Road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles
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Concerts & Shows
Shopping
Outdoor Activities
Museums
Nature & Parks
Water & Amusement Parks
Sights & Landmarks
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Concerts & Shows
Shopping
Outdoor Activities
Museums
Nature & Parks
Water & Amusement Parks
Sights & Landmarks
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ITINERARY
2h 59m129 miles23 stops
1
The Moonlight Serenade Orchestra
Put on your dancing shoes! The first Friday evening of every month, from 7:00 to 9:30, the Moonlight Serenade Orchestra takes you back to the big bands and ballrooms of the 1930s and 1940s. Hear favorites from Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and more. Tunes range from swing and foxtrot to latin rhythms, the occasional rock or disco, and even a polka. Dress up or come casual - you'll fit right in.
2
Westfield UTC
The premier shopping center in the area that offers 160 shops, three beauty salons, an ice skating rink and video entertainment center.
3
Ho Chi Minh Trail - Beach Access
4
Athenaeum Music and Arts Library
5
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Open in Spring from March 1st through Mothers Day. For over sixty years, Mother Nature has transformed the rolling hills of North San Diego County into one of the most spectacular and coordinated displays of natural color and beauty anywhere in the world. The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch® in Carlsbad, California, are in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year – from early March through early May – literally bringing the famous fields back to life. This annual burst of color, which has become part of the area’s local heritage, also is one of nature’s official ways of announcing the arrival of spring here in Southern California.
6
LEGOLAND California
LEGOLAND® California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the new LEGO® Star Wars™: The Force Awakens Miniland Model Display opening March with a 16-foot long Finalizer model made completely out of LEGO bricks plus six more scenes! Conquer dragons, battle pirates and discover ancient treasures at the Resort, also home to LEGOLAND Water Park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium; and NEW for Summer enjoy Surfers’ Cove – a water park expansion featuring racer-water slides. There’s so much to do, you’ll want to spend the night at LEGOLAND Hotel featuring new LEGO NINJAGO themed rooms.
7
U-Pick Carlsbad Strawberry Company
8
Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center
Trails are open everyday from 7:00 AM to Sunset. The Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area is managed by two different entities, the City of Dana Point and the Center for Natural Lands Management. It is atop the Dana Point Promontory and is comprised of 4 parks (in total approximately 60 acres) that contain native Coastal Sage and Coastal Bluff Scrub plant communities. Up to 16 rare plant and 2 Federally Listed species call this area home! Approximately 3 miles of different types of trails wind through coastal bluff tops, mesas, and beaches.
9
Veterans Memorial Park
10
The Shops At Mission Viejo
Among the 150 stores and restaurants at The Shops at Mission Viejo, this indoor mall features Nordstrom, Dick's Sporting Goods, Macy's, Apple, lululemon, Williams Sonoma, Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Sephora, P.F. Chang's China Bistro and The Cheesecake Factory. The Shops at Mission Viejo serves many nearby communities such as Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza, San Juan Capistrano and the city of Mission Viejo.
11
Victoria Beach
12
Wild Rivers Waterpark
Opens for the 2023 season on Saturday, May 6! Located in the heart of Irvine and the Great Park, Wild Rivers is the newest, most exciting water park in the country, right here in Irvine! We are dedicated to bring our guests the best, most fun and exciting waterpark experience California has ever seen. The newly designed waterpark will have over 20 acres, 20 rides, 3 restaurants and endless fun. You’ll come for a day and stay for the summer! We create lasting memories for you, your friends and your family. Season Passes, Daily Tickets, Group discounts, and birthday parties are all available at wildrivers.com!
13
Strawberry Farms Golf Club
14
Roger's Gardens
15
Anaheim Convention Center
16
Rancho Los Alamitos
Rancho Los Alamitos, the “Ranch of the Little Cottonwoods,” is a Long Beach City Landmark and is twice listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rancho has a continuous history of habitation that stretches back for more than 1500 years and reflects the many people who have called it home – from the first people, the Tongva, to the Spanish and Mexican colonists, right up to the Yankee farmers of the mid-twentieth century. The 7½-acre site includes four acres of nationally significant historic gardens, a ranch house (1790-1933), and a restored barnyard of the early 20th-century working ranch. There are farm animals including horses, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits in the barns area.
