Living in La Cañada Flintridge means being close to some of Southern California’s most enjoyable destinations. Whether you’re in the mood for beach views, a laid-back coastal vibe, or something with a little more energy, it’s all just a drive away. While staying local has its perks, a weekend getaway can refresh your perspective and offer something new without going far. If you're considering getting out of town for a couple of days, these weekend trips from La Cañada Flintridge are easy to access and full of worthwhile things to see and do.
Santa Monica, CA
Just under an hour’s drive from La Cañada Flintridge, Santa Monica makes for an easy and energizing weekend trip. The classic pier with its Ferris wheel and arcade games might be the most recognized spot in the area, but the city offers far more than beachfront amusement.
Third Street Promenade is filled with open-air shops, restaurants, and street performers. Visitors often spend the morning biking along the beach path that runs down to Venice or stopping for lunch at one of the local cafés. The vibe is relaxed but active, with surfers in the waves and joggers on the sand.
If you’re looking for something indoors, the Bergamot Station Arts Center features galleries and exhibitions from local and international artists. Santa Monica also has a strong food scene, with both casual seafood spots and fine dining options, many with ocean views.
Third Street Promenade is filled with open-air shops, restaurants, and street performers. Visitors often spend the morning biking along the beach path that runs down to Venice or stopping for lunch at one of the local cafés. The vibe is relaxed but active, with surfers in the waves and joggers on the sand.
If you’re looking for something indoors, the Bergamot Station Arts Center features galleries and exhibitions from local and international artists. Santa Monica also has a strong food scene, with both casual seafood spots and fine dining options, many with ocean views.
Laguna Beach, CA
Laguna Beach is a solid choice if you want to slow things down and soak in some natural beauty. Located about 90 minutes south of La Cañada Flintridge, this coastal town is known for its small coves, art galleries, and hillside trails.
Start your visit at Heisler Park, which offers panoramic views, easy walking paths, and access to tide pools. From there, check out the local shops or catch a show at the Laguna Playhouse. Art lovers might also enjoy the Laguna Art Museum, which focuses on California artists.
Crystal Cove State Park is nearby and provides a good mix of beach access and hiking trails. The setting feels remote in the best way, and it’s easy to fill an entire day just walking the shoreline and relaxing in the quiet.
Dining in Laguna Beach reflects the town’s casual yet refined style. Fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients are standard, whether you’re grabbing fish tacos or enjoying a sit-down meal overlooking the ocean.
Start your visit at Heisler Park, which offers panoramic views, easy walking paths, and access to tide pools. From there, check out the local shops or catch a show at the Laguna Playhouse. Art lovers might also enjoy the Laguna Art Museum, which focuses on California artists.
Crystal Cove State Park is nearby and provides a good mix of beach access and hiking trails. The setting feels remote in the best way, and it’s easy to fill an entire day just walking the shoreline and relaxing in the quiet.
Dining in Laguna Beach reflects the town’s casual yet refined style. Fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients are standard, whether you’re grabbing fish tacos or enjoying a sit-down meal overlooking the ocean.
Santa Barbara, CA
Drive about two hours north, and you’ll find yourself in Santa Barbara, a city that feels like a blend of Mediterranean coast and California cool. It’s a favorite destination for weekend trips from La Cañada Flintridge thanks to its beaches, Spanish-style architecture, and vineyard access.
Spend your Saturday morning browsing the Santa Barbara Public Market or walking along State Street. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is worth a stop for its tower views and detailed architecture. In the afternoon, many visitors take advantage of the Urban Wine Trail, a self-guided tasting experience featuring local wineries with tasting rooms spread throughout town.
For some time outdoors, head to Butterfly Beach or take a walk through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. The pace here is easy, and the landscape offers both beach and mountain views depending on where you go.
Santa Barbara also has a strong local dining scene. Small bistros, seafood restaurants, and bakeries offer plenty of options, no matter your taste. It’s a weekend trip that feels far enough from the city without the need to travel too far.
Spend your Saturday morning browsing the Santa Barbara Public Market or walking along State Street. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is worth a stop for its tower views and detailed architecture. In the afternoon, many visitors take advantage of the Urban Wine Trail, a self-guided tasting experience featuring local wineries with tasting rooms spread throughout town.
