Nature walks and trails in Santa Monica, California

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 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 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.

Euclid Park is a charming oasis located in the heart of Santa Monica, California. This beloved tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and tranquil walking paths. Visitors can relax on the park benches, have a picnic on the grassy lawns, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. Euclid Park is the perfect place to unwind, connect with nature, and soak in the beauty of Southern California.

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.

Hotchkiss Park is a beautiful and serene park located on 3rd Street in Santa Monica, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, walking along the scenic trails, or simply taking in the fresh sea breeze. With its lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere, Hotchkiss Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Gandara Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1819 Stewart Street in Santa Monica, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, Gandara Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, Gandara Park has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this hidden gem in Santa Monica.

Seminary Oaks Park is a charming and serene green space nestled in the heart of Menlo Park, California. Located at 299 Santa Monica Avenue, this park is a popular tourist attraction for visitors and locals alike. With its lush oak trees, well-maintained walking paths, and peaceful atmosphere, Seminary Oaks Park offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and unwind in nature, this park is the perfect destination. Come and explore Seminary Oaks Park for a refreshing and rejuvenating experience in the great outdoors.

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.

Plummer Park is a charming and picturesque park located in the heart of West Hollywood, California. Situated at 7377 Santa Monica Boulevard, this popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful oasis in the bustling city. With lush greenery, walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground, Plummer Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing day outdoors. Visitors can also enjoy the historic buildings, art installations, and community events that take place in this vibrant park. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or explore the local culture, Plummer Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Virginia Avenue Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 2200 Virginia Avenue in Santa Monica, California. This vibrant park offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages, including playgrounds, sports courts, picnic areas, and a community center. The park is a perfect spot for outdoor recreation, family gatherings, and community events. With its lush green spaces and beautiful surroundings, Virginia Avenue Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in Santa Monica.

Douglas Park is a beautiful park and popular tourist attraction located at 2439 Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica, California, United States. This charming park offers a serene escape from the bustling city, with lush greenery, walking paths, and plenty of open space for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, play sports on the fields, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the park. With its convenient location and tranquil atmosphere, Douglas Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists alike.

Beverly Gardens Park is a picturesque oasis located in the heart of Beverly Hills, California, along the iconic Santa Monica Boulevard. This beloved park spans 1.9 miles and features stunning gardens, fountains, and sculptures that attract visitors from near and far. With its beautifully manicured lawns and vibrant flower beds, Beverly Gardens Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic, or simply enjoying the sunshine. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and sightseers alike.

Penmar Park is a beautiful outdoor space located on Penmar Avenue in Santa Monica, California, United States. This park offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to relax, play, and enjoy the natural surroundings. With lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational facilities, Penmar Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic with family and friends, or a game of sports. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or engage in outdoor activities, Penmar Park provides a welcoming and scenic setting for all to enjoy.

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 Leo Carrillo - Staircase Parking Lot, your convenient gateway to the stunning Leo Carrillo State Park. Nestled at 40000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, our parking facility offers easy access to the park's diverse natural attractions, just 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica along the iconic Highway 1. Leo Carrillo State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring 1.5 miles of pristine beach perfect for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, and surf fishing. Explore the enchanting tide pools, coastal caves, and reefs, or enjoy a leisurely walk among the giant sycamores shading our main campgrounds. Adventure awaits in the park's backcountry, where you can discover the former ranch landscape and the serene stock pond at the Nicholas Flat Natural Preserve.

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 the Backbone Trailhead on Big Sycamore Canyon Road, a stunning gateway to nature located in the heart of Malibu, California. Nestled within the scenic beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, our park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the Backbone Trailhead is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Our trailhead provides access to the iconic Backbone Trail, a renowned path that stretches over 67 miles through diverse landscapes, offering breathtaking vistas and a wide array of flora and fauna. Explore the rich biodiversity of the area as you traverse through lush canyons, rolling hills, and serene woodlands. With trails suited for all levels of hikers, from beginners to seasoned trekkers, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome to Mt Boney Peak Park, a breathtaking natural haven nestled in the heart of Malibu, California. Located at the iconic address of Malibu, CA 90265, our park offers an unforgettable escape into the serene beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains. Known for its stunning landscapes and panoramic views, Mt Boney Peak is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking challenging trails or simply looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, our park has something for everyone. Explore miles of scenic trails that wind through lush greenery, offering glimpses of diverse wildlife and native plants. The summit of Boney Peak provides a rewarding vantage point with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding valleys.

Welcome to Tri-Peaks Park, a hidden gem nestled in Hidden Valley, California. Tri-Peaks offers an unforgettable hiking experience, guided by the insights of an average California woman who explores the world one trail at a time. Discover the highest peaks in the Santa Monica Mountains with our exhilarating Tri Peak and Sandstone Peak hikes. Located just north of Malibu, near the LA and Ventura County lines, the Sandstone Peak hike provides breathtaking views overlooking Point Mugu State Park. A convenient 1.5-hour drive from Orange County brings you to this nature lover's paradise.

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 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.