Day Trips Near San Diego
Here is a list of destinations that are within a couple of hours’ drive, perfect for day trips near San Diego.
CATALINA ISLAND
Traveling to Catalina Island is an adventure all its own with a ferry ride from Dana Point or Long Beach, or for a fun adventure take a helicopter ride across beautiful southern California waters. From shopping to thrilling adventures on a zip line or paddle board, Catalina Island is brimming with at least 101 Things To Do. The charming town of Avalon has a diverse selection of dining options, including Descanso Beach Club for delicious bites and cocktails by the Catalina Casino. For a taste of California’s coastal cuisine, check out Avalon Grille, or enjoy a morning coffee or pastry at the Bistro at the Atwater. And now open is Pier 24, the newest waterfront restaurant in Avalon. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Flx Biergarten, the island’s first and only biergarten, for a unique and unforgettable experience on Catalina Island!
Two Harbors, situated on the west end of Catalina Island, is just 22 miles away from the mainland of Southern California. This charming village is located on a narrow stretch of land, which separates Isthmus Cove on the sheltered side of the island from Catalina Harbor on the exposed side. Visitors from the mainland usually arrive by taking a high-speed ferry from San Pedro, but some choose to sail on private boats and use one of the over 700 moorings available for rent in the various protected coves and harbors along the coastline. Those already on the island can take a day trip to Two Harbors from Avalon on the seasonal Discover Two Harbors Cyclone power boat.
ROSARITO MEXICO
Known as the ideal destination for sunny fun, this location is perfect for engaging in water sports such as surfing and scuba diving. It boasts some of the region’s most exceptional waves and the sole artificial reef in the State. Baja Studios, situated in this relaxed beach town, has been the filming location for blockbuster hits like “Titanic”, “Pearl Harbor”, “Planet of the Apes”, and the popular television series “Fear of the Walking Dead”. This laid-back town is also the birthplace of the world-renowned Puerto Nuevo-style lobster, which is typically deep-fried and served with generous portions of rice, refried beans, and homemade flour tortillas. The Puerto Nuevo-style lobster is a true delicacy of Baja California. In addition, traditional Mexican cuisine, including the classic carne asada tacos, is highly prevalent here. However, the food scene in this town is rapidly evolving, with a rise in signature cuisine and international fusion options.
DANA POINT HARBOR
Dana Point is a unique destination that stands out from its neighbors in Orange County. Their unpolluted beaches, trails stretching from the Harbor to the Headlands, surfing and maritime history, whale watching, and thriving businesses make this coastal paradise an exceptional place to visit. From outdoor activities to a diverse range of shops, services, and hotels, They are the top choice for a bucket list destination in Southern California. As the “Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World™,” tourists can easily access the 2,500-boat and yacht slip marina in Dana Point Harbor for daily tours. Located halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles, our location offers a wide range of activities including sunset wine cruises, luxury spas, surfing, and ocean-view golfing. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are options for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, “pirate ship” adventures, beach and aerial yoga classes, and deep-sea fishing. Their rich heritage dates back to the early 1800s when the Acjachemen people, also known as the Juaneño Indians, called this place home. Over time, Spanish explorers and American settlers have left their mark on this charming community, which was first established as Capistrano Beach in the 1920s.
Named after Richard Henry Dana Jr, who was captivated by its beauty and wrote about it in his book “Two Years Before the Mast,” Dana Point has always been a source of wonder and inspiration. As Richard Dana himself once said, it is “the only romantic spot on the coast,” and we couldn’t agree more! Located in the heart of Orange County, Dana Point is easily accessible from both San Diego and Los Angeles, with John Wayne Airport just a short distance away. It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the beauty of the Southern California coast!
Dana Point Harbor
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BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN
One of the best things about San Diego is that there’s tons to do and plenty of warmth and sunshine all year round. Some would say that the one thing that San Diego lacks is snow…but luckily for us, there are several ski resorts just about a two-hour drive away. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day trip or an exciting weekend getaway head to Big Bear Mountain, a small town 7,000 feet above sea level in the San Bernardino Mountains. The top winter activities of course are skiing and snowboarding. Home to Bear Mountain, Southern California’s highest lift-served peak sits at 8,805 feet. With the only half-pipes in Southern Cal and its famous trendsetting terrain parks, Bear Mountain offers a youthful and core environment. Snow Summit is Bear Mountains’ sister resort. The resorts are about two miles apart and are connected via a free inter-mountain express shuttle service. We may not have snow in San Diego, but thankfully, it’s only a short drive away.
Big Bear Mountain
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PIONEERTOWN
Just a 2 1/2 hour ride away, Northeast of Palm Springs is Pioneertown. In 1946, Pioneertown was founded by Dick Curtis with the vision of a “Living Breathing Movie Set”. Curtis, along with seventeen other investors including Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, The Sons Of The Pioneers, Russell Hayden, Frank McDonald, Tommy Carr, Terry Frost, and Bud Abbott, each contributed $500 to incorporate the company. The company then acquired 32,000 acres of land, which became known as Pioneertown.
Today, Mane Street in Pioneertown still maintains its old-west charm and appearance. It has been recognized by the State Department of Parks & Recreation as a Historical Resource. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the sights any day of the week, but the town truly comes to life on weekends. Mane Street is home to a variety of retail stores, including a General Mercantile/Local Art Studio, Pottery Shop, Goat Soap Shop, and Custom Leather & Saddle Shop. There are also several false fronts in town, such as the Bank, Bath House, Likker Barn, Jail, Jack Cass Saloon, and Mining Co. These make for great photo opportunities and are a fun distraction from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can even witness a staged gunfight on Mane Street on some summer weekends.
