Category: Los Angeles

You finally did it.

You splurged and rented that Lamborghini for the weekend. It’s an ideal day.

Warm, with a light breeze – perfect for a nice, scenic drive. You’re jazzed up and ready to take on the Los Angeles streets with the kind of gusto they deserve.

Where to careen off? Below is a list of Los Angeles’ best scenic drives:

1. Pacific Coast Highway: Santa Monica to Point Mugu

In about an hour, you can get from Santa Monica to Point Mugu Naval Base. Take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), which yawns northwestward, hugging the California coast. Don’t forget to stop at Zuma Beach, known for its long, wide sands and one of Los Angeles’ most popular surf spots.

2. Palos Verdes Drive

Consistently cited one of southern California’s nicest drives and with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean at almost every turn, Palos Verdes Drive is a must. Be sure to get out of your car at one of several rest stops. Squint your eyes for migrating whales at Point Vicente Lighthouse, or sneak in 9 holes at Trump National Golf Club.

3. Angeles Crest Scenic Byway

Closed for several years due to landslides, the Angeles Crest Scenic Byway was reopened in 2009 and is one of LA’s most stunning drives. The road is 66 miles and traverses the San Gabriel mountain range, presenting spectacular views of Pomona Valley and the Mojave Desert. You’ll reach over 7,000 feet on this drive, so bring your oxygen tank.

4. Mulholland Drive

At 55 miles long and with eight overlook points, Mulholland Drive is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic scenic roads. It was built in the 1920s to facilitate housing development in Hollywood Hills – today, it’s no coincidence that some of LA’s most exclusive homes are peppered along the Drive. A curvy road with blind turns and steep drop-offs, Mulholland Drive offers phenomenal and panoramic views of Los Angeles.

5. Sunset Strip

You can’t get as eclectic a view of the Los Angeles ethos than while cruising on the Sunset Strip. In less than two miles, you’ll experience multiple personalities – from grungy tattoo storefronts to chic hotel hangouts, the Sunset Strip is as synonymous with Los Angeles as Wall Street is with New York City. You can’t live in or travel to Los Angeles without rolling down the windows and taking it all in.

You’re in Los Angeles.

It’s where the surf scene as we know it today really took off. Known worldwide for its quick waves and great form, Los Angeles has so many different surf spots it can be a little bit overwhelming at first.

With a little bit of research, though, you can figure out what spot works best for you. Wax up the board, put on your suit, and paddle out to these top surf spots in Los Angeles.

1. Zuma Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the area, Zuma Beach is located on the north end of Malibu. Expect clear waters, a little bit of a crowd, and great waves. It’s a great surf spot for everyone but caters particularly to beginners and intermediate surfers.

2. Leo Carrillo

Another standard in the Los Angeles area, Leo Carillo consistently offers a great break and is accessible to surfers of all levels. It’s flat rocks and sand with a nice, slow-rolling break. Perfect for a relaxing day out in the waves. Great for longboarders, too.

3. Surfrider Beach (Malibu)

Where surfing was popularized in the late 50s. A long, lazy point break with a calm breeze makes this surf spot perfect for longboarders and shortboarders alike. On any given day you can find crowds in the water and cameras on the shore. For all of these reasons, Surfrider is one the most iconic beaches in LA.

4. El Porto – Manhattan Beach

Although it is known for its large winter breaks, El Porto can be an extremely varying wave. It can be a nice easy break during the warmer months and, because of this, is popular among tourists and beginning surfers. Generally speaking, this wave breaks left, far from shore. When the swells kick up a little bit, you can see professionals heading out to catch perfect A-frame peaks.

5. Venice Beach

Not the best form, but it is iconic and draws both locals and tourists alike. It is where shortboarding was pioneered in the 70s. It generally takes a bigger swell to make conditions work for this wave, but when it’s good, it’s good.

6. Topanga Beach

Relatively off the beaten path and lower on the crowd factor than some other spots in LA. It’s a reef break with a rocky bottom, so it’s got great form and it’s a long ride. It’s a nice surf spot for all levels, but you will mostly find experienced riders out in the water here.

7. County Line

As you may have guessed from its name, it’s at the edge of Los Angeles county. Located on one of the most scenic sections of the Pacific Coast Highway, County Line is a fast beach break that won’t disappoint. You can just pull right off of PCH and paddle out. If you’re looking for a wave with a good drop-in, there are also sections of reef break at County Line. These waves are often affected by afternoon winds, though, so get there earlier in the day.

