Ever wish you could just snap your fingers and be in a new country? From California, you can (kind of).
One of the coolest things about living in California is that when I’m itching to explore another country, I have plenty of options at my fingertips that are just a short plane ride away. Whether you’re looking to experience a season that’s non-existent in California (I’m looking at you, fall leaves) or head to a tropical jungle, there are plenty of quick getaways that can be action-packed adventures or relaxing vacations.
Strapped on time? I’ve got you covered. Here are 7 destinations you can fly to in under 8 hours:
Mexico
Beachside ruins in Tulum, Mexico
Native Californians are somewhat familiar with Mexican culture, but there’s certainly more to the country than the food we’ve come to love. Each region is wildly different, making Mexico a place where adventures of all kinds never end.
When we think of vacation, we usually think of either relaxing, eating new foods, going on an adventure, or all the above. Mexico is the perfect destination when you’re short on time because you really can just do it all. Plus, it’s only a 4-hour flight, so why not?!
The colorful architecture of San Miguel de Allende, the leather markets of León, the street food of Mexico City and the beautiful beaches of Playa del Carmen are just a few of Mexico’s many highlights. Although many Californians escape to Mexico for its pristine beaches, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had all over the country. Case in point: the lake of seven colors in Bacalar and the cenotes of Tulum.
Forget what you think you know about Mexican food, culture or language. Mexico is vibrant and surprising, and will leave you wondering, like me, why it took you so long to visit.
Flights:
Los Angeles to Mexico City: approx. 4 hours
San Francisco to Mexico City: approx. 4 hours
Get inspired
READ MORE: 5 REASONS WHY MEXICO IS THE ULTIMATE SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATION
Costa Rica
Exploring Monteverde, Costa Rica
Protected rainforest, jungle zip lining and plenty of dormant volcanoes, all against an eco-touristic backdrop; welcome to Costa Rica, where pura vida is more than just a tagline – it’s a lifestyle.
Costa Rica is easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central America, and with good reason. This is where life runs only at one pace: relaxed. Splash your way through hot springs in La Fortuna, zip line through Monteverde’s Cloud Forest, and drink freshly brewed coffee at one of the many coffee plantations. Costa Rica is tranquil, delightful, and just a little bit wild, and the perfect destination for anyone who takes relaxation seriously.
Flights:
Los Angeles to San Jose: <6 hours
San Francisco to San Jose: 7.5 hours
Play hard, rest easy in Costa Rica
READ MORE: 6 BEACHES IN COSTA RICA YOU REALLY SHOULD VISIT
Canada
Glacier trek in Jasper National Park, Canada
It took me more than two decades of living in Los Angeles to travel to Canada, and my only disappointment is that I didn’t visit sooner. Canada is every outdoor lover’s dream destination, thanks to breathtaking national parks, spectacular fjords, and (probably) more hiking trails than people.
The great outdoors alone is enough reason to visit, but you may be surprised to learn that it’s an excellent destination for city dwellers, as well. Head to French-speaking Québec for a taste of Europe in North America, Toronto for cosmopolitan vibes and foodie greatness, or Vancouver for all the nature you could ever want and more. No matter where you go in Canada, you’ll be surprised and delighted by what it has to offer. This includes the politeness of the people!
Flights:
Los Angeles to Vancouver or Calgary: 3 hours
San Francisco to Vancouver or Calgary: 2.5 hours
READ MORE: 10 ESSENTIAL WINTER ACTIVITIES TO TRY IN CANADA
Belize
Spotting waterfalls in San Ignacio, Belize
For world-class diving, impressive Mayan ruins, and fusion food that will delight your taste buds, look no further than Belize, a little-known country in Central America that packs a big punch. Nestled between Mexico and Guatemala with a Caribbean coast, Belize is the perfect tropical destination for a short trip with a long-lasting impression.
The Belize Barrier Reef is the second largest in the world. That, combined with the famous Blue Hole and plenty of water activities, makes it a no-brainer for your adventurous bucket list. How best to visit these sites and make the most of the coast? Spend some time on the paradisaical island of Caye Caulker. (And treat yourself to lobster and ceviche aplenty!)
Belize doesn’t just have an impressive coast. It also boasts tropical jungles, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and more. Explore everything the country has to offer or relax on the beach and take it easy. You deserve it.
Flights:
Los Angeles to Belize City: 5 hours
San Francisco to Belize City: 7 hours
Get the most out of your Belize break
SEE MORE: 23 PHOTOS THAT WILL CONVINCE YOU TO VISIT BEAUTIFUL BELIZE
Guatemala
Spellbinding Antigua, Guatemala
Where else can you experience magnificent ruins, colorful cities, indigenous markets and an extraordinary lake surrounded by volcanoes in just one week? Welcome to Guatemala, where tradition and history come alive.
Antigua is one of the prettiest cities in Central America, and the historic buildings have been restored to their former glory. While here, you’ll find no shortage of history, culture, craft and coffee. You won’t want to miss visiting the glorious Lake Atitlan, formed in a massive volcanic crater, either. And let’s not forget about Tikal, one of the region’s most magnificent Maya ruins, which is worth at least a day of your time.
Enjoy a much-needed soak in the volcanic hot springs, take in the smells and sounds of the rainforest and glide across the lake on a scenic boat ride with local shamans. You don’t need a long vacation to have lasting memories in Guatemala.
Flights:
Los Angeles to Guatemala City or Antigua: 5 hours
San Francisco to Guatemala City or Antigua: 7 hours
READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO 7 DAYS IN GUATEMALA
Panama
Tropical Coiba Island, Panama
Not only is Panama the connector between Central and South America, it’s also famed for the Panama Canal, the extraordinary body of water connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The marvels don’t end there. Panama City is Central America’s most glamorous capital, a fusion of history and modernity. Visitors may be surprised to learn that the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town) is just 10 minutes from the glitzy, modern city. The landscape changes rapidly upon arrival to Boquete, located just a few hours from the capital. This town in the highlands is famous for its surrounding waterfalls and hot springs. And then there’s the many islands with white-sand beaches… Panama truly has something for everyone.
Flights:
Los Angeles to Panama City: 6.5 hours
San Francisco to Panama City: 7.5 hours
Intrepid has Panama already planned for you
READ MORE: 4 PLACES THAT PROVE PANAMA IS CENTRAL AMERICA’S MOST UNDERRATED COUNTRY
Colombia
Colorful Cartagena, Colombia
Lush jungles, colorful cities, tantalizing food, and sizzling salsa – welcome to Colombia, South America’s alluring gem. A country on the up, a country you can’t help but fall for.
Prepare to be captivated by the ever-changing city of Medellin, intrigued by the mysterious Ciudad Perdida (Lost City), and awe-inspired by Caño Cristales, an eco-park with some seriously breathtaking nature. And don’t leave without visiting the Cocora Valley, the country’s coffee region, and Tayrona National Park, home to some of Colombia’s most picturesque beaches.
A blend of adventure, relaxation and the warm hospitality of the Colombian people make this destination a must-visit. It may be the farthest of the options, but the distance doesn’t make it any less appealing.
Flights:
Los Angeles to Bogota: 7.5 hours
San Francisco to Bogota: 9 hours
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Originally written in January 2019, updated June 2024.
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Ready to stop dreaming and start planning? Check out Intrepid’s top trips in over 100 countries.
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(Costa Rica images courtesy of Sally Elbassir)
