Day Trips
With the stressful hustle and bustle of everyday life, everyone needs a quick getaway to relax and unwind.
That's why we have put together a list of our favorite places to go for a fun day-trip getaway. These destinations are conveniently located close to our own backyard!
Pack up the kids or grab your pals and enjoy a quick escape for the day.
Golden Shores, Gentle Strolls: A Coastal Escape to...
Just a short drive from the Antelope Valley, Carpinteria invites you to slow down and soak up the best of the California coast. Wide sandy beaches stretch beneath ocean bluffs, calm surf rolls in gently, and the town’s small-scale charm makes every stop feel personal. Known as “The World’s Safest Beach,” this seaside gem blends coastal nature with local flavor – from tidepool explorations and bluff-top trails to handmade chocolates and sunset views that light up the Pacific. Carpinteria is all about simple joys: morning coffee before a seaside stroll, afternoons by the water, and golden light that lingers long after the day winds down.
Read More
Golden Light, Quiet Trails: A Soulful Escape to...
Nestled between citrus groves and rugged ridgelines, Ojai is one of California’s rare places where time feels like it slows down. Golden light filters through ancient oaks, streets hum with art and music, and every evening the Topatopa Bluffs glow with the famous “Pink Moment.” 🌅 It’s more than just a weekend getaway - Ojai is equal parts adventure and exhale. You can hike into wild canyons, lose yourself in an open-air bookstore, or sip something smooth while the valley settles into its rhythm. In this week’s Valley Escape, Thomas maps out the perfect Ojai day, from sunrise trails to sunset skies, with local tips to help you catch the magic between. Pack light, move slow - Ojai is waiting. 🍊✨ Read More
Blue Water, Big Skies: A Fresh-Air Escape to...
Just north of Santa Clarita lies Castaic Lake — a hidden SoCal gem where golden hills meet cool, glassy waters. It’s more than a spot to beat the heat; it’s an all-day escape blending adventure and calm. Paddle, hike, relax under oaks—whatever your pace, Castaic delivers sun, space, and scenery. In this week’s Valley Escape, Thomas shares a perfect itinerary, from sunrise burritos to sunset shores, with tips to beat the heat and find the best views. Pack up — Castaic is calling. Read More
Wind-Turbine Views & Wild History: A High...
There’s a rhythm to Tehachapi — a steady hum in the wind, a low rumble from the tracks, the quiet of open sky. Perched where the Mojave Desert rises to meet the Sierra foothills, this high-elevation town doesn’t shout to be noticed. It just exists, rooted and real. Tehachapi isn’t curated — it’s lived-in. Historic buildings wear their years well. Coffee shops know your name by the second visit. Trails lead to quiet ridgelines where you’ll hear your own heartbeat between the breeze. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t need to impress you — it just stays with you. Read More
Historic Stroll & Tasting Trails: A Day in...
Nestled between Southern California’s coastal cities and inland valleys, Old Town Temecula offers a step back in time with a distinctly modern twist. Once a dusty 19th-century stagecoach stop, this now-vibrant district blends preserved western architecture with boutique shopping, craft dining, and tasting rooms — all just 90 minutes from Los Angeles or San Diego.
Whether it's for a morning coffee run, an afternoon of shopping and local sips, or a full-day cultural escape, Old Town Temecula delivers the perfect blend of character, charm, and California sunshine. Read More
Coastal Harbor Escape: Ventura Islands Gateway...
Where the desert ends, the ocean begins — and nestled along California’s Central Coast lies Ventura, a coastal town where sea breezes, historic charm, and island-bound adventures converge. Just 90 minutes from Lancaster, Ventura offers a refreshing shift from inland heat to maritime calm, making it an ideal day trip for those chasing ocean air and a slower, saltier pace. Read More
Mountain Giants Escape: Sequoia National Forest...
High above California’s Central Valley, where the desert haze gives way to crisp alpine air, the Sequoia National Forest rises like a forgotten world. Here, ancient giants tower over fern-lined trails, granite domes pierce the sky, and sunlight filters through canopies older than recorded history. Just a few hours from Lancaster, this accessible mountain haven offers a striking contrast to the arid landscapes below - a perfect day trip for those seeking nature at its most majestic. Read More
European Escape: Solvang Danish Village Adventure
Escape the High Desert for a taste of Denmark - right here in California. Just three hours from Lancaster, Solvang offers old-world charm, fresh pastries, and wine country magic. Let Thomas guide you through a day trip that feels like a fairy tale. Read More
Mountain Escape: Angeles Crest Highway Scenic...
Looking for a cool mountain escape close to home? Just over an hour from the valley, the Angeles Crest Highway offers a refreshing retreat into the San Gabriel Mountains. With crisp alpine air, towering pine forests, and sweeping canyon views around every curve, this scenic drive through Angeles National Forest is perfect for hikers, photographers, or anyone craving a peaceful reset in nature. Read More
Coastal Paradise: Santa Barbara Harbor & Wharf...
Sail away from the heat and into a day of coastal charm at Santa Barbara Harbor. Wander historic wharfs, feast on ocean-fresh seafood, and soak up sea breeze vibes as you explore California’s “American Riviera” just a short drive from the AV. Read More
Mountain Observatory Adventure: Angeles National...
Escape to Mount Wilson Observatory, where crisp mountain air, epic views, and cosmic history await just an hour from Lancaster. Drive up or hike in - either way, the stars are calling. 🌄🔭 Read More
Desert Valley to Mountain Waters: Kern River Day...
Trade desert heat for whitewater thrills on the Kern River – just an hour from Lancaster! 🚗💦 Tackle epic rapids, soak in Sierra views, and unwind in the charm of historic Kernville. 🏞️🍺 Read More
Desert Floor to Mountain Serenity: Devils...
Ready for an escape that feels worlds away but is still close to home? Just 30 minutes from Palmdale, Devil’s Punchbowl serves up wild rock formations, scenic trails, and desert drama. 🥾🌄 Read More
Trading Desert Views for Hollywood Glamour:...
Conquer the iconic Hollywood Sign hike via Bronson Canyon - 6 miles of pure LA magic with sweeping valley views and those legendary 50-foot letters up close! 📸✨ Read More
From Valley Heat to Ocean Retreat: Leo Carrillo...
🌊 Ready to escape the AV heat? Leo Carrillo Beach is calling! Just 2 hours from the valley, this Malibu gem offers incredible tide pooling, explorable sea caves, and pristine sandy beaches. Plus nearby hiking trails and oceanview dining to make it a perfect day trip. Read More
Top 5 Local Hiking Trails
Springtime is fast approaching from the increased hours of daylight, to the blossoming of nature’s wildflowers. Time outside may be the very prescription we all need after experiencing months of indoor weather.
Boost your Vitamin D count naturally by checking each of these locations off your list of explorations! Read More
Top 5 Local Lakes
When was the last time you relaxed on a lakeshore? Sat around a campfire and built s'mores? If your answer isn't "Today" then it has been too long!
Trips to the lake are often full of fun and relaxing memories. Whether you are looking to soak in the sunshine or play in the water, our Top 5 Local Lakes are sure to meet your need for some fun away from home. Read More
Top 5 Local Beaches
It’s summertime in California and we all know what that means: Beach Days! It’s time to lather on the sunscreen, throw on a swimsuit, pack up a cooler and head to your favorite sandy beach.
Don’t have a favorite? Not sure which one to choose? Or maybe you’re looking for a beach you haven’t visited, yet?
Take a look at our Top 5 favorite beaches to post an umbrella and put our toes in the sand. Read More
