This post is my 1 week itinerary for a road trip in Southern California- Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Joshua National Park, and San Diego.
A road trip in Southern California had been on my bucket list for the longest and I decided to go for it. California has a lot of places on my bucket list and I found breaking it up by region is the best way for me to explore it. California is a pretty big state, with a ton of things to see. Keep on reading my itinerary to find out what I did during my road trip in Southern California.
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HOW TO PLAN A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP?
When is the best time to visit Southern California?
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are the sweet spots. The weather is perfect, not too hot, not too chilly, and the tourist crowds aren’t as intense. I visited in the month of November and felt it was the perfect time as the flights weren’t too expensive, there wasn’t much of a crowd as it was before the Thanksgiving holidays, and the weather was perfect! I flew with Frontier Airlines since I was able to snag a roundtrip for about $100 from Orlando. Yes, I was shocked too!
How to get around Southern California?
I flew in from Orlando to Los Angeles via Frontier Airlines as mentioned above and then picked up my car rental at the airport. Car rental is a must for this Southern California 1 week itinerary. Fox Rent A Car worked great for me. Having your own vehicle gives you total freedom to explore at your own pace, plus the drives between cities are part of the fun! I enjoyed driving through the different landscapes, especially through Joshua National Park.
Best things to do in Southern California?
One of my favorite parts about this road trip was the variety of experiences I got to enjoy. Southern California has such a beautiful contrast between nature, city life, and unique cultural activities. Here’s a deeper look at some of the incredible experiences I had, and ones I highly recommend adding to your own bucket list:
- Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park: I can’t emphasize this enough, being out in the desert, surrounded by those iconic Joshua trees and massive boulders, felt like stepping into another universe. I spent hours wandering through trails, breathing in the dry desert air, and taking it all in. It was peaceful, grounding, and honestly a bit spiritual. Whether you’re a serious hiker or just want to explore some easy scenic trails, Joshua Tree is a must. I also found this guided hiking tour for those who do not want to venture out alone. Click here.
- Shopping at Rodeo Drive: Even if you’re not planning on buying a designer handbag, just walking around this glamorous stretch of Beverly Hills is such a fun experience. It’s like people watching window-shopping meets Hollywood fantasy. I loved being in the luxury vibes and imagining a movie star life, just for an afternoon.
- Sunset at Santa Monica Pier: There’s something so magical about the ocean breeze, the sound of waves, and the golden California sunset lighting up the sky. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the pier felt like the perfect postcard moment. Plus, there’s so much to do here, rides, arcade games, food stalls. It’s nostalgic and beautiful all at once.
- Open Jeep Tour in Palm Springs: This was honestly one of the coolest things I did. Riding through the desert landscape in an open-air Jeep, learning about the San Andreas Fault and the unique history of the area, it was adventurous, exciting, and educational all in one. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and geological wonders of the region. Click here for the tour.
- Whale Watching in San Diego: One of the highlights of the trip for sure. Being out on the ocean, feeling the breeze and scanning the horizon for whales, was such a thrilling and peaceful experience. We saw a few blowholes and tails in the distance, and I felt so connected to nature in those moments. If you love marine life or just want a unique ocean adventure, this is a must-do. Click here for the tour.
- Griffith Observatory Views: Whether you’re a fan of astronomy or just want an unbeatable panoramic view of Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory is a total gem. I spent a while just standing at the lookout point, taking in the entire city spread out before me with the Hollywood sign in the distance. It’s one of those places that makes you stop and say, wow, I’m really here. Click here for tickets.
- Bar Hopping at Rooftop Lounges and Speakeasies: Southern California definitely knows how to do nightlife. I loved exploring a mix of stylish rooftop lounges and hidden speakeasies. Perch LA had this dreamy, Parisian vibe with city skyline views; Harriet’s Rooftop was trendy and full of energy; and Raised by Wolves in San Diego was such a cool speakeasy experience, think vintage decor, secret entrances, and seriously good cocktails. Whether you want a relaxed glass of wine with a view or a creative cocktail in a moody bar, you’ll find your perfect spot here.
Where to stay in Southern California?
It was challenging trying to find the best hotels for my trip as there were so options to chose from! While it was a challenging task, I knew I wanted to stay in certain areas that gave me easy access to the main attractions as well as priced reasonably. These were my choices:
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Arcadia Pasadena
- Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection
- Hilton Palm Springs
What to pack for a Southern California road trip?
- Shop my Southern California 1 week itinerary road trip packing list here
What else do I need to know before going to Southern California?
- Rent a car: Trust me, you’ll need it. The cities are pretty spread out, and public transport isn’t super road-trip friendly.
- Pack layers: Southern California weather is wild, sunny in the day, cool in the evening.
- Book activities in advance: Especially if you’re doing things like guided tours, jeep safaris, or sound baths.
- Hydrate and wear sunscreen: Especially when exploring desert areas like Joshua Tree.
STEAL MY ITINERARY- 1 WEEK IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
A Southern California road trip had been on my bucket list for the longest time. I kept seeing pictures of dreamy desert landscapes, stunning beaches, and iconic cityscapes, and one day, I just said, “Let’s do it.” I decided to fly from Orlando to Los Angeles, rent a Jeep Wrangler (because, duh, road trip vibes!), and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure through Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs, and San Diego.
If you’re like me and California has always called your name, this blog is for you. I’ll walk you through every part of my week-long itinerary, what I did, how I felt, what surprised me, and what I absolutely LOVED. Get comfy and let me guide you through this journey!