17
Pirates Dinner Adventure
Guests will enjoy an astonishing display of special effects, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay and dynamic duels while enjoying a delicious, four-course feast, fit for a Pirate King! The action is set aboard an 18th Century Spanish galleon adrift in a 250, 000- gallon lagoon. Our talented crew makes this show possible with brilliant actors, singers and stunt performers. Lads, lasses and scallywags of all ages don costumes to bring the adventure to life. Up to 150 volunteers participate in this epic production, truly making it the "World's Most Interactive Dinner Show!" You won't want to miss this adventure of a lifetime, so come ready to laugh, cheer, and sing along with the show!
18
Zippy Shuttle
Private van transport. TOURS of Los Angeles, Hollywood, Beach areas or anything of your choice. You can stay as long as you want at any of the locations. We pick up Curbside at LAX. Child safety seats are complimentary.
19
Gloria Molina Grand Park
20
Wiltern Theatre
The Wiltern Theatre first opened its doors to movie crowds on October 7th, 1931. Recognized by the City of Los Angeles as a Historic Cultural Monument, this Art Deco Landmark was renovated and restored to its original splendor in 1985, under the direction of Bill Graham Presents. Following a legendary history of performances and events, a $1.5 million facelift led to the Grand Re-Opening on October 15, 2002. Formerly an all-seated venue, the theatre had its 1,200-orchestra seats removed and now features a five-tiered floor that slants upward from the stage, thereby accommodating a standing-room-only configuration. The balcony still offers a thousand seats, and the flexible new arrangement allows for seats to be brought in for more intimate performances. The venue's new capacity is roughly 2,300, depending on how the floor is set up. In October 2003, The Wiltern and LG Electronics, a leading global consumer electronics company, celebrated the renaming of the theater. Currently known as The Wiltern LG, this venue sponsorship will offer concert-goers the opportunity to become acquainted with LG Electronics' line of well-designed, groundbreaking digital products. Formerly a great place to catch more sedate acts, the Wiltern's new design makes it one of “LA's coolest venues to check out performers of any type of music” says AOL’s City Guide. Join us for love, laughter and music!
21
LifeRush Adventures- Malibu
LifeRush Adventures was founded by experienced mountain biker Jason Racca. His mission is to provide an exhilarating electric mountain experience for beginners and experienced riders alike. Experience many of Southern California's breathtaking trails or catch a city tour to famous Hollywood landmarks on electric bikes. You will be equipped with electric mountain bikes and all the gear you need.
22
Golden Triangle
23
Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation
Advanced Reservation Required! Masks are strongly recommended indoors. Stay home if you or members of your party are sick or have COVID-19 symptoms as identified by the L.A. County Department of Public Health, which include fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chills. Do not visit the Weisman Foundation if you or members of your party are currently under isolation or quarantine orders.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
San Diego to Los Angeles
1
Start:The Moonlight Serenade Orchestra
El Cajon, California·
5.0
(7) review
Put on your dancing shoes! The first Friday evening of every month, from 7:00 to 9:30, the Moonlight Serenade Orchestra takes you back to the big bands and ballrooms of the 1930s and 1940s. Hear favorites from Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and more. Tunes range from swing and foxtrot to latin rhythms, the occasional rock or disco, and even a polka. Dress up or come casual - you'll fit right in.
2
Start:Westfield UTC
La Jolla, San Diego, California·
4.0
(93) review
The premier shopping center in the area that offers 160 shops, three beauty salons, an ice skating rink and video entertainment center.
3
Start:Ho Chi Minh Trail - Beach Access
La Jolla, San Diego, California·
4.0
(91) review
2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-1136
4
Start:Athenaeum Music and Arts Library
La Jolla, San Diego, California·
4.5
(9) review
1008 Wall St, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037-4418
5
Start:The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Carlsbad, California·
4.5
(979) review
Open in Spring from March 1st through Mothers Day. For over sixty years, Mother Nature has transformed the rolling hills of North San Diego County into one of the most spectacular and coordinated displays of natural color and beauty anywhere in the world. The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch® in Carlsbad, California, are in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year – from early March through early May – literally bringing the famous fields back to life. This annual burst of color, which has become part of the area’s local heritage, also is one of nature’s official ways of announcing the arrival of spring here in Southern California.
