9 Scenic Drives Around the Los Angeles Area

Los Angeles is famous for its stunning landscapes, from sun-soaked beaches to towering mountains. One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Southern California is by taking a scenic drive. Whether you're looking for breathtaking ocean views, winding mountain roads, or a peaceful escape from the city, these nine scenic drives around Los Angeles offer unforgettable experiences.

9 Epic Drives with Gorgeous Views Near Los Angeles

1. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) - Highway 1

• Distance: Varies (LA to Malibu ~30 miles, LA to Santa Barbara ~95 miles)

• Best Time to Drive: Sunset or early morning

• Main Attractions: Malibu beaches, Santa Monica Pier, Point Dume

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic scenic drives in the world. Stretching along the California coastline, this drive offers jaw-dropping ocean views, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beach towns. Stop by Malibu’s Zuma Beach, El Matador Beach, or enjoy a fresh seafood meal at Neptune’s Net.

2. Mulholland Drive

• Distance: 21 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Sunset or night for city lights

• Main Attractions: Hollywood Hills, Griffith Observatory, scenic overlooks

Famous for its winding roads and celebrity homes, Mulholland Drive offers some of the best panoramic views of Los Angeles. Stop at Hollywood Bowl Overlook or Universal City Overlook for stunning views of the skyline.

3. Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2)

• Distance: 66 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Spring and fall (avoid winter snow)

• Main Attractions: Mount Wilson, Chilao Campground, Hidden Springs

For those craving a mountain adventure, the Angeles Crest Highway takes you deep into the San Gabriel Mountains. Expect scenic lookouts, dense forests, and even snowfall in the winter months. A great stop is Mount Wilson Observatory, which offers incredible stargazing opportunities.

4. Topanga Canyon Boulevard (Highway 27)

• Distance: 21 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Mid-morning to avoid traffic

• Main Attractions: Topanga State Park, The Inn of the Seventh Ray, Old Topanga Road

Topanga Canyon Boulevard connects the San Fernando Valley to Malibu, winding through rugged canyons and lush forests. It's a great escape into nature with plenty of hiking trails, roadside cafes, and scenic viewpoints.

5. Sunset Boulevard

• Distance: 22 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Evening for vibrant nightlife views

• Main Attractions: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica

Cruise down Sunset Boulevard, one of LA’s most famous streets. This drive takes you from Downtown LA through Hollywood and Beverly Hills, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Stop by the Sunset Strip for iconic music venues and trendy restaurants.

6. The Palos Verdes Drive

• Distance: 14 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Late afternoon

• Main Attractions: Point Vicente Lighthouse, Wayfarers Chapel, Abalone Cove

For coastal cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, Palos Verdes Drive is a hidden gem. The route winds through Rancho Palos Verdes, offering serene beaches and scenic overlooks. Don't miss Point Vicente Lighthouse for whale-watching opportunities.

7. Griffith Park Drive

• Distance: 8 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Morning or early evening

• Main Attractions: Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles Zoo, Travel Town Museum

Located in the heart of LA, Griffith Park Drive is a short but scenic drive through one of the largest urban parks in the country. The best stop is Griffith Observatory, where you can take in sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.

8. Glendora Mountain Road

• Distance: 15 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Spring and fall

• Main Attractions: San Gabriel Mountains, hiking trails, biking spots

A favorite among motorcyclists and adventure seekers, Glendora Mountain Road offers thrilling curves and stunning mountain landscapes. The road is less crowded than Angeles Crest Highway, making it perfect for a peaceful scenic drive.

9. The Ortega Highway (Highway 74)

• Distance: 32 miles

• Best Time to Drive: Weekdays to avoid traffic

• Main Attractions: Lake Elsinore, Ortega Falls, Lookout Roadhouse

For those willing to venture a little farther, Ortega Highway connects Orange County to Riverside County, offering breathtaking views of Lake Elsinore and surrounding mountains. It's a fantastic drive for those who enjoy winding roads and rugged scenery.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking for ocean views, cityscapes, or mountain escapes, these 9 scenic drives around Los Angeles offer something for every traveler. Grab your camera, roll down the windows, and hit the road to explore the beauty of Southern California.