This sprawling  4,500 acres wilderness park is located in Aliso Viejo and offers many hiking and biking trails.

The parking lot and trailheads are on Awma Road via Alicia Parkway. The parking fee is only $3, but there is no attendant. Make sure to get a ticket from the machine and display it on your dash. Parking closes at sunset.

After you park, head south to a large sign showing several trailheads and pick your trail. Also, remember to grab a trail map at the edge of the parking lot.

Tip: If you are planning to do a lot of hiking in OC Parks administered areas, you can get an annual pass from the parking dispenser.

So many trails but so little time. Plan on coming back several times to explore all the trails.

On our first visit, we took the Aliso Creek trail because it is an easy trail with a slight decline when going towards the ocean. But do remember that this will turn into a slight include going back.

The trail is a mostly paved road but only accessible to official vehicles. As you are descending, the creek is on your left. You can hear the running water every once in a while with some small cascades along the way.

There is no shade to mention, so be aware and bring lots of water during warmer days. The trail branches along the way into several trails.

Tip: The trails are heavily used by bikers. Watch out for speeding bikes, especially on the dirt portion of the trails.

The first one you encounter – to the left - is Aliso Canyon East – which takes you back to the parking lot or to Lagina Niguel Regional Park.

A second branch – to the right – takes you into Wood Canyon Trail. This trail extends all the way into the Laguna Beach hills and connects to other great hikes like Oak Grove, Car Wreck, and Top of the World.

We did not take any detours during this first hike. We kept going next to the creek admiring the brush, wildflowers, reeds, and bird songs. We stopped after one hour of hiking then turned back.

As you walk on the main trail, watch out for the hills and rock formations on the right. You will see sloping rocks heading towards some caves. You can climb those rocks to get close to the caves.

An alternative to turning back was to keep going along the creek towards Also Beach. That would have taken another hour of hiking downhill. Hiking back would have taken more than 2-hours due to the incline, but you can always Uber back to your car.

If you decide to take Wood Canyon trail, you will enjoy a lot of shade but a more challenging hike (moderate). The out and back hike is about 7-miles paralleling Wood Creek with a forest setting.

You are certainly not limited to those trails. Check the map for a variety of trails and loops you can take.

At the end of the day, you can hike or drive down to Aliso Beach for a relaxing picnic on the beach or grab lunch at the Lost Pier Café – right on the sand. During our visit, we tried their cheeseburgers. They were cooked to order and tasty. The outdoor seats were a perfect end to our active day.

Also known as Corona Del Mar State Beach. it is probably the best beach for families. The main reason is the great but easy surf. On other beaches the surf tends to be too high for smaller kids, scaring them away from the water. On this beach the water is very inviting. The surf is just the right size for body surfing, boogie boards and skid boarding. The older kids can go in a little further for slightly bigger waves.

The park has a snack bar, equipment rental, volleyball nets, picnic tables, restrooms, showers and some fire rings, hills to climb, shaded picnic areas with barbecue grills.

While enjoying the sand and the surf you can watch the sailboats go by. The beach is adjacent to Newport Beach jetty, which leads to Newport Harbor.

This beach is very popular in warm weather. Parking is at a premium. Go early to reserve your spot. You can avoid some of the crowds if you try to enter the park from Orchid Avenue. Parking is free (if you find it) and the view is breathtaking, but you have to climb down a steep ramp to get to the sand. One the way down you rest in one of the rest stops and take great photos. You can also park anywhere along Ocean Blvd.

If you did not pack snacks or lunch and prefer not to buy food at the snack bar, you can grab some food from the many restaurants and coffee shops along PCH. I especially like Baja Fresh Mexican Grill at 3050 E. Coast Hwy.

More information at: http://www.beachcalifornia.com/corona-delmar-state-beach.html

Phone 949-644-3151

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

This 1200 acres undeveloped wetlands area is a quick escape from urban sprawl where you can take a leisurely stroll, take a brisk hike, go jogging, bird watching and take lots of photos.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a nature reserve in the city of Huntington Beach, California. It is designated by the California Department of Fish and Game to protect a coastal wetland, with its resident threatened and endangered species. "Bolsa Chica" means "little bag" in Spanish, as the area was part of a historic Mexican land grant named Rancho La Bolsa Chica.

You can start your exploration from either of 2 parking lots (south or north). If start from the south lot, you will cross a long wooden bridge that passes over the wetlands. You will be immediately rewarded with views of plant and animal life. Most prominent are the bird species.

As many as 321 species of birds have been spotted in the Bolsa Chica at various times. Some are year-round residents, others are migratory and are present for a short time.

You can also spot, rabbits, opossums, raccoons, squirrels, lizards, snakes and coyotes.

Fish species include top smelt, striped mullet, croaker, halibut, small sharks and round stingrays.

A variety of invertebrates inhabit the waters of the Bolsa Chica such as sea hares, sea cucumbers, clams, mussels, worms and crabs.

Some of the plants you can spot are Pickleweed, Battis, Cord Grass, Saltbushes, Rushes and Sea Purslane. Upland areas and sand dunes support a variety of grasses, Goldenbush, Marsh Fleabane, Sand Verbena and Beach Primrose.

There are several hiking trails in the preserve. The main trail from the footbridge takes you to the hills overlooking the preserve with great views of the ocean.

Free public tours are offered at Bolsa Chica and leave from the south parking lot. The first Saturday of each month at 9:00 am, the tour is conducted by the Amigos de Bolsa Chica. The third Sunday of each month at 10 am the tour is conducted by the Bolsa Chica Land Trust. See http://www.amigosdebolsachica.org/tours.htm for tour information.

Additional information at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolsa_Chica_Ecological_Reserve

Located along Pacific Coast Highway just south of Warner Avenue in Huntington Beach. Access from the north is from the parking lot on the south-east corner of PCH and Warner. Entrance to the reserve is just over the Warner Bridge. The south access is from the parking lot across from the entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach on PCH about 1.5 miles south of Warner Avenue.

Closest address:

If you feel like a nice easy hike close by, Buck Gully in Newport Beach is a very good choice. Just a few steps away from the beach in Orange County and in the middle of million-dollar homes, you can find this hidden oasis of lush wilderness and running water. 

Some people complained that it is difficult to find, but with today’s GPS, just look for 5th and Poppy intersection and you will be right at the trailhead. 

Another trailhead is located close to the Newport Coast Community Center at Joaquin Hills Road.

Tip: The trail is bordered with poison oak. It is recommended to wear long pants.