6
Start:LEGOLAND California
Carlsbad, California·
4.0
(9552) review
LEGOLAND® California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the new LEGO® Star Wars™: The Force Awakens Miniland Model Display opening March with a 16-foot long Finalizer model made completely out of LEGO bricks plus six more scenes! Conquer dragons, battle pirates and discover ancient treasures at the Resort, also home to LEGOLAND Water Park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium; and NEW for Summer enjoy Surfers’ Cove – a water park expansion featuring racer-water slides. There’s so much to do, you’ll want to spend the night at LEGOLAND Hotel featuring new LEGO NINJAGO themed rooms.
7
Start:U-Pick Carlsbad Strawberry Company
Carlsbad, California·
4.0
(91) review
Cannon Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92010
8
Start:Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center
Dana Point, California·
4.5
(90) review
Trails are open everyday from 7:00 AM to Sunset. The Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area is managed by two different entities, the City of Dana Point and the Center for Natural Lands Management. It is atop the Dana Point Promontory and is comprised of 4 parks (in total approximately 60 acres) that contain native Coastal Sage and Coastal Bluff Scrub plant communities. Up to 16 rare plant and 2 Federally Listed species call this area home! Approximately 3 miles of different types of trails wind through coastal bluff tops, mesas, and beaches.
9
Start:Veterans Memorial Park
Dana Point, California·
5.0
(8) review
Pacific Coast Highway & Selva Road Located in Strands Vista Park, Dana Point, CA 92629
10
Start:The Shops At Mission Viejo
Mission Viejo, California·
4.5
(93) review
Among the 150 stores and restaurants at The Shops at Mission Viejo, this indoor mall features Nordstrom, Dick's Sporting Goods, Macy's, Apple, lululemon, Williams Sonoma, Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Sephora, P.F. Chang's China Bistro and The Cheesecake Factory. The Shops at Mission Viejo serves many nearby communities such as Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita, Coto de Caza, San Juan Capistrano and the city of Mission Viejo.
11
Start:Victoria Beach
Laguna Beach, California·
4.5
(77) review
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
12
Start:Wild Rivers Waterpark
Irvine, California·
4.0
(9) review
Opens for the 2023 season on Saturday, May 6! Located in the heart of Irvine and the Great Park, Wild Rivers is the newest, most exciting water park in the country, right here in Irvine! We are dedicated to bring our guests the best, most fun and exciting waterpark experience California has ever seen. The newly designed waterpark will have over 20 acres, 20 rides, 3 restaurants and endless fun. You’ll come for a day and stay for the summer! We create lasting memories for you, your friends and your family. Season Passes, Daily Tickets, Group discounts, and birthday parties are all available at wildrivers.com!
13
Start:Strawberry Farms Golf Club
Irvine, California·
4.0
(99) review
11 Strawberry Farm Rd, Irvine, CA 92612-2300
14
Start:Roger's Gardens
Corona del Mar, Newport Beach, California·
4.5
(98) review
2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd, Corona del Mar, Newport Beach, CA 92625-1195
15
Start:Anaheim Convention Center
Anaheim, California·
4.5
(976) review
800 W Katella Ave Suite 600, Anaheim, CA 92802-3496
16
Start:Rancho Los Alamitos
Long Beach, California·
5.0
(97) review
Rancho Los Alamitos, the “Ranch of the Little Cottonwoods,” is a Long Beach City Landmark and is twice listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Rancho has a continuous history of habitation that stretches back for more than 1500 years and reflects the many people who have called it home – from the first people, the Tongva, to the Spanish and Mexican colonists, right up to the Yankee farmers of the mid-twentieth century. The 7½-acre site includes four acres of nationally significant historic gardens, a ranch house (1790-1933), and a restored barnyard of the early 20th-century working ranch. There are farm animals including horses, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits in the barns area.
