Oh, L.A.’s sunny weather. Cocktails by the beachside can’t seem to come soon enough. But you'll need a car to get to your final destination:
1. Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach may have had its claim to fame thanks to the MTV show, but the seaside resort city is also known for its seven-mile stretch of sand, its various art galleries and its lively downtown area. Outdoorsy types can also venture to the nearby canyons for access to hiking trails.
2. Vasquez Rocks Park
Located in the Sierra Pelona Mountains, Vasquez Rocks Park stretches 932-acres and holds tons of jagged rocks for those brave enough to scale the climb. 10700 West Escondido, Canyon Rd., Agua Dulce.
3. Altadena
Although Altadena is located only 14 miles away from downtown L.A., it’s surprisingly secluded thanks to its location at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. Make sure to explore the area by embarking on a 4.5 round-trip hike, during which you will come across Switzer Falls and various swimming holes.
Photo via trekandshoot / Shutterstock.com
4. Big Bear Lake
Surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest and located 100 miles from Los Angeles, the Big Bear Lake mountain resort offers visitors the perfect backdrop for recreational activities, such as fishing, hiking and mountain biking. 630 Bartlett Rd., Big Bear Lake.
5. Santa Catalina Island
The sunny paradise of Santa Catalina, located southwest of Los Angeles, offers a ton of air, land and water activities, such as ziplining, parasailing and snorkeling. Plus, it’s also known for its wildlife, particularly of the marine variation.
