3 Scenic Day Trips from LA You’ll Fall in Love With

S. Martin
May 24
3 min read

Updated: Aug 9

(Hidden Gems That Locals Rarely Talk About)

A smiling couple holds hands while walking on a sunny coastal path. The woman wears workout gear; the man has headphones around his neck. — *Golden hour views + good company 💛 One of our favorite hidden coastal walks just outside LA, perfect for a peaceful day trip or a romantic reset.*

If you're living in or near Los Angeles, you know how much we all crave an escape. But the truth is, most day trip lists recycle the same tired suggestions, Palm Springs, Santa Barbara, maybe Malibu. Today, We're sharing 3 scenic day trips from LA that most locals don’t even realize exist… but once you do, you’ll wonder how they stayed secret for so long.

Whether you're heading out solo, with your best friend, or planning a romantic reset with your partner, these day trips deliver views, calm, and inspiration, without the chaos.

Elfin Forest – Escondido, CA Twisted trees arch over a wooden path leading to benches in a lush, leafy forest setting. Sunlight filters through, creating a serene vibe. — *Source Michael Sheltzer*

🌿 1. Elfin Forest – Escondido, CA

Distance from LA: ~2 hours

Perfect for: Peaceful nature walks & grounding energy

Located just inland from San Diego, Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve is one of SoCal’s best-kept natural secrets. This oak-draped wonderland offers scenic trails, creek crossings, and wide-open views, without the packed crowds.

Why It’s a Gem: You’ll feel transported to a fairy tale forest where the only sounds are wind through the trees and the crunch of gravel under your shoes. It's perfect for a mindful solo stroll or a calm, no-pressure girls’ day.

📸 Photo Tip: Capture golden hour light through the trees or wide shots from the Way Up Trail lookout for the ultimate nature-core vibe.

Mt. Baldy to Glendora Ridge Road Scenic Drive -Aerial view of a winding road through lush green hills, under soft sunlight, creating a serene, scenic landscape. — *Source Instagram @farminghills*

🏔 2. Mt. Baldy to Glendora Ridge Road Scenic Drive

Distance from LA: ~1 hour

Perfect for: Scenic drives, adventure, dramatic mountain views

Forget the 405, this is the kind of road that reminds you why driving can still feel like freedom. Start on Mt. Baldy Road and continue onto Glendora Ridge Road- a narrow, winding pass with unreal views over the Angeles National Forest.

Why It’s a Gem: The altitude, the open sky, the valleys below... this drive has “reset your mind” energy. Park at a pull-off, soak it in, and breathe deeply.

📸 Photo Tip: Snap your car perched along the ridge with sweeping canyon views. Trust me, this one’s share-worthy.

Coastal scene with a white lighthouse atop a cliff lined with palm trees. Blue sky, ocean waves, and rocky beach create a serene vibe. Rancho Palos Verdes

💕 3. Point Vicente & Terranea Bluff Trail – Rancho Palos Verdes

Distance from LA: ~45 minutes

Perfect for: Ocean views, romantic strolls, tide pool exploring

Just south of Redondo Beach is Rancho Palos Verdes, home to one of the most scenic coastal walks in SoCal. The Terranea Bluff Trail runs along rugged cliffs, through native plants, and past the historic Point Vicente Lighthouse.

Why It’s a Gem: No crowds, no traffic, just you and the ocean. It’s peaceful, romantic, and downright healing.

📸 Photo Tip: Take a sunset shot with the lighthouse in silhouette or a panoramic of the ocean waves crashing below the cliffs.

🌊 Looking for new places to explore in LA?

I put together a free guide called “11 Hidden Gems in LA Most Locals Don’t Know Exist”—it’s packed with under-the-radar spots for your next weekend adventure.

👉 Click here to grab it

And if you’re ready to level up your getaways, my premium digital guide, “Breathtaking California Parks You Can’t Miss,” features 84 pages of coastal trails, scenic drives, and hidden beach hikes all over the state.👉 Check it out here and start planning your dream road trip.