17
Start:Pirates Dinner Adventure
Buena Park, California·
4.0
(974) review
Guests will enjoy an astonishing display of special effects, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay and dynamic duels while enjoying a delicious, four-course feast, fit for a Pirate King! The action is set aboard an 18th Century Spanish galleon adrift in a 250, 000- gallon lagoon. Our talented crew makes this show possible with brilliant actors, singers and stunt performers. Lads, lasses and scallywags of all ages don costumes to bring the adventure to life. Up to 150 volunteers participate in this epic production, truly making it the "World's Most Interactive Dinner Show!" You won't want to miss this adventure of a lifetime, so come ready to laugh, cheer, and sing along with the show!
18
Start:Zippy Shuttle
Los Angeles, California·
4.5
(98) review
Private van transport. TOURS of Los Angeles, Hollywood, Beach areas or anything of your choice. You can stay as long as you want at any of the locations. We pick up Curbside at LAX. Child safety seats are complimentary.
19
Start:Gloria Molina Grand Park
Los Angeles, California·
4.5
(98) review
227 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012-3201
20
Start:Wiltern Theatre
Los Angeles, California·
4.0
(99) review
The Wiltern Theatre first opened its doors to movie crowds on October 7th, 1931. Recognized by the City of Los Angeles as a Historic Cultural Monument, this Art Deco Landmark was renovated and restored to its original splendor in 1985, under the direction of Bill Graham Presents. Following a legendary history of performances and events, a $1.5 million facelift led to the Grand Re-Opening on October 15, 2002. Formerly an all-seated venue, the theatre had its 1,200-orchestra seats removed and now features a five-tiered floor that slants upward from the stage, thereby accommodating a standing-room-only configuration. The balcony still offers a thousand seats, and the flexible new arrangement allows for seats to be brought in for more intimate performances. The venue's new capacity is roughly 2,300, depending on how the floor is set up. In October 2003, The Wiltern and LG Electronics, a leading global consumer electronics company, celebrated the renaming of the theater. Currently known as The Wiltern LG, this venue sponsorship will offer concert-goers the opportunity to become acquainted with LG Electronics' line of well-designed, groundbreaking digital products. Formerly a great place to catch more sedate acts, the Wiltern's new design makes it one of “LA's coolest venues to check out performers of any type of music” says AOL’s City Guide. Join us for love, laughter and music!
21
Start:LifeRush Adventures- Malibu
Malibu, California·
5.0
(99) review
LifeRush Adventures was founded by experienced mountain biker Jason Racca. His mission is to provide an exhilarating electric mountain experience for beginners and experienced riders alike. Experience many of Southern California's breathtaking trails or catch a city tour to famous Hollywood landmarks on electric bikes. You will be equipped with electric mountain bikes and all the gear you need.
22
Start:Golden Triangle
Beverly Hills, California·
4.5
(90) review
Beverly Hills, CA
23
Start:Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation
Beverly Hills, California·
5.0
(92) review
Advanced Reservation Required! Masks are strongly recommended indoors. Stay home if you or members of your party are sick or have COVID-19 symptoms as identified by the L.A. County Department of Public Health, which include fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chills. Do not visit the Weisman Foundation if you or members of your party are currently under isolation or quarantine orders.
CHECKLIST
GPS device or app
Download Offline Map
Car charger and portable battery
Water bottles and snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First-aid kit
Trash bags
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Driver’s license and vehicle registration
Cash and cards
Camera or smartphone
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San Diego to Los Angeles
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between San Diego and Los Angeles?
The distance is 129 miles
What's the travel time between San Diego and Los Angeles?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 2h 59m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between San Diego and Los Angeles?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Los Angeles?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Los Angeles
What’s the weather like in Los Angeles?
The weather in Los Angeles is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Los Angeles in January
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Weather in Los Angeles in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Los Angeles?
Plan your dream Los Angeles trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
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Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in San Diego?
We have a lot of great trip options for San Diego! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you