From the epic surf spots and sweeping canyon trails of Orange County’s western shores to the towering mountain peaks and ever-changing flora and fauna of the San Bernardino, Santa Rosa, and San Jacinto Mountain ranges, Southern California is truly a haven for those who want to see beautiful and unique places.
Whether you’re sitting in a rotating aerial tramcar looking down on the variegated landscape of the greater Palm Springs valley from an 8,500-foot vantage point or kayaking a sea cave in search of sea lions off the Channel Islands, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Here are six of the most beautiful places in Southern California to go for a weekend: