Are you looking for a change from the usual sunny vibes of San Diego? You’re lucky because this city can be your gateway to exciting adventures. Whether you’re tired of the cityscape or just craving a different scene, San Diego offers plenty of options for a quick weekend escape.
From the desert scenes of Joshua Tree to the grape plantations of Temecula and the dazzling shorelines of Catalina Island, there’s no lack of astounding spots simply not far off. Also, you will scarcely believe that these objections will give you a few extraordinary encounters without voyaging excessively far.
This Travel post will highlight some of the best Weekend Trips from San Diego and what you can do there. Therefore, take your luggage and be ready to explore what’s within reach in the city!
Explore 12 Weekend Trips from San Diego
Here are the top 12 weekend trips from San Diego that you must visit:
#1 Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is an ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway from San Diego. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, enjoy the Venice Beach boardwalk, and explore attractions such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Griffith Observatory. Jump into the game scene by getting surprisingly realistic shots with the Lakers or Dodgers.
What about visiting the notable “Friends” set at Warner Brothers? Are you deciding between exploring a studio or enjoying thrilling rides inspired by blockbuster movies at Universal Studios Hollywood? Whether you’re an art enthusiast, thrill seeker, or love absorbing new encounters, LA has something energizing standing by only for you!
- Distance: Approximately 120 miles
- Special Features: Hollywood Boulevard, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment.
- Address: Various locations within Los Angeles
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#2 Catalina Island
Catalina Island is far from San Diego and an excellent weekend trip place. With just a ferry ride, you can easily reach it. Take a hike, dive, kayak, or explore the quaint town of Avalon. The island also has unique wildlife, such as bison and wild boar.
The island is so close that it makes for an easygoing weekend. The boat trip from Dana Point takes about 70 minutes. You can do many things on the island, whether relaxing by the sea, trekking in the hills, or discovering beautiful Avalon. If you feel more adventurous, go kayaking, diving, or fishing.
- Distance: Approximately 80 miles (by ferry)
- Special Features: Snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, Avalon town, beautiful beaches, seafood.
- Address: Catalina Island, CA
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#3 Joshua Tree National Park, California
If you’re seeking a getaway from daily worries and immersing yourself in natural beauty, Joshua Tree National Park is an ideal destination. Moreover, this location may be utilized for many different purposes, like doing something else on a weekend or having trips, because it has several options.
However, there are only a few buildings surrounding you in San Diego, but at a particular moment, you might need to consider other things to do over the weekends. It is one of few states where you have the most fun in the greatest Joshua Tree Desert in Temecula’s wine-producing region or even Catalina Island’s coastal area. Moreover, these places are close, and one can quickly get there in a few minutes.
- Distance: Approximately 150 miles
- Special Features: Surreal landscapes, hiking, rock formations, stargazing.
- Address: 74485 National Park Drive, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#4 Idyllwild, California
Are you planning a mountain vacation trip to explore San Diego? Recommended for you is Idyllwild; this is a beautiful town in the San Diego Mountains, only a 2-hour drive. Instead of the sea, try the air and lovely walking paths.
For more on art, spend several hours walking around the village shopping centres or art galleries. Whether you are a nature lover or need a retreat from the hustle of city life, Idyllwild is the perfect place to visit.
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- Distance: Approximately 110 miles
- Special Features: Mountain town, hiking, arts and crafts, nature retreats.
- Address: Idyllwild, CA
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#5 Palm Spring, CA
Palm Springs is a fun and relaxing weekend trip from San Diego. It’ll be as if you are in a desert oasis with luxurious hotels and spas where one can laze around the pool all day, getting pampered. But don’t think this is all about chilling!
For spectacular views, go up on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, see fascinating animals at The Living Desert Zoo, or do some shopping downtown before having dinner there, too – they even have street fairs every Thursday night, which are pretty lively. Also, if you are feeling athletic, many golf courses nearby offer reasonable rates per round, so why not?
- Distance: Approximately 135 miles
- Special Features: Desert resorts, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, art scene, mid-century modern architecture.
- Address: Palm Springs, CA
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#6 Sequoia National Park
Redwood trees are ancient beings, some as old as 3,500 years, and are among the world’s oldest living organisms. These giant redwood trees are found in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, a little over six hours drive from San Diego. They can grow up to 30 feet wide and 300 feet tall in this area—it’s truly unique.
There are four places to stay that offer both camping and places to sleep. John Muir Lodge is located at Grant Grove Village and is open seasonally from March to October. Named after the famous naturalist John Muir, this contemporary cabin provides an ideal opportunity for visitors to explore the majestic sequoias.
- Distance: Approximately 325 miles
- Special Features: giant sequoia species, including the General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock, Crystal Cave, Tunnel Log, scenic High Sierra Trails, and abundant wildlife.
- Address: 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271
- Google Maps: Get Direction
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#7 Carlsbad
Have you ever visited Carlsbad? This incredible place up north of San Diego has some killer beaches, LEGOLAND California Resort for the whole family, and these insane flower fields during spring. The village is super cute with its fancy shops and stellar dining spots. And if you’re into nature, some rad hiking trails and golf courses await you.
Carlsbad is great because it’s close to San Diego. You can easily escape to the coast for a weekend getaway and take a break from city life. If you want more ideas, you can go wine tasting in Temecula, pick apples in Julian, or relax in the desert in Palm Springs. Carlsbad has everything you need, whether you prefer ocean waves or walks along cliffs. When are you planning to go on this weekend trip?
