While San Diego has virtually endless things to do, sometimes you need to go out of town and discover all the wonderful places close by. To help you find the perfect Weekend trips from San Diego , we have put together a list of some of our favorites and why we love them. All of these are easily accessible without boarding an airplane for a quick weekend road trip. Whether a road trip, staycation, day trip, weekend trip, getaway, or overnight night, we have every possible destination for your San Diego getaway. We limited the trips to roughly 5 hours driving or less, without traffic.
Here is List of 28 Best Weekend Getaways from San Diego
Let’s explore weekend getaways just a few hours from San Diego, where you can enjoy exciting trips and have a fantastic time!
Big Bear / Lake Arrowhead:
There is nothing quite like fresh mountain air and luckily these Southern California mountain towns are just a short drive away. During their snow season, there are plenty of opportunities to snowboard and ski or sled. If you go outside of snow season, visit Lake Arrowhead for fishing, water sports, picnics, and more. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or a slow and cozy weekend away, both Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead make for the perfect stay. Spend the weekend hiking, browsing local shops, off-roading, or even zip lining.
Joshua Tree:
Retreat out into the desert to see the wonders of Joshua Tree. Joshua Tree National Park is the main attraction for many with opportunities for scenic camping and hiking, but there is so much more to do, from late-night stargazing to browsing the art installations and eclectic vendors. If you are not a camper, there are also a plethora of picture-worthy rentals with above-ground pools that allow you to bask in the desert air and wildlife. The perfect combination of artsy and outdoorsy, you are sure to fill your weekend in J-Tree.
Catalina Island:
Venture off the coast to Catalina Island and take in the views of the Pacific everywhere you go. Enjoy the full beauty of the island with a trip on a glass bottom boat where you can watch the sea life in the beautiful clear waters. For on-land adventures, you can play on a scenic golf course, learn falconry, and more. Another thing Catalina does well? R&R. Find beautiful lodgings where you can kick back and relax.
Santa Barbara:
Wine and dine through this beloved beach town. Santa Barbara truly has something for everyone, whether you are looking for a more upscale or romantic weekend wine tasting or a laidback getaway where you chill on the water by day and get swept up in great night life after dark. We recommend lazing on the beach before visiting the specialty shops and restaurants at Stearns Wharf or heading into the vibrant and artsy Funk Zone.
Scottsdale:
If the sunshine and warmth of the desert call to you, but you want to do it in style, consider Scottsdale. You will find luxurious accommodations like The Theodore Scottsdale and Enchantment Resort, perfect for pampering and escaping the heat. In addition to its famous spas and golf courses, Scottsdale also offers a lively scene for food, nightlife, shopping, and more. If you’re an art lover, you’re in for a treat with places like the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, or you can explore around town. For a scenic getaway, visit Sedona’s Red Rock views or stay at L’Auberge de Sedona for a peaceful retreat.
Las Vegas:
Las Vegas is not just about bright lights and casinos—it has a romantic side too. You can enjoy a relaxing night at The Mirage or explore the luxury Shops at Crystals. For a classic Vegas experience, visit the historic Riviera Hotel & Casino for a taste of old-school glamour.
Death Valley:
Despite the name, there is plenty to see in Death Valley. Plan your stay so you can visit Death Valley National Park and its beautiful wildflowers, the Mesquite Dunes – ideally at dawn or dusk, the salty flats of the Badwater Basin, the Golden Canyon Trail, and all its other wonders. Death Valley is perfect place to appreciate nature, just make sure to bring enough water!
Riverside Mission Inn:
The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa is more than just a luxurious place to stay, it is a destination all its own. This National Historic Landmark is full of history and built with stunning Spanish Mission-style architecture, making it ripe for exploring. Outside the Mission Inn, you will find the lively streets of Downtown Riverside with great food, antiques, shopping, and a popular bar scene to keep you busy.
Here are several other destinations to consider, all within a day’s drive from San Diego, great for an overnight stay from San Diego, or for a weekend getaway from San Diego.
Disneyland:
Disneyland has been a favorite destination from San Diego for years. With so many different ways to visit and enjoy, and so many different celebrations, there is always a reason to visit. You can enjoy a Private Tour, visit a Galaxy far far away, explore all of California, celebrate the return of Fantasmic, stay at the luxurious craftsman Grand Californian, Celebrate milestones, Halloween or travel into your favorite Animated World.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a beautiful city in California, known for its amazing beaches and art. You can stay at the Montage or the Ritz-Carlton, two famous luxury hotels. It’s also a great place for surfing, hiking, and enjoying nature, making it perfect for weekend trips from San Diego!
Valle De Guadalupe:
Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s Wine Country, is home to some of the top wineries, offering visitors a chance to experience world-class wines and stunning vineyard views.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles is just a two-hour drive from San Diego, making it an easy day trip. You can explore famous spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, or Venice Beach. For a stylish stay, check out Hotel Erwin in Venice or W Los Angeles for a chic, comfortable getaway.
