Bakersfield, California: 10 Best Short Day Trips Nearby
10 Easy Road Trips from Bakersfield, California for a Fun Day Out
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| From towering sequoias to coastal breezes and wide-open desert views, these easy day trips from Bakersfield make it simple to reset and explore. |
If you live in Bakersfield, California, or you’re passing through and itching for a quick escape, you’re in a great spot for it. One of the best things about Bakersfield is that a change of scenery is never too far away. In just a couple of hours, you can trade city streets for giant trees, ocean views, mountain air, desert landscapes, or charming small towns.
This guide covers 10 short out-of-county road trips near Bakersfield using only nearby counties. So if you’re looking for a simple day trip, a scenic nearby getaway, or even ideas for a relaxed weekend trip, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.
I’ve always felt that a good road trip from Bakersfield is a little like hitting refresh on your whole week. You don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere totally different. Ready to pick your next adventure?
1. Sequoia National Park in Tulare County
If you want a classic day trip from Bakersfield, it’s hard to beat Sequoia National Park. The giant trees here make everything feel smaller in the best possible way. Standing near those massive trunks is one of those experiences that photos never fully capture.
This is a great pick if you want cooler mountain air, scenic drives, and easy nature stops. The park is especially famous for the General Sherman Tree, one of the largest trees on Earth.
- Why go: Giant sequoias, mountain views, fresh air
- Best for: Families, couples, nature lovers
- Trip vibe: Easy outdoor road trip with big wow-factor
Bring layers. Even if Bakersfield feels hot, the mountains can be a whole different story.
2. Go to Hanford in Kings County
For a true out-of-county day trip from Bakersfield, Hanford in Kings County, CA is a solid choice. It has a historic downtown that feels pleasantly old-school, with local shops, murals, and a slower pace that can be really refreshing.
If you like exploring places that don’t feel overdone, this is a fun option. It’s not flashy, but that’s part of the charm. Sometimes the best nearby getaway is just a simple drive, a good lunch, and a few hours of wandering somewhere new.
- Why go: Historic downtown, local flavor, easy drive
- Best for: Casual day trippers, couples, small groups
- Trip vibe: Low-key and relaxing
Try a local café and take your time. Not every road trip has to be packed with action.
3. Death Valley National Park in Inyo County
Want something that feels totally different from Bakersfield? Head to Death Valley National Park in Inyo County. Yes, it’s a longer day, but it’s still one of the most iconic trips you can take from this part of California.
The landscape looks almost unreal. Salt flats, rugged mountains, sweeping desert views—it’s like stepping onto another planet. If you enjoy dramatic scenery, this place delivers.
- Why go: One-of-a-kind desert landscapes
- Best for: Photography, scenic drives, adventurous travelers
- Trip vibe: Bold, unforgettable, and a little wild
Important tip: Check the weather before you go. Summer heat here is serious, so cooler months are much better for a comfortable visit.
4. Santa Barbara Waterfront in Santa Barbara County
Need some ocean air? Santa Barbara is one of the prettiest day trips near Bakersfield, California. The waterfront has that perfect mix of beach town ease and polished charm.
You can walk along the sand, visit Stearns Wharf, grab seafood, or simply sit and enjoy the view. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down without even trying.
- Why go: Beach views, dining, relaxed coastal atmosphere
- Best for: Couples, friend groups, solo travelers
- Trip vibe: Breezy and laid-back
If your week has felt noisy, Santa Barbara can feel like turning the volume down.
5. Pismo Beach in San Luis Obispo County
Pismo Beach is another favorite road trip from Bakersfield, especially if you’re craving classic California coast energy. Think wide beach views, a walkable pier area, and plenty of spots to grab a bite.
This is the kind of getaway that works whether you want to keep things simple or make a full day of it. Walk the shoreline, watch the waves, and enjoy a slower pace for a while.
- Why go: Beach day, pier strolls, scenic coast
- Best for: Families, beach lovers, easy weekend trip planning
- Trip vibe: Classic and carefree
I’ve found that even a few hours by the water can reset your mood fast. It’s a simple trip, but sometimes simple is exactly what you need.
