Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury, glamour, and an extraordinary lifestyle. While this iconic city offers plenty of attractions and amenities of its own, the call of adventure sometimes leads you beyond its borders. Fortunately, Southern California is rich with amazing landscapes and unique experiences, all within a short drive.
Whether you're craving sandy beaches, mountain hikes, or artistic enrichment, Beverly Hills is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable day trip.
Malibu
Malibu, just a 20-mile drive from Beverly Hills, offers a coastal escape like no other. With its stunning beaches, breathtaking cliffside vistas, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to recharge by the ocean.
The beaches of Malibu are a haven for sun-seekers and surf enthusiasts. Zuma Beach, one of Malibu's most popular spots, offers vast stretches of golden sand perfect for lounging or picnicking. El Matador Beach, with its dramatic sea caves and rocky formations, is a favorite for photographers and those seeking more secluded experiences.
The beaches of Malibu are a haven for sun-seekers and surf enthusiasts. Zuma Beach, one of Malibu's most popular spots, offers vast stretches of golden sand perfect for lounging or picnicking. El Matador Beach, with its dramatic sea caves and rocky formations, is a favorite for photographers and those seeking more secluded experiences.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is often referred to as the “American Riviera” for its magnificent coastal views, unique architecture, and Mediterranean climate. Just under two hours from Beverly Hills, this charming city blends history and natural wonders, making it a perfect escape for a weekend getaway.
Start your day by strolling through downtown Santa Barbara, where you’ll find Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Old Mission Santa Barbara, a landmark offering a glimpse into California's early history.
For wine enthusiasts, Santa Barbara's proximity to the renowned Santa Ynez Valley means you can spend the afternoon visiting nearby vineyards. If you're seeking outdoor adventures, the 78-acre Santa Barbara Botanic Garden offers tranquil walking paths and a chance to explore California’s diverse plant life. End your visit with a sunset walk along Stearns Wharf, one of California’s oldest working piers, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves crash beneath you.
Start your day by strolling through downtown Santa Barbara, where you’ll find Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Old Mission Santa Barbara, a landmark offering a glimpse into California's early history.
For wine enthusiasts, Santa Barbara's proximity to the renowned Santa Ynez Valley means you can spend the afternoon visiting nearby vineyards. If you're seeking outdoor adventures, the 78-acre Santa Barbara Botanic Garden offers tranquil walking paths and a chance to explore California’s diverse plant life. End your visit with a sunset walk along Stearns Wharf, one of California’s oldest working piers, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves crash beneath you.
Santa Monica
If you're craving a quick escape packed with fun things to see and explore, look no further than Santa Monica. Located just an eight-mile drive from Beverly Hills, this coastal gem offers everything from sun-soaked beaches to vibrant shopping and dining destinations.
The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a must-see. Home to a theme park, arcade games, live performances, and plenty of food stalls, it’s perfect for travelers on an adventurous outing. Don’t miss taking a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
For those who enjoy shopping, the pedestrian-only Third Street Promenade offers a variety of shops and street performances to watch. If you're looking for something more relaxed, take a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which runs along the coast all the way from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. A day in Santa Monica promises a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and California sunshine.
The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a must-see. Home to a theme park, arcade games, live performances, and plenty of food stalls, it’s perfect for travelers on an adventurous outing. Don’t miss taking a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
For those who enjoy shopping, the pedestrian-only Third Street Promenade offers a variety of shops and street performances to watch. If you're looking for something more relaxed, take a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which runs along the coast all the way from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. A day in Santa Monica promises a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and California sunshine.
Marina Del Rey
A short 13-mile drive from Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey offers a peaceful waterfront experience without venturing far from the city. This coastal community is known for its marina, which is one of the most extensive small-craft harbors in the world.
If you love water sports, Marina Del Rey is the place to be. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or even charter a yacht for a relaxing cruise on the shimmering waves. For a more leisurely pursuit, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy watching the boats go by.
Marina Del Rey also boasts some of the best waterfront dining in the area. Restaurants like SALT Restaurant & Bar offer fantastic meals paired with scenic harbor views. Whether you're on the water or dining by it, Marina Del Rey provides a refreshing and unforgettable escape.
If you love water sports, Marina Del Rey is the place to be. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or even charter a yacht for a relaxing cruise on the shimmering waves. For a more leisurely pursuit, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy watching the boats go by.
Marina Del Rey also boasts some of the best waterfront dining in the area. Restaurants like SALT Restaurant & Bar offer fantastic meals paired with scenic harbor views. Whether you're on the water or dining by it, Marina Del Rey provides a refreshing and unforgettable escape.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach, known for its eclectic atmosphere and vibrant street life, is just a 10-mile drive from Beverly Hills. This iconic neighborhood is famous for its bohemian spirit, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to explore Southern California’s artistic side.
Start your visit by walking along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, where street performers, vendors, and murals line the path. Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders famously train outdoors, is another must-see.
Venice is also home to the stunning Venice Canals, a series of artificial waterways inspired by the canals of Venice, Italy. Stroll along the quiet paths and charming bridges, offering a serene contrast to the bustling beach atmosphere.
For a bite to eat, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is lined with trendy cafes, unique boutiques, and art galleries. It’s the ideal spot for shopping, dining, and people-watching, giving you a taste of Venice’s unique charm.
Start your visit by walking along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, where street performers, vendors, and murals line the path. Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders famously train outdoors, is another must-see.
Venice is also home to the stunning Venice Canals, a series of artificial waterways inspired by the canals of Venice, Italy. Stroll along the quiet paths and charming bridges, offering a serene contrast to the bustling beach atmosphere.
For a bite to eat, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is lined with trendy cafes, unique boutiques, and art galleries. It’s the ideal spot for shopping, dining, and people-watching, giving you a taste of Venice’s unique charm.
Palm Springs
Palm Springs, known for its incredible desert landscapes, offers an entirely different type of getaway. In just over two hours from Beverly Hills, you’ll find a vibrant desert city brimming with natural wonders, design, and relaxation.
For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking views as it ascends over 8,000 feet into the San Jacinto Mountains. At the top, you can hike or simply enjoy the panoramic desert views beneath you.
No trip to Palm Springs would be complete without exploring its thriving art scene. The Palm Springs Art Museum features a collection of contemporary and modern art you don’t want to miss.
In the end, whether you're looking for coastal relaxation, desert inspiration, or mountain excursions, there are countless day trip options from Beverly Hills. With so many incredible adventures just a short drive away, it’s never been easier to embark on a spontaneous escape and discover something new. If life in Beverly Hills is your dream, The Umansky Team can help you achieve it. Reach out today.
For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking views as it ascends over 8,000 feet into the San Jacinto Mountains. At the top, you can hike or simply enjoy the panoramic desert views beneath you.
No trip to Palm Springs would be complete without exploring its thriving art scene. The Palm Springs Art Museum features a collection of contemporary and modern art you don’t want to miss.
In the end, whether you're looking for coastal relaxation, desert inspiration, or mountain excursions, there are countless day trip options from Beverly Hills. With so many incredible adventures just a short drive away, it’s never been easier to embark on a spontaneous escape and discover something new. If life in Beverly Hills is your dream, The Umansky Team can help you achieve it. Reach out today.
