Los Angeles offers an incredible blend of urban adventures and natural wonders that
locals cherish year-round. With its Mediterranean climate providing nearly 300 days
of sunshine annually, LA presents endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to
explore everything from pristine beaches to rugged mountain trails.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this guide will help you
discover the best outdoor experiences across the City of Angels.
Hiking through Griffith Park provides stunning city views and diverse trail options for all skill levels
Griffith Park is one of North America’s largest urban parks, spanning over 4,300
acres and offering more than 50 miles of hiking trails. The famous Observatory Trail
rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign, downtown LA, and, on
clear days, the Pacific Ocean.
This urban wilderness is a perfect escape from city life while remaining surprisingly accessible.
Exploring Venice Beach Boardwalk combines people-watching with beachfront recreation and local culture
The iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk stretches 1.5 miles along the Pacific, featuring
the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym and numerous street performers. This
vibrant community hub lets you experience the quintessential Southern California
beach culture while enjoying skateboarding and volleyball activities.
The atmosphere here captures the eclectic spirit of LA’s coastal lifestyle.
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Biking the Marvin Braude Trail connects multiple beach
communities through scenic coastal paths
This 22-mile beach path, known as The Strand, runs from Will Rogers State Beach
to Torrance Beach. The paved trail offers stunning ocean views through Santa
Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey, and other iconic beach towns.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop for refreshments or beach activities.
Surfing at Manhattan Beach introduces beginners and experts to Southern California’s surf culture
Manhattan Beach provides consistent waves and a welcoming atmosphere for
surfers of all skill levels. Local surf schools offer lessons throughout the year, using reliable swells and warmer waters.
The area’s surf culture runs deep, with many local shops and cafes catering to the wave-riding community.
Exploring Runyon Canyon combines celebrity spotting with challenging outdoor workouts
This 160-acre park in the heart of Hollywood offers three different hiking loops and
panoramic views of the LA Basin. The park has become a favorite among fitness
enthusiasts and dog owners with its challenging terrain and social atmosphere.
You’ll often spot local celebrities getting their morning workout while enjoying the natural surroundings.
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Kayaking in Marina del Rey allows peaceful exploration of
protected harbor waters
The world’s largest man-made small craft harbor provides calm waters perfect for
kayaking. Local rental companies offer equipment and guided tours throughout the
year, making it accessible for beginners.
The marina’s protected waters create ideal conditions for watching sea lions and harbor birds.
Rock climbing at Stoney Point Park challenges athletes with natural sandstone formations
This historic San Fernando Valley climbing spot has attracted climbers since the 1930s. The park features various difficulty levels for bouldering and top-rope climbing, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
The unique sandstone formations provide excellent grip and countless route options.
Playing beach volleyball at Santa Monica’s courts fosters
community and friendly competition
Santa Monica’s beach volleyball courts attract players from all skill levels, with
organized games happening daily. The courts near the pier have hosted numerous
professional tournaments and remain a hub for casual players and serious athletes.
Regular meetups and leagues make it easy to join the local volleyball community.
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Hiking Topanga State Park reveals hidden waterfalls and native California landscapes
Topanga State Park is the world’s largest wildland within city limits and offers 36
miles of trails through pristine California ecosystems. The park’s diverse terrain includes oak woodlands, open grasslands, and dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Spring visits reward hikers with stunning wildflower displays and flowing creeks.
Practicing yoga at Sunset Plaza combines wellness with
dramatic city views
This scenic overlook above Sunset Boulevard has become a favorite spot for
outdoor yoga enthusiasts. Local instructors often hold sunrise and sunset classes
here, taking advantage of the expansive views and peaceful atmosphere.
The location provides a unique blend of urban energy and natural tranquility.
Exploring the Angeles National Forest offers mountain
adventures within reach of the city
This vast forest is just an hour from downtown and offers hiking, mountain biking,
and seasonal skiing. It encompasses five wilderness areas and hundreds of miles of
trails through diverse mountain ecosystems.
Higher elevations offer an excellent escape during summer months and snow activities in winter.
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Paddleboarding at Mother’s Beach provides a gentle
introduction to water sports
This protected beach in Marina del Rey creates perfect conditions for learning stand-
up paddleboarding. The calm waters and gradual depth make it ideal for beginners,
while more experienced paddlers can venture further into the marina.
Local vendors offer rentals and lessons throughout the year.
Bird watching at Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area reveals surprising urban wildlife
This 401-acre park is an essential stopover for migratory birds and hosts numerous
resident species. The park’s diverse habitats include coastal sage scrub, grasslands,
and a peaceful lake.
Regular guided nature walks help visitors spot and identify local wildlife.
Golfing at Rancho Park offers a championship course
experience in an urban setting
This historic municipal course has hosted numerous PGA and LPGA events while
remaining accessible to the public. The challenging 18-hole layout tests skilled players while providing a pleasant experience for casual golfers.
The course’s central location makes it a convenient option for combining golf with other LA activities.
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Los Angeles: A Gateway to Endless Outdoor Adventures from Mountains to Sea
In Los Angeles, outdoor adventures await everywhere, from the mountains to the
sea. The city’s unique geography and climate create endless possibilities for
recreation throughout the year, while its diverse communities add flavor to each
experience.
Whether seeking solitude in nature or looking to join the local outdoor community,
LA’s outdoor spaces welcome everyone to create their own California adventure.
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