- Special Features: Legoland California, Carlsbad Flower Fields (seasonal), pristine beaches, and charming downtown.
- Location: North of San Diego
- Distance: 35 miles (about 40 minutes)
#8 Coronado Island
Coronado Island is perfect for a day trip away from San Diego. You can watch boats come and go while relaxing under a tree or fish from the grassy park along the shore.
Or stroll down pathways shaded by palm trees and do some outdoor activity. It provides a great view of the bay and has a variety of places to eat seafood that is either fresh or prepared Californian style.
- Special Features: Iconic Hotel del Coronado, pristine beaches, charming downtown, and biking trails.
- Location: Across the bay from downtown San Diego
- Distance: 7 miles (about 15 minutes)
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#9 Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city that one can use as an alternative weekend after leaving San Diego. The area enjoys a perfect climate and scenic beaches, thus attracting outdoor lovers with numerous options of places to visit and enjoy their stay—graceful Spanish-style architecture or wandering about the sandy coastline.
You can also do wine tastings at nearby vineyards and visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission for an adventure. Also, it’s full of sweet little shops and beautiful eateries all over the town. It makes Santa Barbara a great place for fun and excitement alone or in the company of San Diego.
- Special Features: Mediterranean climate, wineries, historic missions, and beautiful beaches.
- Location: North of San Diego.
- Distance: 218 miles (about 4 hours)
#10 San Francisco
San Francisco is an excellent spot to visit, even though it’s far from San Diego. You can visit the famous Golden Gate Bridge, ride vintage streetcars, and admire colourful houses. Bunches of neighbourhoods like Mission Locale and Chinatown are amusing to investigate.
Try not to miss attempting yummy mollusk chowder in sourdough bread bowls at Fisherman’s Wharf. You can see charming seals at Wharf 39 as well.
- Special Features- San Francisco boasts iconic landmarks, diverse neighbourhoods, world-class dining, a vibrant cultural scene, and stunning bay views.
- Location- North of San Diego
- Distance- 500 Miles away
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#11 Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is like a massive, stunning lake spanning California and Nevada, making it an ideal weekend getaway for San Diego residents. There’s plenty to do there! During summer, people enjoy strolls or bike rides along scenic nature trails amidst the warm weather.
Swimming in the lake and boating are also popular activities. As the climate cools down during the winter, someone might fancy a chance at casino games or find thrills in skiing. But for a distinct adventure, why not visit Heavenly, a spot where snowboarding is a true delight? Moreover, touring this region after a snow shower must be exceptionally scenic!
- Special Features: Skiing and snowboarding in winter, lake activities in summer, hiking, and casinos.
- Location: Northeast of San Francisco
- Distance: 200 miles (about 3.5 hours)
- Google Maps: Get Direction
#12 Borrego Springs
Borrego Springs is a charming desert town conveniently close to San Diego. It’s artsy, with those vast metal sculptures of dinosaurs and stuff in Galleta Meadows.
And to make it even better, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is nearby. It’s one of California’s most significant state parks! If you enjoy nature and being outdoors, this place is perfect. There are many hikes in the Hoh Valley, the stars are crazy at night, and the countryside is full of the most beautiful wildflowers you can imagine. You might need your local privileges checked if you’re from San Diego and have yet to visit here!
- Special Features: Dark sky stargazing, desert oasis, and large metal sculptures in one of California’s largest state parks
- Location: Northeast of San Diego
- Distance: Roughly 78 Miles
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What is the best time to visit San Diego?
The Ideal time to visit San Diego is spring or fall when the weather is perfect, and the crowds are smaller than in the busy summer months. During these periods, you can enjoy beach outings, hiking, or exploring the city without encountering excessive heat or rain.
Nonetheless, the weather in San Diego always remains fine, and it could be a great place to visit frequently. Even during summer, when it is busiest at its coast, it is also a hot spot for beaches, while winter tends to be wetter, although not much colder.
In conclusion, the best time to visit is the one that suits you best and gives you all the experiences you want to enjoy there.
Conclusion
Weekend trips from San Diego could lead to many adventures only a short distance away. From the sun-drenched beaches of neighbouring coastal towns to serene mountains or lovely desert scenery, every traveller will find their destination.
Thus, whether you want to rest, do extreme sports and adventures, or need to go beyond your boundaries, different weekend trips from San Diego offer the perfect retreat for you. Pack your bags and head out on the road to enjoy nearby delights you have never heard of before. One of these will be your next unforgettable weekend trip from San Diego.
FAQ
What are some of the most common places people visit during the weekend from San Diego?
The best weekend trips from San Diego include neighbouring beach towns such as La Jolla and Coronado, while the mountain retreats of Julian and Idyllwild are just a few hours away.
What fun things can one do during the weekends in San Diego that offer weekend getaways?
Hiking, beachcombing, surfing or paddle boarding, kayaking, and mountain biking are some fun activities that can be done on weekend getaways. San Diego offers various options depending on your interests and preferences.
What are the things to do for couples’ weekend trips from San Diego?
Some of the best trips for couples in San Diego are a weekend to Temecula Valley for wine tasting, a coastal getaway or a Zimmervermietung in Laguna Beach, a log cabin in the woods in Idyllwild, or a Lake Las Vegas retreat.
Where are the best locations to take the family for a weekend trip near San Diego?
There are numerous entertaining places for families in San Diego, such as Legoland in Carlsbad, Catalina Island, and Big Bear Lake, for outdoor activities.
