Weekend Trips from San Diego

San Diego’s prime location makes it the perfect starting point for exploring Southern California and beyond. From breathtaking desert landscapes to charming coastal towns, there’s no shortage of options for a memorable escape. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, these weekend trips from San Diego offer something for everyone.

Located about three hours from San Diego, Joshua Tree National Park is an otherworldly escape famous for its rugged desert landscapes and iconic Joshua trees. The park spans two distinct ecosystems—the Mojave and Colorado deserts—each with unique flora, fauna, and geological features.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Joshua Tree, perfect for a unique and comfortable desert getaway:

• Pioneertown Motel – A charming and historic motel located in the heart of Pioneertown, this iconic spot offers rustic yet modern accommodations with a touch of Old West charm.
  
  
• Joshua Tree Inn — Built in 1950, is a Hacienda Style inn conveniently located just six miles from the grandeur of Joshua Tree National Park.
  
  
• Airbnb Yurts / Glamping — These cozy, tented accommodations come with modern amenities, often including stunning desert views, private decks, and easy access to Joshua Tree National Park.

Visitors can hike scenic trails like Hidden Valley or Barker Dam, explore fascinating rock formations such as Skull Rock, and take in sweeping views of the Coachella Valley from Keys View. For stargazers, Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places to enjoy the night sky. Whether you prefer camping under the stars or staying in a stylish desert rental in nearby towns like Twentynine Palms or Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree ensures a memorable visit.

Just over two hours from San Diego, Palm Springs is synonymous with luxury and leisure. Known for its iconic mid-century modern architecture, this desert oasis is a favorite among travelers looking to unwind in style. Spend the weekend lounging by the pool at a luxury resort, indulging in spa treatments, or exploring upscale shopping and dining along Palm Canyon Drive.

Here are some of the best luxury boutiques on South Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs, perfect for those looking for high-end shopping:

• Trina Turk – Known for its vibrant colors and contemporary designs, Trina Turk offers stylish women’s clothing, accessories, and swimwear.
  
  
• CoCo & LuLu Boutique is a sophisticated and charming shop with an inventory of high-end apparel, shoes, handbags, and jewelry.
  
  
• The Frippery – A high-end boutique offering an eclectic mix of fashion, jewelry, and accessories, The Frippery specializes in designer pieces and artisan creations, making it a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking views as it ascends to the cooler heights of Mount San Jacinto, where hiking trails wind through pine forests and alpine meadows. Nearby attractions like the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens or the vintage shops of Cathedral City add even more variety to a Palm Springs getaway.

A short drive to Long Beach, about two hours from San Diego, followed by a one-hour ferry ride, brings you to Catalina Island. This stunning island destination is perfect for a weekend escape. Its main town, Avalon, is filled with local shops, waterfront restaurants, and iconic spots like the Catalina Casino, a historic theater and ballroom.

A few of the best restaurants to try are:

• Avalon Grille – Located in the heart of Avalon, Avalon Grille offers upscale American cuisine with oceanfront views, serving fresh seafood, steaks, and cocktails in a relaxed yet elegant setting.
  
  
• Bluewater Grill – Known for its fresh, sustainable seafood and waterfront location, Bluewater Grill serves a variety of fish, shellfish, and signature cocktails, making it a popular spot for seafood lovers.
  
  
• The Lobster Trap – A Catalina favorite, The Lobster Trap specializes in fresh seafood and offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with dishes like lobster, shrimp, and calamari, along with tasty sides.

Outdoor activities abound on Catalina, from snorkeling and paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters to zip-lining and hiking through rugged trails with ocean views. For a more tranquil experience, visit Two Harbors, the quieter side of the island, where you can enjoy kayaking or simply relax by the shore. Catalina’s mix of adventure and relaxation makes it a versatile getaway option.

Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts and is just over three hours from San Diego. During the winter, it’s a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain resorts.

In the summer, visitors can get into the following activities:

• Hiking at Bear Mountain or Snow Summit – Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake while exploring the numerous hiking trails available at these popular ski resorts.
  
  
• Big Bear Lake Boat Tours – Take a scenic boat cruise on Big Bear Lake, where you can relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the water, forests, and mountains.
  
