Santa Monicas Best Outdoor Adventures: Beachy, Charming, and Lively

Santa Monica is a beloved tourist destination for its charming smalltown vibe with upscale touches but theres no need to confine yourself to the city limits. Satisfy your sense of adventure by exploring all the surrounding natural beauty as well! Here are some top picks for outdoor fun that perfectly capture Santa Monicas sunkissed, trendy, coastal vibe.

Start at Will Rogers State Historic Park (1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd, Pacific Palisades) where you can explore trails winding through hillsides dotted with sagebrush and chaparral. Take in views of the ocean beyond while learning about actor/moviemaker/roper (!!) Will Rogers legacy.

Next up is Topanga State Park (20829 Entrada Rd, Topanga), which offers 11 hiking trails totaling over 36 miles throughout mountainous terrain along scenic ridges. Itll feel like youre far from civilization here even though its just a short drive away from Santa Monica!

Keep going north along PCH until you reach Malibu Creek State Park (1925 Las Virgenes Rd., Calabasas). This park includes Rock Pool a popular swimming hole featuring waterfalls that grace many an Instagram feed. If urban wildlife calls to you then head towards Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve (303 Culver Blvd Playa Del Rey) where birdwatching reigns supreme.

Finally finish off your day trip with some kayaking or standup paddleboarding in Marina del Rey Harbor or Venice Canals (Pacific Ave & Windward Ave,Venice). You might see sea lions lounging on docks nearby be sure not to disturb them!

These outdoor adventures offer plenty of opportunities to commune with nature and soak in those beachfront character traits unique to sunny Southern California!