The trail is mostly level with a few inclines here and there – nothing too difficult – and about 5.5 miles for a roundtrip. 

The trail is narrow and shared by bikers and hikers. The bikers are very careful and considerate.  

Tip: There is no separate parking for the trailhead. You will have to park on the streets close-by. 

Most of the trail is shaded with trees and brush and runs along a creek. You will be crossing the creek over three bridges.

This gully is full of birds, butterflies, frogs and lizards. Pause for a while, listen and watch the wildlife around you.

During a recent visit, we saw two adult birds crossing the trail and about 12 chicks following them around.

If you would like to know more about flora and fauna of Buck Gully you can join a ranger-led hike – it is free. To find the next hike and register, go here.

You can also help protect and restore Buck Gully by volunteering your time. Visit the Conservancy here.

Tip: Always bring lots of water, especially during warm weather.

You can find a good map of Buck Gully trails here.

The only drawback to this hike is that you will have to double back on the same trail to reach your starting point.

Many people are flocking to Chino Hills to admire the wildflower bloom after the wet California winter, but in May 2023, it is a little disappointing. 

Although wildflowers are everywhere, I couldn’t find the multicolored poppies in abundance. I could only see a lot of yellow mustard flowers on the hills and especially along the trails. 

Watching poppy super blooms is a matter of timing. I think people who visited in March had better luck.  

The park is still beautiful and always worth a visit for hiking, biking, jogging, or picnicking. 

That Park extends over 14,173 acres on the borders of Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. 

It has about sixty miles of trails and fire roads that traverse hills and canyons with woodlands, sage scrub, grasslands, and wildflowers. 

Discovery Center

The Center sits at the west entrance of the Chino Hills State Park in Brea. 

The center is a great place to learn about the local trails, wildlife, and fauna. The staff here is helpful and friendly. 

Families with younger children will appreciate the hands-on exhibits, and you can spend a bit more than an hour here, depending upon how much your youngsters want to see. 

The center also has the only restrooms at this end of the expansive park. 

Telegraph Canyon Trail

This 7.5-mile out-and-back trail starts near the discovery center in Brea. 

It is a mostly level trail, so it is considered easy and good for families with small children, but it is long. You can always turn back at any point for a shorter hike.

It is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and horseback riding, so expect a lot of traffic on weekends. 

Tip: You can park in Carbon Canyon Regional Park and walk the short, signed trail to Chino Hills Park. You get to visit another nice park and pay a lower entrance fee. 

The Telegraph Canyon trail takes you more than halfway through the park’s major east-west canyon. 

You will venture through some beautiful riparian areas, dense with oak, alder, and sycamore trees, but most of the trail is without shade. 

As you walk between the hills and canyons, you can easily forget about the multimillion homes nearby.

Bane Ridge Trail

One of the most popular hikes within Chino Hills State Park is the Bane Ridge Trail, which covers 4.8 miles (7.72 km) with just under 1000ft (0.3 km) of elevation gain.

To get to the trailhead, you will first pass through the entry gate at the east end of the park in Chino Hills, drive for about 12 minutes on Bane Canyon Rd. to the Horse Staging gravel parking lot. Here is a link to the exact location on Google Maps, https://goo.gl/maps/iCTxSE4araE2.

Driving along Bane Canyon is a treat for the eyes as it meanders between the hills, offering spectacular views of the wildflowers. Several lookout points allow the visitors to stop and admire the views. 

Pick up the trail at the north end of the horse staging area near the restrooms. Follow the signs for Bane Ridge Trail.

The trail is easy (2 out of 5) with alternating stretches of level terrain and steep climbs. 

The trail begins by climbing gently through a forest of oaks and pines. As you ascend, the views of the surrounding hills and mountains will begin to open. After about 1.5 miles (2.41 km), the trail reaches a junction. Continue straight to stay on Bane Ridge Trail.

The trail continues to climb, offering ever-improving views. After about 2.5 miles (4.02 km), the trail reaches the summit of Bane Ridge. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the San Gabriel Mountains, the Santa Ana Mountains, and the Inland Empire.

From the summit, you can either retrace your steps back to the trailhead or continue for a longer hike. If you choose to continue, the trail descends back down to Bane Canyon Road.

Expect to hike from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and stops. 

Crystal Cove state park is both a beach and a wilderness area with many hiking trails.

This 3 mile stretch of beach along the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the newest additions to the state park system. Along with its pristine beaches, it covers 3000 acres of hills, canyons, and trails. It also includes primitive campgrounds that only backpackers can get to. A new addition is Moro campground which has some facilities. It sits in between the beach and the hiking trails.

Take a break from all the excitement of the main attractions to commune with nature and forget the hustle and bustle of civilization. Some of the trails are easily handled by young children 6 and up. Younger children may need help.  If the kids complain too much about the hike, remind them about the second part of this excursion: The beach. 

You can start exploring the state park with a hike in the wilderness area.

The park has about 17 miles of trails to pick from. Get a map online (map) or from the ranger stations. There are now 2 parking areas available for hikers. One of them is at the Moro campground day-use area. The other is outside the campground next to the main ranger station/visitors center. I usually park at the campground because it also provides easy access to the beach area.

Tip: The entrance to the wilderness part of the park may be a little confusing. Just remember that it is behind the El-Moro Elementary School.

You really have to plan ahead for this hike. There are just too many trails to pick from and it is possible to get lost. Don’t forget the map.

If you are looking for an easy hike, start from the back of the campground (away from the beach) and go over the wood bridge then turn left. Follow the trail through Moro Canyon. Turn left at the first fork and make sure that you stay on the left side (called Poles trail). There is a steep incline at this portion of the trail. Once you reach the top, turn left again onto "No Name Ridge" trail. This will take you down to the main ranger station. Keep going past the ranger station and turn left into "Moro Canyon" trail which will take you back to the wood bridge and the campground. This hike is about 2.5 miles.

If you prefer a bigger challenge, study the trail map and plan a longer loop. For example, you can take the Moro ridge to Moro canyon loop for a 5-mile hike. Many of the trails have a great view of the Pacific Ocean, but Moro ridge has the best continuous view. Some people call this the Red Loop. The reverse route (Moro Canyon to Moro Ridge) provides more spectacular views because while descending back to the Canyon you are facing the ocean. 

Most of the trails are out in the open with no shade, so avoid going during hot weather and take lots of water with you. Moro canyon has some shade and follows a seasonal creek. 

Expect to find sage, prickly pear cactus, monkey flowers, goldenbush, lemonade berry, deer weed, and oak. You can also find lots of birds, some rabbits, and some eagles. 

