If you’re the kind of person who enjoys unwinding with a long, smooth drive through breathtaking scenery, LA is the perfect destination to pick. The area around the city is home to some of the most stunning scenery in all of California, perhaps even in the whole USA (depending on your preferences). Ocean cliffs, mountain passes, verdant forests, and quintessential Americana are all available within a short drive of central LA.
If the idea of a California drive appeals to you, car rental platform Turo has put together a list of the top scenic routes near LA. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to hidden gems curving through the canyons, there is no shortage of beautiful journeys to explore from behind the wheel in this area. Let’s take a look at these scenic drives to choose from:
1. Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Monica to Malibu
Let’s start with one of the big hitters: the Pacific Coast Highway. This iconic drive runs northwards from the Santa Monica Pier towards Malibu, taking in sweeping ocean views on one side and the dramatic Santa Monica Mountains on the other.
You can make stops at Will Rogers State Beach, Point Dume, or Zuma Beach to stretch your legs, take in the scenery, and grab some refreshment.
Why it stands out:
- Endless ocean views from the driver’s seat
- A combination of beachside towns, surf spots, and nature reserves
- Some of the best sunsets in Southern California
Tips for the drive:
- Go early in the morning or close to sunset for the best light and fewer cars
- Pack sunscreen and shades – the light glancing off the ocean can both dazzle drivers and burn fair skin
- Watch for cyclists and parked cars along the shoulder
2. Mulholland Drive and Mulholland Highway
More of an urban driver? Mulholland Drive and Mulholland Highway have you covered. Few routes can rival Mulholland Drive for dramatic city views and iconic locations. This road cuts through the Hollywood Hills, offering incredible overlooks of downtown Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and (of course) the Hollywood Sign.
Continuing west, the road becomes Mulholland Highway, leading through the scenic Santa Monica Mountains before eventually dropping down to the coast near Leo Carrillo State Beach.
Why it stands out:
- Unparalleled views over Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley
- Plenty of famous Hollywood connections
- Numerous photogenic lookout points
Tips for the drive:
- Try to avoid peak traffic hours when the road can become crowded
- Use the scenic overlooks for photos rather than stopping on blind corners
- Bring water and sunscreen if you plan to stop at overlooks or short trails
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Angeles Crest Highway
If you want to trade palm trees for pine forests, head out to the Angeles Crest Highway. Of all the scenic drives, this one begins in La Cañada Flintridge and climbs through the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s a gorgeous route, which reaches elevations over 7,000 feet and feels worlds away from the city below.
You will drive through tunnels, forests, and open mountain ridges with expansive vistas over the Angeles National Forest. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean from certain viewpoints.
Why it stands out:
- A complete change of scenery within an hour of downtown Los Angeles
- Cool, fresh mountain air and natural beauty far from the noise of the city
- Perfect for those who enjoy curvy mountain roads
Tips for the drive:
- Check road conditions before setting out, especially in winter (the road is sometimes closed due to snow)
- Fuel up before leaving the city – gas stations are limited in the mountains
- Stop at the Mount Wilson Observatory or the Red Box Picnic Area for views and rest breaks
4. Palos Verdes Peninsula Drive
The route begins near Torrance and loops around the Palos Verdes Peninsula. It’s a quiet, scenic drive offering a mix of ocean views, mountainous cliffs, and views to Catalina Island on a clear day. If you want that mix of mountains and ocean, but don’t want to take on the Pacific Highway and the crowds of Malibu, this is the route for you.
There’s no shortage of things to see and do along this route, including the Point Vicente Lighthouse, Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, and the serene Portuguese Bend Reserve. The drive combines coastal beauty with a sense of calm that is hard to find closer to the city.
Why it stands out:
- Peaceful roads that hug the coastline
- Excellent opportunities for whale watching in winter and spring
- A perfect mix of ocean views and bicycle riding or walking nature trails
Tips for the drive:
- Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend traffic near the lighthouse and coves
- Bring binoculars for whale spotting
- Stop for a picnic or coffee at Terranea Resort for panoramic views of the ocean
5. Topanga Canyon and Malibu Canyon Roads
For winding, wilderness roads, explore the canyons that cut through the Santa Monica Mountains. Topanga Canyon Road and Malibu Canyon Road are particularly popular with drivers who enjoy a blend of sweeping curves, towering cliffs, and lush forest scenery.
There are plenty of routes you can take within this warren of canyon roads. We suggest devising a route that joins up with the Pacific Coast Highway. This will create an easy loop that feels adventurous without requiring a full day.
Why it stands out:
- A natural escape within minutes of the Los Angeles suburbs
- Sweeping mountain and canyon views that feel completely different from the coast
- Great spots to stop for a short hike or scenic overlook
Tips for the drive:
- Keep an eye out for wildlife such as hawks and deer
- Roads can be narrow, so use pullouts to let faster traffic pass
- Bring snacks and water, as there are few facilities between the start and finish points
6. Sunset Boulevard through the heart of Los Angeles
Sunset Boulevard is one of the most iconic streets in the world, running from downtown Los Angeles all the way to the Pacific Coast Highway in Pacific Palisades. Along the way, you will pass through vibrant neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Brentwood before reaching the sea.
This is a journey through the glitzy heart of LA, blending culture, glamour, and history in one long, winding route.
Why it stands out:
- Offers a complete cross-section of Los Angeles life in one drive
- Includes famous landmarks such as the Sunset Strip and the Beverly Hills Hotel
- Perfect for spotting celebrity hangouts and architectural highlights
Tips for the drive:
- Try to drive late in the afternoon, so you reach the coast by sunset
- Parking can be challenging in popular areas, so plan stops in advance
- Pack shades, as the sun can get in your eyes, depending on the time of day and the direction you drive
- Combine the drive with dinner at a Hollywood or West Hollywood restaurant for the full experience
Diverse drives within easy reach of Downtown
The Los Angeles region offers one of the most diverse collections of scenic drives anywhere in the world. You can leave a crowded downtown street and be standing at a mountain overlook or ocean viewpoint in less than an hour. Each of these secenic drives suggested here offers its own perspective on what makes Southern California special, from palm-lined boulevards to alpine roads and rugged cliffs.
Before you set off, remember a few essentials. Check current traffic and weather conditions, fill your tank, and take plenty of water and snacks if you plan to explore more remote areas. Many of these drives have limited mobile service or facilities, so preparation is key.
Above all, give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the journey.