6. Channel Islands Harbor in Ventura County
If you want a coastal escape with a little something extra, check out Channel Islands Harbor in Ventura County. This spot has views of the water, boat activity, seafood restaurants, and a relaxed marina feel.
It’s ideal for people who want the coast without the busier energy of some larger beach cities. You can stroll, rent something for the water, or just enjoy lunch with a view.
- Why go: Harbor views, boat watching, waterfront dining
- Best for: Couples, families, mellow day trips
- Trip vibe: Peaceful coastal getaway
Ever take a trip where you don’t need a big checklist? This is that kind of place.
7. Malibu Pier in Los Angeles County
For a famous and scenic nearby getaway from Bakersfield, head to Malibu Pier. Malibu gives you those postcard-worthy ocean views that make even a short trip feel special.
The drive and destination both feel memorable. Once you arrive, you can walk the pier, enjoy the beach, and take in some of the best coastal scenery in Southern California.
- Why go: Iconic SoCal views, beach time, scenic photos
- Best for: First-time visitors, couples, day trippers
- Trip vibe: Beautiful and breezy
If you’ve been wanting a road trip that feels a little more iconic, Malibu is an easy yes.
8. The Getty Center in Los Angeles County
If your perfect day trip includes art, gardens, and city views, the Getty Center is a great pick. This world-famous museum offers beautiful architecture and impressive collections, but even people who don’t usually plan museum trips tend to enjoy it.
Why? Because it doesn’t feel stiff. It feels open, scenic, and surprisingly relaxing. The hilltop views alone are worth the drive.
- Why go: Art, gardens, skyline views
- Best for: Culture lovers, couples, solo explorers
- Trip vibe: Thoughtful but easygoing
It’s a nice reminder that a road trip from Bakersfield doesn’t always have to mean wilderness or beaches. Sometimes a change in pace is the whole point.
9. Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County
Big Bear Lake is a great choice when you want mountain scenery and a small-town vacation feel. It works well as a long day trip, but it can also turn into a really fun weekend trip if you have more time.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy lake views, hiking, cozy restaurants, or winter snow fun. That flexibility is part of what makes Big Bear so popular.
- Why go: Mountain town charm, lake scenery, seasonal fun
- Best for: Families, couples, outdoor fans
- Trip vibe: Refreshing and scenic
It’s one of those places that can feel calm or active depending on what you want that day.
10. Alabama Hills in Inyo County
Last but definitely not least, Alabama Hills delivers one of the most striking landscapes you’ll find on a day trip from Bakersfield, CA. The rock formations, open space, and mountain backdrop make it a favorite for photographers and anyone who loves dramatic scenery.
There’s a rugged beauty here that feels both peaceful and cinematic. In fact, many movies and shows have used this area as a filming location, and once you see it, that makes perfect sense.
- Why go: Unique rock formations, scenic drives, photos
- Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, nature lovers
- Trip vibe: Quiet, wide-open, and unforgettable
If you ever want a nearby escape that feels far bigger than a basic day out, this is a great one to put on your list.
Quick Tips for Planning Bakersfield Day Trips
Before you hit the road, here are a few simple tips to make your trip smoother:
- Start early to beat traffic and make the most of your day.
- Check weather conditions, especially for mountain and desert trips.
- Pack water and snacks even on short drives.
- Wear layers since temperatures can change fast between Bakersfield and your destination.
- Make room for spontaneity. Some of the best road trip moments are the ones you didn’t plan.
Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips from Bakersfield, California
There are so many great things to do near Bakersfield once you step outside Kern County. From giant sequoias and desert views to beaches, harbors, museums, and mountain towns, these trips prove you don’t need a huge vacation to make new memories.
So, which one sounds best to you? A coastal day in Malibu? Towering trees in Sequoia? A peaceful harbor stop in Ventura County? Whatever your style, there’s a short road trip from Bakersfield, California waiting for you.
If you found this list helpful, share it with a friend who loves a good day trip. And if you’ve already taken one of these drives—or have another favorite nearby getaway—leave a comment and join the conversation.
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