Day trips from Bakersfield, CA

From Bakersfield, California

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

πŸ“ 85 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Santa Barbara Harbor
  • βœ“Old Mission Santa Barbara
  • βœ“Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
  • βœ“Butterfly Beach
  • βœ“East Beach

2. Paso Robles

πŸ“ 100 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Wine tasting at local wineries
  • βœ“Paso Robles Pioneer Museum
  • βœ“Paso Robles Park
  • βœ“Scenic hikes in the nearby mountains
  • βœ“Upscale dining options

3. Mammoth Lakes

πŸ“ 180 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Mammoth Mountain skiing
  • βœ“Hiking and mountain biking
  • βœ“Fishing in the lakes and streams
  • βœ“Mammoth Lakes Basin
  • βœ“Ancient bristlecone pine trees tour

4. Santa Maria

πŸ“ 70 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum
  • βœ“Santa Maria Valley Wine Country
  • βœ“Oso Flaco Lake Natural Area
  • βœ“Santa Maria-style barbecue
  • βœ“Wine tasting at local vineyards

5. Los Angeles

πŸ“ 110 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Griffith Observatory
  • βœ“The Getty Center
  • βœ“Hollywood Walk of Fame
  • βœ“Diverse dining options
  • βœ“Iconic landmarks

6. Pismo Beach

πŸ“ 130 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Pismo State Beach
  • βœ“Shell Beach
  • βœ“Pismo Beach Premium Outlets
  • βœ“Edna Valley Wine Country
  • βœ“Fresh seafood dining

7. Monterey

πŸ“ 170 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • βœ“Cannery Row
  • βœ“17-Mile Drive
  • βœ“Diverse dining options
  • βœ“Historic maritime heritage

8. Palm Springs

πŸ“ 190 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
  • βœ“Palm Springs Art Museum
  • βœ“Historic downtown area
  • βœ“Hot springs
  • βœ“Mid-century modern architecture

9. San Luis Obispo

πŸ“ 110 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“San Luis Obispo Mission
  • βœ“San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden
  • βœ“Madonna Inn
  • βœ“Local wineries
  • βœ“Vibrant downtown area

10. San Simeon

πŸ“ 150 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Hearst Castle
  • βœ“Elephant Seal Vista Point
  • βœ“Pacific Coast Highway
  • βœ“Fresh seafood dining
  • βœ“Stunning natural beauty

11. San Francisco

πŸ“ 200 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“Golden Gate Bridge
  • βœ“Fisherman's Wharf
  • βœ“Chinatown
  • βœ“Diverse dining options
  • βœ“Iconic landmarks

12. San Diego

πŸ“ 200 miles from Bakersfield‒⏱️ Full day

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:

  • βœ“USS Midway Museum
  • βœ“San Diego Zoo
  • βœ“Gaslamp Quarter
  • βœ“Diverse dining options
  • βœ“Beautiful beaches

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