Are you looking for some exciting day trips from Los Angeles? Look no further than this article on “How to Spend a Weekend in Palm Springs” by Michael Martello. Los Angeles offers endless activities, but sometimes the best part is leaving the city and exploring the beauty of Southern California. In this video, Michael takes you on a journey to Laguna Beach, Palm Springs, and Joshua Tree, showcasing the unique charm and attractions of each destination. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these day trips will leave you in awe of the surrounding beauty and create memories to cherish. So, join Michael as he embarks on a local adventure and shows you the hidden gems of Southern California.
Best Day Trips from LA!!!
Los Angeles is a city with endless things to do, from hiking to biking to the amazing food and exploring hidden gems. But honestly, the best part of living in LA is leaving LA and taking day trips to new places in California. In this article, I want to show you some of my favorite day trips or weekend trips that will remind you that even if you live in or visit LA, even more beauty surrounds you.
Laguna Beach: A Southern California Gem
Located about 50 miles south of LA, Laguna Beach is perhaps the most quintessential SoCal city. Situated in Orange County, the Laguna Coast is pristine and some of the hotels offer killer views of the Pacific Ocean. From walking down Thousand Steps Beach to exploring the Victoria Beach Pirate Tower, there are so many fun things to do in Laguna. And let’s not forget about Heisler Park and Crystal Cove State Park, which offer some of the best hiking in Orange County.
Now, let’s talk about Crystal Cove in Laguna. This hike is arguably the best in Orange County, offering breathtaking ocean views along the entire trail. As you hike, you can’t help but be captivated by the beauty of nature around you. Crystal Cove has it all – the crashing waves, the salty sea breeze, and the stunning ocean vistas. It truly is a hiker’s paradise.
One of the best parts about Laguna Beach is the beautiful sunsets you can catch at the ocean, with the incredible landscape as your backdrop. Whether you’re walking hand in hand with your loved one or capturing the moment with your camera, the sunsets in Laguna will leave you in awe. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like it.
Palm Springs: Escape to the Desert Oasis
About a hundred miles east from both LA and Laguna Beach, Palm Springs makes another great day trip. It’s just under two hours away without traffic, and it offers a completely different experience from the cool ocean breeze in Laguna. Palm Springs is known for its hot desert sun and vibrant atmosphere.
A visit to Palm Canyon Drive, where all the restaurants, bars, and shops are located, is a must. You can feel the heat emanating from the ground as you walk along this bustling street. And if you forgot your bathing suit, no worries – there are plenty of shops where you can pick one up.
One of the best things to do in Palm Springs is to take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This exciting tramway takes you over two and a half miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting you to the perceived wilderness of the Mount San Jacinto State Park. As you ascend, the temperature drops from the scorching heat to a cool 55 degrees, making it feel more like Laguna Beach again.
Last time I was in Palm Springs, I didn’t get to experience the aerial tramway because you have to make reservations weeks in advance. But today, we got lucky and were able to walk in and get on the tram. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking, and it’s a great way to escape the desert heat for a little while.
Joshua Tree: A Desert Wonderland
Not far from Palm Springs lies one of the most unique national parks in the world – Joshua Tree. It’s about an hour’s drive from Palm Springs and makes for a fantastic day trip outside of LA. The park is known for its thousands of Joshua Trees and its incredible geological rock formations.
As you explore Joshua Tree, make sure to visit iconic spots like Skull Rock and Arch Rock. These rock formations are a sight to behold and offer great photo opportunities. Just be careful and watch out for snakes, scorpions, and even quicksand. Yes, that’s right, my mom used to make me watch those movies where people would die in quicksand, so it’s always in the back of my mind.
Another highlight of Joshua Tree is the jumping cholla cactus garden. But be warned, these cacti are not to be messed with. Their needles will literally jump right at you and are painful to remove, so it’s best to keep your distance and admire them from afar.
Hidden Valley Nature Trail is another must-see in Joshua Tree. It’s an easy hike that takes you through a beautiful valley surrounded by stunning rock formations. The trail is nicely shaded, making it a pleasant walk even on a hot day.
Overall, Joshua Tree offers a unique experience with its desert landscapes and peculiar flora. It’s a place where you can connect with nature and marvel at the wonders of the desert.
In Conclusion
Laguna Beach, Palm Springs, and Joshua Tree each offer a unique California charm. The memories you can create in these places, especially with the people you love most, are priceless. From killer hotel ocean views to scented trees and jumping chollas, every trip to these destinations is something to remember.
So, next time you find yourself in LA, I challenge you to get out and explore the cities and places that surround your home. Experience a local adventure and discover the beauty that California has to offer. Whether it’s a day trip to Laguna Beach or a weekend getaway to Palm Springs, make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories. And who knows, you might just fall in love with the golden state and want to make it your home.