Manhattan Beach, California
The Manhattan Beach Coastal Trail is a must-visit for outdoor adventures. This top-rated trail offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, with a smooth path perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. Along the trail, you'll see the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier, a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing. The trail is moderately challenging, making it suitable for all fitness levels. If you're into birdwatching, the trail is home to various species, adding a unique touch to your hike. For water activities, the nearby Manhattan Beach is ideal for surfing and swimming. For a relaxing day, the Polliwog Park offers beautiful ponds and picnic areas. Explore the best trails and outdoor activities in and near Manhattan Beach for a memorable time.
Top Spots in and near Manhattan Beach
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Dana Point, California
Salt Creek Trail
5.01.6 mi / 95 ft gainStarting from the Salt Creek Beach parking lot (a paid lot that takes cash and credit cards and charges by the hour with pay stations at a few points in the parking lots), you head west towards the ocean...through a tunnel and down the hill towards the beach. Once you get to the basketball court ...Read more -
Dana Point, California
Surf Salt Creek
5.0There are two HUGE parking lots off of PCH, so parking isn't an issue (unless it's on a weekend in the summer, then it does get full). This is a paid lot with a few pay stations located around the parking lot, and they take cash and credit/ debit card...you can pay by the hour. Once you find your...Read more -
Laguna Niguel, California
Colinas Ridge Trail
2.01 mi / 131 ft gainFirst, you'll be parking in the parking lot for the dog park. It's free parking and there are roughly 40 spaces, so there is plenty of parking. I've never seen more than 20 cars here at any one time. Once parked you'll find the trail head/ start on the northwest side of the lot (opposite the dog ...Read more -
Mount Baldy, California
Summit Mt. Baldy
4.812.12 mi / 5958 ft gainLocated only an hour’s drive from Los Angeles is the top of highest mountain in LA County—at 10,064 feet. Bear Flat Trail (also called the Old Mt. Baldy Trail) offers some of the finest scenery and most rewarding views in the San Gabriel Mountains high country. With nearly 6000 ft of elevation g...Read more -
Dana Point, California
Walk the Dana Point Preserve Trail
5.00.5 miOcean views the whole time, plenty of wildlife and different species of native plants make this short hike beautiful. With the hike being short enough to complete in the afternoon after a day at the beach you can see a beautiful view of the coastline north and south. There is plenty of parking in...Read more -
Dana Point, California
Dana Point Tide Pools
5.0If you're ever driving on the 5 between San Diego and Los Angeles and traffic is miserable (always), consider making a stop at Dana Point to check out the tide pools. The best place is behind the Ocean Institute which offers plenty of free parking and a short walk behind the building will quickly...Read more -
Dana Point, California
Stand Up Paddle Dana Point Harbor
5.0Whether I’m looking for a quick workout on the water, wanting to catch some waves, or simply explore the coastline, Dana Point is one of my favorite places to paddle. There is plenty of parking close to the beach, so you don’t have to walk far with your board. It’s also a great spot to launch as ...Read more
