18 Short Flights From Los Angeles for a Quick Getaway
Looking to get away for the weekend without having to spend hours on the plane? Los Angeles offers many possibilities for a quick escape.
Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, a secluded mountain retreat, or a bustling urban center, these flights from Los Angeles will get you there in less than three hours.
We all know that a change of scenery can do wonders for the soul, so pack your bags and get ready for a short flight to paradise!
1. Las Vegas (1 Hour Flight)
Los Angeles residents looking for a weekend getaway can’t go wrong with Las Vegas. Just quick flight away, Las Vegas provides the perfect opportunity to leave Southern California and feel like you’re in an entirely different world.
This vibrant destination offers something to everyone – a little nightlife, fine dining, amusement parks, spa days, and of course, all the casino fun you can handle.
Make sure to hit up some of the top spots like Mandalay Bay or Caesars Palace, and remember that “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas”!
If your wallet is feeling light, but you still want to have fun, don’t worry – there are plenty of free activities like the iconic Bellagio fountains show.
Quick, easy and unforgettable – who says weekend getaways can’t be cheap?
2. Lake Tahoe (1.5 Hour Flight)
For an unbeatable weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, Lake Tahoe should be at the top of your list.
A short 1.5-hour flight away with breathtaking mountain views and crystal clear waters, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city light years behind.
You could spend your days taking boat rides and fishing on the lake or exploring its majestic hiking trails – Lake Tahoe will not disappoint.
So leave your L.A. stress behind and take to the skies for a weekend getaway to one of the USA’s crown jewels!
3. Palm Springs (1 Hour Flight)
Palm Springs is just a short flight away from Los Angeles and perfect for the perfect sun-washed weekend getaway.
Put away your snow gear and grab your shades, because forget the slopes – it’s time to hit the desert heat!
This oasis town will dapple you with more leisure possibilities than you can count: golf at any of the world-class courses, endless spa days, dips on rooftop pools, exquisite cuisine, and unique mid-century architecture as far as the eye can see.
With sunshine throughout the year and plenty of unique activities to do, the weekend is all the time you need to explore this fashionable desert oasis.
Take off and live out all of your retro dreams in Palm Springs!
4. Los Cabos (2.5 Hour Flight)
Are you in the mood for a tropical beach getaway, but don’t feel like committing to a long flight? Look no further than Los Cabos, one of the many relaxing weekend trip options just off the coast of beautiful Los Angeles.
This coastal paradise allows you to forget about work for a few days and instead enjoy spectacular sunsets, shopping, snorkeling, and delicious Mexican food.
The waters promise sporty catches and memories that last much longer than the short flight it takes to get there.
Plus, we can’t forget the awe-inspiring ocean views while teeing off at one of Cabo’s world-class golf courses.
If those activities don’t quite do it for you, why not add cruising around in a beautiful charter boat to your itinerary?
Whether you book an adults-only resort in Cabo or bring the entire family, an exciting weekend in Los Cabos will guarantee satisfaction as well as new friends.
5. Santa Barbara (1 Hour Flight)
There are few places where you can get a complete change of scenery without having to take too much time off from work.
Santa Barbara is one of those gems, and fortunately for LA locals, it’s just a short flight away!
Dip your toes in the waters of the Pacific Ocean, ride through town on two wheels with the stunning Santa Ynez mountains as your backdrop, and stop by some local shops to take a gander at some impressive art.
History buffs will love exploring Spanish-style colonial buildings, while nature advocates have their pick from endless hiking trails nearby and an abundance of stunning beaches.
If that isn’t enough to convince you it’s worth a weekend jaunt, Santa Barbara boasts some of the best seafood in the state.
Make sure to book early though, it tends to get pretty busy when summer’s here, especially around the holidays.
It is indeed the ultimate California vacation hotspot – so ditch the idea of hitting up Las Vegas and head to Santa Barbara instead!
