Most Scenic Road Trips in Long Beach, California, United States
1. Palos Verdes Peninsula Scenic Drive
Wind through stunning ocean vistas, clifftop views, and coastal wildlife on this scenic drive.
- Coastal Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to spot dolphins, seals, and migrating gray whales
- Natural Beauty: Breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and rolling hills
- Historical Landmarks: Visit Point Vicente Lighthouse and the Korean Bell of Friendship
2. San Gabriel River Canyon Scenic Byway
Follow the San Gabriel River through the rugged canyons and mountains, with stunning views of the city below.
- Natural Wonders: Hike to Sturtevant Falls or explore Chino Hills State Park
- Historical Sites: Visit the historic mining town of Mt. Baldy and the Rim of the World Scenic Byway
- Outdoor Adventure: Opportunity for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping
3. Catalina Island Circumnavigation
Sail or drive around Santa Catalina Island for stunning ocean views and wildlife encounters.
- Marine Life Encounters: Opportunity to see sea lions, dolphins, and even the rare Garibaldi fish
- Historical Landmarks: Visit Avalon's Casino and the fascinating WWII-era Catalina Island Museum
- Outdoor Activities: Hike to Two Harbors, snorkel, or explore the island by golf cart
4. Rancho Palos Verdes Shoreline Drive
Drive along the cliffs of Rancho Palos Verdes for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Coastal Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to spot dolphins, whales, and seals
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Palos Verdes Peninsula
- Historical Landmarks: Visit Point Fermin Lighthouse or the Korean Bell of Friendship
5. Long Beach Peninsula Loop
Drive along Long Beach's scenic peninsula for views of the ocean, beach, and local communities.
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Local Culture: Visit the historic Queen Mary or explore the eclectic shops in Belmont Shore
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the ocean and sunsets over the horizon
6. Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2)
Experience breathtaking mountain vistas on this scenic highway winding through the San Gabriel Mountains.
- Mountain Scenery: Stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the surrounding valleys
- Hiking Opportunities: Opportunity to hike in the Angeles National Forest or visit Mt. Wilson Observatory
- Historical Sites: Visit Wrightwood and explore the Route 66 Museum
7. San Onofre State Beach Park Loop
Drive along the scenic coastline of San Onofre State Beach for stunning ocean views and beach access.
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs
- Coastal Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to spot seals, dolphins, and migrating gray whales
8. Newport Coastline Drive
Drive along the scenic coastline of Newport Beach for stunning ocean views and luxury homes.
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Luxury Home Viewing: See some of the most expensive homes in Southern California
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs
9. Laguna Beach Loop
Drive along the scenic coastline of Laguna Beach for stunning ocean views, art galleries, and beach access.
- Art Galleries: Visit numerous art galleries showcasing local artists
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs
10. Catalina Island Interior Drive
Explore the interior of Santa Catalina Island for scenic mountain views, charming towns, and outdoor activities.
- Outdoor Activities: Opportunity for hiking, biking, or horseback riding
- Historical Landmarks: Visit the charming towns of Avalon and Two Harbors
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to see bison, eagles, and other native wildlife
11. Orange County Coast Highway (SR-1)
Drive along the scenic Orange County coastline for stunning ocean views, beach access, and charming coastal towns.
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs
- Local Culture: Explore charming coastal towns such as Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Huntington Beach
12. Malibu Coastline Drive
Drive along the scenic coastline of Malibu for stunning ocean views, beach access, and luxury homes.
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Luxury Home Viewing: See some of the most expensive homes in Southern California
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs
13. Palm Springs to Joshua Tree Scenic Drive
Drive through the stunning desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park for a unique and breathtaking experience.
- Desert Landscapes: Stunning views of the Mojave Desert and Joshua Trees
- Outdoor Activities: Opportunity for hiking, rock climbing, or stargazing
- Historical Sites: Visit Pioneertown and the Integratron
14. Carlsbad Coast Road Scenic Drive
Drive along the scenic coast road in Carlsbad for stunning ocean views, beach access, and charming coastal towns.
- Beach Activities: Opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing
- Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding cliffs
- Local Culture: Explore charming coastal towns such as Carlsbad Village or Legoland California
15. Death Valley Scenic Drive
Drive through the stunning landscapes of Death Valley National Park for a unique and breathtaking experience.
- Desert Landscapes: Stunning views of sand dunes, rock formations, and badlands
- Outdoor Activities: Opportunity for hiking, off-roading, or stargazing
- Historical Sites: Visit Scotty's Castle and the Furnace Creek Ranch