Holiday Road Trips for College Students

Written By | Doreen Almirol | 20+ years CA DMV Licensed Driving Instructor

As the holiday season approaches, college students deserve a break that’s as epic as their semester. Buckle up for an unforgettable holiday road trip to California’s coolest destinations, promising a mix of adventure, fun, and Instagram-worthy moments.

Related Articles: California Family Road Trips
California Holiday Road Trips
California Romantic Road Trips

This blog may contain affiliate links, and if you make a purchase through these links, we may or may not earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Venice Beach | Beach Vibes and Boardwalk Bliss

Visit Venice Beach

Festive Travel Adventure: Kick off your road trip at Venice Beach, where the vibrant boardwalk meets iconic beach scenes. Skate parks, street performers, and trendy shops make it the perfect spot for college kids seeking laid-back vibes and Instagram-worthy moments.

San Francisco  | City Lights and Student-Friendly Delights

Visit San Francisco

Festive Road Escapade: Explore the eclectic charm of San Francisco. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the buzzing streets of Chinatown, this city offers a blend of cultural experiences, nightlife, and affordable eats perfect for college budgets.

San Diego  |  Sun, Surf, & College Student-Friendly Fun

Visit San Diego

Holiday Travel Odyssey: Head south to San Diego for sun-soaked days and lively nights. Relax on the beaches, explore Balboa Park, and embrace the student-friendly atmosphere of the Gaslamp Quarter for a memorable holiday getaway.

Santa Cruz: Campus Vibes Beyond the Classroom

Visit Santa Cruz

Yuletide Travel Expedition: Experience the quintessential college town vibes in Santa Cruz. Nestled between redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean, this destination offers a mix of campus energy, outdoor adventures, and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Berkeley: Bohemian Charm and Campus Coolness

Visit Berkeley

Festive Travel Adventure: Discover the bohemian charm of Berkeley, where the University of California’s vibrant campus meets eclectic neighborhoods. Dive into quirky shops, enjoy street art, and savor affordable eats in this hip college town.

Palm Springs: Desert Retreat and Poolside Chill

Visit Palm Springs

Winter Holiday Drive: For a unique holiday escape, head to Palm Springs. The desert oasis offers a retro-chic vibe, perfect for college kids seeking a trendy getaway. Relax by the pool, explore vintage shops, and take in the mid-century modern architecture.

Huntington Beach: Surf, Sand, and Student-Friendly Scene

Visit Huntington Beach

Vacation Road Journey: For a unique holiday escape, head to Palm Springs. The desert oasis offers a retro-chic vibe, perfect for college kids seeking a trendy getaway. Relax by the pool, explore vintage shops, and take in the mid-century modern architecture.

This holiday season, college students, gear up for an epic road trip across California’s trendy destinations. From beach vibes to city lights, these spots offer a perfect blend of adventure and affordability. Pack your bags, hit the road, and make this holiday break one for the college memory books! 🚗🌴

✨ 🌍 Explore the Extraordinary! 🚗 ✨

Continue your California college road trips with National Geographic’s Road Atlas: Adventure Edition! Uncover hidden treasures, from bustling cities to nature’s wonders, with up-to-date maps for all 50 U.S. States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Don’t miss out – your next adventure awaits!