Whether you’re traveling to Los Angeles for work or just using the city as a homebase for your family vacation, it’s an easy jumping-off point for some daytrips. Explore the surrounding towns and neighborhoods with a few options just outside the city.
Here are the best locales to visit depending on how much free time you have to fill.
Getting to Catalina Island from Los Angeles is shockingly simple, especially considering the vast differences in locale. Pack up the kids and hop on a high-speed catamaran from either Dana Point, Two Harbors, Avalon, Long Beach and San Pedro and get to the island in an hour — the hardest part of your day will be getting to the harbor. Once onboard, the kids will enjoy the seamless voyage to the island.
If you don’t mind a bit of company, head to Newport Beach for the Catalina Flyer, the largest passenger vessel available, making daily departures for Catalina Island. For those seeking a bit of privacy and luxury, opt for the privacy of a charter boat or helicopter ride, getting to the island in about 15 minutes. This is a luxury option, for sure, but the views are unbeatable.
Disney fans already have this one on their list. Anyone looking for some theme park fun, make your way to Disneyland in Anaheim, California, from Los Angeles. About 26 miles away, the ride can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic and time of day. The park opens at 8 a.m., so plan accordingly by either hiring a car service, rent a car for the day or depend on various rideshare companies.
Seeking a day at the beach, but short on time? Santa Monica is your best bet. Depending on where you are staying, in Beverly Hills, Downtown LA or Hollywood, the ride can be 20–60 minutes to the boulevard, depending on time and traffic.
Rent a car or hop in a rideshare and make your way to the famous pier. Go hungry and enjoy all the dining options in the small city. Stroll along the beach and swim in the Pacific, or hit the boardwalk for rides and games. The fun and quirky neighborhood offers beach-themed shops and attractions — and a complete departure from the vibe in downtown LA.
Read This Next
Celebrate the Holidays on Italy’s Lake Garda
Europe
Oct 5, 2026#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedTravel Tips
Sep 23, 2026Move to the Music and Rhythm of Destinations Around the World
The true rhythm of a country is felt away from the main tourist traps. Galleries, museums and historic sites provide an overview, but you need to go elsewhere to experience the living, beating heart of a place. For instance, immerse yourself in the humid turmoil of a Durban underground club, or get to grips with the formal group dances of the Scottish Highlands, or become part of the foot-stomping camaraderie of a Galway pub, or ride the waves of neon-lit energy in a Seoul basement nightclub.
Sponsored Content
Celebrating 25 Years of The Peninsula Chicago
June marked The Peninsula Chicago’s 25th anniversary, commemorating a quarter century for the hotel as a pillar of luxury on North Michigan Avenue.
Caribbean
Sep 21, 2026Sonesta Sint Maarten’s Newest Deal is Perfect Excuse for Fall Getaway
Autumn at home might be filled with changing leaves and pumpkin spice, but, in the Caribbean, it means sunshine and sandy beaches. In other words, it’s a great place to sneak off for a fall getaway to recharge and refresh before the holidays are upon us, and the current deal offered at Sonesta Sint Maarten resorts make it an affordable option for families and couples.
Hotels
Sep 18, 2026“MasterChef” Experience Coming to Dreams Resorts & Spas in Mexico, Caribbean
Beyond resort pools and beaches, family travelers (especially little ones) crave immersive and learning experiences. One brand, Hyatt’s Dreams Resorts & Spas, leans into this shift with an expanded collaboration with MasterChef Junior.
Sponsored Content
GET TO KNOW TAP FORBIZ
Unlock flexible, refined business travel with TAP Air Portugal’s program, TAP FORBIZ. Developed for small, medium and large Companies, with options for corporate events, TAP FORBIZ offers exclusive advantages adapted to each type of business.
Hotels
Sep 18, 2026Best Western Rewards, WorldHotels Rewards Launch Global Double Points Promotion
Family travelers looking to book a getaway before the end of 2026 won’t want to miss new wallet-friendly rates and deals from BWH Hotels. Available Sept. 8 to Dec. 31, this deal lets members of Best Western Rewards and WorldHotels Rewards earn double points on qualifying stays at any Best Western-banded hotel worldwide or participating WorldHotels property.
ShareThis