TOP 30 Best Nature hiking in Santa Monica, California

Bikes And Hikes LA Tours offers an exciting and immersive way to experience the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Located at 8500 Santa Monica Boulevard, this travel agency and tourist attraction provides guided tours through the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Whether you prefer biking through the scenic streets or hiking up the picturesque trails, Bikes And Hikes LA Tours offers a unique and unforgettable way to explore the City of Angels. With knowledgeable guides and top-notch equipment, visitors can expect a memorable and adventure-filled experience during their time in Los Angeles.

Welcome to the Satwiwa Native American Indian Natural Area, a serene and culturally rich park located in the heart of Thousand Oaks, California. Nestled within the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains, this unique natural area offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Native American Chumash and Tongva peoples who once inhabited this land. Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through rolling hills, lush meadows, and oak woodlands, providing perfect opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife and native plants, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

Welcome to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, a breathtaking natural park located in Calabasas, California, just a short drive from the bustling city of Los Angeles. Our park offers a serene escape into nature with diverse hiking opportunities suitable for all levels of adventurers. Explore Solstice Canyon, where you can choose from easy, moderate, or challenging hikes through stunning coastal sage scrub and vibrant riparian plant communities. Enjoy a leisurely picnic or a peaceful stroll along the Solstice Canyon Trail, or test your endurance on the Rising Sun Trail. One of our most popular attractions is the perennial waterfall, a perfect destination for hikers. Along your journey, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as acorn woodpeckers, alligator lizards, fence lizards, and the majestic red-tailed hawk soaring above.

Welcome to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area - Western Gateway, a breathtaking park located at 233 Pacific Coast Highway, Oxnard, California. Discover the wild beauty and rich history of the Santa Monica Mountains, just a stone's throw away from the bustling city life. With over 500 miles of trails, the park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Explore the iconic beaches of Malibu or delve into the area's historical and cultural treasures, from old movie ranches to Native American heritage sites. Whether you're hiking the renowned Backbone Trail or uncovering the secrets of the mountains' past, there's something for everyone to discover.

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, located in Calabasas, California, offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes. With over 500 miles of trails to explore, visitors can enjoy the famous beaches of Malibu and discover historical and cultural sites throughout the park, including old movie ranches and Native American centers. Park scientists have studied nearly 100 mountain lions since 2002, providing valuable insight into their survival and conservation efforts. Stay informed about ongoing projects, such as the restoration of native plants and efforts to protect the largest native species in the western United States. Don't miss the opportunity to hike the Backbone Trail, a 67-mile route that spans the entire Santa Monica Mountains. Plan your visit today and see what wonders await you and your family in this beautiful park.

Welcome to the Santa Clara River Preserve, a stunning natural haven located at 1368 Mission Rock Road, Santa Paula, California. This expansive park spans nearly two miles of the majestic Santa Clara River, encompassing almost 1,000 acres of diverse upland habitat and riverbed. As one of the few public access points to the Santa Clara River, the preserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with this vital waterway. Managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), the Santa Clara River Preserve is a perfect destination for outdoor education, community gatherings, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Visitors can explore the natural beauty and learn about the ecological significance of the Santa Clara River, a critical source of drinking water and a key resource for local agriculture. The preserve also plays an essential role in providing some of the last riverside and freshwater habitats in the Los Angeles-Ventura region.

Welcome to The Joint Chiropractic - Pasadena East, your premier destination for holistic health and wellness in Pasadena, CA. Conveniently located at 3575 E Foothill Blvd, in the Ralph's center behind Citibank in Hastings Ranch, we are dedicated to providing exceptional chiropractic care for the entire family. Our team of highly skilled chiropractors is committed to helping you find relief from lower back pain, sciatica, migraines, and more, using a natural, drug-free approach. At The Joint Chiropractic, we believe that chiropractic care is not just about addressing symptoms, but about promoting overall health and well-being. With our focus on spine health, we offer a unique healthcare experience that many of our patients find life-changing. Whether you're new to chiropractic care or have been seeing a chiropractor for years, we invite you to discover the benefits of our affordable, convenient, and accessible services.

