Burbank, California: 10 Short Day Trips You’ll Love
10 Easy Road Trips from Burbank, California for a Fun Day Out
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| From ocean breezes in Ventura to mountain air in Big Bear and sun-soaked desert drives near Red Rock Canyon, these easy escapes from Burbank feel like a reset. |
Need a quick escape from Burbank, California? You’re in a great spot for it. One of the best things about living in or visiting Burbank is how many fun day trips near Burbank you can reach without turning the drive into a full-blown marathon.
If you’re craving beach views, mountain air, desert scenery, or a family-friendly outing, there’s a nearby getaway waiting just outside Los Angeles County. This guide focuses only on short out-of-county road trips from Burbank, CA, so every idea gets you beyond the usual city routine.
I’ve always loved these kinds of mini escapes. Sometimes a one-day drive feels like hitting the reset button without needing to pack for a week. So, where should you go first?
1. Ventura Pier and Beach in Ventura County
If you want a classic California coastal day, head to Ventura Pier and Beach. It’s one of the easiest beach day trips from Burbank, California, and the laid-back vibe is a nice break from city traffic and studio energy.
You can walk the pier, watch surfers, or just sit with fish tacos and let the ocean do its thing. It’s the kind of place that reminds you not every great trip has to be complicated.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 15 minutes
- Best for: beach lovers, couples, easygoing outings
- Don’t miss: sunset views and downtown Ventura nearby
2. Ojai for a Relaxing Small-Town Getaway
Ojai feels like a deep breath. Tucked into Ventura County, this charming town is known for its artsy vibe, mountain views, and slower pace. If your ideal weekend trip or day trip near Burbank includes local shops, cafes, and pretty scenery, Ojai checks a lot of boxes.
Take a walk through downtown, browse bookstores, or grab a fresh pastry and coffee. The whole town has a calm energy that feels a little like stepping into a postcard.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 30 minutes
- Best for: couples, solo travelers, relaxing drives
- Try: olive oil tasting or an easy bike ride
3. Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard
Looking for a coastal road trip from Burbank that feels a little different? Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard is a great pick. It has boats, waterfront dining, paddleboarding, and a breezy marina setting that feels fun without being too hectic.
If you’ve ever wanted a beach day with a bit more variety, this is a smart choice. It’s like getting a seaside stroll and a casual adventure rolled into one.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 20 minutes
- Best for: families, couples, active travelers
- Good idea: rent kayaks or enjoy lunch by the water
4. Balboa Island in Orange County
For a charming coastal day trip from Burbank, CA, head to Balboa Island in Newport Beach. Even though it’s in Orange County, it feels worlds away from daily life. The bay views, little shops, and walkable streets make it easy to enjoy at your own pace.
And yes, getting a frozen banana or Balboa Bar is pretty much part of the experience. It’s touristy in the best way, like an old-school California outing that still works.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Best for: classic SoCal vibes, strolling, waterfront snacks
- Don’t miss: the ferry ride for a fun little extra
5. Laguna Beach for Coastal Views and Art
Laguna Beach is one of the most iconic nearby getaways from Burbank if you love ocean scenery. The cliffs, coves, art galleries, and walkable downtown make it feel both upscale and welcoming.
You can spend the day beach hopping, browsing local art, or just watching the waves roll in. On a clear day, it’s hard not to think, “Why don’t I do this more often?”
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Best for: beach days, art lovers, scenic drives
- Top pick: Heisler Park for gorgeous ocean views
6. Disneyland Resort Area in Anaheim
If you’re traveling with kids, or if you’re a grown-up who still loves a little magic, Anaheim makes an easy and exciting road trip from Burbank, California. The Disneyland Resort area is packed with energy, food, and entertainment.
Even if you’re not doing a full park day, Downtown Disney can still make for a fun outing. Sometimes a quick escape works best when it feels playful.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
- Best for: families, Disney fans, all-ages fun
- Tip: start early to make the most of the day
7. Big Bear Lake in San Bernardino County
When you want mountain scenery, Big Bear Lake is one of the best day trips near Burbank. It offers a totally different side of Southern California. In cooler months, you get that cozy cabin feel. In warmer months, the lake and trails steal the show.
I always think of Big Bear as Southern California’s version of a quick reset in the woods. It’s not too far, but it feels far enough.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 2 hours
- Best for: hiking, lake views, winter fun, family outings
- Popular activities: boating, scenic drives, village shopping
8. Lake Arrowhead Village for a Cozy Mountain Escape
If you like mountain towns but want something a little more low-key, Lake Arrowhead Village is a great pick. This short road trip from Burbank gives you pine trees, lake scenery, and a cozy atmosphere that feels great year-round.
It’s especially nice if you want a gentle day without rushing from attraction to attraction. Think coffee, lakeside views, and a relaxing walk. Simple, but sometimes simple wins.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Best for: couples, peaceful outings, mountain air
- Nice bonus: easy shopping and dining in the village
9. Palm Springs for Mid-Century Style and Sunshine
Want a desert weekend trip feel in a single day? Palm Springs in San Bernardino County is a stylish choice. You’ll find mountain backdrops, mid-century architecture, great brunch spots, and plenty of sunshine.
It’s a good option when you want a road trip with personality. Palm Springs has that cool factor, but it’s also very easy to enjoy even if your plan is just eating well and wandering around downtown.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 2 hours
- Best for: foodies, design lovers, warm-weather escapes
- Fun idea: ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway if time allows
10. Red Rock Canyon State Park in Kern County
For something dramatic and a little less expected, go to Red Rock Canyon State Park in Kern County. This is one of the most memorable day trips from Burbank, California if you like desert landscapes, rock formations, and scenic photography.
The views feel almost movie-set unreal, which is fitting when you’re coming from Burbank. It’s a great pick for travelers who want open space and a break from the usual beach-or-mall routine.
- Drive time from Burbank: about 1 hour 45 minutes
- Best for: nature lovers, photographers, scenic drives
- Bring: water, snacks, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes
Tips for Planning Your Burbank Day Trip
Before you hit the road, here are a few simple tips to make your nearby getaway from Burbank smoother:
- Leave early if you can. Southern California traffic can turn a short drive into a long one.
- Pack layers. Beach towns, mountains, and deserts can all feel very different in one day.
- Check parking details ahead of time, especially in busy coastal spots.
- Bring water and snacks for longer drives.
- Have a loose plan, but don’t overbook the day.
A good road trip should feel fun, not rushed. Think of it like building a great playlist: you want enough structure to keep things moving, but enough freedom to enjoy the ride.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Burbank, California
From beaches in Ventura County and Orange County to mountain towns and desert views in San Bernardino County and Kern County, there are so many fun things to do near Burbank, California without staying in Los Angeles County.
Whether you want a quick day trip, a scenic road trip, or a simple weekend trip idea to save for later, these spots make it easy to get out and explore.
Which one would you pick first? If this list helped you plan your next escape, share it with a friend and drop a comment with your favorite nearby getaway from Burbank. I’d love to hear where you go next.
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