Los Angeles is the perfect place to take a weekend trip at any time of the year, but the city transforms into a beautiful oasis of winter fun during the colder months. The city is a widely sought-after destination as it is, but winter getaways to Los Angeles can be truly magical and make for the experience of a lifetime.

From camping in the wilderness to winter sports and winter festivals, winter in Los Angeles can be filled with cozy fun and excitement. And while it isn't exactly known for its cold weather or holiday festivities, experiencing Los Angeles as a local will unveil all of the hidden wonders the beautiful city has to offer. There's a reason why it's called The City of Angeles, and winter is the perfect time to discover why.

10 Big Bear Lake

Located just a few hours outside the city, Big Bear Lake is the winter wonderland of anyone's dreams. Enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding down the beautiful winter slopes, or take a dip in the heated outdoor pools. For those looking for winter nightlife, there is plenty of local entertainment to explore. While winter camping is also an option, there are plenty of cozy winter cabins available to rent.

9 Palm Springs

Summers in Palm Springs are notorious for their desert heat, but wintertime creates a winter wonderland for all to enjoy. Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to explore this winter paradise on the weekends. Enjoy winter activities, like winter hikes and wildlife watching, or take in one of the many winter events and festivals that the city has to offer. If a luxurious dinner is in mind, consider attending Christmas Dinner in Palm Springs. There are also winter tree lighting ceremonies, restaurants, and shopping to will make winter in Palm Springs an unforgettable experience for all.

8 Sequoia & Kings Canyon Park

Escape winter’s chill and explore the beauty of Sequoia & King's Canyon Park. While winter can bring cold temperatures to the area, it is the best time to visit as the entire forest blooms with snow-covered giant sequoias and winter foliage. Enjoy a hike through one of the park's many trails, camp with family to create long-lasting memories, or engage in winter wildlife watching.

7 Terranea Resort

Enjoy winter getaways in luxury by taking a trip to Terranea Resort. Located along the Palos Verdes Coast, wintertime provides a stunning backdrop to this beautifully, highly sought-after resort. December traditions include Merriment & Music at the Lobby Bar, Magic by the Sea, tree lighting, Silent Night Meditation, and more.

Related: 12 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

6 Joshua Tree

The winter months are the perfect time to explore Joshua Tree National Park, as winter brings snow-capped mountains and winter skies. With plenty of winter activities available, winter weekends at Joshua Tree can be truly magical. Enjoy winter camping, hiking, rock climbing, and more. The winter landscape of Joshua Tree National Park makes winter getaways to Los Angeles an unforgettable experience.

5 San Diego

Just two hours away from the city of Los Angeles, winter visits to San Diego will provide a tranquil and peaceful experience to all who visit. The city is filled with winter activities, including broadway performances such as Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Christmas Carol, and the City Ballet's: The Nutcracker. Visitors can also enjoy Christmas parades, Christmas tree lightings, and enjoy Sesame Place's A Very Furry Christmas Celebration. Children and parents alike will enjoy winter getaways to San Diego.

4 Mammoth Lakes

Experience winter getaways to Mammoth Lakes, California. Enjoy a variety of winter activities and bask in the beauty of the surrounding lake with friends and family. Engorge yourself and family at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony or dance it out at Woolly's Dance Party. If a nature experience peaks interest, consider a camping trip with the family to have an up-close winter experience.

Related: 10 Of The Best Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss Out On In Los Angeles

3 Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is the winter playground for the holidays. From winter hikes to winter beach strolls, weekend getaways in Santa Barbara offer something for everyone. Take winter walks through the city's winter gardens, or take a winter boat ride to explore the coastline. There are also several holiday performances to attend, including A Christmas Carol, A Winter Music Showcase, the Christmas Brass Show, and more. To really indulge in the Christmas spirit, consider heading to Ugly Holiday Sweater Party to sport a holiday sweater and dance the night away.

2 Catalina Island

Escape to an island of magical winter vibes with weekend getaways to Catalina Island. Enjoy winter activities such as winter hikes, cruises, golfing, and more. As a special treat for the Christmas season, catch Women's Christmas Brunch at the St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church or attend a viewing of The Nutcracker or How the Grinch Stole Christmas at The Avalon Theater.

1 Ventura

Make the most of a weekend getaway with a trip to Ventura. Wintertime in this city brings with it winter festivals and winter events, such as the Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights, showings of The Nutcracker Ballet, and Ventura County's Holiday Tree Lighting.