Tip: Those trails are also popular for mountain biking, so watch out for speedy bikes going downhill.

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

Once you are done with the hike, keep your parking ticket and head out to the beach. Your ticket is good at all the crystal cove parking lots. 

If you are already at the campground, just use the underpass to the beach. If you parked at the main ranger station, exit the parking and turn right onto PCH. Turn left onto any of the Crystal Cove parking areas.  

Most of the beaches at the state park require a steep climb downstairs or ramps towards the beach, so be prepared. You can avoid those steep inclines if you are at the campground.

The beaches here are great for surfing, body surfing, rock climbing and sea life exploration at the tide pools

Tip: Try to pack light for this beach trip. Just remember that you have to climb the same steep stairs or ramp on the way back up.

Along the 3 mile stretch of beaches, there is a nice pedestrian and bike trail. You can take this very easy hike instead of the El-Moro Canyon trail. The advantage: great views of the ocean. The disadvantage: You can hear the cars along PCH.

For additional exploration, try the other beaches at this state park, each with a distinct personality: Treasure Cove; Historic Crystal Cove; 3.5 Cove; Scotchman’s Cove; Muddy Creek.

At Historic Cove you can rent a cottage - if you are lucky enough to get a reservation in time before they disappear.

Eaton Canyon is a nice shady canyon with a well-marked trail that leads to a 40-foot waterfall.

The fall is active year-round, but you will enjoy a better view in the spring months. You can find this hidden gem in the San Gabriel Mountains close to Pasadena and Arcadia, California.

The trail itself is considered an easy trail due to distance and elevation gain, but it does have some difficult areas that make this hike a little more adventurous. Expect to climb some steep inclines, go rock hopping and cross the stream several times before you reach the beautiful waterfall.

Local Tip: What makes this hike more exciting also makes it more dangerous. If you are not careful you can slip on the loose gravel or slide on the slipery rocks. Waterproof hiking shoes are recommended.

Most hikers start from the Eaton Canyon nature center where parking is abundant and free.

Local Tip: If the main parking lot is full, take a small side road to a dirt overflow parking area.

The round trip from the nature center is around 4 miles. It can take between 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours depending on your speed and breaks. We like to enjoy nature and take a lot of pictures, so the trip up the trail was slower than the return trip.

If you prefer a shorter hike to the falls you can enter from the Pinecrest gate which is further up Altadena drive.

The distance from this gate to the falls is around .4 mile. If you do this shorter hike, you will miss out on the wildflowers, and the creek crossing.

Local tip: There are no bathrooms along the trail. Good facilities are available inside the nature center at the trailhead. 

The first part of the hike is a wide and long dirt road that parallels a rocky wash that is dry most of the year. Once you cross the wash stay to the left on the main trail.

Soon you will come up to a fork in the road. There is a small sign indicating the waterfall trail to the left. If you ignore the sign and go to the right you will end up on a longer and more difficult trail that will eventually take you to Mount Wilson.

At the next junction, go left again under the big concrete bridge. This will take you to the main Eaton Canyon trail. From this point on you will be hiking under shady trees and enjoying the sights and sounds of the stream.

Local tip: Watch out for many small side trails that might confuse you and send you away from the fall trail. You can use some of those side trails to get closer to the stream, but always remember to go back to the main trail.

At the end of this trail (around the 1.9-mile point) you will see the waterfall cascading into a small shallow pool. You can wade into the pool to get closer to the fall, but be warned, it is icy cold water.

You can grab a rock to sit and enjoy the view and maybe eat a snack.

Local tip: This is a very popular hike. On weekends expect to see a lot of people along the way and especially at the fall. For a better experience, try to make this hike during the week. If you have to go on the weekend, go very early.

The pool under the waterfall is deep enough to have a refreshing swim. But the water is very cold. Be ready with a change of clothes and a towel. 

Local tip: As you are enjoying the waterfall view you might see some hikers at the top of the fall. Be warned that there is no easy way to get to the top. There is a narrow and dangerous trail that goes to the top, but it is very risky. A lot of people are injured while attempting this side trail. 

Eaton Canyon Trail

or 

This beautiful lake and park are a launching pad for several Hikes. You can spend time around the lake admiring the ducks and swans, fishing or enjoying a picnic.

The lake gets stocked with fish regularly and you can witness adults and kids actually catching some fish. Dogs are welcome here but must be on a leash.

The trails connected to the lake are good for hiking, biking and horse riding. For a short and easy hike, you can just loop around the lake. One loop would be around ¾ a mile.

Several trails with varying length and difficulty starting from the lake.

Juanita Cooke Greenbelt Trail

At the north-east end of the lake, cross Santa Rosa Place road and head down the trail in either direction. Going south you can keep going for about a mile and a half until you reach Laguna Road park close to Bastanchury Road.

If you decide to continue your hike or bike ride, after cross Bastanchury you will encounter a fork in the trail. Keeping straight, you can keep going until you reach Euclid – which will take you another mile or so.

If you take the right-side fork, you will on the Hitlscher Park Trail.

Both trails are mostly flat, with special ramps for mounting biking challenges.

As you approach the end of the main trail, you will notice that neighbors on both sides keep beautiful gardens with tall palms making it a very pleasant end to a long hike.

This end of the trail is also very close to Downtown Fullerton. You can keep walking to enjoy lunch or coffee before you head back.

Bud Turner Trail

Another good trail starts from the south-west end of the lake. This is actually an extension of the trail hugging the south side of the lake.

The trail will take you through the green area of Laguna Lake Park and crossing through the Equestrian Center - which is home to the "Fullerton Recreational Riders". You can stay at the lower level close to the park or you can take the high trail which climbs for a while before dropping again.

The trail seems to end at Laguna road as it meets Euclid, but it actually continues paralleling the street until it reaches Valencia Mesa drive close to downtown.

Nora Kuttner Trail

If you follow Bud Turner trail parallel to Euclid for little distance you come across a pedestrian walkway connecting to a Church. At the other side of Euclid, you can pick up  Nora Kuttner rail.

If you follow this trail for 1/2 a mile you will get to the "Top of the World" - the highest point on t his trail with great views of the Robert E. Ward natural preserve. 

Looking down at the protected Coyote Hills you can see Coyote brush, southern willow scrub, coast prickly pear, California sagebrush, purple phacelia, yellow sun cups, and orange monkeyflowers along with forests of cactus.

In the distance, you can gaze at the San Gabrial Mountains, San Bernardino Mountains and downtown Los Angeles.

