Near Death Valley Junction, Death Valley National Park. Click the image to expand gallery. Lake Manly in February 2024, formed in Badwater Basin after Hurricane Hillary brought record-breaking rains to the area. It's since evaporated. Gas and markets are hard to come by around DVNP. Stock & gas up when given the opportunity. A sandstorm during sunset meant dramatic sky conditions, at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park. The first rays of the morning sun hit the mountains near Death Valley National Park. Abandoned garage in Death Valley Junction. A dirt de ..read more

Park Boulevard in Joshua Tree National Park, CA. Click the image to expand gallery. Photos by Erin Lindsey/Escape LA. The iconic Joshua Tree at sunset, outside Joshua Tree National Park. Adventure mobiles abound in Joshua Tree National Park. The iconic Pioneertown road, linking Yucca Valley and Pioneertown, CA. Pioneertown, CA. The iconic boulders at Joshua Tree National Park. A rare snow day in Pioneertown, CA. Off-roading near Giant Rock, Landers, CA. A true desert oasis awaits hikers at 49 Palms Oasis, one of our favorite hikes at Joshua Tree National Park. Sunset hike ..read more

As summer gives way to autumn, our favorite desert destination, Joshua Tree, swings back into high season – boasting hot-but-comfortable conditions during the day, perfect sunset temps, and chilly, starry nights. Though arguments can be made for all seasons – we love winter’s snow days, spring’s blooms, summer’s hot nights, and autumn’s perfect weather – most would say the best time to visit Joshua Tree is March through May, and October through November, capitalizing on spring and autumn’s milder climates. As part time desert dwellers with some authority – and strong opinions – we prefer the ..read more

BOOK IT HERE THE VIBE: Mid-century home with hot tub/pool, sunset and mountain views, and plant-filled sunroom with a dining table. LOCATION: 120 miles from L.A. in Yucca Valley, CA. ROOMS: Three bedrooms sleeps up to five guests. AMENITIES: Cowboy pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, gazebo with fire pit, unobstructed views of San Jacinto, plant-filled sunroom with dining table, home office. Very central location. Created by the founder of Escape L.A. and Escape Brooklyn, Las Palmas is near and dear to our hearts. This midcentury desert oasis was designed to connect guests with nature both ..read more

Coastal view including the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur, California. Click the image to expand the gallery. Our favorite lodging in Big Sur: Deetjen's Big Sur Inn, California. View from the top of the trail behind Deetjens Big Sur Inn Arrive early to avoid the long lines at the popular Big Sur Bakery Courtyard at the Big Sur Bakery Coastal view at sunset of Big Sur, California Night view of the patio at Nepenthe restaurant in Big Sur, California. Photo c/o Nepenthe. Ocean view from Nepenthe restaurant's patio in Big Sur, California. Photo c/o Nepenthe. Coastal scene ..read more

BOOK IT HERE THE VIBE: Relaxed and intimate boutique hotel in central Palm Springs. LOCATION: 105 miles from LA in Palm Springs, CA. ROOMS: Studio to two bedrooms (suites or cottages) AMENITIES: Two pools, hot tub, outdoor spaces, small market with light bites and bar. As one of the most historic properties in Palm Springs, boutique hotel Casa Cody gives a glimpse into the past while offering modern amenities, unique rooms, and a quiet relaxing setting tucked under the San Jacinto Mountains. We love this hotel for a peaceful and/or romantic stay where you can really unwind and soak up ..read more

Escape the city heat with these coastal California vacation home rentals – all a quick drive from Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for a weekend trip or a longer stay, leave the hustle and bustle behind and chill with the sights and sounds of the beach. Below, some of our favorite seaside homes in partnership with Plum Guide, whose super-curated collection of rentals only selects the most remarkable of homes. *Disclosure: Escape LA independently reviews and curates everything we recommend. When you book through our links, we may earn a commission. All views and recommendations are our own ..read more

Located 107 miles east of Los Angeles and nestled at the base of the mighty San Jacinto mountain you’ll find the bustling resort town of Palm Springs. Brought into popularity by the 1930s by Hollywood elite, Palm Springs remains a hot spot where historical charm meets all things modern. Whether you are searching for ultimate poolside relaxation, outdoor adventures, or cultural immersion via the impressive museums and architecture on offer – there is something for everyone at this sunny destination.  If visiting for more than a few days, we recommend the short drive to explore our other ..read more

Click the image to expand the gallery. Photo: morning in Lake Arrowhead region c/o The Perch, Twin Peaks, CA. Lake Arrowhead in autumn. Photo: Carter Saunders via Unsplash You'll need to pick up Adventure Passes to enjoy the hikes and natural features around Lake Arrowhead. Photo: Erin Lindsey/Escape LA. Hiking in Lake Arrowhead, CA. Photo: Erin Lindsey/Escape LA. Sunset hour in Lake Arrowhead from the Rim of the World Highway. Photo: Erin Lindsey/Escape LA. The very cozy Cabin 7 at The Perch, in Twin Peaks, CA. Photo: Erin Lindsey/Escape LA. Cabins at The Perch in Twin Peaks ..read more

BOOK IT HERE THE VIBE: Lake Arrowhead cabin with cozy, kid-friendly vibes set amongst treetops LOCATION: 80 miles from LA in Lake Arrowhead, CA ROOMS: Three bedrooms can sleep seven guests. AMENITIES: Stone fireplace, multiple decks, kid-friendly, 10 minutes to Lake Arrowhead or 15 to Lake George This Lake Arrowhead cabin, the Casa Cabina, is a charming Bavarian style 3-bed, 2-bath cabin sleeping up to seven guests. The cozy space was created by the minds behind Piva Casa, a kid-friendly vacation rental company, with tons of amenities for those traveling with their littles (the owner ..read more