6 spots to kick off summer in Southern California

Anthony Robledo, Palm Springs Desert Sun
·4 min read

There’s more to do in Southern California this summer than going to the beach or hitting the pool.

Whether you want to visit Disneyland for its 100th anniversary or hike to the Hollywood sign, don’t hesitate to enjoy what the region offers — even if it feels a little touristy.

We've compiled a list of scenic spots you may or may not have heard of, but if you're in the mood for a Southern California getaway, you can't go wrong.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens near Pasadena

Enjoy three activities with just one trip to the Pasadena area. This facility prides itself on being one of the world’s great independent research libraries, with millions of materials spanning the 11th to 21st century. If you’re more of a visual learner, check out the museum's pieces honoring American, Asian and European art spanning over 500 years. Before you leave, immerse yourself in Huntington’s fusion of nature and architecture with 16 themed gardens with more than 83,000 plants.

  • When: Open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. every day except Tuesdays

  • Where: 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino

  • Price: $25 for adults on weekdays, and $29 for adults on weekends. Tickets for children ages 4–11 are $13

  • More info: huntington.org

Best Beaches: What are the best beaches in the US? Destinations for any type of beach vacation 2023.

Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles

An LA staple, the Griffith Observatory is your go-to for the perfect scenic view of the city. Admission is free, except for the parking fee, and those who wait until sunset are awarded with the best view of downtown LA. Those who step inside The Observatory can enjoy its educational offerings, including the Samuel Oschin Planetarium and 60 exhibits for those looking to understand space, technology and mythology. There are also public telescopes if you want a look beyond the city skyline.

  • When: Open noon-10 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and closed Mondays

  • Where: 2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles

  • Price: Free

  • More info: griffithobservatory.org

Shoreline Village in Long Beach

Aside from the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach is known for its Shoreline Village. This selection of restaurants by the ocean will satisfy the need for the ideal summer night. It’s a scenic place to shop, grab dessert and relax by the harbor. For those looking for some extra summer fun, every Wednesday from June 21 to Aug. 30, you can hop on a 30-minute boat ride as part of the 20th annual Free Summer Cruises Program.

  • When: Open every day 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

  • Where: 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach

  • More info: shorelinevillage.com

Santa Barbara Bowl

Iration will wrap up its “Live From Paradise!” tour Aug. 25 at the Santa Barbara Bowl. The alternative/reggae band is seen here at the Pacific Amphitheater.
Iration will wrap up its “Live From Paradise!” tour Aug. 25 at the Santa Barbara Bowl. The alternative/reggae band is seen here at the Pacific Amphitheater.

With acts like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé coming to Sofi Stadium this summer, concert season is upon us. But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of LA, the Santa Barbara Bowl is a venue worth checking out. The 4,562-seat amphitheater offers a scenic experience regardless of whoever you’re seeing. In the next few months, expect performances from artists like Diana Ross, Young The Giant and The Lumineers. The Bowl is also home to the Santa Barbara Mariachi Festival on Aug. 5.

  • Where: 1122 N. Milpas St., Santa Barbara

  • Price: Varies per ticket

  • More info: sbbowl.com

Live Nation concert week: Live Nation concert week: $25 tickets to summer shows by Janet Jackson, Shania Twain, more

Top of the World in Laguna Beach

Looking to break a sweat as you enjoy a view? Hike up to the Top of the World vista point in Laguna Beach. Here you’ll make your way through the coastal scrub of Aliso and Wood Canyon Wilderness Park that’ll make you appreciate this panoramic vista of Orange County. From there, on a clear day, you can see Catalina Island all the way to Mount Baldy and appreciate all that the diverse Southern California landscape has to offer.

  • Where: 725 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach

  • More info: hikingguy.com

Santa Ana Art Walk in Santa Ana

Located in the heart of Orange County, the Santa Ana Art Walk takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month. A visit here on July 1, Aug. 5 or Sept. 2 will allow you to relish the range of street art, live music and local vendors. Downtown Santa Ana is also home to various bars, clubs and food trucks, making for a perfect summer evening.

  • When: First Saturday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m.

  • Where: 201 N. Bush St., Santa Ana

  • Price: Free

  • More info: dtsaartwalk.org

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: 6 things to do this summer in Southern California