The trail is mostly easy with a few steep inclines. It is shared with bicycles and horses, so watch out for those bikes. The bike trail splits from the hiking trails for a good portion of this hike making a little safer. 

You can get to this hike from several points along the trail but beware, there is no parking at the official trailhead on Castlewood dr. Your better option is to start from Laguna Lake Park with plenty of parking.

Irvine Park is located in the city of Orange and is about 20 minutes from Anaheim. It is the largest park in Orange County (477 acres). This park has lakes, creeks, lagoon, Oak and Sycamore trees, waterfall, bridges, playgrounds, bike trails and paddle boats.

The park also has its own Zoo and train rides. The Zoo is limited, nothing like the San Diego Zoo, but good enough for young kids – entrance fee is much more affordable.

The train ride is a must for families with young kids. You can preview what the park has to offer before you settle in for the day. While you are in the train-ride area you might as well take the kids to the Pony rides next door.

Pick an area under one of the big trees or under the shaded shelters. Best places are close to the main lake - where the rental store and snack bar are.

You can rent bikes to use along the bike trails or rent a paddle boat (aqua-cycle) for the lake.

Rentals are available throughout the summer, weekends and holidays.

If you have a workout in mind you can use the bike trails as a nice long hiking trail, play horseshoes at one of the pits, catch a game of Volleyball or Baseball.

Irvine Regional Park

http://www.ocparks.com/irvinepark/

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

We landed at the LA Arboretum by mistake, and I am glad we did. I passed by this place many times on my way to hikes close by but never stopped to explore.

On this day, we were heading to Eaton Canyon for a great waterfall hike but were blocked by a roaring stream with a dangerous crossing. So, we decided to check out this botanic garden in Arcadia.

The 127-acre beautifully landscaped garden is nestled against the San Gabriel Mountains. It provides a sanctuary of nature, where flora and fauna thrive in harmony, and visitors can escape the urban chaos and immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.

As we entered the Arboretum, we were greeted by a lush landscape of blooming flowers, towering trees, and chirping birds. And everywhere we looked, we saw peacocks displaying their vibrant colors and calling for a mate.

The LA Arboretum has various plant collections, including South American, Mediterranean, South African, Australian, and North American plants. 

Other displays include the Aquatic Garden, Meadow Brook, Demonstration Home Gardens, Garden for All Seasons, Prehistoric and Jungle Garden, Native Oaks, Herb Garden, and the Palm and Bamboo collection. 

The gardens also serve as the home for summer concerts featuring the Pasadena POPS.

It also offers various historical features, including the Santa Anita Train Depot, the Queen Anne Cottage, and the Baldwin Mansion with Baldwin Lake nearby.

Baldwin Lake is home to various fish, including bass, catfish, and bluegill. It is also a nesting ground for many birds, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. 

Various trees and plants surround the lake, including oaks, pines, and willows.

The LA Arboretum is a great place to learn about Southern California's natural and cultural heritage. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Peacock Café is a great place to enjoy lunch or a snack while admiring the lush landscape. While we had lunch, several peacocks strutted around the tables. 

Other places we enjoyed at the Arboretum are:

The Rose Garden: Where you can find a selection of roses nestled under Mexican fan palms.

Perennials Garden: The garden offers design ideas and outstanding plants for Southern California Gardens.

Aquatic Garden: A serene landscape of gentle pools, water lilies, and shaded benches, with the Meyberg Waterfall below.

Baldwin Lake: A serene lake next to an enchanted forest with fish, waterfowl, and turtles. Benches offer a place to relax and enjoy the views. 

We passed by this wilderness park many times on the way to Laguna Beach and never thought to stop. At our friend's advice, we finally decided to turn into the Nix nature center and try it out.  We were pleasantly surprised by its wild beauty and the abundance of trails.

The park is about 7000 Acres of hills, canyons, and ridgelines – some with commanding views of the ocean. The trail system is well-maintained with a variety of difficulty levels.   

The park contains the only three natural lakes in Orange County and a seasonal waterfall. The biggest one is Barber’s Lake – across the street from the Nix Nature Center. The waterfall only happens after a major rainfall.

This park is part of a bigger system of parks called “South Coast Wilderness Area” and includes places like “Crystal Cove” and “Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park”.

Nix nature center

This nature center is a good launching point for your explorations. You can spend some time in the center, viewing the exhibits and talking to the rangers. They are very helpful and can provide valuable information for your hike.

The Laguna Canyon Foundation runs several programs from the Nix Nature Center. Look for fitness hikes, geology hikes, family bike rides, and California native plants hikes throughout the year. Find upcoming events here.

The trail system

The park has 42 miles of trails, spanning the area between Irvine and Laguna Beach. Hikers and bikers can explore a dozen loops.

Important Note: At the center and in every other staging area, you will find a check-in sheet. Make sure to add your info before your hike. The rangers use the sheets to make sure everyone made out of the wilderness.

The trail difficulty ranges from moderate to challenging due to the hills, canyons, and ridges. There are no easy trails here. You can pick up a booklet showing trail ratings at the Nix Center. Find a detailed trail map here.

Sycamore to Stagecoach Loop

This loop starts from Nix Nature Center and connects four trails for a total of 5-miles. We started at the Little Sycamore Canyon trailhead, but you can make the loop in the opposite direction by starting at Stagecoach trailhead.

The trail crosses three foot-bridges and climbs quickly on Sycamore passing through colorful wildflowers and sagebrush. It peaks at the intersection with Serrano Ridge (Marker 48).

Turn left at Serrano Ridge for a more flat hike on this fire-road. From this ridge, you can see the canyons on one side and a great view of the Santa Ana mountains on the other.

Important Note: There are no services on the trail. Make sure to use the restrooms or porta-potties at the trailheads before you start your hike.  

After this long and easy stretch of trail, turn left again on Camarillo Canyon Road (marker 28). This trail passes through descends through some rough terrain into a grove of Live Oak Trees and a grassy meadow.

As you approach Stagecoach trail (at marker 43) turn left and make sure you do not pass the gate to the right. If you cross that gate, then you are outside the park boundaries.

Stagecoach has a steep zigzagging climb before it drops back to the Nix parking lot. After you pass the highest point and start descending, you see Barbara’s Lake on the other side of Laguna Canyon Road.

The hike took us around 4 hours to complete, but some hikers were able to complete it in less than 3 hours. It depends on how fast you walk and how many stops you make.

You can find a detailed guide for the same loop but starting from Stagecoach here.  