  
• Visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo – This unique zoo offers an opportunity to see local wildlife up close, including bears, wolves, and mountain lions, while supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
  
  
• Explore Big Bear Village – Stroll through the charming village for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You'll find quaint boutiques, local restaurants, and cozy cafes perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

The village at Big Bear Lake offers cozy accommodations, local shops, and restaurants with mountain views. Hiking trails like the Castle Rock Trail provide stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding forest, while events such as Oktoberfest and holiday festivals make Big Bear an inviting destination any time of year.

Just an hour north of San Diego, Temecula Valley is a haven for wine enthusiasts and food lovers. This picturesque region is home to more than 40 wineries, offering everything from intimate boutique tasting rooms to expansive estates with sweeping vineyard views.

• Wilson Creek Winery – Known for its award-winning Almond Champagne and beautiful estate, this winery offers both wine tastings and a relaxing ambiance with a picturesque setting.
  
  
• Ponte Winery – A family-owned winery with a focus on sustainable practices, Ponte Winery features a wide range of wines, an elegant tasting room, and a bistro for dining.
  
  
• Callaway Vineyard & Winery – With breathtaking views of Temecula Valley, Callaway Winery is famous for its premium reds and sparkling wines, making it an excellent stop for wine lovers.
  
  
• Robert Renzoni Vineyards – Offering Italian-inspired wines and a rustic atmosphere, Robert Renzoni Vineyards is perfect for those who enjoy creative and bold wines paired with scenic surroundings.

Beyond wine tasting, Temecula’s Old Town offers charming streets lined with antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and live music venues. For an unforgettable experience, book a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the vineyards to take in the breathtaking scenery.

A 1.5-hour drive up the coast from San Diego brings you to Laguna Beach, a seaside escape known for its arts scene and stunning natural beauty. Home to the Sawdust Art Festival and numerous galleries, Laguna Beach is a must-visit for art lovers.

Here are some of the best beaches and natural attractions in Laguna Beach, perfect for exploring the area’s stunning coastal beauty:

• Crescent Bay Beach – A picturesque, crescent-shaped beach with fascinating tide pools, perfect for marine life enthusiasts and families.
  
  
• Laguna Coast Wilderness Park – This expansive park offers miles of scenic hiking trails through protected coastal canyons and wilderness areas.
  
  
• Thousand Steps Beach – Known for its steep staircase of 200+ steps, this hidden gem is worth the climb.
  
  
• Aliso Beach Park – A family-friendly beach with gentle waves and a spacious grassy area for picnics and activities. It’s a great place for kayaking, surfing, or just relaxing.

With a mix of fine dining, boutique shopping, and casual beachfront eateries, Laguna Beach is perfect for a relaxing yet enriching weekend getaway.

For a change of pace, head two hours south to Ensenada, a coastal city in Baja California, Mexico. Known for its laid-back vibe and fresh seafood, Ensenada offers a mix of cultural charm and natural beauty.

Here are a few activities for the intrepid visitor:

• Visit La Bufadora – One of the most famous natural attractions in Ensenada, La Bufadora is a large marine geyser that shoots water high into the air, creating a spectacular sight.
  
  
• Explore Avenida López Mateos – This lively street is the heart of Ensenada, lined with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  
  
• Tour Valle de Guadalupe (Wine Country) – Just outside Ensenada, Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico’s premier wine region. A visit to the area offers wine tastings and tours of vineyards.
  
  
• Relax at Playa Hermosa – A beautiful beach with golden sand and calm waters, Playa Hermosa is a great place to relax and enjoy the sun.

Stroll through the bustling fish market to sample local delicacies or enjoy waterfront dining with ocean views. Ensenada is an excellent option for those looking to experience an international escape just a short drive from San Diego.

Living in San Diego means having access to a wealth of unforgettable travel opportunities, all while enjoying one of California’s most desirable cities. If you’re ready to call San Diego home, The Comiskey Group is here to help you find the perfect property to match your lifestyle.

Reach out to The Comiskey Group today for expert real estate advice and personalized service. Let their team help you find a home that puts you at the center of adventure, relaxation, and everything San Diego has to offer.