There’s nothing more relaxing and rejuvenating than a scenic drive in Southern California. Although some of these roads aren’t what one might consider a country road, they are definitely peaceful, quiet, and remote, and you’re sure to adore them as much as we do. Hop in the car, roll down the windows, and crank the tunes. Enjoy the scenery!

1. Angeles Crest Highway
Angeles Crest Highway, Angeles Crest Hwy, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, USA
When i was a lad/Flickr
Spring and summer are the best times to explore this scenic stretch of land along the Angeles Crest Highway. From La Canada-Flintridge, you'll head east for close to 50 miles along a scenic route that will take you through a glorious mountain setting filled with towering trees and spectacular views of the city below.

2. Rim of the World
Rim of the World Scenic Drive, 23270 CA-18, San Bernardino, CA 92404, USA
GiuliaCicciu / TripAdvisor
The longest and perhaps most breathtaking route on this list is the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. This 107 mile drive along Highways 18 and 38 will take you through the San Bernardino Mountains. There are narrow stretches along the drive that can be challenging, so always drive with caution. This viewpoint along the way provides a glimpse of Silverwood Lake.
3. Palomar Mountain Loop
Palomar Mountain, California 92060, USA
Joe Wolf / flickr
Hop on 76 and head up to Palomar Mountain for a scenic setting filled with winding roads and tunnels of lush trees. If you want to stop along the way in Palomar, make sure to check out the Palomar Observatory for even more breathtaking views.

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4. PCH in San Diego
U.S. Route 101 - Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
4 Star Traveler/Flickr
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as PCH or Highway 1, is a scenic route that stretches along the entire coast of California. To experience the southern portion of PCH, start the drive in San Diego and head north for as long as your tank of gas will carry you. It's glorious. We promise.

5. Ortega Highway
Ortega Highway, Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, CA, USA
Ken Lund/Flickr
The stretch of land called the Ortega Highway is a 25 mile route along Highway 74 between Lake Elsinore and San Juan Capistrano. This scenic drive will take you through the stunning scenery of the Cleveland National Forest within the Santa Ana Mountains.

6. Palm to Pines
Palms to Pines Scenic Byway, CA-74, Palm Desert, CA 92260, USA
canadiangirl222/TripAdvisor
For those seeking a panoramic view of the Southern California desert, the Palm to Pines drive along Highway 74 will take your breath away. You'll drive through desert backcountry and pass through several charming towns including Idyllwild, which is a great spot to stop for lunch.

Pack up a picnic lunch and hit the road, as these scenic drives are the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing weekend. Are there any other scenic SoCal road trips you think should be on this list?

While you’re out exploring by car, you might enjoy learning more about Southern California’s towering mountains. Here are nine of the most scenic mountains in SoCal that everyone should see up close and in person at least once in their lifetime. And don’t forget to check out our ultimate road trip essentials packing list!

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More to Explore

Best Scenic Drives In Southern California

Tori Jane | July 05, 2021

Where are some scenic places in Southern California? 

Some of the most scenic places in Southern California include:

  • Joshua Tree National Park
  • Sequoia National Park
  • Los Padres National Forest

 

Southern California is a beautiful region that often goes overlooked in favor of the northern portion of the state, but folks shouldn’t be so fast to write it off! There are plenty of breathtaking places scattered throughout SoCal. For example, if you’re craving something unique, you should check out Joshua Tree National Park, which is very special: it’s one of the only places in the world where Joshua trees, a strange-looking relative of the yucca, grow. Sequoia National Park is incredible and well worth a visit from everyone at least once (though we suspect you’ll want to return ASAP). The Los Padres National Forest is another perfect place for folks looking for scenic places in Southern California.  

What beautiful road trips in Southern California should I take this summer?  

The Angeles Crest Highway is one of the most beautiful road trips in SoCal.

If you’re hoping for a variety of scenic roads to travel during the warmer months, you’re in luck – SoCal is home to so many that it’s tough to narrow down to just a small handful. However, some of our very favorite drives in southern California are worth mentioning! For example, the Angeles Crest Highway offers up incredible mountain views, and Highway 39 through San Gabriel Canyon is priceless. The National Old Trails Highway is an amazing drive and worth planning an entire weekend around. Look at this article for more SoCal road trip dream vacations!  

What are the most beautiful Southern California byways? 

Some beautiful SoCal byways include:

  • Chimney Peak Backcountry Byway
  • Death Valley Scenic Byway
  • San Luis Obispo North Coast Highway
  • Wild Horse Canyon Scenic Byway

 

There are so many that it’s hard to say! Some of our favorites include legendary drives like Chimney Peak Backcountry Byway, which is a gateway to some of the best mountain views in all of California, and believe it or not, the Death Valley Scenic Byway is a must for desert enthusiasts. The San Luis Obispo North Coast Highway is an amazing drive with beautiful ocean views (and what California drive would be complete without ocean views?). The Wild Horse Canyon Scenic Byway is another great one for desert and semi-arid landscape enthusiasts.  

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