Southern California Road Trip Destinations

Southern California is one of the US’s premier travel destinations, offering a diverse array of landscapes, attractions, and experiences that are idea for an absolutely epic road trip. From stunning drives down the coast to picturesque mountain roads, Southern California has everything you’re looking for.

What follows is a guide to the region’s top destinations as well as a few places in between that we feel are required stops.

Pacific Coast Highway

Known as one of the most iconic road trip routes in the world, the Pacific Coast Highway stretches for the entire way along the California coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and picturesque cliffs on the other. You can begin driving on this route in Orange County and snake your way along to coat to Mendocino. Along the way, the Pacific Coast Highway is dotted with fun beach towns, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, and whale watching. Some recommended places to stop off at include Malibu, Santa Barbara, and Big Sur. We particularly enjoyed our time hanging out on the beach in Malibu. 

Joshua Tree National Park

For those seeking a bonafide desert adventure, Joshua Tree National Park is the place to go. Located in southeastern California, this unique park is famous for its towering Joshua trees and fascinating assortment of rock formations. When you get there you can explore the park’s diverse array of hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and campsites — or simply just wander around and take in the stunning desert scenery. Be sure to catch a sunset or stargaze under the clear desert skies for an unforgettable experience.

San Diego

San Diego is one of our favorite places to visit in the USA. With its ideal weather, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, dynamic art scene, and world-class restaurants, it is the quintessential Southern California urban destination. There’s an abundance of things to see and do in this coastal city — be sure to visit the historic Gaslamp Quarter as well as the lively beach communities of La Jolla and Pacific Beach. Beyond the beach and nightlife, visitors can enjoy attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and SeaWorld, or simply have a picnic in the grassy park in front of the port. 

Palm Springs

Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, Palm Springs is a desert oasis best known for its mid-century modern architecture, luxury resorts, and natural hot springs. Visitors can explore the city’s vibrant art scene, go shopping in upscale stores,  and dine on delicious food — or simply take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the numerous hiking trails and golf courses in the area.

Driving Safety Tips

While taking a road trip through Southern California can be the ideal adventure, it’s essential to prioritize safety at all times. Here are some important driving safety tips to keep in mind:

• Plan your route ahead of time and familiarize yourself with the road conditions and be alert for any hazards along the way.
• Make sure your vehicle is in good condition by performing a thorough safety inspection before setting out on your trip. Check the tires, brakes, fluid levels, and lights to ensure everything is in working order.
• Always wear your seatbelt and ensure that all of your passengers do the same.
• Observe the speed limits and drive at a safe safely, especially on winding mountain roads or congested highways.
• Avoid distractions while driving, such as using your phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or simply just gazing out at that beautiful coastline. 
• Take regular breaks to rest and stretch your legs, especially during long jaunts. Fatigue can impair your reaction time and decision-making abilities.
• Be mindful of other drivers and respect their right of way. Practice defensive driving techniques to anticipate and avoid potential car accidents.
• In case of an emergency, have a roadside assistance plan in place and carry essential supplies, such as water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a flashlight with you.

By following these driving safety tips and exploring the top road trip destinations in Southern California, you will be sure to have a memorable journey through this beautiful region.