Welcome to Sunset Point, a breathtaking park located at 3987 Encinal Canyon Road in the heart of Malibu, California. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, Sunset Point offers an unparalleled natural retreat for visitors seeking tranquility and stunning vistas. As its name suggests, Sunset Point is renowned for its spectacular sunset views, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this serene park is an ideal destination.

Welcome to Sandstone Peak Trailhead, your gateway to adventure and tranquility in the heart of Malibu's natural beauty. Located at 12869 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California, our unique campground, lodging, and park offer an unforgettable escape into the wild. Nestled below the majestic Boney Mountain and surrounded by the serene canyons above Malibu, you'll discover Circle X Ranch, a former Boy Scout camp rich with opportunities for exploration and leisure. Embark on a journey through our rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem, where numerous trails invite you to immerse yourself in nature's wonders.

Welcome to Sandstone Peak, a breathtaking park nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, located at Westlake Village, California 91361. As the highest peak in the Santa Monica range, Sandstone Peak offers an exhilarating hiking experience with stunning 360° views that capture the beauty of Southern California's landscapes, including the Pacific Ocean. Our trails, notably the Mishe Mokwa and Backbone Trails, provide a variety of hiking experiences, from mild to adventurous, catering to enthusiasts of all levels. Starting from the Sandstone Peak Trailhead, you'll embark on a journey through diverse terrains, including the iconic Balancing Rock and Split Rock, offering picturesque spots for rest and reflection.

Welcome to Mugu Peak (Chumash Trail) at Point Mugu State Park! Nestled in the far western Santa Monica Mountains, Mugu Peak offers a breathtaking escape into nature with its diverse landscapes and stunning views. Located at 9000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265, this beautiful park is just 15 miles south of Oxnard on Highway One, making it a convenient destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Welcome to Sandstone Peak Trailhead Parking, your gateway to one of Southern California's most breathtaking natural attractions. Conveniently located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California, our trailhead offers easy access to the stunning landscapes of the Santa Monica Mountains. As the highest point in the range, Sandstone Peak provides hikers with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and the vast expanses of the Los Angeles County wilderness. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or a photographer seeking the perfect shot, our trailhead is the ideal starting point for your adventure. Enjoy well-maintained trails, diverse ecosystems, and the tranquility of nature as you explore this remarkable park. Visit us and experience the beauty and serenity that Sandstone Peak has to offer.

Welcome to the Mishe Mokwa Trailhead Parking Lot, conveniently located on Yerba Buena Road in the scenic Westlake Village, California. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, our parking facility serves as the perfect gateway for nature enthusiasts eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Mishe Mokwa Trail. Known for its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and serene environment, this park is a haven for hikers, photographers, and outdoor lovers alike. Our parking lot provides easy access to the trailhead, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure. Whether you're here for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, the Mishe Mokwa Trail offers a variety of paths and loops that cater to all skill levels. Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic rock formations, and lush greenery as you traverse this iconic trail.

Welcome to Sapwi Trails Community Park, a beautiful and expansive outdoor destination nestled in the heart of Thousand Oaks, California. Located at 2100 Scenicpark Street, our park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Originally envisioned as the Oakbrook Community Park in the Lang Ranch master plan, Sapwi Trails Community Park spans a picturesque oak-wooded landscape. While initial plans for a full-service park were revised due to geotechnical challenges, the reimagined park now offers a diverse array of amenities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Welcome to Split Rock, a hidden gem nestled along the scenic Mishe Mokwa Trail in Westlake Village, California. This enchanting park and tourist attraction offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil escape. Located in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, Split Rock is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and families looking to explore the great outdoors. As you venture along the picturesque trails, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and the remarkable geological formations that give Split Rock its name. This serene park is an ideal spot for a leisurely hike, a peaceful picnic, or simply to reconnect with nature. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler seeking adventure, Split Rock promises an unforgettable experience filled with exploration and discovery.

