Whether you’re looking to explore as much nature as possible or get a taste of the urban high life, this Las Vegas to San Diego road trip has it all
A Las Vegas to San Diego road trip has a mix of everything you want in a vacation. With ample opportunities to explore the outdoors plus some time to relax in the city, this is the perfect road trip for anyone looking to enjoy everything the American West has to offer. You can see a show, hike, hit the town, relax on the beach and see many strange sights along the way. This road trip is chock full of things to see and do so you can truly customize it to your wants and needs.
Stops
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
2. Mojave National Preserve
3. San Bernardino National Forest
4. Joshua Tree National Park
5. Palm Springs, California
6. San Diego, California
Info at a glance
- 10 Days
- Type of route: (Nature, Family, etc.)
- 6 stops along the route
- Distance: 470 miles of driving
Highlights
- Take advantage of the nightlife in Las Vegas.
- Hike through the Mojave National Preserve and visit the Memorial Cross.
- Explore the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail in the San Bernardino National Forest.
- Ride the aerial tramway in Palm Springs.
- Hit the beach in San Diego.
Getting to the start
This road trip starts in Las Vegas, Nevada. If you’re coming from another part of the country, you can fly into Las Vegas McCarran International Airport and rent a car. If you’re using your own car, you can come in from the north or south via I-15 or Highway 95. If you’re coming from the east or west, you can take I-11 or Highway 160. You can also come by train via Amtrak.
When to Visit
Since this is a road trip through the southwestern part of the US, it’s beautiful all year. The weather stays mild even into the winter, but if you’re looking to take full advantage of outdoor activities it’s best to do it in the summer months to avoid closures. When packing for this road trip, you’ll need a wide variety of things depending on what attractions and activities you decide to do. You’ll need clothes to layer, as nights in the desert and forest can get chilly. Good hiking clothes and shoes should be on the list. You’ll also need a few nicer outfits in case you want to treat yourself to some nights out in the cities along the route. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, a rain jacket and your camera and you’re all set!
Driving tips
Driving through Nevada is fairly stress-free. You’ll need to stay alert as there are many animal crossings and other natural hazards to watch out for. The speed limit on interstates outside of cities is 80 miles per hour and on most other highways it’s 70 mph. In California, the speed limit is generally lower as the roads can get more congested. On most roads outside the city the speed limit is 55 mph and on the interstate it’s 65 mph. It’s worth noting that in California it is illegal to use a phone while driving unless it’s a fully hands-free device. There are no toll roads in Nevada and you shouldn’t have to drive on any toll roads in California on this route.
What to know about the route
This 470-mile road trip will give you the freedom to explore both the nature of the American Southwest as well as the urban life. In Las Vegas you’ll have a blast at the casinos, shows and clubs. Then you’ll head across the border to the Mojave National Preserve in California. Explore this beautiful secluded desert for a couple of days before heading further into the California wilderness in the San Bernardino National Forest. This is a completely different kind of natural environment offering outdoor adventure activities and a quaint but lively village at Big Bear. Next you’ll head to Joshua Tree National Park to enjoy the last few days of your natural solitude before heading to Palm Springs. Spend a few days exploring the city and the scenery before heading to San Diego. Since this is mostly a nature road trip, a compact sedan would be best for driving both on roads in the parks but also easy to navigate narrow city streets.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, and it’s easy to see why. This major resort city is famous across the globe for its casinos, fine dining, a variety of live shows, shopping, nightlife and more. There’s something going on here 24/7 and you won’t want to miss any of it. This is a city like no other so take your time exploring everything it has to offer.
Points of interest
There are tons of things to see and do in Las Vegas. First on the list is the Las Vegas Strip, where you’ll find massive casino hotels and a lively crowd. You can also tour the Neon Museum with its vintage signage. And of course, the casinos are their own attractions. The Bellagio Casino & Hotel is famous for luxurious dining and pools, the MGM Grand for its nightclubs and the Luxor for its pyramid shape. And finally, New York-New York has a roller coaster on-site. If you’re looking to escape into nature in Vegas, head to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Las Vegas is home to 10 Michelin-star restaurants, among them Joel Robuchon in the MGM Grand and Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace. If you’re looking for something a little less fancy, there’s always Honey Salt and Tacos El Gordo. For bars and clubs, check out Oak & Ivy as well as The Golden Tiki. If you’re staying overnight, the Bellagio, the MGM Grand, and the Luxor are all luxurious options.
Sixt Insider Tip
Take a ride on the High Roller, the biggest Ferris wheel in the world.
From Las Vegas to Mojave National Preserve (84 miles)
Next, you’re headed across the border to the Mojave National Preserve in California. You’ll take I-15 South almost all the way there. On your way, stop by Primm, Nevada. It sits right on the state border and is home to a few casinos of its own, a roller coaster and an outlet mall. Once you pass Primm, you’re almost at the Mojave National Preserve.
Mojave National Preserve
The Mojave National Preserve takes up about 1.6 million acres. Clearly you won’t be able to explore the whole thing, but you can dedicate two or three days to trying. Hike the sand dunes, visit the cinder cone volcanoes and immerse yourself in the beautiful fields of wildflowers. The reserve is also home to a large Joshua tree forest for your discovery. You’ll also want to camp for at least a night for some epic stargazing.
