Fun Ways to Spend a Weekend in Southern California

Southern California

Last updated on March 27th, 2024 at 09:26 pm

Are you overdue for a much-needed vacation but don’t have the time to take a whole week off? If so, consider making plans for a weekend getaway. Chances are you want to go someplace warm, sunny, and exciting. If so, you need look no further than Southern California. From Los Angeles to Palm Springs to San Diego, the southern portion of the Golden State has a lot to offer.

Unfortunately, there’s no way you’re going to get it all covered in one weekend. Those planning on taking a short trip to Southern California will need to settle on a more specific destination or experience. With this in mind, let’s take a look at six ways to spend a fun weekend in Southern California:

Booking a beachside vacation house

The coast of Southern California is home to some of the prettiest beaches on the planet. With so much surf and sand, there’s bound to be a cozy beach house available as a short-term rental on the weekend you plan to visit.

Consider searching for beach house rentals available in Malibu, Rancho Palos Verdes, Huntington Beach, Dana Beach, Carlsbad, and La Jolla. You could also opt to go through one of the many vacation rental services available in Southern California.

Going Hollywood

The entertainment capital of the world, Hollywood is just north of Los Angeles, making it a great weekend vacation destination for those visiting Southern California. Tour studio backlots, visit wax museums, stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, and get your picture in front of the world-famous Hollywood sign.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even hike up to the sign and look down on the glittering city below. Whether you know it or not, Hollywood has shaped your world through all the wonderful movies, music, and television shows produced there over the decades, so why not pay tribute?

Staying at a San Diego resort

San Diego is known as “America’s Finest City.” A quick look at the climate and scenery and you soon understand why. What’s more, San Diego resorts are some of the best in the country. Those looking for a luxurious beach resort experience can book a room at the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

Folks in search of tantalizing thrills and electric excitement can head to the Sycuan Casino Resort, located on the southwestern edge of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. These and other world-class resorts in San Diego offer every amenity you can think of and more.

Visiting Palm Springs

San Diego is a city with many fine resorts, but Palm Springs is a fine resort city. Situated in the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs is known for its awe-inspiring hotels, world-class golf courses, splendid spas, and natural hot springs.

It’s also home to some of the finest midcentury-modern technology in the world. If you love a great view, take time to ride the iconic Palm Springs aerial tramway, which takes you from the desert floor up to the peak of Mount San Jacinto.

Exploring Joshua Tree National Park

Nearly two centuries of nonstop agriculture and landscaping have rendered much of Southern California unrecognizable in terms of its natural appearance. Those interested in seeing what this part of the country looked like before the arrival of European settlers should spend a day or two exploring Joshua Tree National Park. The park is known for its rugged rock formations, stark desert landscapes, and bristly Joshua trees (hence the name.)

Going to Disneyland

Many adults think they’re too old to enjoy Disneyland. But the Happiest Place on Earth, located in Anaheim,  was designed to be as fun for grownups as it is for children. Even if you’re not into thrill rides or Disney movies, Disneyland offers plenty of things to see and do. From the iconic castle to the exceptionally detailed themes attached to each section of the park, it’s a truly unique experience everyone should enjoy at least once.

Are you about to burst from all the built-up stress from work but unable to take a week off? If so, consider a weekend getaway to Southern California. There’s truly no shortage of fun and exciting things to see and do.Julie Steinbeck is a freelance writer from Florida. She enjoys writing about business, finance, and travel.

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