Looking for the best 2026 road trip ideas starting right here in Los Angeles County? Whether you’re craving sun-drenched coastlines, desert escapes, or alpine adventures, Southern California is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable getaways. From quick weekend trips to full-day scenic drives, this curated list covers ten top destinations ideal for all types of travelers.
In this guide, we’ll take you from the streets of DTLA to the peaks of Big Bear, and from Beverly Hills to the remote beauty of Death Valley. Each destination offers a unique experience and every route begins in or near Los Angeles County. You’ll find something for every kind of traveler, from art lovers to outdoor explorers, with specific tips on what to see, where to go, and which Chevrolet models like the Silverado, Equinox, Trax, Traverse, Colorado, and Equinox EV are best suited for the ride.
If you live in Los Angeles County or plan to visit in 2026, these ten road trip ideas deliver a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and open-road freedom. They're all within reach of Southern California Chevrolet's 44 convenient locations, ready to help you start your next adventure.
For scenic drives, weekend getaways, and spontaneous escapes, there’s no better time to plan your next journey. Contact or visit your nearest Southern California Chevy Dealer to find the vehicle that gets you there.
1. Palm Springs – Mid-Century Relaxation in the Desert
If you love the sun and clean lines, Palm Springs is your place. This small desert city is a true gem for those who enjoy calm days, bright views, and a splash of style. It’s just two hours from Los Angeles, making it a top pick for easy weekend drives.
You’ll find:
- Shops and food spots on Palm Canyon Drive
- Art shows, design tours, and local museums
- Natural hot springs for full-body rest
- Bright pools and clean skies for a break from the city
Palm Springs is a great fit for Los Angeles County road trips, where both the ride and the stop are part of the joy. The wide streets and open space also make it easy to drive and park.
If you plan to pack gear or travel with friends, the Silverado gives you room and power to do it all. Smooth on the road. Strong in the hills.
2. Joshua Tree National Park – A Stargazer’s Paradise
Joshua Tree is unlike any other place in the world. The trees look like they belong in a dream. The rocks rise like towers from the sand. And once the sun drops, the sky is filled with stars.
This spot is perfect for:
- Hikes on short and long trails
- Climbing, if you’re brave
- Clear night skies for stargazing
- Peace and quiet for deep rest
It’s about two and a half hours from Los Angeles. That makes it a strong choice for 2026 SoCal road trip ideas that feel far from the rush.
The Equinox is a great choice here. It’s easy to drive, has space for gear, and does well on long roads through the park.
3. Santa Barbara – Wine, Coastline & Spanish Charm
Santa Barbara gives you the feel of a far trip without the long drive. You can get there in under two hours from most parts of LA. The city is full of charm, with calm beaches, red tile roofs, and a relaxed pace.
Top things to do include:
- Walk State Street for food and shops
- Tour the Old Mission and its gardens
- Taste wine in nearby Santa Ynez
- Catch the sunset from Stearns Wharf
If you’re looking for short, fun weekend getaways from LA County, this one fits the bill. The roads from the city are smooth, and the views are great the whole way.
A car like the Trax fits well in this small beach town. Easy to park. Good on gas. Just right for a coast trip.
4. Big Bear Lake – Alpine Escape from LA’s Buzz
Need cool air and tall trees? Big Bear Lake is a fast way to leave the city behind. This mountain town is a year-round pick for nature and fun.
Things to do:
- Kayak, swim, or fish in the lake
- Hike trails with views
- See snow in the winter
- Warm up by a fire at night
It’s one of the best scenic drives from LA, with winding roads and views that make you slow down and smile.
A strong, smooth SUV like the Colorado handles hills and gear with ease. You’ll want the extra grip if you go up during snow season.
5. San Diego – A Family-Friendly Coastal City
San Diego has sun, sand, and fun for all ages. It’s just a few hours south and is packed with ways to spend the day.
What to see:
- Balboa Park with museums and gardens
- The world-famous zoo
- Coronado Beach for soft sand
- Local food and surf towns
It’s one of the top picks for LA County adventure routes because you can start from spots like Long Beach or Pasadena and still get there in time for lunch.
Families love the Traverse for the space, seats, and smooth ride. Plenty of room for kids, coolers, and beach gear.
6. Catalina Island – An Island Getaway Close to Home
Just off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island feels like a world away. Yet, it's only a short trip from Long Beach.
You’ll need to take a ferry, but getting there is part of the fun. This trip blends the ease of Los Angeles County road trips with the charm of an island escape.
Things to enjoy:
- Kayak through clear waters
- Hike along the ocean cliffs
- Spot sea life near the shore
- Rent a golf cart and cruise the streets
Drive to the ferry dock is smooth and short from most LA cities. Long Beach and San Pedro are common launch spots.
The Equinox EV is a great ride for this kind of trip. It’s quiet, clean, and easy to park before hopping on the boat.
7. Laguna Beach – Art Meets Ocean
Laguna Beach blends beach town calm with bold art. It’s one of the best picks for 2026 SoCal road trip ideas if you want both fun and peace.
This coastal town is packed with color, both in nature and in its art scene.
Top stops include:
- Pageant of the Masters live art show
- Coastline walks with sea views
- Local art shops and open galleries
- Heisler Park for a slow stroll
From LA, the drive is just over an hour. Start early and take your time along the coast.
