Summer & Fall Road Trip Ideas in California and Virginia

Hit the road with the family this summer and fall on one of these U.S. road trip itineraries through California and Virginia:

Best Road Trips Through Newport Beach, California

Pacific Coast Highway Drive: Start in Newport Beach and head south along PCH, passing through popular towns like Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente. The Pacific Coast Highway stretches more than 600 miles across California’s diverse terrains and coastlines.

Catalina Island: Travel from Newport Beach to the port town of Dana Point to catch a ferry to Catalina Island. Travelers can take part in activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling and scuba diving.

Joshua Tree National Park: For a change of scenery, drive east from Newport Beach to Joshua Tree National Park to see the unique Joshua trees, striking rock formations and starry night skies. Explore Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Joshua Tree National Park Lost Horse Ranger Station or Skull Rock.

© Newport Beach & Company

San Diego: Explore the coast of San Diego on your next road trip. Stop at locations like Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum.

Best Road Trip Stops in Virginia

Richmond: Drive through the capital city, known for its arts scene, architecture and museums. With more than 900 restaurants and kid-friendly activities such as Children’s Museum of Richmond and Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond is a fun and easy getaway for families.

Williamsburg: Drive southeast to Colonial Williamsburg, a restored 18^th-century town offering a captivating glimpse into America’s past. Tour Jamestown settlement or hike through Great Falls and Shenandoah National Park.

Virginia Beach: For a coastal trip, travel from Virginia Beach south to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Virginia’s largest coastal city is known for its lively boardwalk, water sport activities and dining. Road trippers can also explore ViBe Creative District or hike First Landing State Park on the way.