These 4 Lesser-Known Hideaways Are Destined To Be Southern California’s 2026 Hotspots

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If you had to guess California’s next hotspots, you’d likely think they’re all lying along the coast.

I mean, it is California after all…

However, that’s not entirely the case. Sticking with Southern California, we at Travel Off Path have put our heads together and dug deep into the far corners of the interwebs to unpack where travelers are heading next — and it’s not the usual names like San Diego, Los Angeles, or even Disneyland.

Travelers are venturing beyond the norm into the lesser-known, largely thanks to new luxury hotels, new airports, and word of mouth showing how amazing these hideaways truly are.

Plus, it doesn’t hurt to have a local insider like me🕺🏻on the team to scope out all of these destinations firsthand.

As such, we’re stoked to unveil SoCal’s next 4 vacation hotspots for 2026 — and we all but guarantee they’re not what you expect.

4) Idyllwild: The Best Alternative To Big Bear & Julian

Think California doesn’t have small-town charm and stunning nature beyond the Pacific? Think again!

As you are likely well aware, Big Bear, a popular ski haven with horrendous traffic during peak season, and Julian, San Diegan’s long-kept secret that has made its way into numerous major travel publications, are left out.

Any time you hear of someone taking a weekend getaway nowadays, it’s not Big Bear or Julian anymore — it’s a rustic map-dot village boasting lush forestry, wooded cabins, and an artsy town center.

It’s true: Idyllwild is SoCal’s new hotspot for a break from the city grind and jam-packed beaches—the perfect spot for a quiet reset or even a “digital detox”.

With epic hikes, a homey “downtown”, and fresh mountain air, you’ll feel right at home, as many already do, so now is the perfect time to visit before it becomes a household name.

3) Jamul: Flashy Hotel Puts Unknown Town On The Map

Even heard of Jamul? That’s probably a hard “no” unless you’re a San Diegan like me.

That said, Jamul is already becoming more of a draw even since their flashy boutique hotel with a panoramic rooftop pool opened last August.

Formerly just a nice casino boasting it’s “San Diego’s Closest Casino” on many billboards across the county, now it’s a full-fledged destination — and guess who sold out to ring the New Year?

Yep, I tried.

Any time I want to bet big on black or take out my anger crankin’ slots, Jamul has been the place — and I’m not the only one.

Jamul draws a crowd not only for its casino and rooftop pool, but surprisingly incredible restaurants, including my favorite, Tony Gwynn’s Sports Pub, who offers endless Ultimate Seafood on Friday nights.

Let me tell you, for a buffet setting, it’s some of the freshest seafood you can find and well worth the $60 price tag.

2) Chula Vista: City’s First-Ever Resort Creates New Vacation Spot

Chula Vista is in big bold letters on the map as it’s one of California’s unsung cities, home to roughly 280,000 residents, including me!

But even though it’s a major suburb at the very least, tourists have long skipped out on venturing south of San Diego proper unless they’re making a Tijuana day trip.

Now, Chula Vista is becoming a convenient vacation destination solely thanks to the new Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center opening doors on its scenic bayside waterfront.

That’s not to say Chula Vista is a one-trick pony. The city’s Eastlake district is vibrant with trendy shopping and restaurants and majestic mountain views at such places as Mountain Hawk Park, a place typical San Diego tourists would ever step foot.

Not to mention my neck of the woods — Third Avenue. If San Diego’s bustling Gaslamp Quarter is too much to bear, check out Chula Vista’s much quieter downtown, lined with cafes, great Mexican food, and breweries.

1) Carlsbad: New Airport Shines Light On San Diego’s North County

Travel + Leisure just named Carlsbad as the best destination on Earth for 2026 — yes, you read that correctly.

The only question is how lesser-known Carlsbad popped up on their radar…

Hmm…certainly not because of this article…😉

Anyhow, that’s not to say we disagree with their selection. Carlsbad is gorgeous, laid-back, friendly, welcoming and offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re a kiddo ready to conquer LegoLand, a couple looking for a romantic resort getaway, a retiree wanting quiet shores to kick back and relax, or simply looking for the perfect photo-op at the kaleidoscopic flower fields, it’s hard to leave Carlsbad feeling disappointed.

Most notably, Carlsbad rebranded its private airport into a commercial airport with American Airlines being the first to take flight, and now United is slated to follow.

Travel + Leisure highlighted Carlsbad’s food scene, something my scale can attest to after devouring beachside tacos when I’m being cheap or splurging at one of my favorite SoCal eateries, Ember & Rye, masterminded by celebrity chef Richard Blais.

It’s an absolute must if you can swing it.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.