7 Weekend Trips from Pasadena

Sometimes the best way to appreciate where you live is to leave for a few days and come back refreshed. For those lucky enough to call Pasadena home, weekend getaways are never far. Whether you're looking for mountain air, desert sun, or a bit of coastal calm, there are plenty of memorable destinations just a few hours away.

Here are seven top-rated weekend getaways from Pasadena that are close enough to plan spontaneously and varied enough to fit any mood or season.

For a blend of beach views, wine country charm, and high-end dining, Santa Barbara is an easy favorite. Just a two-hour drive up the 101, this seaside city offers everything from boutique hotels and harbor cruises to wine tastings in the Funk Zone. Grab breakfast on State Street, take a walk through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or just relax at Butterfly Beach.

It's one of those weekend getaways that feels indulgent without requiring flights or complicated logistics.

If you’re craving cooler temperatures and cabin vibes, head to Idyllwild. Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains about two hours away, this artsy town is ideal for hiking, unplugging, and breathing fresh alpine air. The downtown area is also full of galleries, vintage shops, and locally owned cafés.

You won’t find large resorts here, and that’s the point. Whether you're curling up by a fireplace or taking a morning hike to Devil’s Slide Trail, Idyllwild is about slowing down in style.

Palm Springs is just under two hours from Pasadena, but offers a completely different environment. With its iconic mid-century architecture, hot springs, poolside resorts, and high-end dining, this desert city is perfect for both relaxation and play.

Don’t miss the Palm Springs Art Museum or a trip up the Aerial Tramway. And if you’re visiting between October and April, Joshua Tree National Park is just a short drive away for those wanting to explore even further.

For something a little more whimsical, head north to Solvang, a Danish-inspired town known for its windmills, European architecture, and authentic pastries. Located in the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang is also surrounded by some of the best wine tasting in California.

This is one of the more unique weekend getaways from Pasadena, especially if you’re looking to blend novelty with Napa-style vineyard visits, without the long drive up north.

Tucked in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead offers lakefront scenery, hiking, and charming village shops. It’s a favorite for Pasadena residents who want crisp mountain air without heading too far.

Rent a cabin or book a stay at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa. In the summer, the lake is perfect for boating and fishing. In the winter, it's close enough to snow-covered trails for sledding or skiing without the intensity of larger resorts like Big Bear.

If you’re up for a longer drive (around 2.5–3 hours), San Diego is always a strong option. With laid-back beaches, excellent dining, and attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and Little Italy, there’s something here for everyone.

Stay in La Jolla for oceanfront luxury, or opt for a more central location like North Park if you’re into craft beer and indie boutiques. Whether you’re surfing, strolling, or museum-hopping, it’s an easy way to feel like you’ve traveled much farther than you actually have.

Ojai may be a smaller town, but its impact is big, especially if you’re after something restorative. Just 90 minutes from Pasadena, this laid-back escape is known for boutique spas, local organic food, and artistic flair.

Visit the Ojai Valley Inn for full-service relaxation, or hike through Los Padres National Forest. Don’t forget to catch “the pink moment,” a local phenomenon where the sunset lights up the mountains in rosy hues. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and quintessentially California.

One of the best parts of living in Pasadena is how effortlessly you can blend city living with easy escapes. If you’re considering making a move or simply want to make the most of where you are, Amy Engler is here to help. As a local expert who knows Pasadena inside and out, Amy offers trusted insight into both the real estate market and the lifestyle it supports.

Reach out today to find a home that keeps you close to everything, especially the getaways worth coming back from.