Suuthern California conjures up a dreamy blend of imagery from the allure of Hollywood and movie stars to the palm-lined coastlines of Venice, Santa Monica, and Malibu. Southern California is the kind of place where summer feels endless. So whether you dream of surfing under sunny skies, hiking through majestic forests, or camping under the stars, California is the ultimate playground for every type of traveler.
However, the expert travel advice to travel light often goes out the window when planning a multi-day adventure destination. No worries—StorQuest always has your back. We’ve got some self storage tips designed for anyone traveling through Southern California, so you can store your stuff securely and explore more with peace of mind. Read on to discover a few of our favorite destinations near SoCal that you won't want to miss.
Your Big Mountain Adventures While Traveling Through Southern California
Southern California offers big mountain adventures alongside its famous sandy beaches. You can plan your trip around mountain biking in the Malibu area, camping in the San Bernardino Mountains or hiking Mount Baldy. The scenic drives through canyon roads alone are worth the drive. Consider using a small, climate-controlled storage unit for gear like surfboards, hiking boots, and mountain bikes so you're ready to hit the road without the hassle of lugging it all around and worrying about safety. Check out these big mountains near Los Angeles:
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Mount Baldy (Mt. San Antonio): The tallest peak in Los Angeles County, offering serious hikes and occasional snow sports.
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San Jacinto Mountains: Accessible via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the area features pine forests, granite peaks, and alpine hiking trails.
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Big Bear Lake & Mountains: Year-round destination for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
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San Bernardino Mountains: Home to Lake Arrowhead and multiple trail systems—great for both family trips and solo adventures.
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Santa Monica Mountains: Scenic day hikes with ocean views; perfect for trail running, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting.
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Cleveland National Forest: A lesser-known gem with backcountry trails and camping spots in Riverside and San Diego counties.
Where to Find the Best Beaches While Traveling Through Southern California
Some of the most popular beaches in Southern California include Laguna Beach, renowned for its artistic vibe and crystal-clear coves. It's the perfect stop for snorkeling and tide pooling while soaking up the sun. If surfing is your vibe, you probably dream about catching waves at Huntington Beach ("Surf City USA"). When it comes to travel storage tips, choose a facility with extended or 24/7 access so you can grab your gear early for a sunrise surf or drop it off late after sunset. Check out these SoCal beaches to add to your bucket list:
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Laguna Beach: Stunning coves, tide pools, and art galleries. Ideal for snorkeling, relaxing, or exploring the town's coastal charm.
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Venice Beach: A mix of quirky boardwalk culture, Muscle Beach, street performers, and vibrant energy.
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El Matador State Beach (Malibu): Dramatic cliffs, rock arches, and photogenic sunsets—a favorite for photographers and romantics.
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Huntington Beach ("Surf City USA" ): Legendary surf breaks, volleyball courts, and classic beach town appeal.
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Malibu's Zuma Beach: Wide, scenic, and less crowded than others in Malibu. Great for surfing, sunbathing, and spotting dolphins.
Desert Escapes & Scenic Drives While Traveling Through Southern California
There's nothing like the feeling of the open roads ahead when cruising in your RV or living the Van Life. If plans allow, take a drive through classic Americana—retro diners, neon signs, and desert kitsch from San Bernardino to Barstow on Route 66 via the Inland Southern California stretch. Whether you're planning to rent an RV or store the one you own, you'll find convenient RV and trailer storage throughout our Southern California locations.
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Joshua Tree National Park: Surreal rock formations that are awesome for bouldering, star-studded skies, and otherworldly landscapes perfect for hiking, climbing, and photography.
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Palm Springs: Mid-century modern charm meets resort luxury—great for horseback rides, cycling, pickleball, and tennis.
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Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: California's largest state park with wildflower blooms, slot canyons, and off-the-grid exploration.
Why Travelers Use Self Storage In SoCal While Traveling Through California
Heading off on a month-long trip? Changing travel plans at the last minute? Self storage can be your travel hack during the times in your life when adventure calls. Especially if you love more than one sport. Carrying all the gear either on your back or in your van isn't feasible. Moreover, whether traveling to or moving to SoCal, a short term storage solution can feel like a lifesaver. Opt for a facility located near a freeway for easy access and keep in mind that 24/7 access is always a plus.
Additionally, mobile-friendly booking and payment methods are real timesavers. Moreover, look for enhanced security features, including gated access, cameras, and perimeter fencing. Enjoy your big-gear adventures—mountain biking, camping, backpacking, and surfing thanks to the region's terrain and weather.
Travel Light And Explore More With StorQuest
Need a spot to stash your surfboard, hiking pack, or extra luggage while you explore? StorQuest makes it simple to drop off your gear between destinations—freeing you up to travel light and maximize your time outdoors. So when it's time to hit the road, we're here with easy-to-find locations to make your home base. We've designed our spaces so every adventure can begin and end at your local StorQuest storage unit.