.
28. Paso Robles
Time from San Diego: 5.5 hours
Can’t Miss: the famous wineries
Paso Robles is an internationally-renowned wine region in California’s Central Coast. It has a variety of events, attractions, and vineyards for the traveler looking for a unique home away from home.
The area has so many wineries and vineyards to explore, with many offering tasting rooms to sample some of the best vintages in the country.
In addition to wine tasting and touring vineyards, Paso Robles is a great place for foodies. Various festivals and farmer’s markets are always cropping up. Don’t miss the live music performances at Vina Robles Amphitheatre or concerts under the stars at Hearst Ranch Winery.
No matter what type of experience visitors desire, Paso Robles is sure to offer something for everyone. From the famous wine country to sampling dishes from world-class chefs, there are endless possibilities here.
29. Sequoia National Park, CA
Time from San Diego: 5.5 hours
Can’t Miss: General Sherman, Congress Trail, Kings Canyon
This is one of the most perfect weekend getaways from San Diego, in my opinion.
Why, you ask? Because Sequoia National Park is one of the lesser-visited National Parks near Los Angeles and San Diego. So, it is often much less crowded.
And, though the region is better known for it’s beaches and deserts, the mountains are quite scenic, too! And, there is so many fun things to do in Sequoia.
Visitors can hike the awesome Congress Trail, which takes you past hordes of impossibly tall trees. Don’t miss General Sherman, one of the largest trees in the world.
And, General Grant can be found in the neighboring Kings Canyon National Park. Sequoia National Park is right next to Kings Canyon National Park, so you can get two-for-one entry on this weekend trip from San Diego!
Pro Tip: Always double check the weather in the wintertime as some roads do close when it snows. Check for updates here before you drive.
30. Las Vegas, NV
Time from San Diego: 5.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Seven Magic Mountains, a show on the strip
Las Vegas, Nevada is a city known for its bright lights, vibrant energy and endless entertainment. It’s no surprise that millions of tourists flock to the “Sin City” every year to enjoy the best it has to offer.
But your list is not complete until you see Seven Magic Mountains – an art installation located in the Las Vegas desert featuring seven large towers of colorful boulders rising thirty feet into the air.
Next, head out to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – a 195,000 acre conservation park just outside of Las Vegas. It offers breathtaking views of red rock formations that have been carved by time and wind.
Visitors can explore dozens of trails at different levels ranging from easy to challenging for hiking, biking and horseback riding enthusiasts.
Don’t forget to read my girls trip to Las Vegas guide if you’re road tripping with friends!
31. Tucson, AZ
Time from San Diego: 6 hours
Can’t Miss: Saguaro National Park, Xavier del Bac, Tombstone
Have you ever been to Tucson? If not, add it to your list!
Tucson is such a fun city, full of art, award-winning food, history, and surrounded by giant saguaro cacti. There are so many unique things to do in Tucson!
Check out Kartchner Caverns’ dark and mysterious caves. Visit the Xavier del Bac Mission and its stunning architecture. Drive to Tombstone, an old Wild West town, and of course Saguaro National Park.
The park is actually bisected by the city of Tucson, so it’s best to allow one full day for each half. You can drive the scenic loop or hit the hiking trails. Don’t miss the fiery sunsets!
32. Valley of Fire, NV
Time from San Diego: 6 hours
Can’t Miss: The Fire Wave, petroglyphs and slot canyons
Valley of Fire State Park is one of my more recent obsessions. If you want stunning geological formations strewn across the desert, Valley of Fire is for you.
Attractions include slot canyons, petrified logs, ancient petroglyphs carved more than 4,000 years ago, and an unbelievable formation named the Fire Wave.
If you pass through Vegas on the way, I also recommend seeing the Seven Magic Mountains outdoor art installation, which is a nice juxtaposition to the natural rocks.
This is a place that I could return to time and time again. So if you haven’t seen it, you need to check it out now!
33. Mammoth Mountain
Time from San Diego: 6.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Hot Creek Geologic Site, Earthquake Fault, Inyo Craters
Mammoth Mountain is a great destination for outdoor adventurers.
For starters, the Hot Creek Geologic Site is located just outside of Bishop, California and offers visitors incredible views of the Sierra crest and volcanic landscapes. You can actually see the steam rising from the hot springs here.
Earthquake Fault is an easy to visit attraction. just outside of Mammoth’s town, this geologic crack in the earth is a short and sweet stop.
The Inyo Craters are perfect for summer hikers. The blue-green crater lakes are such unexpected dots of color in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
Plus, winter travelers will love snow activities like skiing and snowmobiling. With so much to do at Mammoth Mountain, you are bound to have a good time.
34. Yosemite National Park
Time from San Diego: 7 hours
Can’t Miss: Hiking, scenic viewpoints
Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, is renowned for its majestic rock formations, stunning waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees.
It is easily one of the best weekend getaways from San Diego for nature enthusiasts due to its incredible beauty. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from Glacier Point, or take on a hike to Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite is the most popular national park in California, and after visiting, you will understand why.
Outside of the nature, Yosemite Village is great for outdoor dining, museums like the Yosemite Museum, and the Ansel Adams Gallery for landscape photography.
35. San Francisco
Time from San Diego: 8 hours
Can’t Miss: The Golden Gate Bridge, an Alcatraz Tour, the sea lions at Pier 39
Although San Francisco is quite a road trip from San Diego, it’s definitely worth taking a long weekend here at some point.
During your weekend in San Francisco, explore the Mission District, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown. Visit the free nature center on Pier 39 to observe seals that frequently inhabit the pier.
Alcatraz Island is located in the San Francisco Bay, and has a long history of housing some of America’s most notorious criminals. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, where visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like for inmates in the prison between 1934 and 1963.
Pro Tip: The ticket lines get long. Avoid all that with a pre-booked Alcatraz Tour. I booked an Alcatraz Tour and I learned so much. This one includes the Muir Woods and a tasty lunch, too. Highly recommend! BOOK YOUR ALCATRAZ TOUR HERE!
Of course, a trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through Golden Gate Park and a view of the famous bridge.
You May Also Like: A Pacific Coast Highway 7 Day Itinerary
36. Lake Tahoe
Time from San Diego: 9.5 hours
Can’t Miss: Outdoor activities, Emerald Bay State Park
Of all the weekend trips from San Diego, this one is the farthest drive. If you are going solo, be sure to read all about planning a road trip alone.
Located on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe offers awe-inspiring vistas, renowned ski resorts, and a host of outdoor adventures. The deep blue of the water is almost unbelievable!
During the warmer seasons, you can explore the myriad of trails encircling this pristine freshwater lake, indulge in invigorating swims, or embark on picturesque boat cruises.
During winter season, you can test your luck at one of the local casinos or venture to the slopes for an exceptional skiing experience. Rose-Ski Tahoe is especially popular among locals.
Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic drive around the lake after a fresh snowfall — the views are absolutely breathtaking!
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I hope that this list of the 36 best weekend trips from San Diego has inspired you to go for it.
From deserts to mountains and beaches, and everything in between, there are just so many choices! Hopefully you can go on many of these adventures within the next year.
Let me know below which one is first on your list!
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