Welcome to Circle X Ranch, Grotto Trailhead, your gateway to adventure and tranquility in the heart of Malibu's breathtaking landscapes. Located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California, our unique campground, lodging, and park offer an unforgettable escape into nature. Nestled beneath the awe-inspiring Boney Mountain, this former Boy Scout camp provides endless opportunities for exploration and leisure. Discover the beauty of a rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem as you hike along our numerous trails. Immerse yourself in the chaparral plant community, where you might encounter the striking red shank chamise, a tree-like shrub adorned with reddish-brown bark and delicate white flowers blooming in mid-summer. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting blue-bellied lizards and scrub jays by day, and perhaps catch a glimpse of gray foxes and bats as twilight descends.

Point Mugu State Park, located in Malibu, California, is a stunning park in the Santa Monica Mountains with five miles of ocean shoreline, rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, and rugged hills. The park features two campgrounds, Sycamore Canyon and Thornhill Broome, where visitors can enjoy camping with trailers or campers up to 31 feet in length. Dogs are allowed in the campgrounds and day-use areas, but not on the trails. Visitors can explore over 70 miles of hiking trails, swim, body surf, and fish along the beach, and admire the jagged pinnacles of the Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area. The park also offers educational and interpretive programs for those interested in learning more about the natural surroundings.

The Anthony C. Beilenson Visitor Center, located at 26876 Mulholland Highway in Calabasas, California, is a travel agency that serves as a gateway to the stunning Santa Monica Mountains. Whether you want to explore the famous beaches of Malibu or hike along over 500 miles of trails, this center is your starting point for adventure. Discover historical and cultural sites, from old movie ranches to Native American centers, and learn about the park's diverse wildlife, including the nearly 100 mountain lions studied by park scientists. Stay informed about ongoing restoration efforts for native plants and animals, and don't miss the opportunity to hike the 67-mile Backbone Trail that spans the entire mountain range. Plan your visit to the Anthony C. Beilenson Visitor Center and uncover the wonders of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Leo Carrillo State Park, located at 35000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Dogs are welcome in day-use areas, the campground, and North Beach, but are not allowed on backcountry trails or South Beach. Visitors can make same-day reservations for campsites and lodging, with bookings available based on availability and the Park's maximum stay rules. The park features 1.5 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing, as well as tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs to explore. Giant sycamores provide shade in the main campgrounds, and back-country hiking is also available. Junior Rangers and campfire programs are offered in the summer, while school field trips are available during the school year.

Sapwi Trails Community Park, located at 2225 North Westlake Boulevard in Thousand Oaks, California, is a popular tourist attraction and neighborhood park. Originally known as Lang Ranch Community Park, this sprawling oak-wooded park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. Despite initial plans to build a full-service park with a community center and baseball diamonds being abandoned due to safety concerns, a new Concept Plan was developed after gathering input from the public. The park now features an outdoor classroom, disc golf course, seating areas, barbecue areas, benches, bike riding areas, a motorless sailplane area, and multiple trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Welcome to the Ray Miller Trailhead, a breathtaking gateway to nature located in the picturesque Malibu, California. Nestled in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, this captivating park and tourist attraction offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Southern California. Whether you're an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Ray Miller Trailhead promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Embark on a journey through well-maintained trails that wind through lush canyons, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged mountain terrain. The trailhead serves as the starting point for various hikes, including the popular Backbone Trail, which stretches across the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Along the way, discover an array of native flora and fauna, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility that only nature can provide.

Welcome to Backbone Trail Access at Encinal Canyon, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains! Located on Encinal Canyon Road in Malibu, California, this park offers a unique opportunity to explore the 67-mile-long Backbone Trail, a designated National Recreation Trail. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful escape from city life, our trail promises an unforgettable experience. Join us each week for a video series hosted by longtime volunteer Ralph Waycott, as we take you through the trail's eight segments and introduce you to LA’s premier hiking experience. Don't hesitate to share your questions, trail experiences, tips, or thoughts with us by emailing samo_interpretation@nps.gov.

