Summer in Los Angeles means more than just sunny skies and poolside lounging—it’s the perfect time to explore the vibrant landscapes and unique towns that surround the city. These six day trips offer a true taste of California’s summer energy: from coastal adventures to mountain retreats, each destination brings fresh experiences you won’t want to repeat twice.
1. Ventura – Surf, Seafood & Seaside Charm
Just over an hour north of downtown LA, Ventura delivers a laid-back seaside escape with coastal boardwalks, dim‑sum‑inspired bites, and whale‑watching charters. Start your morning with pastries and nitro‑cold brew at local favorite Pittsburg Pie Company, then wander through Ventura Harbor Village to admire art galleries and coastal boutiques.
For families with kids aged 8 to 15, a whale‑watching cruise aboard Island Packers is a summer highlight—watch spouting gray whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. The town’s median age hovers in the late 30s, and many business owners—often married couples in their 30s and 40s—draw a net worth close to $700,000 thanks to year‑round tourism. Before heading back, snack on fresh fish tacos at Lure Fish House, a casual spot loved by both tourists and locals.
2. Solvang – Danish Delights & Rustic Wine Tasting
Tucked in the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is a slice of Denmark just 2 hours from LA. Windmill‑lined streets, historic bakeries, and half‑timbered buildings give it storybook charm. Start at Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery—their aebleskiver pancake balls draw families with kids aged 5–12 for afternoon treats.
In the afternoon, explore the valley’s boutique wineries. Many are owned by families in their 30s and 40s—couples like the Jensens, who inherited a vineyard in 2010, now oversee a $1.1‑million‑net‑worth operation focused on sustainable pinots and pinot noirs. Park at Alisal River Grill for a sunset wine tasting by the Santa Ynez River.
3. Idyllwild – Pines, Trails & Mountain Air
Drive two hours east to Idyllwild, nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, where cool temperatures and towering pine forests provide relief from summer heat. This mountain village—median age around 50—draws creative couples and older families. Many small‑business owners, like woodworkers and artisan cafe owners in their 40s, report household net worths of $400,000–$500,000, sustained by local art sales and weekend visitors.
Hike beginner‑friendly trails like the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail (2 miles round trip) or challenge yourself to Tahquitz Peak for panoramic views. After the hike, indulge in locally made gelato at Sweetie Pies Country Kitchen or sip a cup of pine‑scented tea at Campfire Coffee Roasters.
4. Ojai – Wellness, Wineries & Artistic Ease
Just a scenic 90‑minute drive north brings you to Ojai, a jewel of wellness and bohemian spirit. With a population under 8,000, the town’s median age sits in the high 40s, and many households—including artists and wellness practitioners—have net worths near $900,000, thanks to boutique hotel ownership and retreat income.
Begin your day at Ojai Valley Inn for meditation in the gardens, then stop at The Farmer and the Cook cafe for fresh‑pressed juices and farm‑to‑table bowls. In the afternoon, wander art galleries owned by couples in their 30s who transitioned from tech careers to creative entrepreneurship. Cap off the trip with wine tasting at Topa Mountain Winery, a family‑run estate that blends Rhône varietals and shares its profits with environmental restoration projects.
5. Laguna Beach – Tidepools, Galleries & Surf Culture
About 90 minutes south of LA, Laguna Beach is a cultural and coastal hotspot perfect for families, surfers, and art lovers. Median age is in the late 30s, and many gallery owners and surf instructors—especially partnered couples in their 20s and 30s—boast combined net worths between $500,000 and $800,000 thanks to thriving summer art markets and surf camps.
Start your morning exploring tidepools at Heisler Park, where kids 6-12 delight in spotting starfish and hermit crabs. Wander through Forest Gallery and Pageant of the Masters exhibition spaces before enjoying fish burritos at casual spot The Spot. Wrap up with an early evening surf lesson or paddle‑boarding session with Laguna Ocean Adventures before enjoying sunset cocktails overlooking the water.
6. Big Bear Lake – Lakeside Cool in the Mountains
A roughly two‑hour trek east leads to Big Bear Lake—a high‑altitude retreat offering boating, lakeside picnics, and mountain air. At 6,750 feet, midday temperatures hover in the 70s, attracting families with teens aged 14–18 and groups of friends seeking cooler weather.
Here, lodge owners like the Martinez family—father Rafael (age 48), mother Sofia (age 46), and their two teens—earn combined net worths over $1.2 million through summer rental homes and event space rentals. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or hike to scenic points like Pine Knot Trail. For dinner, stop by Teddy Bear Restaurant, a local institution serving hearty breakfasts and sandwich platters by the lake.
Tips for a Smooth Summer Day Trip
- Departure Time: Leave no later than 7 AM to avoid freeway gridlock on 405, 101, or 10.
- Essentials: Pack sunscreen, sturdy shoes, refillable water bottles, and a light jacket—coastal and mountain evenings can surprise you.
- Budget Outline: Aim for $150–$300 per family per trip (covering food, activities, and minor fees).
- Pet Policy: Many beaches and parks allow leashed dogs—Big Bear and Ventura Harbor are especially pet‑friendly.
Closing Thoughts
These six day trips capture the distinct flavors of a California summer—from refreshing mountain breezes to surf‑side bliss and artistic coastal towns. Whether you’re traveling with kids aged 5–18, couples seeking romance, or friends in search of adventure, each destination delivers charm and discovery—all within a short drive of Los Angeles. Leave the freeways behind, jump in the car early, and make every summer weekend a memory.
