Drives

Looking to escape the city and explore the beauty of Southern California? This guide to day trips from San Diego has got you covered! Whether you’re looking to hike in the mountains, explore quaint beach towns, or experience the natural wonders of the desert, this guide has something for everyone. Let’s plan the perfect adventure and make the most of your time in this stunning region.

Temecula Wine Country: Just an hour and 15-minute drive from downtown San Diego, Temecula offers a unique wine tasting experience. This region is home to over 40 wineries, each offering different varieties of wine to taste. Visit the Wilson Creek Winery and Vineyards for a champagne brunch or head to the Ponte Winery for an outdoor picnic and live music.

Plan to visit a maximum of 3-4 wineries in one day to fully enjoy each experience.
Consider taking a guided tour or hiring a driver so you don’t have to worry about driving after tasting.
Pack snacks and water to keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the day.

Joshua Tree National Park: Drive two and a half hours from downtown San Diego to explore the desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Hike through the unique rock formations, explore hidden canyons, and keep an eye out for the park’s famous Joshua trees. Don’t miss a stop at Keys View, where you can take in panoramic views of the Coachella Valley.

Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited services inside the park.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking and climbing.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Respect the park’s rules and regulations, including staying on designated trails and packing out all trash.

Julian: Just over an hour from downtown San Diego, Julian is a historic mining town known for its apple pies. Visit the Julian Pie Company for a slice of their famous pie and stroll along the main street filled with antique shops, boutiques, and cafes. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the top of Volcan Mountain for stunning views of the surrounding hillsides.

Try the famous apple pie at one of the town’s many bakeries.
Take a scenic drive along the nearby highways to see the beautiful landscapes of San Diego County.
Visit during the fall to see the changing leaves and participate in apple harvest activities.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: The largest state park in California, Anza-Borrego is just a two-hour drive from downtown San Diego. Explore the park’s unique desert landscapes and hiking trails, including the popular Palm Canyon Trail. Don’t miss the chance to stargaze in one of the darkest skies in Southern California.

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as temperatures can soar during the day.
Stop by the visitor center to learn about the park’s history and get recommendations for hiking trails.
Watch for wildlife such as bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and rattlesnakes

Laguna Beach: Head north for a two-hour drive to the picturesque coastal town of Laguna Beach. Spend the day at one of the town’s many beaches or take a stroll through the art galleries and boutiques on Ocean Avenue. For a unique experience, visit the Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters, a summer event where paintings come to life in a live performance.

Bring your swimsuit and sunscreen for a day at the beach.
Explore the town’s art galleries and shops.
Visit during the summer to see the Pageant of the Masters, a unique performance featuring living art.

Idyllwild: A two and a half-hour drive from downtown San Diego, Idyllwild is a charming mountain town known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. Hike through the surrounding San Jacinto Mountains or take a stroll through the town’s many art galleries and boutique shops. Don’t miss the chance to grab a bite at Cafe Aroma, a local favorite known for its Italian cuisine.

Take a hike in the San Jacinto Mountains for breathtaking views.
Visit during the winter for snowshoeing and skiing.
Check out the town’s many outdoor shops and art galleries.

Salton Sea: Drive two hours east of downtown San Diego to visit the Salton Sea, California’s largest lake. While the lake itself is not suitable for swimming, it is a unique destination for bird watching and exploring abandoned towns like Bombay Beach. Don’t miss a stop at Salvation Mountain, a colorful art installation made entirely of paint and adobe.

Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as temperatures can reach 100 degrees or more.
Visit the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge to see birds and other wildlife.
Learn about the history of the Salton Sea at the Salton Sea History Museum.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, there are plenty of day trip options to explore outside of San Diego. With so many unique destinations just a short drive away, the possibilities are endless.