The Votes Are In!
2024 Readers' Choice is back, bigger and better than ever!
View Winners → Community Aug 18, 2022
| Image courtesy of Visit California
by
share with
We are feeling the brunt of the typical Southern California summer heatwave. When heatwaves don’t let up, it’s vital to know where you can cool off.
Malls are usually the go-to because of their extensive air conditioning while pools provide instant relief from the heat. But if you’re looking for something different, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. But it may take a drive that will be worth it.
Here are some of the best places to cool off in Southern California.
1. Big Bear Lake – Big Bear Lake is a great place to cool off in the summer months. The lake is situated at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, making it one of the highest lakes in Southern California. This makes for cool temperatures and refreshing water. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, fishing, and boating.
2. Mt. Baldy – Mt. Baldy is one of the highest peaks in Southern California, coming in at over 10,000 feet. This makes it a great place to cool off in the summer months. The air is thinner at this elevation, so the temperature is usually about 10 degrees cooler than at lower elevations. Several hiking trails and camping sites are also available, making it a great place to spend a summer weekend.
3. Idyllwild – Idyllwild is a small town located in the San Jacinto Mountains. It’s a popular destination for hiking and camping, but it’s also a great place to cool off in the summer heat. The town is situated at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, so the temperatures are much cooler than in the valley below. There are also several creeks and streams that flow through Idyllwild, making it a great place to take a dip on a hot day.
4. Julian – Julian is a small town located in the Cuyamaca Mountains of San Diego County. It’s best known for its apple pies, but it’s also a great place to cool off in the summer heat. The town is situated at an elevation of over 4,000 feet, so the temperatures are much cooler than in the valley below. There are also several creeks and streams that flow through Julian, making it a great place to take a dip on a hot day.
5. Palomar Mountain – Palomar Mountain is another great place to cool off in the summer heat. The mountain is located in San Diego County and is the second highest peak in the county, coming in at over 6,000 feet. This makes for cool temperatures and refreshing air. There are also several hiking trails and camping sites available, making it a great place to spend a summer weekend.
Regardless of where you decide to go, you’re sure to find some relief from the intense heat of this year’s summer and enjoy nature at its summer’s peak. Southern California has a myriad of places to beat the heat and there’s nothing better than going out and feeling relief.
For more ways to beat the heat, read our list of the best water parks in Southern California.