Laurel / Willow Loop

Laurel Canyon offers hikers a rare glimpse into untouched wild California. A few feet away from civilization, and you are immersed in live oak, sycamores, sagebrush, and wildflowers – with birds and rabbits running across the trail.

This loop goes through Laurel Canyon, Laurel Spur Ridge, and Willow Canyon. You can take this hike from either end. This makes for a 3.5-mile hike and can take from 2 to 3 hours to complete. It is considered moderate because of some steep climbs and some rough terrain.

Important Note: Bring plenty of water for your hike. I needed three bottles of water for a 3-hour hike with nice cool weather. You will need much more during hot summer days.  

We started from Laurel Canyon trailhead passing close to sandstone caves and then descending into a shaded canyon. The trail runs along a stream then climbs around 650 feet.

Just before turning left into Laurel Spur Ridge, we came across a granite outcropping that drops 60 feet to the canyon floor. I am told that a waterfall runs down this cliff after a rainy day. Unfortunately, it was totally dry when we visited in June.  

After I turned into Laurel Spur, we had a great view of the hills and canyons – and the Santa Ana mountains in the distance.

Before our left turn into Willow Canyon Road, we kept going for a while to connect with Boomer Ridge for an amazing view of the ocean.

This ridge connects with Crystal Cove State Park trails. You can keep going for a much longer hike, but we turned back into Willow Canyon and started descending back to the parking lot.

If you like to try the hike from the other direction, there is a good guide here. The advantage of starting from Laurel Canyon is that you will warm up while going on a level trail for a while - before starting your climb. On the opposite direction, you will start climbing almost right away.

Other trails and loops

This wilderness area has many more trail to explore. Some of the suggested trails are Barbara’s Lake Trail, and Big Bend Loop with an Ocean view. Some of those trails connect to Crystal Cove system of trails. Read more about Crystal Cove State Park here.

Flora and Fauna

The Laguna Coast Wilderness is rich with vegetation and wildlife. Some of it will cross your path on your hikes. we were lucky to see rabbits and gophers, a roadrunner, lots of lizards, butterflies, bees, and a few eagles. Many species of birds live in the abundant vegetation.

All this wildlife lives among Live Oak, Scrub Oak, Red Gum, and Sagebrush – with a large variety of wildflowers.  

Oak Canyon Nature Center is located in the Anaheim Hills area. It is a hidden nature sanctuary in the middle of urban development.

The center has many hiking trails with varying difficulties. They range from easy to moderate. A year-round stream meanders through the park and crosses many of the trails.

Check out more details and directions at www.anaheim.net/ocnc.

Look for "Outreach Programs" - Those are basically interpreted nature walks. A park ranger will guide you through some of the trails while providing useful information on various topics. Those walks are a hit with the kids, especially the "Insects and other Amazing Arthropods" program.

Start your excursion by visiting the museum (Interpretive Center) where you can find examples of plant and animal life in the area, trail maps and other useful information. You can also start your "Outreach Programs" walk here.

Once you are done with the nature center and the organized walks, you can start on your own adventure.  Stoll along the stream, watch the fish swimming by and then try to locate the source of the stream.

Feel like a real workout? Then start exploring the various trails. If you get lost, just follow the downhill trails and you will find your way back.

Bring lunch or snacks and have a picnic next to your favorite spot.

Trail details:

MAIN ROAD: Goes through the center of the canyon, offering the easiest hike with open views. Accessible to both strollers and wheelchairs.

STREAM TRAIL: This is also an easy trail for families with small children. It runs along the creek with a lot of shade. Listen to the sounds of waterfalls and Jaybirds along the way.

HERITAGE TRAIL: A paved and easy trail with benches and Gazeboes for resting. Along the way, enjoy the large variety of cactus species.

ROADRUNNER RIDGE: This is probably the most difficult trail at the center, but only moderately difficult. It runs along the top north end of the canyon. Once you get to the top you are rewarded with great views of the whole canyon. You need about half an hour to make the full loop.

More trail information.

Oak Canyon Nature Center

www.anaheim.net/ocnc

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

After the closing of El Toro Marine base in 1999 a great debate erupted in OC. What to do with the huge real estate vacated by the marines? Some wanted a new airport, others preferred more urban sprawl, but the forces of nature won. Now we have the Orange County Great Park.

The Orange County Great Park Plan will provide a wide array of activities, including a 2.5-mile canyon and lake, miles of hiking and biking trails, a cultural terrace, Orange County's largest sports park, a botanical garden, and a tethered helium observation balloon that will be an icon for the Great Park.

The park is still being built, but you can still enjoy some of its attractions right now.

The Great Park Balloon is open and it is free. Take a ride up to 400 feet (depending on wind speed) and watch the empty land around you being transformed into a great park.

While you are at the top, gaze down to see a Historic Timeline that can only be viewed in entirety from above. Once you are done with your ride, you can walk through this 2600 ft timeline and relive 162 significant events. 

Before or after your ride walk through the passage leading to the ride to view a gallery of photos showing future plans.

Finally, check the OC Great Park Website regularly for updates and events.

Completed sections:

South Lawn Sports + Fitness Complex:  30 Acers of soccer, basketball fields and fitness path.

North Lawn: 7 Acers of multi-purpose activities: You can join a sports clinic or a family sports program here. 

Palm Court Arts Complex: Hosts Galleries, artist studios and shaded outdoors theater.

Farmers Market and Picnic Area: A Farmers Market that offers fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables along with handicrafts and live entertainment. Runs every Sunday.

FARM + FOOD LAB: A two-acre urban agriculture demonstration garden where you can do some hands-on gardening, learn about food ingredients or buy potted plants for your garden. 

Kids Rock Playground: Kids have fun climbing rocks and running through tunnels while learning about environmental conservation.

OC Great Park Website

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

This park is located in the city of Buena Park, Orange County, CA. It is another large recreational area with lakes, streams, trees, hills, playgrounds, sports fields, bike trails, and a very nice hiking trail.

The parklands range from large open grass areas, to gently rolling hills of native plants, to sheer sandstone cliffs to the north.

For sports enthusiasts, the park offers sand volleyball courts, three softball fields, and a baseball diamond and tennis courts.

The park also has an interactive center that allows the visitor to explore the prehistoric history of Orange County through displays, programs, and guided tours.

You can start your hike from behind the tennis courts. Follow the dirt path between the trees all the way around the park. Towards the end, the hike climbs up sandstone hills with a breathtaking view of Orange County from the top. Along the way, watch out for squirrels and birds.

For more information see http://www.ocparks.com/clarkpark/

Clark Regional Park

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

It’s a park. It’s a beach. It’s a campground. It’s all of the above and much more.