DAY 1
Touching down in LA felt surreal. You know that feeling when you step off the plane and can instantly tell you’re somewhere new? That was me. I headed straight to the rental car station and picked up my Jeep Wrangler from Fox Rent A Car, it honestly felt like the perfect match for this trip. Something about driving a rugged Jeep through palm-lined streets and desert roads just hits differently.
Checked into Embassy Suites by Hilton Arcadia Pasadena (super comfy, by the way) and then kicked off the day with a much needed coffee stop. Then came a late lunch, something casual but delicious, followed by a dreamy stroll down Rodeo Drive. Yup, I definitely had my “Pretty Woman” moment, even if I didn’t buy anything fancy.
Later that evening, I walked the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and even though it’s super touristy, it’s still one of those “you gotta do it once” kind of things. Dinner was at a cozy bistro with some wine and people watching, LA never disappoints.
Today’s Agenda –> Arrive to LA
- Arrive to LA
- Shop at Rodeo Drive
- Visit Hollywood Walk of Fame
DAY 2
Woke up early and grabbed breakfast at Republique, a stunning French-inspired cafe with incredible pastries and a gorgeous ambiance before heading to Griffith Observatory. The view of LA and the Hollywood Sign from up there? Absolutely iconic. I remember just standing there, wow… This place is everything I imagined.
I also wandered around Santa Monica Pier, had lunch by the beach, and dipped my toes in the Pacific Ocean (because I had to!). Venice Beach was next, wild, and full of life. I even spotted a couple of street performers that blew my mind.
Dinner that night was at Catch LA, trendy, upscale, and full of people watching opportunities. Afterward, I checked out Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel West Hollywood for some chill vibes, music, and gorgeous nighttime views.
Today’s Agenda –> Explore LA
DAY 3
This day was different from everydays. I hit the road early and headed toward Joshua Tree National Park. The desert landscape slowly unfolded, and honestly, it felt like I was entering another world. Those massive boulders, twisted trees, and endless skies were so humbling.
I explored on my own and did a few short hikes. One of the highlights? A guided nature walk and sound bath meditation I found GetYourGuide, click here. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I left feeling so centered and peaceful.
There’s something magical about being in Joshua Tree, like time slows down and the chaos of everyday life fades. I didn’t want to leave. Before heading to Palm Springs, I grabbed dinner at Crossroads Cafe, a cozy local spot with hearty comfort food and the friendliest service.
Today’s Agenda –> Explore Joshua Tree National Park
DAY 4
Next stop: Palm Springs! The drive was scenic and surprisingly relaxing. When I arrived, I immediately loved the laid-back desert vibe. Checked into Hilton Palm Springs and went exploring.
The colorful mid-century houses, palm-lined streets, and vintage shops were everything I dreamed of. Lunch was at Cheeky’s Palm Springs, a super popular brunch spot with yummy seasonal dishes. That night, I decided to try my luck at the Agua Caliente Casino. It was so fun, even though I didn’t win anything, the atmosphere was electric!
Today’s Agenda –> Drive to Palm Springs + casino night
DAY 5
I kicked off the day with an Open Air Jeep Tour of the San Andreas Fault. Super cool, super informative, and the views? Just wow.
Before heading out, I had lunch at Workshop Kitchen + Bar, a stylish spot with modern American cuisine. After that, it was time to hit the road again, off to San Diego! The drive was smooth, and by the time I arrived at my Marriott hotel in San Diego, I was ready to explore. Dinner was at C Level Lounge, right on the water, with sunset views that made me feel like I was living in a postcard.
Today’s Agenda –> Palm Springs + drive to San Diego
DAY 6
San Diego completely stole my heart. I started the day with breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla, then walked through Balboa Park (it’s like a fairytale), and headed to La Jolla Cove for beach time and seal spotting (so cute!).
I also did a whale watching tour that was honestly one of my favorite moments of the whole trip. The ocean breeze, the thrill of spotting whales, it was unforgettable.
Dinner was at Herb & Wood, one of San Diego’s hottest spots with an artsy atmosphere and delicious food. I wrapped up the night with a drink at Raised by Wolves, a hidden speakeasy with a vintage feel and absolutely incredible cocktails.
Today’s Agenda –> Explore San Diego
DAY 7
This was the last day and I couldn’t believe how fast the week had flown by. I had breakfast at Morning Glory (a brunch lover’s dream) in Little Italy, took one last stroll along the harbor, and then made the drive back to Los Angeles for my flight home. My heart felt full, my camera roll overflowing, and my soul recharged.
Today’s Agenda –> Spa day + return to LA
CONCLUSION– SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 1 WEEK ITINERARY
A Southern California road trip is one of those magical, soul-refreshing experiences that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. The sun-drenched beaches, the desert serenity, the cosmopolitan buzz, and the unforgettable sunsets, all of it leaves a little imprint on your heart. That’s why this road trip is one of those adventures I wholeheartedly recommend you take at least once in your life.
I created this itinerary after a lot of research, dreaming, and planning, and I truly hope it helps you build your own unforgettable memories while road tripping across this beautiful part of California. From the glitter and glam of Los Angeles to the soul-soothing deserts of Joshua Tree, the retro charm and chill vibes of Palm Springs, and the breezy coastal bliss of San Diego, this trip gave me everything I needed and so much more.
If this itinerary speaks to your travel loving soul, go for it. Use it as your guide, tweak it to your own style, and turn it into your own story. That’s the beauty of road trips, they’re as unique as you are. And believe me, Southern California is ready to welcome you with open arms, sunshine, and unforgettable memories.
Have a beautiful and happy trip, and if you have any questions or need help planning, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help fellow travelers chase their adventure dreams.