Welcome to Chumash Trailhead, a serene escape nestled in the heart of Malibu, California. Located at the picturesque Chumash Trail, our park is a gateway to the natural beauty and tranquility of the Santa Monica Mountains. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Chumash Trailhead offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Explore our well-maintained trails that wind through lush landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home, and enjoy the fresh, invigorating air that rejuvenates the spirit.

Welcome to Circle X Ranch, a hidden gem located at 12896 Yerba Buena Road, Malibu, California. Nestled in the picturesque canyons above Malibu and beneath the majestic Boney Mountain, Circle X Ranch is a former Boy Scout camp offering a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover the beauty of this rare coastal Mediterranean ecosystem by hiking one of the many trails that wind through the ranch. Immerse yourself in the unique chaparral plant community, where you can spot the distinctive red shank chamise with its reddish-brown bark and delicate white flowers blooming in July and August. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant blue-bellied lizards and lively scrub jays during the day, and experience the enchanting presence of gray foxes and bats as twilight descends.

Explore the Backbone Trail Access at Yerba Buena Welcome to the Backbone Trail Access at Yerba Buena, your gateway to adventure in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains. Located on Yerba Buena Road in Malibu, California, this park offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of America's premier long-distance trails. Spanning 67 miles, the Backbone Trail invites hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to immerse themselves in the beauty of Southern California's best-protected coastal Mediterranean habitat.

Clover Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 2600 Ocean Park Boulevard in Santa Monica, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy picnics, play sports, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the park. Clover Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a tranquil outdoor retreat in the heart of Santa Monica.

Rocky Oaks Park is a hidden gem nestled among the hustle and bustle of modern life in Malibu, California. This tranquil park features a seasonal pond and a variety of plant communities that provide a habitat for local wildlife. Take a leisurely hike along the loop trails and enjoy picturesque views of the pond, once used as a watering hole for cattle but now a vital water source for native animals such as rabbits, coyotes, and deer. Plants like tule, cattail, and willow flourish in and around the pond, while water birds like buffleheads and mallards gracefully glide across the water. The park serves as a rest stop and commuting area for animals traveling between habitats in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Sycamore Canyon Campground, located at 9000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a picturesque campground nestled in Point Mugu State Park. The campground offers facilities for trailers and campers up to 31 feet in length, as well as a nearby Thornhill Broome Campground for larger vehicles. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful ocean shoreline, rocky bluffs, sandy beaches, and more than 70 miles of hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. Swimming, body surfing, and surf fishing are popular activities at the beach. Dogs are allowed in the campground and day-use areas, but not on trails. Same-day reservations can be made for campsites and lodging, and the park also offers educational and interpretation programs. Showers at the park are token-operated, and firewood can be burned in fire rings when fire levels permit. For a unique camping experience, Camping Adventures Trailer Rentals can deliver travel trailers directly to your campsite. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, Sycamore Canyon Campground is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Topanga Canyon Inn Bed and Breakfast is a charming lodging located at 20310 Callon Drive in Topanga, California, United States. Nestled in the serene Santa Monica Mountains and surrounded by Topanga State Park wilderness, this inn offers a peaceful retreat just a short drive away from the bustling city of Los Angeles. The Inn consists of two Mediterranean style buildings, the Casa Blanca and the Casa Rosa, adorned with antique Craftsman furniture and beautiful artwork by the hosts, Elena Roché and Catherine Roché. Guests are welcome to relax in the common areas, use the fully stocked kitchen, and enjoy the stunning views from the balconies and decks.

Crescent Bay Park is a beautiful coastal park located at 2000 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a perfect spot for picnics, beach walks, and enjoying the sunset. The park features lush greenery, walking paths, and benches for visitors to relax and take in the scenic surroundings. Crescent Bay Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful and picturesque setting by the sea.