Long Beach
Long Beach, just a short drive from San Diego, offers a fun day trip. Visit the iconic Queen Mary Hotel or stay at Hotel Maya for a unique experience. You can also explore the Aquarium of the Pacific or stroll along the waterfront, enjoying shopping, dining, and the ocean breeze.
Laguna Niguel
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is a luxury hotel on a bluff with ocean views. It offers cozy rooms, a Mediterranean vibe, and delicious Pan-Latin food at Raya. Relax at the serene spa or explore nearby South Coast Plaza for shopping and dining. It’s perfect for a fancy, relaxing getaway!
Newport Beach
Newport Beach, between Los Angeles and San Diego, offers beautiful beaches, shopping, and dining. Stay at Balboa Bay Resort or the luxurious St. Regis Monarch Beach for an upscale experience. Explore Balboa Island on electric bikes, enjoy harbor views on a Duffy boat, and dine at top restaurants like Red O and FIG & OLIVE. It’s a perfect seaside getaway for fun and relaxation.
Scottsdale:
Scottsdale is a serene destination perfect for a wellness-travel getaway. Located a short drive from San Diego, it offers stunning desert landscapes and luxury spas. Enjoy outdoor adventures and relaxation for a rejuvenating day trip.
Laguna Beach
The Montage Laguna Beach is a luxury hotel by the ocean, offering beachfront rooms, a spa, pools, and outdoor fun. Guests can enjoy art, tasty food, and special packages like helicopter rides and wine tours. The hotel also helps the community and cares for the environment.
Malibu
Malibu is a beautiful place with 27 miles of California coast to explore. You can learn about its history, spot celebrities at Malibu Country Mart, or visit the Getty Villa for art. Enjoy outdoor fun like surfing, horseback riding, or safaris. Stay at the Malibu Beach Inn on Carbon Beach for great food, a spa, and ocean views. Whether near or far, Malibu is a great spot for an amazing trip!
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is a magical escape just six hours away. Stay at Wuksachi Lodge for cozy rooms, tasty food, and stunning views. See the world’s largest trees, enjoy snowshoeing in winter or camping in summer. It’s a fun, relaxing adventure filled with nature’s beauty and unforgettable moments!
Palm Springs
Palm Springs, a short drive from San Diego, is a sunny desert getaway. With year-round sunshine, it offers luxury resorts, golf, spas, and fine dining. Don’t miss attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway or exploring its unique mountain views.
Julian:
Julian is an ideal weekend getaway just an hour from San Diego. Enjoy hiking, wildlife, and the charm of a historic mountain town. Stay at Orchard Hill Country Inn for cozy rooms, fine dining, and relaxation.
Temecula Valley
Temecula Valley is Southern California’s wine country, ideal for weekend trips. Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided tours, stunning vineyard views, and diverse wine varieties. Activities like hot air balloon rides and spa days make it a perfect getaway.
Dana Point
Dana Point is a charming seaside community along Coast Highway 1, perfect for road trips or day trips from San Diego. It offers activities like dining, art galleries, a marina, and luxurious resorts. The St. Regis Resort provides top-notch oceanfront dining, a spa, golf, and breathtaking views.
Idyllwild:
Idyllwild is a charming mountain town just a couple of hours from San Diego. It’s known for its stunning hiking trails, peaceful atmosphere, and cool pine forests. Perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway, you can enjoy fresh air, great food, and outdoor fun.
Ensenada:
Ensenada is a charming coastal town just a short drive from San Diego. Known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and local wineries, it’s a perfect weekend escape. Don’t miss La Bufadora, a stunning natural blowhole.
Borrego Springs:
Borrego Springs is a peaceful desert getaway near San Diego. Explore stunning landscapes in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Perfect for hiking, stargazing, and relaxing weekends!
Solvang:
Solvang, located just a few hours north of San Diego, is a charming Danish village. Visitors can enjoy unique shops, delicious pastries, and beautiful vineyards. It’s a perfect weekend getaway for those seeking culture, food, and scenic views.
Ojai:
Ojai, just a few hours from San Diego, is a peaceful getaway. Explore its charming downtown, filled with art galleries and local shops. Hike in the nearby hills for stunning views and relaxing nature.
Conlcusion:
San Diego has lots to do, but sometimes it’s fun to get away for the weekend. There are many great places nearby, all within a 5-hour drive. You can enjoy the mountains in Big Bear, explore the desert in Joshua Tree, relax on Catalina Island, or go wine tasting in Valle de Guadalupe. Places like Palm Springs and Laguna Beach are perfect for relaxing by the beach or enjoying the sunshine. Whether you like outdoor fun, tasty food, or just relaxing, there’s a getaway close to San Diego for everyone!