San Clemente State Beach is one of the rare places where everything aligns perfectly to make your visit unforgettable. You will want to come back again and again.

The “State Beach” offers campsites atop the bluffs with breathtaking views of the ocean. The camp has around 160 campsites which are divided into groups, RV, and tent areas. The campground is beautifully laid out with paved roads connecting the various areas. Each campsite has a fire ring, picnic table, shade ramada, and shade trees - with drinking and washing water nearby. Bathrooms – with hot showers - are never too far.

Tip: This park is extremely popular. You will need to make reservations many months ahead of time. Go to ReserveAmerica’s website and book your camp sites up to a year in advance.

If you are not planning to stay overnight, you can still enjoy this great beach/park for a day. A picnic area located in the day-use section offers a great view of the beach.

Whether you are camping or just visiting for the day you can enjoy a lot of activities for all ages.

First and foremost you have to spend some time at the beach. To get to the beach, you have to climb down a steep paved ramp. But before you start down the ramp, pay a visit to the lifeguard headquarters area. Behind the building, you will step onto a terrace that offers an amazing view of the beach and the ocean. On clear days you can see Catalina Island in the distance. After taking in the view and snapping memorable photos, start down the ramp. Once you reach the bottom of the ramp, you will pass under the railroad bridge to enter the world of sand and surf. Experienced surfers can enjoy the large breakers while younger children can enjoy surfing and body surfing closer to the beach.

While enjoying what the beach has to offer, watch a few trains zip by going between Orange and San Diego counties.

Beyond the railroad tracks and hugging the bluffs you will see a long hiking trail. This trail actually starts from the San Clemente Metrolink station and heads south. But you can start your hike right from the state beach and head south to Trestle beach and San Mateo Creek. The creek marks the border between Orange and San Diego counties. You can turn back at this point, or you can keep going until you reach San Onofre state beach.

Back at the campground, the family can ride bikes around the paved roads, play games, go on easy hikes around the camp (Butterfly Trail), play soccer, climb trees and pilot remote control cars. During the summer, park staff conducts campfire programs, junior ranger programs, and interpretive hikes.

For the more adventurous, take a long bike ride from San Clemente state beach to San Onofre State Beach. Start by exiting the park from a pedestrian and bike entrance opposite Avenida San Luis Rey street. This side gate is also close to the “Butterfly Trail” trailhead. Turn right on Avenida Del Presidente and keep going on the bike trail until you hit the end of the road – as it connects to Cristianitos Road. You will see a paved trail running parallel to the 5 freeway. This is the beginning of the old highway 101 – which is not in use. Before you reach the San Mateo Creek Bridge you have to make a choice. You can turn right and follow the side road to Trestle beach or you can continue on old highway 101. The Trestle beach route is more scenic, but the 101 route is faster. Either way, you can keep going until you arrive at San Onofre State Beach. This was the end of the road for my family and me. We explored a little around San Onofre and then headed back to our campsite.

Tip: If you did not bring your bikes with you, you can rent from the “San Clemente Cyclery” at 2801 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, CA 92672 - (949) 492-8890.

If you like to take another hiking or biking trip, start from the bottom of the cliffs and head north this time. You walk or ride all the way to the Amtrak station passing through several great beaches and the San Clemente Pier. At the pier, you can have a snack or lunch at the restaurants and buy souvenirs at the various shops.

Back at the campsite, if you discover that you forgot to bring some supplies, don’t panic. You can go to the camp store and buy firewood and other minor supplies. If you need more, stores and restaurants are not far away. Follow El Camino Real heading north to find places like 7-11, Ralphs, and Rite-Aid.

Please remember that quiet time is from 10 PM to 6 AM. Some camper, especially the young ones will be asleep by 10 PM. So avoid any source of the noise. The rangers will enforce this rule.

For more information, see the official website at www.parks.ca.gov.

225 Avenida Califia

In the bustling urban sprawl of Southern California's major cities, one might not immediately think of nature's tranquil offerings like rivers, creeks, and waterfalls. Yet, the Southland is replete with these hidden natural treasures.

While we can't compete with the grandeur of Niagara Falls, Yosemite, or Oregon's Columbia Gorge, Southern California offers its own array of stunning cascading waters, all within a convenient drive.

The greater Los Angeles area is framed by the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains to the north, with additional mountain ranges weaving through the basin. These natural barriers offer a rich tapestry of snow-capped peaks, meandering rivers and streams, abundant hiking trails, and serene valleys adorned with waterfalls.

In the upcoming pages, join me on a journey exploring some of the most popular waterfall hikes in the region.

Sturtevant Falls

Set in the verdant foothills above Arcadia and Pasadena, the Sturtevant Falls Hiking Trail is a gem nestled in the heart of the Angeles National Forest.

It is just one of many trails in the Chantry Flats area, but it stands out as my favorite for its breathtaking culmination at the waterfall.

Discover more about this enchanting hike here: Sturtevant Falls

Eaton Canyon Waterfall

Eaton Canyon, a serene and shaded haven, is home to a picturesque 40-foot waterfall. This cascading beauty is most vibrant during spring and is tucked away in the San Gabriel Mountains, near Pasadena and Arcadia.

Though easy in distance and elevation, the trail offers an adventurous twist with steep inclines, rock hopping, and multiple stream crossings leading to the stunning waterfall.

Learn more about this hidden gem here: Eaton Canyon Waterfall

Millard Canyon Falls

Above Pasadena, the landscape is rife with canyons and waterfalls, among which Millard Canyon is a standout, offering a swift path to a beautifully flowing waterfall.

Depending on your starting point, the hike can span either 4 miles or a shorter 2.5 miles.

This trail, winding along a creek, requires multiple stream crossings and some rock scrambling, making it a challenging yet rewarding adventure for older children and the young at heart.

Discover more about this scenic hike here: Millard Canyon Falls

Monrovia Falls

Canyon Park, another Southern California hidden gem, offers a serene escape into nature with opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and exploring a waterfall. Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and managed by the city of Monrovia, the park's highlight is the trek to the year-round Monrovia Falls.

Choose from three different trailheads, with the nearest one starting near the entrance gate for a moderate 1.7-mile hike.

Learn more about this tranquil spot here: Monrovia Falls

Paradise Falls

Contrary to what one might expect in late August in Southern California, a stunning, flowing waterfall awaits in Wildwood Regional Park in Thousand Oaks.

This unexpected cascade is nestled within a deep valley of the park, located near the intersection of Avenida De Los Arboles and North Big Sky Drive, with free parking available off West Avenida De Los Arboles.

