With outside temps soaring day-in and day-out, Angelenos are experiencing some strong weather-related woes. The good news, though? Living on the Westside comes with advantages. You're never too far from a cool ocean breeze, a mountain escape, or a pool deck that can feel almost vacation-worthy. Whether you're looking to get out of town for a day or simply survive the weekend without melting into your patio furniture, here are the SBP team’s favorite ways to beat the heat in LA.
For When You Need a Change of Scenery
Catalina Island
There's something about Catalina that makes a day trip feel far more ambitious than it actually is. One ferry ride later, you're snorkeling in crystal-clear water, cruising around Avalon in a golf cart, and wondering why you don't do this more often. Best of all, the island's ocean breezes make it feel a world away from the heat wave LA happens to be enduring.
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara has mastered the art of the day trip. It's just far enough away to feel like you've escaped, but close enough that you're back home by evening. Wander State Street, spend a few hours by the water, explore the Funk Zone, and enjoy the kind of leisurely lunch at San Ysidro Ranch or the Miramar that reminds you summer is meant to be savored.
Big Bear Lake
Most people think of Big Bear as a winter destination, but summer is arguably its best-kept secret. Spend the day on the water, explore hiking trails, or simply enjoy temperatures that feel refreshingly different from those back in the city.
Laguna Beach
Laguna has a way of making you slow down. Spend the morning exploring local galleries and boutiques, claim a spot at one of its picturesque coves, or settle in for a long lunch at Surf & Sand overlooking the water. It's one of Southern California's most beautiful beach towns for a reason.
For When You'd Rather Stay Close to Home
Not every summer escape requires packing a bag. Sometimes the best way to cool off is simply taking advantage of what makes the Westside so great this time of year: ocean breezes, longer evenings, and easy access to the water.
Follow the Breeze to Malibu
When temperatures start climbing inland, Malibu can feel like an entirely different climate.
Start with coffee by the beach, take a walk along the water, grab some oysters at Broad Street, and enjoy the scenic drive home. No reservations, itinerary, or elaborate plans required. Sometimes the ocean breeze is enough.
Pool Day Without the Hotel Stay
At a certain point in summer, the smartest move is admitting defeat and finding a pool.
Skip the planning required for a weekend getaway and book a day pass instead. Spend a few hours poolside, read a book you've been meaning to finish, and let someone else do the hosting for a change. It's one of the easiest ways to make a Saturday feel like a vacation without leaving town.
Revisit the Getty Villa
The Getty Villa is one of those places locals constantly forget about until they visit again and immediately wonder why they waited so long. With its gardens, courtyards, ocean views, and surprisingly peaceful atmosphere, it feels more like a Mediterranean escape than an afternoon in Los Angeles. Bonus points for plenty of shade.
Bike The Strand
Few activities feel more quintessentially Westside than hopping on a bike and following the coastline. Whether you're starting in Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach, the combination of ocean views and cooler air makes even the hottest days feel manageable. Stop for food along the way and call it exercise.
Save Your Plans for After 6pm
The real secret to surviving August in Los Angeles? Stop fighting the heat. Some of the best summer moments happen once the sun starts heading toward the Pacific. Think outdoor movies, sunset sails from Marina del Rey, dinner on a patio overlooking the water, or a simple evening walk along the Venice Canals. Everything feels a little easier once the temperature drops.
Lean Into Summer's Simple Pleasures
An early-morning farmers market. An afternoon ice cream run. A beach walk that unexpectedly turns into dinner. While it's tempting to spend all summer planning the perfect getaway, some of the best August days are often the least complicated. Living on the Westside means having access to some of Southern California's greatest everyday luxuries — many of which are right outside your front door.
Before summer slips away, consider this your reminder to block off a Saturday, ignore a few emails, and take advantage of the fact that some of Southern California's best escapes are sitting right in our backyard.