6. San Diego (1 Hour Flight)
Getting away to San Diego for a weekend is the perfect answer when you’ve had enough of sunny Los Angeles.
With its warm temperate climate, this destination is great for sun-seekers looking to spend their day at the beach or out in the water doing whatever floats their boat – quite literally! Surf, paddleboard, fish or kayak – all are good options.
If a bit of culture is more your thing, a visit to Balboa Park, with everything from zoos to gardens and loads of places to eat and mingle, will certainly fit the bill.
When hunger sets in, head to Little Italy, where artisanal pizza and homemade pasta will satisfy rumbling stomachs for sure.
7. Sonoma Valley (1.5 Hour Flight)
Searching for sun-kissed memories but hesitant to jet off to an exotic locale? If you’ve been on the hunt for something similar to Napa Valley, but not as crowded, Sonoma Valley would be a great alternative!
Located just a short flight away from Los Angeles, this hidden gem has plenty to offer – good vibes, amazing wines and loads of history, which you can explore through the various tours that are offered.
Enjoy infinitely blue skies, endless sunshine, and a laid-back atmosphere without breaking the bank.
It’s the perfect escape for anyone looking to get out of town but still be able to return on Monday morning with bragging rights to match.
8. San Francisco (1.5 Hour Flight)
If you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway but trying to keep the travel time short, consider heading up the coast to San Francisco.
Better than a road trip (can you say car sickness?), there are plenty of flights that will take you from the City of Angels to The Golden Gate City in just under two hours.
Not only is San Francisco famous for its iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, it also has an eclectic culinary scene worth experiencing.
From authentic dim sum tucked away in Chinatown to fancier restaurants along Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco has something for everyone.
You don’t even need a passport – just your spirit of adventure!
9. Yosemite (1 Hour Flight)
Itching to get out of the big city? Take a short flight from Los Angeles and witness one of nature’s greatest marvels: Yosemite National Park.
It packs an impressive punch, with its awe-inspiring canyons, dramatic waterfalls, and pine forests that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Visitors come here for the majestic views and endless outdoor activities—all within a few hours’ drive from LA.
Who said you have to travel halfway around the world for incredible scenery? Just look to your own backyard for an unforgettable weekend getaway.
10. Death Valley National Park (3 Hours)
Looking for a quick weekend getaway from Los Angeles? Look no further than Death Valley – the biggest national park in the lower 48.
This astonishing national park covers 3.4 million acres and is replete with stunning sites that cannot be found anywhere else – from Badwater Basin’s salt flats to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, not to mention the eye-catching hillside of Artists Palette.
Not only can you marvel at its world-famous scenery, but you’d also have ideal conditions for some out-of-this-world stargazing.
With its lack of light pollution and vast night skies, it’s easy to see why Death Valley is fast becoming one of America’s favorite astronomical hotspots.
In other words, if you’re pining for the more unusual natural wonders, no better place exists than Death Valley!
Note: There’s no direct flight into Death Valley National Park from Los Angeles, you’ll have to take a 1-hour flight to Las Vegas and drive another 2 hours to get there.
11. Napa Valley (1 Hour Flight)
When it comes to wine lovers, one simply can’t go wrong with Napa Valley! Consider taking a delicious taste tour through the valley’s varied wineries,
followed by a culinary adventure at Chef Keller’s French Laundry – make sure you book your reservations in advance since competition is fierce.
Of course, there is way more than just excellent food experiences in the area; be sure to check out Castello di Amorosa for an inside look into an exceptional winemaking experience,
followed by a scenic journey around beautiful Lake Berryessa and finally, rounding out your trip visiting Domaine Carneros for its finale.
12. Tijuana (45 Minute Flight)
If you need a weekend getaway but are short on time, why not just head south? With a 45-minute flight, you can be in Tijuana in no time.
This city has come a long way since its days of rowdy bars on Avenida Revolución – now its culinary scene is notoriously renowned!
