Sometimes, the best way to recharge is with a scenic drive — windows down, music up, and the Southern California sun shining. Luckily, living near Tustin means you’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful driving routes, coastal roads, and hidden gems in Orange County. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-50, Kia EV9, or GMC Sierra from Tustin Auto Center, you’re just minutes away from incredible weekend adventures.
Here are a few of our favorite local spots for a perfect weekend drive around Tustin and Orange County — each one offering a mix of scenery, food, and fun for the whole family.
1. Santiago Canyon Road — The Hidden Beauty of OC’s Backcountry
If you love a winding road with open views, Santiago Canyon Road is a must. This stretch connects Orange to Lake Forest and offers some of the most peaceful and scenic drives in the area.
Along the way, you’ll pass rolling hills, towering oaks, and even a few roadside fruit stands. It’s the perfect route for testing your car’s handling — especially if you’re in a new Mazda CX-70 or Toyota Camry Hybrid, where smooth cornering meets effortless comfort.
Pro tip: Stop at Cook’s Corner, a local landmark that’s been serving road-trippers and bikers since the 1930s. It’s a great place to grab a burger, stretch your legs, and soak in a bit of Orange County history.
2. Newport Coast Drive — Coastal Views and Ocean Breezes
Few drives can match the breathtaking ocean views along Newport Coast Drive. Starting just south of Newport Beach, this route winds past Pelican Hill and Crystal Cove State Park, offering endless views of the Pacific.
It’s the perfect stretch for testing out the smooth acceleration and quiet ride of an electric model like the Kia EV6 or Hyundai IONIQ 5, both available at Tustin Auto Center. Take your time — roll the windows down, catch the ocean breeze, and pull over at one of the scenic lookouts for that postcard-perfect SoCal photo.
Bonus stop: Visit Crystal Cove Shake Shack (yes, the original one!) for a quick bite and one of the best ocean views in all of California.
3. Old Towne Orange — Classic Charm and Coffee Stops
Looking for a short, laid-back drive close to home? Head north on Tustin Avenue to Old Towne Orange, just 15 minutes away. This historic district feels like a step back in time with its vintage architecture, antique shops, and local diners.
Park your car near the Orange Plaza Fountain and explore on foot — the area’s full of locally owned boutiques, bookstores, and cafés. It’s a great stop for Sunday morning drives, especially if you’re cruising in a Toyota Corolla Cross, Kia K5, or Mazda3 from Tustin Auto Center.
Try this: Grab a latte from Aroma Coffee & Tea or brunch at Café Tu Tu Tango before heading back to Tustin for a relaxing afternoon.
4. Laguna Canyon Road — Art, Ocean, and Adventure
If you’re in the mood for a scenic blend of coastal charm and creative energy, Laguna Canyon Road (CA-133) is your go-to weekend route. Starting near Irvine, this drive winds through the canyons before opening up to the iconic art town of Laguna Beach.
This route is ideal for testing out comfort and tech features — like the adaptive cruise control and driver-assist systems in the Hyundai Tucson or Toyota Highlander. Once you reach Laguna Beach, park near the Festival of Arts grounds and take a stroll downtown.
Local favorites:
- The Cliff Restaurant for ocean-view dining.
- Laguna Coffee Company for a caffeine boost.
- Main Beach Park for a walk along the sand.
Whether you’re driving solo or making it a family outing, Laguna Canyon’s mix of art, food, and ocean views never disappoints.
5. Silverado Canyon — A Peaceful Escape from City Life
Tired of the freeways? Silverado Canyon offers a relaxing escape just 20 minutes from Tustin. It’s a winding, narrow road tucked into the Santa Ana Mountains — perfect for weekend drives when you want to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Along the route, you’ll find charming cabins, small cafés, and trailheads that lead deep into the canyon. It’s especially beautiful in spring when the wildflowers bloom.
Bring along your Mazda CX-50 or Toyota Tacoma and enjoy the balance of comfort and capability. The road’s gentle curves and rustic scenery make it one of Orange County’s most underrated gems.
Pro tip: Stop at Silverado Café for hearty comfort food and friendly local service.
6. Huntington Beach — Surf, Sand, and Sunset Drives
No list of SoCal drives would be complete without PCH through Huntington Beach — the ultimate oceanfront cruise. From Tustin, take the 55 South until it ends at Newport, then turn north onto Pacific Coast Highway.
You’ll pass iconic spots like Bolsa Chica State Beach and the Huntington Beach Pier, perfect for a stop to grab an iced coffee and watch the surfers. Sunset drives here are especially beautiful — an ideal test of the panoramic roof in your new Kia Telluride or Toyota Grand Highlander.
Local tip: Check out Pacific City for restaurants, rooftop bars, and shopping with a beach view.
7. Irvine Regional Park — Family Fun Close to Home
For something lowkey and family-friendly, Irvine Regional Park in Orange is just a 10-minute drive from Tustin. It’s home to picnic areas, pony rides, hiking trails, and the beloved Irvine Park Railroad — a hit with kids of all ages.
This is a great spot to test the cargo space in your SUV, whether it’s a Hyundai Palisade or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. Pack a picnic, load up the bikes, and make it a simple Saturday getaway.
Pro tip: Arrive early if you’re going on the weekend — parking fills up quickly by mid-morning.
8. Why Tustin Auto Center Drivers Love OC Roads
From canyon twists to coastal straightaways, Orange County roads are made for every kind of driver — and every kind of vehicle. That’s why Tustin Auto Center brings together multiple dealerships and brands in one convenient location, offering options for every lifestyle:
- Adventure seekers: Toyota Tacoma, GMC Sierra, Mazda CX-50
- Commuters: Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Toyota Corolla
- Families: Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Highlander
- EV enthusiasts: Kia EV9, Hyundai IONIQ 5, Toyota bZ4X
No matter where the weekend takes you, Tustin Auto Center is here to help you find a vehicle that fits your journey — and to keep it running at its best with certified service departments for every brand.
9. Start Your Next Drive at Tustin Auto Center
Whether you’re chasing ocean views, mountain curves, or local coffee shops, the perfect drive starts with the right car. Explore new and used models at Tustin Auto Center, where you’ll find top brands, trusted service, and a team that knows Orange County driving like no one else.
Plan your weekend, fill up the tank (or charge your EV), and discover the beauty that’s right in your backyard — all from behind the wheel of your next Tustin Auto Center vehicle.
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