Stuck in that infamous Los Angeles traffic again? Tired of the grind?

Is LA’s suburban sprawl starting to feel like a spider web?

For every Los Angeles freeway, there is an amazing hiking trail. With hundreds of mountains and waterfalls and ridges and trails, make sure to escape every once in a while.

Below are our eight favorite day hikes near Los Angeles.

1. The Bridge to Nowhere

Although its history is not as mysterious as it sounds, this epic 10-mile round-trip hike is one of the best in the area. Located in Angeles National Forest, this bridge is what remains of a failed attempt at cutting a road into a mountainside during the 1930s. It is a mostly flat hike and well worth fighting the crowds at the beginning of the trail.

2. Mt. Baldy

Considered a rite of passage among southern California hikers, ascending Mt. Baldy is a must-do. It’s an 11-mile round-trip trek that’ll take you to the top of the highest peak in the San Gabriel range. Breathtaking views from the summit will make you forget you’re near civilization.

3. Griffith Park – Hollywood Sign Hike

What list of Los Angeles hiking would be complete without the hike to the Hollywood sign? At only 4 miles round-trip, this Griffith Park hike is a great option if you’ve only got a few hours to kill.

4. Sturtevant Falls

This trail is easy, but fun. It makes for a nice afternoon away from the city with its streams and creeks. There are multiple stream crossings throughout the trail so definitely bring waterproof shoes or extra socks! When you do get to the final destination, you will be greeted, kindly, by a 50-foot waterfall. Epic.

5. Temescal Canyon

This trail offers spectacular coastal views, a canyon descent and interesting rock formations. If you would rather skip the canyon descent, there is an alternate, more gradual, sunny route.

6. Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa

Located in Topanga Park, the Parker Mesa is one of the best views of the Los Angeles coastline. The Los Liones Trail is the most scenic way to get there. It is 7.2 miles roundtrip and pretty gradual until you reach the last bit of the trail.

7. Murphy Ranch

This hike is also located in Topanga Park. The scenery isn’t particularly different, but the history behind this location is well worth the hike. Murphy Ranch starts off with stairs that descend down into what was previously a Nazi sympathizer stronghold. The buildings were literally meant to be a mountainside stronghold for the national socialists if America descended into anarchy after losing World War II. Obviously history played out a little differently, but it makes for a neat day hike!

8. Big Santa Anita Loop

This 10-mile round-trip hike is chock-full of waterfalls, streams and lush wildlife. There’s an area that’s great for picnicking about 3.5 miles in, and the terrain varies from thick forest to desert. Its got a little bit of everything packed into one trail. It’s good for dogs, too!

It was in Santa Monica where skateboarding took off in the early 70s.

Forty years later, it’s still going strong.

Los Angeles has plenty of good spots. Where do you go when there are so many options? Below are our five favorites.

1. Skatelab

It’s where the pros practice those tricks you’ll find playing video games, or during the X-Games. Skatelab has got every kind of box, vert, rail and stair you can think of. A 3-hour session will run you $10, but it’s well worth the amenities. Leave your Nylon or mesh shorts at home, and be sure to check out the accompanying museum. Skatelab is a great spot for beginners, as they offer introductory skateboarding lessons.

2. Venice Skatepark

Although Venice Skatepark only opened up in 2009, the surrounding area’s been a sort of skateboarding Mecca for years now. Everyone was thrilled when they unveiled a 16,000 square foot park with top of the line gear.

3. Santa Monica Skatepark (The Cove)

The birthplace of modern skating, Santa Monica Skatepark has seen the likes of the Dogtown crew, who spent their time here polishing tricks and style. With 20,000 square feet of legendary ramps, bowls and stairs, this is a must-see skateboarding destination.

4. Belvedere Skatepark

A damn fine place. It cost $1.1 million to build, and Tony Alva came to test it out himself on opening day. Also, free admission. Boom.

5. Culver City Skate Park

A cooperative effort by the city of Los Angeles and local skaters made this one possible. It’s got ledges, rails, stairs, and locals brag that Culver City Skate Park has the best pool to skate in Southern California. Also, free admission!

Southern California is hot.

The people, AND the temperatures, of course.