The park offers a variety of trails, from dirt access roads favored by bikers to foot trails with varying levels of difficulty.

Discover more about this hidden oasis here: Paradise Falls

Escondido Falls

The Escondido Falls trail is a moderately challenging hike featuring lush trees, a meandering creek, and a stunning waterfall when in full flow.

The lower tier of the waterfall, easily accessible, stands at 50 feet, while the more challenging upper tier soars to 150 feet, offering a breathtaking view.

The hike to the base of the falls covers 3.8 miles with an elevation gain of about 400 feet, mostly shaded and alongside a creek, with several exhilarating creek crossings.

Learn more about this delightful trail here: Escondido Falls

San Antonio Falls

San Antonio Falls, a year-round cascading wonder, descends a striking 400 ft cliff, revealing its beauty primarily through its lower section.

Our exploration aimed to uncover all four sections of the falls. Guides Ian and Kyle commenced our adventure with comprehensive safety instructions and an overview of the essential equipment.

Key safety tips include staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, adhering to guide instructions, being vigilant for rattlesnakes, and wearing water-friendly attire.

Discover the full details of this captivating expedition here: San Antonio Falls

Switzer Falls

Traversing the gullies of the San Gabriel Mountains, one finds it hard to believe that this lush, water-rich environment is part of drought-prone Southern California.

The journey to Switzer Falls is accompanied by the soothing sounds of running water and birdsong, celebrating the area's vibrant natural beauty.

The trail begins at the Switzer picnic area in the Angeles National Forest, a mere half-hour drive from downtown Los Angeles.

Read more about this serene hike here: Switzer Falls

Holy Jim Fall 

The Holy Jim Falls hike is a 2.9-mile out-and-back trail near Trabuco Canyon, California. It is generally considered a moderately challenging route, with an elevation gain of 600 feet (ca. 183 m). 

The hike takes about 1.5 hours to complete, but I would allow more time to admire the views along the way.

Read about this Orange County Waterfall here.

Further away

For even more stunning waterfalls, head to Yosemite National Park and visit majestic falls like Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, Bridalveil Falls, and Nevada Falls.

Walking through this gully in the San Gabriel mountains, it is hard to believe I am still in drought-stricken Southern California.  

Right from the start of this hike to Switzer Falls, I can hear the sounds of running water and birds declaring their contentment with this hidden nature enclave.

The trail starts from the Switzer picnic area in the Angeles National Forest and is about half an hour's drive from downtown Los Angeles.

The drive to the park on the Angeles Crest Highway (Hwy 2) is a delight. The winding road has many vista stops that overlook the valley below with surreal scenes of Los Angeles in the distance.  

Tip: To park a car anywhere in the Angeles National Forest you will need an Adventure Pass. You can get one for a day or for a year. In most places there is no way to purchase a pass, so you need to get one ahead of time. See the website here.

Once you are on the trail, the Arroyo Seco stream is never too far. You actually have to cross this stream many times along the way.

Some reviewers called this hike easy, but I think we should call it moderate. The first stretch of trail slopes down very gently tricking the hiker into thinking it too easy, but soon you will start ascending to the top of a ridge then dropping down into another gulley with a steep incline.

Tip: Wear waterproof hiking shoes. You have to cross the stream multiple times and in some places, you have to wade through the water.

All those climbs and drops make for a great workout and they all offer great views along the way, but always remember that you still have to repeat all that in reverse when it's time to head back.

At the highest point of this hike, you are above the tree line and you can get glimpses of the waterfall way below in the ravine.  

Tip: There is a parking lot at the entrance to the picnic area (on Hwy 2). Skip that one and go all the down for a better spot. If that one is full, try the other parking lots placed up higher on the drive. The top lot is your last resort.

Depending on the time of year, the waterfall itself may not very impressive. During Summer and Fall, It could be a short cascade down a rocky slope with a small shallow pool. After winter storms, expect a much more robust waterfall, with several pools and a strong stream.

Having said that, it is still worth a trip any time of the year and it is still a miracle that we have any waterfalls at all in Southern California.

Tip: There is a side trail that will take you to the upper fall with a larger pool. I did not attempt this hike myself and I don’t recommend to the casual hiker, but if you really want to try it read the details here.

At the waterfall, you can enjoy a picnic or just sit and relax before your journey back. If you are lucky, you will have the whole waterfall and gulley to yourself. Although this trail is popular, there are times when the waterfall area is totally empty and quiet.

Trailhead address: Switzer Truck Trail, Altadena, CA 91001

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 4 miles round trip

Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on your stops

Tuna Canyon Park is a sprawling 1,255-miles preserve in the Santa Monica mountains – in between Topanga and Malibu. The hills and canyons in this park are covered with sagebrush, wildflowers and a sprinkle of Oak trees.

Many trails crisscross through the park, but most of them are hard to find – making them some of the least visited trails in Los Angeles. If you want to avoid the crowds, this is the trail for you.

One of the best trails to explore starts from Tuna Canyon Road at the Big Rock Motorway dirt road. There is no sign at the trailhead, so it is very easy to miss it and there is no official parking. Just pull over on the dirt and follow the dirt road for a short distance (about 790 ft).

The drive itself from PCH to Hwy 27, Fernwood Pacific and Tuna Canyon Road is worth the time. Lush greenery on both sides and a sleepy mountain community with a few viewpoints along the way.

Tip: There are no restrooms on those trails. Make sure to visit the facilities before you get on the winding roads. Otherwise, you will have to do your business among the brush.

You have a decision to make at this junction. You can turn left onto Hearst Tank Motorway following a steep incline to one of the viewpoints. Expect to climb about 1,550 feet for this stunning view of the ocean and the hills.

For an easier hike, turn right on that junction following Big Rock Motorway to another unmarked junction. Along the way, enjoy the meadows on either side of the trail.

Big Rock Motorway leads you to Budwood Motorway. Following this trail, you will be hiking parallel to the coastline with amazing views towards Malibu due west and Santa Monica Bay due east.

Tip: Since there are no signs or markings anywhere to be seen in this park, make sure to take photos and notes at every junction, so you can find your way back.

For a longer and more difficult hike, keep going down Big Rock Motorway to the Big Rock Lateral junction, then continue on Big Rock Lateral until you reach a viewpoint overlooking Las Flores Canyon with a commanding view of the winding Malibu coast below.

Direction to the main Trailhead

Coming from PCH, turn onto Topanga Canyon Rd (Hwy 27). Turn left into Fernwood Pacific Dr. Follow the winding road which will turn into Tuna Canyon Rd. Stop at Big Rick Motorway (dirt road) and start walking.