Points of interest
The Mojave Memorial Cross is probably the reserve’s most famous attraction, commemorating those who died defending the United States. You can also hike around the Kelso Dunes or check out the Mitchell Caverns if you want to explore these naturally formed caves.
Sixt Insider Tip
Slide down the sand dunes and listen for the phenomenon known as “singing sand” to get the full Mojave National Preserve experience.
From Mojave National Preserve to San Bernardino National Forest (142 miles)
You’ll keep heading west on I-15 until you hit Highway 247 where you’ll start driving south towards the San Bernardino National Forest. On the way you’ll pass through Baker, home to the World’s Tallest Thermometer. You’ll also pass by Calico Ghost Town in Yermo in case you’d like to stop for a haunted tour.
San Bernardino National Forest
Covering more than 800,000 acres of land in Big Bear, California, the San Bernardino National Forest has a lot to offer. You’ll find dozens of hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities and even a zipline. Don’t forget your camera at this destination as you’ll encounter lots of local wildlife. You’ll want to spend about 3 days exploring everything the forest has to offer, from educational opportunities to adrenaline-inducing activities.
Points of interest
The San Bernardino National Forest is known first and foremost for Sugarloaf Mountain, which is worth a visit. You’ll also want to check out water sports on Big Bear Lake. You can go boating, fishing, paddle boarding, waterskiing and more. You can also explore bits of the 30-mile Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. After your day of adventuring through the forest, head back to Big Bear Village for the night.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Big Bear Village is the main hub for eating and drinking in the San Bernardino National Forest. For such a small place, it’s full of dining and entertainment options. You’ll find cuisines from all around the world and comfortable and affordable lodging options.
Sixt Insider Tip
Check out the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain for a year-round bobsledding experience.
From San Bernardino National Forest to Joshua Tree National Park (60 miles)
Next, to head to Joshua Tree National Park you’ll take Highway 247 southeast. You’ll pass by a few small California towns, such as Flamingo Heights, where you can fill up your gas tank and stop for lunch. Otherwise, enjoy the scenery along the drive.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park combines both the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert to form a unique protected natural area. As the name suggests, it’s home to a large population of Joshua trees as well as other native plants and animals. With opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and star gazing, this park has everything you could want from a nature escape.
Points of interest
You won’t want to miss the Hidden Valley Nature Trail or the Barker Dam Nature Trail for some great hiking and even better scenery. Keys View is a popular viewpoint as it overlooks the Coachella Valley. The Cholla Cactus Garden is one of the most unique sights in the entire park. And finally, check out Skull Rock.
Sixt Insider Tip
If you want to learn more about the history of the area, take a guided tour of Keys Ranch, established in 1910.
From Joshua Tree National Park to Palm Springs (38 miles)
Take Highway 62 southeast towards Palm Springs. Along the way, you’ll pass Desert Hot Springs in case you’re looking to check out the natural mineral springs. Desert Hot Springs is also home to Cabot’s Pueblo Museum, housing artifacts from several Native American cultures.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is most famous for its natural hot springs and spas. This city is a wellness hotspot located in a trendy urban environment, so you’ll want to spend a few days relaxing and exploring to get the most out of it. And if you haven’t had enough outdoor adventure activities, it’s surrounded by the vast Coachella Valley where you can go hiking or biking if you’re looking to escape the city.
Points of interest
A popular attraction in this city is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. This is the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world, going up 8,516 feet to get from the bottom of the Coachella Valley to the top of San Jacinto Peak. You’ll also want to check out the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, the Moorten Botanical Garden, and Indian Canyons for nature and hiking.
Sixt Insider Tip
Visit Ruddy’s General Store Museum to get a sneak peek into what life was like in Palm Springs in the 1930s.
From Palm Springs to San Diego, California (170 miles)
To get to San Diego, you’ll take Highway 60 west and then I-15 South. Along the way, you’ll pass through Cabazon, home to the famous Cabazon Dinosaurs. You’ll also go through Temecula wine country, so stop and try a few samples if you’ve got a designated driver.
San Diego, California
You’ve finally reached your destination! It’s time to explore beautiful San Diego on the Pacific Coast. Known for its beaches, nightlife and museums, there’s plenty to see and do here. It’s also home to incredible nature. Combining the great outdoors with a hip urban environment, San Diego is a destination for every type of traveler.
Points of interest
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous attractions in the city as its home to a safari park and wildlife conservation efforts, as well. You can also check out Balboa Park, which covers 1,200 acres of land. For beachgoers, La Jolla Cove is the perfect spot. You can also visit Coronado Beach and Seaport Village if you’re looking for more waterfront activities. For history buffs, the USS Midway Museum is a historic aircraft carrier with educational exhibits.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
There are tons of great places to eat and drink in San Diego. Hotel del Coronado is one of the best beachfront properties for eating and lodging in the city. There is also an array of restaurants, bars, and clubs in the Seaport Village area. San Diego is known for its fish tacos, so you’ll want to have your fill of this special menu item while you’re in town.
Sixt Insider Tip
Visit the Sunny Jim Cave Store. This beachfront shop has a secluded sea cave behind it that you can explore if you know where to look for it.
