Day trips from Bakersfield, CA
From Bakersfield, California
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Bakersfield, California, is a gateway to a diverse range of day trip destinations that cater to various interests. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of nature, the thrill of adventure sports, or the charm of historic towns, there's something for everyone within a 200-mile radius. From the stunning coastal views of Santa Barbara to the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains, these day trips offer a mix of experiences that will make your journey unforgettable. Embark on a culinary adventure in Paso Robles, explore the rich history of Santa Maria, or indulge in the vibrant arts scene of Los Angeles. With so many options, you'll never run out of exciting places to explore from Bakersfield.
1. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, often referred to as the 'American Riviera,' is a coastal gem that offers a blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant culture. Stroll along the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and watch the boats come in. Explore the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture. For nature lovers, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a must-visit, featuring a diverse collection of native plants. Don't miss the chance to relax on the pristine beaches, such as Butterfly Beach and East Beach.
What to See & Do:
- βSanta Barbara Harbor
- βOld Mission Santa Barbara
- βSanta Barbara Botanic Garden
- βButterfly Beach
- βEast Beach
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
2. Paso Robles
Paso Robles is a wine lover's paradise, nestled in the heart of California's Central Coast. With over 200 wineries, you can spend the day sampling some of the finest wines in the region. The town also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. For a unique experience, visit the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum, which showcases the area's rich history. Nature enthusiasts can explore the beautiful Paso Robles Park or take a scenic hike in the nearby mountains.
What to See & Do:
- βWine tasting at local wineries
- βPaso Robles Pioneer Museum
- βPaso Robles Park
- βScenic hikes in the nearby mountains
- βUpscale dining options
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
3. Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is a year-round resort town nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. In the winter, hit the slopes at Mammoth Mountain, one of the largest ski resorts in the country. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the pristine lakes and streams. Don't miss the chance to visit the Mammoth Lakes Basin, a stunning area with numerous lakes and scenic trails. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the ancient bristlecone pine trees.
What to See & Do:
- βMammoth Mountain skiing
- βHiking and mountain biking
- βFishing in the lakes and streams
- βMammoth Lakes Basin
- βAncient bristlecone pine trees tour
Available Tours (3)
4. Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a historic town with a rich agricultural heritage, known for its delicious barbecue and wine. Visit the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum to learn about the area's past. For wine enthusiasts, the Santa Maria Valley Wine Country offers a variety of tasting rooms and vineyards. Nature lovers can explore the beautiful Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area, which features a boardwalk trail through the wetlands. Don't miss the chance to sample the famous Santa Maria-style barbecue at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- βSanta Maria Valley Historical Society Museum
- βSanta Maria Valley Wine Country
- βOso Flaco Lake Natural Area
- βSanta Maria-style barbecue
- βWine tasting at local vineyards
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
5. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a vibrant city with a diverse range of attractions, from iconic landmarks to world-class museums. Visit the Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city and the stars. Explore the Getty Center, a cultural campus known for its architecture, gardens, and art collections. For a taste of Hollywood glamour, take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the city's diverse dining scene, from street food to fine dining.
What to See & Do:
- βGriffith Observatory
- βThe Getty Center
- βHollywood Walk of Fame
- βDiverse dining options
- βIconic landmarks
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
6. Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and wine. Relax on the pristine beaches, such as Pismo State Beach and Shell Beach. For a unique experience, visit the Pismo Beach Premium Outlets for some retail therapy. Wine enthusiasts can explore the nearby Edna Valley Wine Country, which offers a variety of tasting rooms and vineyards. Don't miss the chance to sample the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- βPismo State Beach
- βShell Beach
- βPismo Beach Premium Outlets
- βEdna Valley Wine Country
- βFresh seafood dining
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
7. Monterey
Monterey is a historic city with a rich maritime heritage, known for its beautiful coastline and world-class attractions. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Explore the historic Cannery Row, a waterfront district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. For a scenic drive, take the 17-Mile Drive, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the famous Lone Cypress. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the city's diverse dining scene, from seafood to Mexican cuisine.
What to See & Do:
- βMonterey Bay Aquarium
- βCannery Row
- β17-Mile Drive
- βDiverse dining options
- βHistoric maritime heritage
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
8. Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture, hot springs, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for a scenic ride up to the San Jacinto Mountains. Explore the Palm Springs Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of art and cultural exhibits. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the historic downtown area, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the chance to relax in one of the city's many hot springs.
What to See & Do:
- βPalm Springs Aerial Tramway
- βPalm Springs Art Museum
- βHistoric downtown area
- βHot springs
- βMid-century modern architecture
Available Tours (9)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 9 tours β
9. San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo is a charming college town known for its vibrant downtown area, beautiful parks, and nearby wineries. Visit the San Luis Obispo Mission, a historic landmark with a beautiful garden. Explore the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, which features a diverse collection of native plants. For a unique experience, visit the Madonna Inn, a famous hotel with a unique and eclectic design. Don't miss the chance to sample the local wine at one of the nearby vineyards.
What to See & Do:
- βSan Luis Obispo Mission
- βSan Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
- βMadonna Inn
- βLocal wineries
- βVibrant downtown area
Available Tours (3)
10. San Simeon
San Simeon is a coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks. Visit Hearst Castle, a magnificent estate built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Explore the nearby Elephant Seal Vista Point, where you can watch the elephant seals in their natural habitat. For a scenic drive, take the Pacific Coast Highway, which offers stunning views of the coastline. Don't miss the chance to sample the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- βHearst Castle
- βElephant Seal Vista Point
- βPacific Coast Highway
- βFresh seafood dining
- βStunning natural beauty
11. San Francisco
San Francisco is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class attractions. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most famous suspension bridges in the world. Explore the Fisherman's Wharf, a waterfront district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the historic Chinatown, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the city's diverse dining scene, from seafood to Mexican cuisine.
What to See & Do:
- βGolden Gate Bridge
- βFisherman's Wharf
- βChinatown
- βDiverse dining options
- βIconic landmarks
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
12. San Diego
San Diego is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, world-class attractions, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the USS Midway Museum, a maritime museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier. Explore the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest zoos in the world. For a unique experience, take a stroll through the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the city's diverse dining scene, from seafood to Mexican cuisine.
What to See & Do:
- βUSS Midway Museum
- βSan Diego Zoo
- βGaslamp Quarter
- βDiverse dining options
- βBeautiful beaches
Available Tours (10)
β Scroll horizontally to see all 10 tours β
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