In the summer, the heat waves routinely breach 100 degrees. And sometimes you’re just not in the mood to get sand in your shorts. Remember, it gets everywhere.

Fortunately, Los Angeles has some fantastic public swimming pools. Below are our four favorite.

1. Argue Swim Stadium

Originally built for the 1932 Olympics, this recently renovated center boasts 2 different pools. One is designated for laps ,and the other is for play. They also have various sports programs if you’re into water polo or competitive swimming. Plus, how often do you get to swim in an old Olympic stadium?

2. Annenberg Community Beach House

The Annenberg Community Beach House is located on the property of William Randolph Hearst’s former companion (and silent film star) Marion Davies. There is an adjacent play area for children. Ms Davies’ guesthouse has also been turned into a museum, and tours are given daily. It’s pretty swanky.

3. Stoner Park Pool

Don’t forget your towel! This pool has something special that none of the others have – a tall, drizzling mushroom, a slide, and water-gushing tubes. Pretty gnarly if you ask us. Admission is free for children and only $2 for adults.

4. Glassell Park Pool

A favorite with locals, Glassell Park Pool is fairly bare bones, with only a simple pool and locker room. That said, it also doesn’t get the crowds, so if you’re in a quieter kind of mood, this might be your jam.

You’re in southern California.

Ready to take advantage of the glorious climate, you reach for the sunscreen, your board shorts or bombshell bikini and hit the road. With hundreds of beaches to check out, where do you drive?

Not all beaches are created equal. These nine, well, they’re the crème de la crème.

1. Leo Carrillo State Beach

Named after a local activist and preservationist, this beach is located 28 miles north of Santa Monica. Not only is the water beautiful, but there is also great hiking, guided nature tours and campfire programs. The beach also has picnicking areas and RV / tent sites if you are looking to camp out.

2. Surfrider Beach

Located in Malibu, this beach is where surfing was first popularized in the late 50s. It is obviously the place to be if you are a surfer or interested in surf culture; but it is just as satisfying if you enjoy people watching and small crowds.

3. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is a classic. It’s a wonderful place to hang out and  to relax. There are volleyball courts and, of course, the pier / boardwalk area (complete with iconic ferris wheel). Between the pier and the beach you definitely have a few different options. Or, to quote Everclear’s hit song Santa Monica, you could “swim out past the breakers and watch the world go by.”

4. Hermosa Beach

Why did the hipster mermaid leave the ocean? It was too current.

There is a certain hipster vibe given off by the locals at this beach, which makes for a great place to go and people watch. There are volleyball nets and plenty of sandy shoreline to enjoy. If you are not really in the mood for a towel and sunscreen kind of day, though, Pier Plaza is the place to be.

5. Cabrillo Beach

A tranquil beach that has one side open to the surf and the other open to the harbor, this is the perfect place for a family outing. Because of its location, you have lots of options for activities. You can do the more hands-on activities that a harbor might have to offer (maybe get in some kayaking or paddle boarding), or you can just watch the waves break on the other side of the beach.

6. Laguna Beach

One of LA’s biggest art communities, Laguna Beach is located just south in Orange County. With its relatively small town location and rich culture of fashion and art, Laguna Beach is a great place to have a beach day. The beach itself consists of beautiful white sands and crystal clear blue water.

7. El Matador

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, then you are in luck. Check the tide schedule, grab a bottle of wine and some cheese, and head out to find your own secluded nook where you can watch the waves roll in with that special someone.

8. Crystal Cove

Located just south of Newport Beach, this secluded stretch of beach is one of California’s underwater state parks. Tide pools and coves are teeming with life. The beaches themselves are white sand with blue water, and inland, on the cliffs, there are over 26 miles of mountain biking trails.

9. Catalina Island

22 miles off the coast, this island is a veritable wonderland. It has a multitude of activities and past times for tourists, not to mention a fine stretch of beach. There is great snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, sailing and kayaking. You’re sure to have a great time on this island.

So you’re looking to bike in the City of Angels.

You’ll probably just end up doing laps around the city, visiting all of the different parks. All pavement stuff, right? Actually, not so much. Because of Los Angeles’ close proximity to both the coast and, more inland, the desert, choice mountain biking trails are a plenty.

1. Aliso Woods

Located just south of Los Angeles in Laguna Niguel, this 3900-acre park has some of the better nature preserves in the area. There are over 91 species of birds, and rich geological formations scattered all along the trailside. There are different runs for all levels of riders.