With its strong build and smooth ride, the Silverado makes this short drive even better. Load your gear and go.
8. Yosemite National Park – Majestic Wilderness
Yosemite offers huge views, tall trees, and clean air. It's a longer trip, but one of the best weekend getaways from LA County for those who love the wild.
Plan ahead, pack well, and start early.
Top things to see:
- Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall
- Half Dome and El Capitan
- Peaceful hikes through pine woods
- Bear sightings (from a safe spot)
It takes about six hours to get there, but the drive is worth every mile.
The Equinox helps make that time smooth and easy. Good gas range. Good ride feel. Lots of room for snacks and gear.
9. Death Valley – Explore the Extremes
Death Valley is dry, hot, and wide. It’s also quiet, strange, and full of things you won’t see elsewhere. This makes it one of the most unique scenic drives from LA.
From sand dunes to salt flats, there’s always more to see.
Some key spots:
- Zabriskie Point at sunrise
- Badwater Basin, the lowest land in North America
- Artist's Palette with bold color
- Dante’s View for a clear sky
Drive time is about five hours. Go in spring or fall when the heat is mild.
The Trax works well here. It’s small, easy to drive, and still strong for open road climbs.
10. Pacific Coast Highway – California Dreamin’
The Pacific Coast Highway is a trip everyone should take at least once. It runs along cliffs, past small towns, and right by the ocean. If you’re looking for LA County adventure routes, this one is a top pick.
Start near Santa Monica, and head north.
Places to stop:
| Location | Must-See Spot |
| Malibu | El Matador Beach |
| Oxnard | Channel Islands Harbor |
| Santa Barbara | State Street + The Mission |
| San Luis Obispo | Downtown and nearby beaches |
No matter how far you go, the ride is always part of the fun.
The Colorado handles these winding roads with ease. It gives a smooth ride and enough space to stretch out between stops.
Planning a road trip from Los Angeles County? These common questions will help you choose the best routes, trip length, and seasonal timing based on your needs. Whether you're packing up for a family weekend or chasing mountain views, we've got answers.
What are the top scenic road trips starting in Los Angeles County?
Top scenic road trips from Los Angeles County include:
• Pacific Coast Highway
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Big Bear Lake
• Santa Barbara
• Death Valley
How long does each suggested LA County route take?
Estimated drive times (one way) from Los Angeles County:
• Palm Springs – 2 hours
• Joshua Tree – 2.5 hours
• Santa Barbara – 2 hours
• Big Bear Lake – 2.5 to 3 hours
• San Diego – 2 to 3 hours
• Catalina Island (to ferry) – 1 hour
• Laguna Beach – 1.5 hours
• Yosemite National Park – 5 to 6 hours
• Death Valley – 4.5 to 5 hours
• Pacific Coast Highway (to Santa Barbara) – 2 to 3 hours depending on stops
Which routes are family-friendly versus adventure-oriented?
Family-friendly routes:
• San Diego
• Santa Barbara
• Catalina Island
• Laguna Beach
• Pacific Coast Highway
Adventure-oriented routes:
• Joshua Tree
• Big Bear Lake
• Yosemite
• Death Valley
What must-see stops are along the LA County drives?
Notable stops by route:
• Pacific Coast Highway – El Matador Beach, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo
• Joshua Tree – Hidden Valley, Cholla Cactus Garden
• Big Bear Lake – Alpine Slide, Castle Rock Trail
• San Diego – Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove
• Catalina Island – Avalon, Descanso Beach
• Santa Barbara – State Street, Stearns Wharf
• Yosemite – Yosemite Falls, Tunnel View
• Death Valley – Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin
What time of year is best for each LA County trip?
Recommended seasons by location:
• Palm Springs – Fall, Winter, Spring
• Joshua Tree – Spring and Fall
• Big Bear Lake – Summer (hiking), Winter (snow)
• San Diego – Year-round
• Catalina Island – Spring through Fall
• Santa Barbara – Spring and Summer
• Yosemite – Late Spring through Fall
• Death Valley – Fall and Winter
• Pacific Coast Highway – Spring through Early Fall
Start Your Next Adventure with Southern California Chevy
Ready to hit the road? Whether you're planning a day trip or a long weekend, the right vehicle can make all the difference. At Southern California Chevy Dealers, we offer a full range of SUVs and trucks built for the road ahead. From the roomy Traverse to the versatile Equinox, each model is made for comfort, space, and safety. If you prefer electric, the Equinox EV delivers range and style with no gas stops. For outdoor gear or longer hauls, the Silverado and Colorado give you strength without giving up ride comfort.
If you're located in Pasadena, Long Beach, Beverly Hills, DTLA, or the San Fernando Valley, there’s a Chevy dealer near you. Stop in, take a test drive, and see which model fits your next trip best.
Need more ideas for where to go? Check out our guides on top scenic drives, Southern California camping, and outdoor state parks to help you plan. These helpful reads can inspire your next road trip and show you more of what California has to offer.
Keep exploring our site to find the right vehicle and your next great route.
Disclaimer: All information is provided for general informational and entertainment purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all content is complete, current, or error-free. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. This article may include opinions and is not endorsed by, or officially affiliated with, any vehicle manufacturer or brand. Always consult official sources – such as the vehicle’s owner’s manual, authorized dealerships, or certified professionals – for the most up-to-date and personalized information.
