Escape the City: Southern California Weekend Drives That Soothe the Soul
Life in Los Angeles can be electric—but it can also wear you down. When the workweek ends, the instinct to escape kicks in. From tech entrepreneurs in Culver City to teachers in Glendale, many Angelenos feel the pull of open highways and ocean air. It’s not just about where they go—it’s about how the journey sets the tone.
In recent years, more travelers have discovered that how they get there matters as much as where they arrive. Enter a new era of road trips—ones filled with comfort, ease, and just the right touch of luxury.
1. Dana Point: For Coastal Calm and Ocean Breezes
With a yacht-filled harbor, peaceful beaches, and cliffside resorts, Dana Point offers low-key luxury just 60–90 minutes south of LA. It’s where some head for the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, while others cruise out to spot dolphins or simply walk the headlands at sunset (Food & Wine).
The journey south offers scenic coastline drives and ocean views that immediately begin to unwind the stress of the city. Learn more about transportation options from Los Angeles to Dana Point.
2. Huntington Beach: For Sun, Surf, and a Little Nightlife
Locals call it “Surf City USA” for a reason. Huntington Beach brings beach volleyball, bonfires, and the buzz of surf culture together in one accessible weekend. The pier lights up at night, and the dining scene is a blend of relaxed and refined.
With beach gear packed in the trunk and playlists set, a quick drive from LA lands travelers in a world where flip-flops rule and time slows down. Explore how to travel in style from Los Angeles to Huntington Beach.
3. Aliso Viejo: For Peaceful Suburban Retreats
Just inland from Laguna Beach lies Aliso Viejo, a lesser-known haven of calm. Couples and solo travelers head there to unwind at spas, hike quiet trails, or just breathe in suburban peace. It’s not flashy, but that’s the point.
Tucked in the hills, it offers a comforting pause from city noise, and the journey is smooth and scenic the whole way. See more about getting from Los Angeles to Aliso Viejo.
4. Irvine: For Upscale Shopping and Nature Escapes
Corporate campuses and nature preserves might sound like an odd pair, but Irvine makes it work. Locals and visitors alike stroll the Spectrum, dine al fresco, or bike shaded trails. It’s ideal for a short weekend break that blends activity with tranquility.
Many visitors pair their weekend escape with airport connections, turning LAX stopovers into full-fledged mini-vacations. Learn about luxury travel options from Los Angeles to Irvine, or connect with LAX to Irvine and Irvine to LAX services for seamless transit.
The Journey Matters More Than Ever
There’s a growing trend: travelers are seeking routes that bring calm before arrival. According to The New York Times, road trips are becoming more experiential, with people prioritizing comfort and personal space over speed or convenience.
It’s not just about getting out of LA—it’s about letting the journey itself reset the week.
Whether coastal, suburban, or somewhere in between, these Southern California destinations offer a chance to breathe differently. And when the drive is stress-free, the getaway begins long before check-in.
Share the Escape
Everyone needs a break. Tag a friend who deserves one, send this to your weekend group chat, or bookmark it for your next long weekend. After all, good weekends start with a good story—and sometimes, that story begins on the road.