2. Backbone Trail

This trail, located in Topanga State Park, is notoriously difficult riding. There are lots of steep climbs and downhills as the Backbone Trail takes you 67 miles around the crest of the beautiful Malibu Mountains.

3. Chino Hills State Park

This trail is located inland from Los Angeles but is well worth the drive. It is a moderately difficult trail accented by all of the creeks and mashes that run through its red rolling hills. There’s plenty of wildlife lurking around. Er, including mountain lions.

4. Crafton Hills Loop

Crafton Hills has similar scenery to Chino Hills, but it is a bit more accessible. Beginners can try out the Fire Trail for a nice leisurely ride through Yucaipa National Park. Or, more advanced riders can try to climb Zanja Peak for a breathtaking view.

5. Gabrielino / Arroyo Trail

Located just north of Los Angeles in Angeles National Forest, this trail is great for riders who like to get a little bit muddy. There are plenty of little creeks and tributaries running through the trails, not to mention a few waterfalls.

6. Santiago Oaks Regional Park

A lot of people don’t tend to associate Orange County with nature. But then again, a lot of people don’t know where to look. Lying in east Orange along the Santiago Creek, Santiago Oaks is home to one of the last existing orange groves in the city. This trail offers an extremely unique view of the city of Orange and a breathtaking view of the Orange Hills.

7. Parker Mesa Overlook

Located in Topanga State Park, this breathtaking overlook is one of the best ways to see the coast. It is a leisurely climb up to the overlook from the trailhead, with only a 900 ft. elevation gain over 5 miles, but the trails are well maintained and the coastal vegetation is quite beautiful.

Tired of the same routes at your local Los Angeles climbing gym?

Let’s face it – hard plastic holds, though colorful, can only come so close to the real thing. Grab your shoes and chalk bag and head on out to the real thing. The deserts of Southern California have some of the best rock climbing there is.

1. Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree is well worth the few hours it takes to get there from Los Angeles. With its thousands of climbing routes and countless boulder problems, there is something there for everyone. It’s a world renowned climbing destination. From beginners to more advanced skill levels, all climbers will enjoy themselves immensely. The camping is great, too! Due to its popularity, there is quite limited camping space. Also, it’s worth nothing that there is no running water in the park. Bring jugs!

2. Echo Cliffs

Considered to be one of LA’s only backcountry crags, Echo Cliffs is located right off of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in the Santa Monica Mountains. It is for more experienced climbers and considered to be a moderate level climbing areas.

3. Point Dume

Point Dume’s atmosphere represent’s the epitome of Los Angeles – sun and sand and all that is good in the world. This rock climbing area accents the larger state beach of the same name and offers up a challenge in the form of a cliff right on the beach. It can get crowded on the weekends, so it may be better to go check it out during the week or at earlier hours.

4. Vasquez Rocks

This park is located due east of Los Angeles. It looks a little bit like Mars and has been a backdrop for countless movies, including Tremors, Star Trek and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. There are 30 different marked climbs throughout the park. Climbers are limited to top-roping.

5. Devils Punchbowl

This climb is literally located on top of the San Andreas fault and is an incredibly scenic area. It is great for sport lead and top rope climbers; it has some pretty decent bouldering, too.

6. Malibu Creek State Park

A good place for intermediate to advanced climbers, this park is popular for sport lead and top rope climbing. The more popular areas include:  Planet of the Apes Wall, Ghetto Wall and Mash Boulder.

7. Stoney Point Park

An iconic location, this was where legends like Bob Kamps and Ron Kauk first learned to climb. Stoney Point Park is in Topanga National Park, tucked away off of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). There are more than 150 routes, and they vary from beginning to advanced.

8. Chouinard’s Hole – Stoney Point Park

Named for the hole in the front of it (obviously), this boulder is also named after Yvon Chouinard, who pioneered climbing and is also the owner of the clothing brand Patagonia. Try to sit in the hole, its tough to do!

9. Crowd Pleaser – Stoney Point Park

Named because of it’s impressive, gravity-defying shape, this concave slab of boulder curls out and poses a challenge to even experienced climbers.

10. Ummagumma Crack – Stoney Point Park

Named after a Pink Floyd concept album, this is one of the more challenging boulders in the park. Use the crack in the middle of the boulder to hoist yourself up and get started on this bad boy.