Best Road Trips From San Diego

🚗 160 miles ⏱️ 3 hours

Relax and refresh in the desert oasis that is Palm Springs: trading San Diego's sea views for Mid-Century Modern magic, world-class amenities and glittering, glamorous charm.

Enjoy the wines of Temecula en route, as well as beautiful San Jacinto.

🚗 120 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 20 minutes

Whether you're celebrity spotting or dining your way across this culinary hub, LA has you covered with its sprawling, dazzling variety and fabulous entertainment at every turn.

Be sure to spend some time in Carlsbad and explore San Juan Capistrano on the way.

🚗 35 miles ⏱️ 40 minutes

Carlsbad offers stunning coastal views and the famed Flower Fields that burst into beautiful colors every spring. It's an ideal short escape - with nearby LEGOLAND as an added bonus.

While this is a short hop from San Diego, there are plenty of gorgeous ocean views on the way.

🚗 70 miles ⏱️ 1 hour

Take a road trip rich in history to San Juan Capistrano and visit the famous Mission San Juan Capistrano, surrounded by beautiful gardens and impressive old-world architecture, perfect for a peaceful yet culturally enriching day trip.

Why not make a stop at Carlsbad en route?

🚗 280 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

Make your way across otherworldly landscapes to Death Valley National Park and experience some of the hottest temperatures on earth. You will be awestruck by majestic sand dunes, ancient geological formations, and awesome starry night skies.

Explore the emerald-green San Bernardino Forest on your way for a total contrast in scenery!

🚗 120 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

Take a day trip to the Salton Sea to admire a surreal landscape unlike any other; this unique spot offers photographers and explorers the chance to see a mysterious body of water surrounded by a ghostly town and dramatic desert scenery.

Be sure to check out quirky Salvation Mountain and Bombay Beach while you're here.

🚗 330 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

Little introduction is necessary for the world-famous Sin City, where you can enjoy an endless parade of glamorous entertainment, Michelin-starred dining and bright neon lights in every direction.

You'll pass Joshua Tree National Park and through Mohave Valley on your way to Las Vegas, which we highly recommend visiting.

🚗 510 miles ⏱️ 9 hours, 10 minutes

Famed for its staggering red rocks and as a spiritual area, Sedona's landscapes will take your breath away while delivering some serious luxury. Unplug from daily life and reconnect with nature's wonder.

On your way to Sedona, pass through Coconino National Forest and have an urban adventure in Phoenix.

🚗 400 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

Majestic waterfalls, incredible wildlife and some of the best views in the Southwest, Yosemite is one of our favorites! Whether you're hiking, camping or simply sightseeing, Yosemite has it all.

Visit Bakersfield and Fresno if you're traveling directly, with optional detours to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

🚗 560 miles ⏱️ 10 hours, 20 minutes

You will immediately recognize the backdrop of Golden Gate Bridge, and hop between eclectic neighborhoods on a road trip to San Francisco. Enjoy fabulous dining, culture and the buzz of Silicon Valley, too.

We recommend driving up the Pacific Coast Highway - passing Malibu, Big Sur, Monterey and much more.

🚗 500 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 50 minutes

There is only a handful other places as majestic as the Grand Canyon. Its vast ruggedness and sweeping landscapes need no introduction! Sleep beneath the stars or stay in nearby Flagstaff for a bucket list-worthy adventure.

The journey from San Diego takes you past Kingman and Williams on Route 66, as well as Flagstaff.

🚗 530 miles ⏱️ 9 hours

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe's almost pure crystal-clear waters and scenic landscapes are an idyllic retreat year-round for anyone looking for a break from the city.

Visit Mammoth Lakes on the way, and even make the detour to Death Valley National Park if you have time.

🚗 165 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 50 minutes

Becoming increasingly popular, Joshua Tree National Park is home to Joshua trees and rugged rock formations make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It is also a very popular park for camping with beautiful starry skies.

What's more, quirky Salton Sea and glitzy Palm Springs are both on your road trip route.

🚗 420 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

Big Sur has sweeping views of the stunning coastline and the drive there is equally beautiful (check before traveling for road closures). You will get to admire an amazing variety of landscapes from towering redwoods to sandy beaches.

Enjoy the buzz of LA - or the laid back vibes of Malibu and San Luis Obispo - on your way to Big Sur.

🚗 355 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 30 minutes

For the ultimate city adventure, Phoenix combines urban charm with staggering natural beauty. Explore desert parks, hiking trails, and the vibrant art scene, all in the heart of the Valley of the Sun.

Pass through Yuma and enjoy the scenery of the Sonoran Desert en route.

🚗 690 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 40 minutes

Indulge in the world-renowned wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma. Here, you will experience exquisite wine tastings, gourmet dining at famous restaurants, and the picturesque rolling vineyards.

On your way, make a stop at LA to visit Hollywood and enjoy a drive on Golden Gate Bridge outside San Francisco.

🚗 500 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 45 minutes

Zion National Park is a sanctuary of massive sandstone cliffs, beautiful valleys, and postcard-perfect vistas. Whether you are an outdoors adventurer or a photography enthusiast, this park has it all.

If you have time, spend some time by the pool in Palm Springs and try your luck in Las Vegas.

🚗 520 miles ⏱️ 11 hours

Monterey is famous for its stunning coastline, historic Cannery Row, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here you can have the freshest seafood and enjoy a sunny day out, whether you are with friends or family.

En route, you can add LA to your itinerary, spend some time at Pismo Beach and visit Carmel-by-the-Sea.

🚗 220 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 30 minutes

Santa Barbara is fittingly also called "American Riviera", thanks to its warm Mediterranean climate, Spanish architecture, and beautiful beaches. While here, have a wine tasting, and enjoy visiting its galleries.

On your way, why not extend the drive to relax at Laguna Beach and spot a celebrity or two in LA?

🚗 250 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

You might not expect to see a Danish village in the heart of California but Solvang is exactly that! This unique town offers a unique European experience with its architecture, bakeries, and wineries.

En route to Solvang, you can also spend time in LA and enjoy the beaches of Santa Barbara.