For some time outdoors, head to Butterfly Beach or take a walk through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. The pace here is easy, and the landscape offers both beach and mountain views depending on where you go.
Santa Barbara also has a strong local dining scene. Small bistros, seafood restaurants, and bakeries offer plenty of options, no matter your taste. It’s a weekend trip that feels far enough from the city without the need to travel too far.
Carlsbad, CA
Carlsbad may be best known for LEGOLAND California, but the town has more to offer than just its amusement park. Located about two hours south of La Cañada Flintridge, it’s a relaxing coastal destination with a mix of beaches, nature, and laid-back downtown appeal.
Start your weekend with a walk along Carlsbad State Beach or a visit to the Flower Fields if your trip falls in spring. The seasonal bloom of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus draws visitors from around the region and makes for a colorful way to start your day.
Village shops and restaurants are easy to explore on foot, and there’s a strong local vibe that feels comfortable and welcoming. In addition to beach time, Carlsbad is also home to golf courses and spa resorts for those looking to slow down and unwind.
If you're traveling with family or just looking for something playful, LEGOLAND and its adjoining aquarium are worth a visit, especially early in the morning before the park gets too crowded.
Start your weekend with a walk along Carlsbad State Beach or a visit to the Flower Fields if your trip falls in spring. The seasonal bloom of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus draws visitors from around the region and makes for a colorful way to start your day.
Village shops and restaurants are easy to explore on foot, and there’s a strong local vibe that feels comfortable and welcoming. In addition to beach time, Carlsbad is also home to golf courses and spa resorts for those looking to slow down and unwind.
If you're traveling with family or just looking for something playful, LEGOLAND and its adjoining aquarium are worth a visit, especially early in the morning before the park gets too crowded.
San Diego, CA
If you have a full weekend and want variety, San Diego should be on your list. About a 2.5-hour drive from La Cañada Flintridge, it offers a little bit of everything: beaches, city attractions, cultural landmarks, and a wide mix of dining.
Start with Balboa Park, where you’ll find museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo all in one place. From there, head to neighborhoods like Little Italy or North Park for shopping and food. The Gaslamp Quarter offers nightlife options and historic architecture, while Old Town gives you a look at early California history.
If you’re after beach time, check out La Jolla Shores or Mission Beach. For scenic views, Sunset Cliffs and Torrey Pines State Reserve offer hiking with ocean backdrops that are hard to beat. The city’s layout makes it easy to mix outdoor activities with time in the city.
San Diego is also a food destination, with everything from fish tacos to contemporary dining influenced by Mexican, Asian, and California cuisines. It’s a trip that feels like a full vacation, even if you’re only staying for the weekend.
Start with Balboa Park, where you’ll find museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo all in one place. From there, head to neighborhoods like Little Italy or North Park for shopping and food. The Gaslamp Quarter offers nightlife options and historic architecture, while Old Town gives you a look at early California history.
If you’re after beach time, check out La Jolla Shores or Mission Beach. For scenic views, Sunset Cliffs and Torrey Pines State Reserve offer hiking with ocean backdrops that are hard to beat. The city’s layout makes it easy to mix outdoor activities with time in the city.
San Diego is also a food destination, with everything from fish tacos to contemporary dining influenced by Mexican, Asian, and California cuisines. It’s a trip that feels like a full vacation, even if you’re only staying for the weekend.
Make Home Your Base for California Living
One of the benefits of living in La Cañada Flintridge is how close you are to so many worthwhile destinations. From short beachside getaways to cultural city stops, the list of options for weekend trips from La Cañada Flintridge continues to grow. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or a low-key retreat, having this kind of access is part of what makes the area so appealing.
The Berns Team understands how lifestyle plays a role in real estate decisions. If you're thinking about finding a home that keeps you close to family, nature, or your favorite weekend destinations, their local experience and expert La Canada Flintridge real estate agents make a difference. Contact The Berns Team to explore homes for sale in La Cañada Flintridge.
The Berns Team understands how lifestyle plays a role in real estate decisions. If you're thinking about finding a home that keeps you close to family, nature, or your favorite weekend destinations, their local experience and expert La Canada Flintridge real estate agents make a difference. Contact The Berns Team to explore homes for sale in La Cañada Flintridge.
