As we continue onward through a pandemic, I’d like to share with you day trips that will allow you to venture out and keep safe during this time.
Here are some options I have for day trips for those in the Los Angeles region.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island is an hour-long boat ride from Long Beach and San Pedro using Catalina Express. The boats primarily dock at Avalon, but in normal times, boats from San Pedro also go to Two Harbors, a town connecting the two islands that comprise Catalina Island. You’ll need to book these tickets in advance because Catalina Island is a popular destination.
There’s lots to do on the island, but you should book the activities online days before because activities sell out quickly.
You can also go to the nature park about a mile up the road for $8.
You can take the $2 bus ride around destinations in Avalon.
Masks are required on the boat rides and island during the pandemic, so make sure to bring yours along.
Campgrounds and hotels are open, but you will need to book reservations in advance.
Be sure to bring cash for some of the food items and a cart if you want to drive around Avalon.
Big Bear Lake
Nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains, Big Bear Lake is a popular destination, especially when temperatures are much warmer in the city. Boating, fishing and other water-based activities are here. If you want to stay overnight, there’s lots of cabins to give guests the deep forest feel, even as the desert sits only a few dozen miles away.
I booked an Airbnb for a couple of days in Big Bear Lake and the place was amazing and perfect for solo and couple travelers. Here are some of my own pictures.
The drive into Big Bear Lake is amazing. There are places to pull off and take in the views, and take pictures. Here’s one.
There is a lot of traffic on the main roads around Big Bear Lake, so take in consideration the traffic into how long you plan to stay at Big Bear Lake. Take into account the temperature drop and altitude difference, too!
Local and State Parks
Ernest Debs Regional Park has a really cool spot called Peanut Lake.
So many good views of the lake.
And an amazing view of the L.A. skyline.
Seven Magic Mountains and Las Vegas
Both areas are about 3 hours away from L.A., but close enough for a day trip.
Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is a key spot to visit.
Huntington Gardens
The Huntington Gardens has plenty of good things to see also.
Aquarium of the Pacific
Aquarium of the Pacific, located in Long Beach, has outdoor exhibits currently open. You can feed the lorikeets, pet the rays, and see a lot of other animals, too.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing place with the trees that look like Truffala Trees from the Lorax. Drive around, camp, and enjoy the views.
A Pier Tour
There’s lots of piers in the L.A. area.
Santa Monica, Venice, Manhattan, Hermosa, Redondo, Malibu, Huntington, Newport, and more. Go ahead and check them out.
