Winter in Los Angeles has its own rhythm. Cooler mornings, clearer skies, and just enough chill to make getting out of the city feel exciting again. When daily routines start to feel heavy, a short weekend escape can bring real relief from stress. The best part is that you do not need a long flight or a packed itinerary.

Here are six winter weekend spots that locals love for good reason.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree feels especially powerful in winter. The desert light is softer, the air is cooler, and the landscape feels wide open and calm. Daytime temperatures often land in the mid 60s, making it one of the most comfortable times of year to explore.

Hiking is the main draw. Trails like Ryan Mountain offer sweeping views, while the Lost Palms Oasis Trail feels like a hidden reward tucked deep in the desert. Mastodon Peak Loop combines history, scenery, and manageable elevation, perfect for a half-day adventure.

Winter also brings fewer crowds, which adds to the sense of quiet. Rock climbers love this season, as do visitors looking to try horseback riding or guided tours. Nights are cold and clear, making stargazing unforgettable.

Camping is popular, but nearby towns like Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley offer cozy rentals and boutique stays. For LA locals, this trip feels like stepping into another world without leaving Southern California.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs

Glen Ivy Hot Springs is a classic Southern California escape for a reason. Located about an hour from Los Angeles, it offers instant relaxation the moment you arrive. Winter is one of the best times to visit, when soaking in warm mineral pools feels extra comforting.

The property spreads across lush gardens and outdoor spaces designed for slowing down. Guests rotate between mineral baths, mud treatments, and spa services at their own pace. Club Mud, California’s only therapeutic red clay mineral bath, is a highlight and surprisingly fun.

The Grotto offers a full body moisturizing treatment inside a cave-like space that feels private and calming. Massages and skin care treatments use high-end European products, adding a sense of indulgence.

Dining options keep the experience easy and satisfying, from casual bites to full meals. Wellness classes like Tai Chi and aqua fitness add gentle movement. Glen Ivy is ideal for a day trip or a relaxed overnight nearby.

25000 Glen Ivy Rd, Temescal Valley, CA 92883 | @glenivy_spa

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear is the go-to winter destination for snow lovers in Southern California. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, it delivers a full winter vibe without the long drive required for places like Mammoth or Tahoe.

Bear Mountain and Snow Summit anchor the area with ski and snowboard options that work well for families and beginners. The slopes are approachable, and lessons make it easy to get started or improve skills.

Beyond skiing, Big Bear offers snowshoeing, tubing, sledding, ziplining, and snow play areas. There are also helicopter rides, off-roading, and horseback riding for those looking to mix things up. When the cold sets in, spas, yoga studios, and cozy cafes provide a warm break.

Pine Knot Avenue is the heart of town, lined with restaurants, bars, and casual après ski spots. Big Bear balances excitement and comfort, making it a reliable winter favorite for LA locals.

Mountain High Resort

Mountain High is the quickest way to snow from Los Angeles. Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, the drive avoids steep mountain roads and keeps things simple. That alone makes it appealing for spontaneous winter plans.

The resort includes three distinct areas. West Resort brings energy with music, night skiing, terrain parks, and a lively atmosphere. It attracts snowboarders and skiers who enjoy a social vibe.

East Resort feels more peaceful, with longer runs, scenic views, and a more traditional mountain experience. On clear days, the views stretch across the Mojave Desert and even toward the Pacific. The restored Discovery Chairlift opens up beginner terrain at a higher elevation, which adds confidence for newer skiers.

North Resort caters to families, offering beginner terrain and Southern California’s largest snow tubing park. Flexible ticket options make Mountain High accessible, including hourly passes and free skiing for young kids and seniors. Lodging is available in nearby Wrightwood, which offers cabins, inns, and group accommodations.

24510 CA-2, Wrightwood, CA 92397 | @mthighsnow

South Coast Winery Resort and Spa

South Coast Winery Resort and Spa brings wine country comfort closer to home. Located in Temecula Valley, it offers a full resort experience without the drive north to Napa.

The property spans rolling vineyards and sunlit grounds that feel calm even in winter. Rooms and suites include fireplaces, soaking tubs, plush robes, and thoughtful details that make staying in feel luxurious.

The GrapeSeed Spa focuses on relaxation, while the outdoor heated pool features underwater music for a unique touch. Wine tastings and tours highlight the region’s award-winning wines, with winemakers who enjoy sharing their craft. Dining at Vineyard Rose Restaurant ties the experience together with wine country cuisine and vineyard views.

34843 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591 | @southcoastwineryresort

Paradise Cove, Malibu

Paradise Cove offers a beach escape that feels refined and relaxed, especially in winter. Located along the Malibu coastline, it sits tucked between cliffs, creating a sense of privacy that feels rare so close to Los Angeles.

The beach is public, but Paradise Cove Beach Cafe elevates the experience with dining and beach amenities. Chaise lounges, beach beds, and private terraces are available for rent, offering a comfortable way to spend the day by the ocean.

Winter beach walks are the real highlight. Heading west leads to tide pools near Point Dume, while walking east reveals quieter stretches of sand and beachfront homes. The sound of waves and cooler air create a calming rhythm.

A Winter Reset Worth Taking

Winter weekends offer a chance to step away from routines and reconnect with what feels good. Snowy mountains, quiet beaches, and wine country comfort all deliver different kinds of relief. These destinations prove that a refreshing escape does not require a long drive. Sometimes, the best reset is closer than expected.

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