The 30 Best Peaceful coastal escape in Santa Monica, California

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.

Palisades Park is a stunning oceanfront park located on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California. This picturesque park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular tourist attraction in the area. With its lush greenery, palm trees, and walking paths, Palisades Park provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply relax and take in the stunning coastal scenery. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful retreat or a tourist seeking a quintessential California experience, Palisades Park is a must-visit destination in Santa Monica.

Tongva Park is a beautiful and vibrant urban oasis located in Santa Monica, California. Situated at 1615 Ocean Avenue, this park is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can enjoy lush gardens, walking paths, playgrounds, and outdoor art installations throughout the park. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Tongva Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature in the heart of Santa Monica.

Ocean View Park is a picturesque park located at 2701 Barnard Way in Santa Monica, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. With its lush greenery, ocean breezes, and panoramic vistas, Ocean View Park provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection, or simply take in the natural beauty of the California coast, Ocean View Park is a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.

Barnard Way Linear Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 2440 Barnard Way in Santa Monica, California. This linear park stretches along the coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Pier. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the paved pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. The park is a popular tourist attraction, perfect for picnics, sunbathing, or simply relaxing and taking in the ocean breeze. Whether you're a local looking for a peaceful escape or a visitor wanting to experience the beauty of Santa Monica, Barnard Way Linear Park is a must-visit destination.

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 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.