7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the sprawling metropolis known for its entertainment industry, is also a haven for digital nomads who enjoy the flexibility of working from anywhere. While the city offers an endless array of urban attractions, sometimes a weekend getaway is just what you need to recharge. Whether you're looking for popular destinations or hidden gems, the surrounding areas of Los Angeles provide a diverse selection of escapes. From beachside retreats to mountain hideaways, here are seven fun weekend getaways for those looking to explore beyond the City of Angels.

Santa Barbara

Just a short drive up the coast from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is a picturesque city known for its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe. It's a perfect spot for digital nomads to unwind and enjoy activities like wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley, exploring the historic Santa Barbara Mission, or simply soaking up the sun at East Beach. The city's vibrant arts scene and upscale boutiques offer a touch of luxury for a weekend escape.

How to Get There: Santa Barbara is about a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles via the US-101 N. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which offers multiple daily trips between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to stroll along the Santa Barbara Waterfront and Stearns Wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful ocean views.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Californian features Moroccan-inspired decor and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. For a more intimate experience, check out the Simpson House Inn, a charming bed and breakfast nestled in an acre of English gardens.

Where to Eat: The Lark Santa Barbara offers a seasonal menu with locally-sourced ingredients and has a reputation for its innovative dishes. For a more casual setting, visit the Santa Barbara Public Market, where you can sample a variety of local food and drinks.

Joshua Tree National Park

For those seeking an otherworldly landscape, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination. The park is renowned for its fascinating geological features, starry nights, and the iconic Joshua trees that dot the landscape. Digital nomads can take a break from their screens to hike, rock climb, or simply meditate in the serene desert environment. The park's proximity to the artsy town of Joshua Tree also offers a chance to explore local galleries and music venues.

How to Get There: Joshua Tree National Park is about a 2.5-hour drive from Los Angeles via the I-10 E and CA-62 E.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit around the new moon for some of the best stargazing opportunities in Southern California. The park's clear skies and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot for astronomy enthusiasts.

Where to Stay: The Joshua Tree Inn, known for its eclectic charm and connection to musician Gram Parsons, offers a unique stay. For a more secluded experience, consider renting one of the many stylish desert homes available in the area.

Where to Eat: Crossroads Café is a local favorite for hearty breakfasts and lunch, while Pappy & Harriet's in nearby Pioneertown is famous for its live music and BBQ under the stars.

Idyllwild

Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is a quaint mountain town that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Digital nomads can enjoy the fresh mountain air, scenic hiking trails, and a close-knit community of artists and musicians. The town's rustic charm is complemented by cozy cabins, local craft shops, and a variety of outdoor activities, including rock climbing and mountain biking.

How to Get There: Idyllwild is approximately a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles via the I-10 E and CA-243 S.

Travel Tip: Visit the Idyllwild Nature Center to learn about the local flora and fauna, and don't miss the chance to hike up to Tahquitz Peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Where to Stay: The Grand Idyllwild Lodge offers luxury accommodations with stunning mountain views, while the Idyllwild Inn provides rustic cabins and cottages for a more traditional mountain experience.

Where to Eat: Café Aroma is known for its eclectic menu and live music, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. For a quick bite, try the Idyllwild Bake Shop & Brew for their freshly baked goods and excellent coffee.

Ojai

Ojai is a small town nestled in a picturesque valley, known for its bohemian spirit and focus on wellness. Digital nomads can take advantage of the town's many spas and yoga studios for a rejuvenating weekend. Ojai also boasts a vibrant farmers' market, art galleries, and outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding. The town's unique "Pink Moment," when the setting sun casts a rosy hue on the surrounding mountains, is a sight not to be missed.

How to Get There: Ojai is about a 1.5-hour drive from Los Angeles via the US-101 N and CA-33 N.

Travel Tip: Check out the Ojai Olive Oil Company for a tour and tasting of locally produced olive oils. It's a delightful experience for foodies and a great way to support local agriculture.

Where to Stay: The Ojai Valley Inn is a luxurious resort offering golf, spa services, and fine dining. For a more intimate setting, the Blue Iguana Inn provides a charming and artistic atmosphere.

Where to Eat: The Farmer and The Cook is a local organic market and café that serves up delicious vegetarian and vegan fare, while Nocciola offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Italian cuisine.

Salton Sea

The Salton Sea, California's largest lake, presents an unusual and offbeat destination for those looking to explore the more eccentric side of the state. Once a thriving resort area in the 1950s and 60s, it now offers a surreal landscape with abandoned structures and a unique ecosystem. Photographers and adventurers alike will find the Salton Sea's stark beauty and quiet, apocalyptic atmosphere both intriguing and haunting.

How to Get There: The Salton Sea is about a 3-hour drive from Los Angeles via the I-10 E.

Travel Tip: Visit the nearby Salvation Mountain, a colorful man-made mountain covered in religious and philosophical murals created by local resident Leonard Knight. It's a testament to one man's passion and a unique piece of folk art.

Where to Stay: Accommodations near the Salton Sea are limited, so many visitors choose to stay in nearby towns like Indio or Palm Springs. The La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta offers luxury amenities and a relaxing desert atmosphere.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local flavor, head to the Ski Inn in Bombay Beach, where you can enjoy classic American diner fare and engage with the eclectic mix of locals and visitors.

El Matador State Beach

El Matador State Beach is one of Malibu's hidden treasures, offering stunning rock formations, sea caves, and secluded sandy spots perfect for a day of relaxation or a romantic sunset. Digital nomads looking for a quick escape to nature will appreciate the beach's relative tranquility compared to more popular spots. It's an ideal place for photography, picnicking, or simply listening to the waves crash against the rocks.

How to Get There: El Matador State Beach is about a 1-hour drive from Los Angeles via the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1 N).

Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure parking, as the lot is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Don't forget to bring sturdy shoes for the descent down the steep trail to the beach.

Where to Stay: The Malibu Beach Inn offers luxurious accommodations right on the water, with private beach access and rooms featuring ocean views. For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at one of the many vacation rentals in the Malibu area.

Where to Eat: Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market and Patio Café is a favorite among locals for its fresh seafood and picturesque oceanfront dining. For a more upscale experience, Nobu Malibu offers exquisite Japanese cuisine with a California twist.

Two Harbors, Catalina Island

Two Harbors is a serene and less-visited locale on Catalina Island, offering a tranquil alternative to the island's more bustling Avalon. With its small village charm, secluded beaches, and opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking, Two Harbors is a great spot for digital nomads to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a paradise for underwater exploration.

How to Get There: To reach Two Harbors, take a ferry from San Pedro, which is about a 1-hour drive from Los Angeles. The ferry ride to Two Harbors takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Travel Tip: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the hidden coves and beaches around Two Harbors. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for spotting fish and other marine life.

Where to Stay: The Banning House Lodge offers cozy accommodations with panoramic ocean views, while the Two Harbors Campground provides a more rustic experience for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars.

Where to Eat: The Harbor Reef Restaurant serves up fresh seafood with a view of the harbor. For a casual meal or a quick snack, stop by the West End Galley for their famous buffalo milk, a creamy cocktail that's a Catalina Island specialty.