Scenic Road Trips from Long Beach, CA: Escape the City

While Long Beach, California, offers a wealth of attractions, sometimes you crave the freedom of the open road and the excitement of discovering new places. Fortunately, Long Beach serves as an excellent starting point for a variety of scenic road trips. Let's embark on a journey to explore some of Southern California's hidden treasures.
 

The Pacific Coast Highway

Known as one of the most iconic coastal drives in the world, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a must-do road trip from Long Beach. Start your adventure by heading north on PCH, where you'll encounter stunning vistas, quaint seaside towns, and beautiful beaches:

• Laguna Beach: Visit art galleries and explore pristine coves.
• Newport Beach: Enjoy the harbor, shops, and waterfront dining.
• Huntington Beach: Surf City USA offers great waves and a lively atmosphere.
• Seal Beach: Discover charming Main Street and the Seal Beach Pier.

The PCH road trip promises breathtaking ocean views and countless opportunities to pull over and enjoy the scenery.
 

Big Bear Lake

If you're in the mood for a mountain escape, head east from Long Beach to Big Bear Lake. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers a year-round outdoor playground:

• Outdoor Adventures: Hike, bike, ski, or snowboard, depending on the season.
• Big Bear Lake: Enjoy water sports, fishing, and lakeside picnics.
• Village Shopping: Explore the quaint village for shopping and dining.

Big Bear Lake is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil mountain retreat.
 

Joshua Tree National Park

For a unique desert experience, head southeast to Joshua Tree National Park. This surreal landscape boasts striking rock formations, starry skies, and the iconic Joshua trees:

• Hiking: Explore trails like Hidden Valley and Ryan Mountain.
• Stargazing: Witness a breathtaking night sky in this designated Dark Sky Park.
• Photography: Capture the park's otherworldly beauty at every turn.

A road trip to Joshua Tree National Park offers a chance to connect with nature and experience the wonder of the desert.
 

Conclusion

Long Beach, CA, is not just a fantastic destination in itself—it's also the perfect starting point for memorable road trips. Whether you choose the scenic coastal drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, a mountain retreat to Big Bear Lake, or an otherworldly adventure in Joshua Tree National Park, the possibilities for exploration are endless. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden treasures of Southern California.