Tequila and tacos are your reward – sip an agave-based spirit and take a bite of freshly made street food – so tasty that you’ll think it’s too good to really be legal.
Enjoy cozy locales paired with scenic beachside views while indulging in creative cocktails and handcrafted margaritas.
Celebrate with music, dancing and making new friends amongst the passionate locals. Whether you want to relax or get wild(er), Tijuana’s got something special in store for everyone.
13. Portland (2.5 Hour Flight)
If you’ve ever been bitten by the wanderlust bug, but your schedule won’t allow for an extended vacation, Portland is the ideal weekend getaway destination right off of the Los Angeles tarmac.
Get up early to take in the beautiful coastal landscape before spending your days tasting some of the city’s mouth-watering culinary offerings.
Inspiring art galleries and museums also await you for a full day of intellectual gratification. Plus, what trip would be complete without some shopping at the city’s bustling boutiques and markets?
Come nightfall, it’s time to retire to one of the many cozy pubs that dot the city before turning in for the evening.
Even if you only have a few days to spare at this West Coast gem, it’s easy to fit in some good old-fashioned sightseeing along with some craft beer sipping. Portland beckons!
14. Joshua Tree National Park (1 Hour Flight)
If it’s wildness and wonder that you seek, Joshua Tree National Park is just the trick!
With its surreal rockscapes and vast swaths of unspoiled desert awaiting to be explored, it’s an ideal destination for those who are craving some adventure close to home.
From mild hikes to heart-pumping rock climbing – beginners and advanced adventurers alike are sure to find something that piques their interest.
Itching for an overnight stay? No problem – with over 500 campsites available, camping is the perfect way to bring your exploration of the park into a dream-like adventure slumber.
Short flights from LAX ensure travel time is minimized so you can make the most out of your time exploring this spectacular area.
15. Vancouver (3 Hour Flight)
If you’re looking for an exciting destination within easy reach of Los Angeles, look no further than Vancouver, BC.
There’s so many fabulous activities to keep you entertained and many reasons to explore this gorgeous coastal Canadian city.
Lose yourself in Kitsilano Beach’s epic views, eating your way through the magical Granville Island Public Market, and tackle the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – where 450 feet of spine-tingling adventure awaits!
Experience the magical mix of luxury indulgence and outdoor fun only Vancouver can provide. All that’s missing is you!
16. Scottsdale (1.5 Hour Flight)
For anyone looking for a quick vacation just 2 hours away, Scottsdale, Arizona, may be the perfect fit.
That’s right, with just a short flight, you can transport yourself to a luxurious oasis in the desert where pool lounging reigns supreme and breathtaking natural wonders lurk around every corner.
Enjoy unlimited culinary delights, hit up some of the best golf courses in the country, or simply lay back and enjoy the opulent spa treatments Scottsdale is known for.
Whatever your weekend itinerary looks like in Scottsdale, one thing is certain: you won’t have to spend countless hours on an airplane – now that’s something we can toast to!
17. Catalina Island (1 Hour Ferry)
Head out of the city and into vibrant nature with a short trip to Catalina Island, just off the coast of Los Angeles.
Here you can mix it up between sinking your feet into the sand and exploring the quaint seaside town aboard a golf cart.
Take in a bit of history, relax at one of the many beaches, or get your heart pumping with outdoor activities such as scuba diving, fishing or zip-lining – there is no shortage of ways to fill up your weekend!
The best part? You’ll only be about an hour away from Los Angeles proper for this convenient escape.
18. Glacier National Park (2.5 Hour Flight)
Due to its unique mountainous geography, Glacier National Park just might be your piece of paradise!
From alpine meadows to spectacular lakes and over 700 miles of trails, this National Park is a great place to let your adventurous spirit run free.
Fun activities range from exploring historic chalets to navigating the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Of course, if you’re feeling particularly brave and want to get the most out of your short stay, why not try out backpacking?
Just remember to stay flexible – Mother Nature doesn’t always follow our schedules!
