Idyllwild, where it's 20 degrees cooler

Visit California: Idyllwild sits in the San Jacintos about an hour up the hill, trading IE heat for pine shade and low-70s afternoons. Hike the kid-friendly trails at the Idyllwild Nature Center or head to Humber Park for the bigger climbs, then walk the small downtown — record shops, galleries, outdoor gear at Nomad Ventures, and the Rustic Theatre, a historic spot that runs film plus jazz and comedy nights. An easy day trip, longer if you want it.