Condé Nast TravelerAug 14, 2026
The Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Whether You’re Craving Snow, Sun, or Sea
When you've had enough of driving in the city, drive out of it.
25 things in this story
- Channel Islands National ParkNature reserveremote national park, one of California’s least-visited
- Beach cottage for sixHotelbest for Channel Islands views
- Elsewhere
- Trans-Catalina TrailTrailAvalon, United Stateshike the famed trail
- The SphereTheatreLas Vegas, United Statesimmersive experience you won’t soon forget
- Fountains of BellagioSightLas Vegas, United Statescatch them at night
- Four Seasons Las VegasHotelLas Vegas, United Statesbest for a five-star stay
- The Venetian ResortTheatreLas Vegas, United Statesbest for a themed property
- courthouseSightSanta Barbara, United Statesclimb to the top for panoramic city views
- Funk ZoneNeighborhoodSanta Barbara, United Stateswalk around with wineries, breweries, restaurants, galleries
- Honor BarPubSanta Barbara, United Statesget a drink in Montecito
- Lucky’sRestaurantSanta Barbara, United Statesget a steak in Montecito
- Butterfly BeachSightSanta Barbara, United Stateswatch the sun sink into the sea
- Hendry's BeachSightSanta Barbara, United Statestake your furry friend to watch the sunset
- The Hotel CalifornianHotelSanta Barbara, United Statesbest for walkability
- El EncantoHotelSanta Barbara, United Statesbest for scenic views
- The Whale HouseHotelSanta Barbara, United Statesfor design enthusiasts
- Renovated Airstream in CarpinteriaHotelCarpinteria, United Statesbest for easy ferry access
- Rosewood Miramar BeachHotelMontecito, United Statesbest for exploring nearby
- Catalina IslandSightAvalon, United StatesMediterranean-esque escape feels worlds away
- Wrigley Memorial & Botanic GardenSightAvalon, United Statesexplore the island's nature
- Hotel AtwaterHotelAvalon, United Statesbest for a historic stay
- Villa with Santorini vibesHotelAvalon, United Statesbest for ocean views
- Inn on Mt. AdaHotelAvalon, United Statesbest for old-school charm
- Avila Valley BarnMarketSan Luis Obispo, United Statesstop by for local produce and farm animals
- Morro BayNeighborhoodSan Luis Obispo, United Statesvisit for dramatic coastline, thrifting, art shops
