Get-Aways Within 7-Hour Drive of LA

Mammoth Lake is one of California’s premiere ski destinations. International real-estate developers have transformed this historic town and turned it into a wonderful vacation spot! If you’re in town and are looking for luxury dining and lodging, the Village at Mammoth complex can accommodate you and your family. Along with this, the recently revived downtown area of Old Mammoth Road is a must see destination if you’re interested in leisurely sight seeing. The high point of the season is the winter time, but if you choose to visit during the summer, the room rates drop and you’re able to enjoy other activities such as horseback riding, hiking and fishing.

Big Sur, located in the Monterey Bay, is truly a one of a kind destination in California. Just 26 miles south of the city of Carmel, it’s a mecca for art galleries, the Ventana Wilderness, beach exploration and whale watching! The nicest time to visit Big Sur is between the months of April and October, and keep in mind that businesses are not open as long during the off peak seasons. However, this serene beach is one like no other, and it’s not to be missed!

San Francisco, the home of the Giants and the Golden Gate Bridge! This city is a whole feast of history! From the old 1930’s styled buildings in the Tenderloin to the colorful and modern architecture in the Castro, the city has a little something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to get lost in the thrift stores adorning Height and Ashbury, or devour a yummy clam chowder bread bowl on the pier, you will never run out of things to do. Driving to San Francisco from LA takes roughly 5-6 hours, depending on the freeway you take. Interstate 5 is the fastest route, however the 101 Freeway is the scenic route, which gives you the option to stop in smaller beach towns along the way (I.e Isla Vista or Pismo Beach). Plan accordingly for parking once you arrive- street parking is always available, on Sunday street parking is actually free! RV parking would be best in prepaid lots and garages. Public transportation is relatively easy once you're in the city, and believe me - you’ll be glad you parked the RV once you witness the city traffic!

Adorned by a cobalt blue lake and a scenic mountain range, Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking alpine lake located in North America. A hot spot amongst visitors and local Californians, you can never go wrong with a trip up north! Located on the state line of California and Nevada, this resort town offers diverse options for all of its guests. You are able to swim, fish, sail or simply relax along the shores of the lake year long. Some of the more popular activities this town offers are hiking in the beautiful forests of the High Sierra, linked by miles of trails, or enjoying a serene lakeside picnic or dining in one of the many highly praised restaurants that sit along the shore. The best time to visit Lake Tahoe would be during the winter months if you’re an avid skier. However, keep in mind that it snows heavily up north, so road closures are common. Many businesses are also closed during the months of October-May. Summer is also a popular season, but expect congestion and overpopulation (many locals opt to go up north to get away from the city heat). The ideal time to visit would be the fall (September and October) and late spring. Crowds usually thin out but the lake remains beautiful.