We all need a little change of scenery every now and then, but luckily San Diegans don’t have to travel too far for it. As much as we love San Diego, it would be a shame not to explore surrounding lands and discover (or rediscover) all its hidden gems. Here are some dreamy weekend escapes, most less than a 3-hour drive from San Diego, that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
1. Caravan Outpost Ojai
Head to this Ojai oasis surrounded by gorgeous palm trees and enough greenery to make you feel like you’ve landed on a tropical island. You’ll stay in a classic airstream trailer and enjoy evenings around the campfire with fairy lights and stars twinkling above you. You can spend your days horseriding, chasing waterfalls, and visiting the incredible wineries, breweries, and eateries nearby.
Location: Caravan Outpost, 317 Bryant St, Ojai, CA 93023, United States
2. El Capitan Canyon
This idyllic spot brings you the very best of the Santa Barbara coast. From the rolling meadows, adorable farm animals, rocky streams, and scenic ocean views, you’ll find it hard to even imagine returning to city life. You can choose to stay in a number of glamping options like a cozy cedar cabin, a beautiful safari tent, or a circular yurt complete with wooden floors and views of the sky.
Location: El Capitan Canyon, 1560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, United
3. Pioneertown Motel weekend escape
Yes, this weekend escape is at a real motel. It looks like a set from a Hollywood Western and that’s pretty much how it started out. The Pioneertown community was founded in 1946 by a group of Hollywood legends including Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Russell Hayden and Dick Curtis. Nowadays, it’s a bonafide motel in the middle of Yucca Valley and these dusty little inns are the perfect way to change up your scenery. Unlike those old flicks, however, there are all the modern amenities you could need out here during one of your weekend escapes.
Location: Pioneertown Motel, 5240Curtis Road, Pioneertown, CA 92268
4. Sacred Sands
Leave the city behind and take in the infinite horizons of the Joshua Tree by soaking in the outdoor tub, then spend your nights gazing up into the magical Milky Way. This iconic landmark is a rustic farmhouse escape balanced with pure luxury, in what feels like the middle of nowhere.
Location: Sacred Sands, 63155 Quail Springs Rd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, United States
5. Vintage Desert Homes
Choose from an array 50s-era homes out in the middle of Joshua Tree. These farmhouses feature outdoor tubs, quirky installations and details that make for a wild escape from reality. View the Airbnb listings here.
6. The Oasis at Death Valley weekend escape
This desert escape is a bit of a drive, but it’s definitely worth the long journey. A total desert oasis awaits you for a quiet and relaxing weekend right in the middle of Death Valley National Park (and close to major Death Valley attractions!). Relax at the pool or on a nice shaded patio, or head to the golf course for an afternoon on the lowest elevation course in the world. And there are accommodation options for every kind of budget, from camping to a four-diamond historic inn.
Location: CA-190, Death Valley, CA 92328, United States
7. Moon Mountain Cabin
Take in sweeping views of the desert at this intimate secluded cabin just 15-minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. Made just right for a weekend away, this cozy is situated on a ‘mini mountain’ perfect for star gazing and disconnecting. If soaking in a hillside hot tub with endless desert vistas doesn’t relax you, we don’t know what will. View the listing here.
8. ALTA COLINA weekend escape
This one’s a bit different, as it’s very close to the city, right in Mission Hills– but it definitely feels like an escape…to Greece! It comes with amazing harbor views, a fireplace, jacuzzi, and event San Diego’s only trolley car. This Airbnb was built with a lot of love, passion, and inspired by beautiful Santorini. Therefore, you can reach the Mediterranean without really leaving SD. Here, you can relax and let yourself be spoilt by the details you’ll find on any corner. Learn more about this unique spot here.
9. Jacumba Hot Springs
Jacumba Hot Springs is a historic desert town in California’s high desert near the U.S.–Mexico border. It’s best known for its natural springs, which are believed to have healing powers, its rich history, and beautiful surrounding nature. After many renovations and changes in management, today you’ll find here the Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel. It doesn’t just offer basic rooms and breakfast, but also 3 stunning offsite guest houses: the Casitas, La Ranchita and the Village House. The Casita guest houses even have private mineral spring soaking tubs. And they’re all dog friendly! If you’re looking to enjoy the stunning nature around Anza-Borrego, this is a lovely spot to choose for your weekend escapes.
10. ArtFarm Movie Ranch & Nomad NeXuS
The last spot on our weekend escapes list, but definitely not the least! This unique retreat blends serene nature, stargazing, and a creative community. It has modern comforts like blazing-fast internet, which makes it perfect for digital nomads and entrepreneurs. Set on a scenic ranch, it’s a space to unplug, reconnect with nature, and collaborate with like-minded people. Whether you’re working remotely, seeking inspiration, or building new ideas, ArtFarm features the ideal balance of solitude and community.