With the time of year approaching the warmest of days once again here in Southern California, now is the perfect time to start planning all the fun summertime adventures you’ll be having in a few months when we are able to go out and about and enjoy all the fun and beauty that our state has to offer. Here are eight of the best day trips in Southern California that you’ll want to start planning now for a fun and memorable season!

1. Crestline
Crestline, CA, USA
Don Graham/Flickr
Day trips to the lake are synonymous with summer here in SoCal. Whether you're daydreaming about taking a swim or swooning over paddling in a boat, the summertime at Crestline and Lake Gregory looks like absolute bliss.
2. Solvang
Solvang, CA 93463, USA
Edgy01/Wikimedia
A trip to Europe may not be on your agenda this summer, but that doesn't mean you can't experience your very own European vacation right here in SoCal. Head to the town of Solvang, the Danish Capital of America, and you can enjoy a holiday overseas without ever leaving the comfort of home.
3. Ventura Harbor Village
East Harbor Boulevard, E Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001, USA
Ventura Harbor Village/Google Local
Packed with tons of shopping, dining, and outdoor scenery to keep you occupied for hours, Ventura Harbor Village is a perfect place to spend a summer day doing all of your favorite activities.
4. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
San Diego Safari Park, San Diego, CA 92027, USA
Ernie Tyler/Flickr
Packed with a variety of animals and scenery galore, this 1,800-acre animal park in Southern California is a sight to see. Perfect for a day trip with the whole family, this is just what you need for a beautiful summer day in SoCal.

Related Stories

5 Incredible Scenic Hikes In San Diego That You Must Explore This Summer

5 Incredible Scenic Hikes In San Diego That You Must Explore This Summer

 7 Epic Beach Hikes In Southern California To Take This Summer

7 Epic Beach Hikes In Southern California To Take This Summer

 7 Pristine Hidden Beaches Throughout Southern California You've Got To Visit This Summer

7 Pristine Hidden Beaches Throughout Southern California You've Got To Visit This Summer
5. Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake, CA, USA
Big Bear Lake Village/Facebook
Although Big Bear Lake is a memorable place to visit all year long, we especially love this peaceful destination during the summer season when you can engage in all of your favorite activities at once - shopping, dining, and exploring the great outdoors.
6. Balboa Park
San Diego, CA, USA
Michael Seljos/Flickr
One of SoCal's biggest and best urban parks is a grand place to spend a summer day. From stunning museums to magnificent outdoor scenery, this local gem is one destination that you won't want to miss when summer rolls around.
7. Descanso Gardens
Descanso Drive, Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA
dirtinmypocket/Flickr
Wandering through picturesque gardens and soaking up the seasonal beauty of SoCal at Descanso Gardens is always a fun way to spend a summer day in Southern California. It's an amazing place at springtime, too, but for different reasons.
8. Catalina Island
Santa Catalina Island, California 90704, USA
Blake Carroll/Flickr
Catalina Island may not be the type of destination you're able to make it to every year as it's a bit more difficult to get to than the other places on the list. But once summertime comes around and things are looking a bit brighter here in SoCal and the rest of the world, it's safe to say that a day trip to a special place is just what you may be seeking. From sailing to shopping and lounging on the beach, this beautiful island getaway in SoCal is just what you need for a summer day trip to remember.

What are you looking forward to the most this coming summer? If you have any ideas for the best day trips in Southern California to embark on this season, we’d love to hear about where you’re planning to go!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Day Trips In Southern California

Tori Jane | March 15, 2022

What are some nice, unique things to do around Southern California?  

Southern California is home to lots of offbeat and unique things to do; from cemeteries to epic hikes and everything in between, there really is something for everyone in this little corner of the world. For example, in Hollywood, you’ll find the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which is the final resting place of hundreds of celebs, past and present, including the likes of Marilyn Monroe. It’s a little odd that these people can’t seem to get peace even in death, but we digress – it’s certainly a unique thing to do in Southern California. While in Hollywood (and continuing the morbid streak here), be sure to also explore the Museum of Death... if you dare. Need a little more lightheartedness in your life? Yeah, same. Check out some of the awesome scenic drives that are uniquely ours, like the stunning drive that is the Mulholland Highway, or a spin up (or down) Highway 1. There is plenty of hiking, biking, shopping, walking, and exploring to be done – you just need to know where to do it. Want some more ideas? Check this article out. 

What are some of the most amazing getaway spots in Southern California? 

When people think about their ideal getaway, they almost always imagine something to do with California. Maybe it’s our amazing beaches and breathtaking greenery. Maybe it’s our interesting history or our eye-popping beautiful scenic drives. No matter what “it” might be to you, one thing is for sure: Southern California is perfect for a getaway. Some of our favorite getaway spots in Southern California include the classics, like a stroll down the pier (any pier) or a date night on the beach. Others include incredible resorts and resort towns like Anaheim, Santa Barbara, San Diego, and more. Catalina Island is amazing, and so is pretty much all of Pacific Beach. For those who love the outdoors, consider an escape to Idyllwild, or maybe Joshua Tree National Park. Southern California is amazingly scenic (and diverse), and just about anyone is likely to find their dream escape around here.  

Related Articles

Explore Southern California