Trailhead address: Tuna Canyon Trailhead, Topanga Canyon, CA 90290

Trailhead coordinates: 34.059538, -118.616345

On the way out, you can continue on Tuna Canyon Road to the right, which becomes one-way down to PCH.

Every year in springtime, people driving along highways are greeted with hills and canyons painted in orange, green and violet.

This amazing multi-colored panorama is caused by the poppy flowers bloom. In 2019 California experienced a super bloom due to the heavy rains.

You can witness this phenomenon in many places in the state like Big Sur, Antelope Valley, Merced Valley and Lake Elsinore.

We recently visited the super bloom at Walker Canyon, which lies in between the Cities of Corona and Lake Elsinore.  

Apparently, everyone in Southern California decided to visit at the same time. The freeways were congested and the hills were overflowing with revelers. Parking was a major challenge, but once we arrived, we really enjoyed our time on the trail and among the flowers.

Tip: Most people followed the official directions and turned north on Lake Street heading to Walker Canyon road (towards the hills). This is a big mistake. You will end up stuck in traffic for a very long time. Instead, go south away from the trailhead and find parking in that direction. Much easier to get in and out.

Once you reach the trailhead it is an easy climb on packed dirt for a round trip of 3.5 miles. You don’t really need to go the full length of the hike to enjoy the scenery. Everywhere you look you can admire the wildflowers – and gaze at the droves of people doing the same thing.

You actually don’t have to go on this trail to get close to the poppies. Just find any accessible trail into the surrounding hills – or follow other hikers.

Some people worry about following those unofficial trails because some flowers might get trampled. Although this is true, please remember that this is a seasonal bloom. All the plants will die down later in the spring and get reborn next year.

After we enjoyed the main trail, we dropped down to a creek, crossed it and climbed onto a more challenging trail with a better view.

Tip: If you go early you might notice that the flower bulbs are closed. Later in the day with will open up and transform into a whole different view.

If you stick to the main trail, you will notice that the first quarter mile is a little steep but it will even out later. The crowds will also thin out the further you go. If you want a longer hike, take a fork to the right, which loops back into Walker Canyon Rd for a total of 5 miles.

Every year the Whales make their journey between Alaska and Baja California. Along their migration route they pass by Southern California and thrill onlookers with their magnificent breaches and water spouts.

Several species of Whales pass by our shores but the two most common are the Giant Blue Whales and their relatives the Gray Whales.

The best way to admire those whales and their cousins the Dolphins is to take a boat cruise from one of the port towns along the coast. 

You can watch the Gray Whales during winter and early spring – or you can watch the Blue Whales and some Humpbacks during summer. You can always find lots of Dolphins. 

Tip: Whether you are going in winter or summer, dress warm or bring a jacket with you. The temperature seems to drop the further you go into the ocean. 

There are many tour operators along the coast. It is hard to decide whom to go with – but after some research – we decided to go with Newport Landing (Davey's Locker). This tour operator departs from Newport Beach - right next to the Fun Zone. They have more than 20 years of experience and can locate Whales and Dolphins with ease. 

Along with Whale watching cruises, Newport Landing offers other services like sunset cruises, evening cruises, and deep-sea fishing trips. See Whale watching Orange County for a full list of services.

We went on the Ocean Explorer and loved the boat and crew. The boat is medium-sized with two levels so it is not overcrowded. The upper deck has a bigger open area with a large canopy. The lower deck has an enclosed observation, a minibar, and a snack bar. We decided to head to the upper deck to enjoy the views. 

The cruise starts on the calm waters of Newport Bay - dodging sailboats, speed boats, and jet-skis and passing by beautiful houses and busy beaches. 

At the tip of the bay and behind the south barrier, you can spot Big Corna Beach – one of the popular destinations in the area. Also right at the entrance of the bay, you can see a large population of Sea Lions living on a navigation buoy. 

The cruise continues into the ocean paralleling the coast and passing by Newport Coast, CrystalCove, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point. When the captain, crew, or passengers spot a whale or a pod of Dolphins the captain slows down the boat or comes to a complete stop.  

Tip: The waves in the ocean tend to be choppy, so if you are prone to motion sickness, take some precautions before you start.

On our trip, we only saw one Minke Whale – which is smaller than the Gray Whale – but we saw a lot of Dolphins. We watched a large pod of the Common Dolphin feed and compete for the food with diving birds. We also watched Dolphins chase the boat, go under it and pass it – as if they were playing a game with us. We saw dolphins jump out of the water and heard some squeaking. 

Although we did not see any of the great Whales on this trip we still enjoyed our time out on the sea. We saw playful dolphins, watching flocks of flying and diving birds, and visited a colony of Sea Lions. 

After the cruise, it was time for lunch. We decided to try the Harborside restaurant which is located in the same building because it had a high Zagat rating. It overlooks Newport Bay with an excellent view. The food and service were good  but the prices are a little on the high side.

If you prefer not to take a boat trip, you can still watch Whales - during their migration - from the shore. There are several popular spots for viewing the whales. Here are a few: Dana Point, Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, Point Dume, Big Sur, Morro Bay. At Cabrillo National Monument you can view from the glass-enclosed observatory. 

Davey's Locker - Newport Beach

309 Palm St. #A
Newport Beach CA. 92661
(949) 675-0551

Located in the east end of Anaheim, it is one of the largest parks in the area with acres of turf, trees, lakes, and streams. It also has multiple playgrounds for kids of all ages, a very long bike trail, volleyball courts, a horseshoe pit, two baseball diamonds, and a physical fitness course.

Bike and paddleboat rentals are available at the park.

The lakes are stocked with fish – so you can do some fishing. A variety of duck and goose species make this park their home.  Bring some birdseed or bread to feed the ducks.

Over 400 picnic tables, 200 barbecue stoves, and many permanent shade structures make this park ideal for group events and family picnics.

The park is located along the Santa Ana River and extends about 1 mile along the west bank of the river. If you are riding a bike, you can exit the park towards the river and continue riding on the bike trail which goes for 20 miles towards the beach.

This park is also great for hiking. You can just stroll along the endless paved/concrete walkways or you can go out to the dirt area along the Santa Ana River.

Go to www.ocparks.com for additional information.

Yorba Park

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

The San Clemente Coastal Trail is a newly completed hiking and biking trail in the city of San Clemente. The trail is a section of the planned California Coastal Trail, which will parallel the beach throughout the state of California when complete.

The trail starts from North Beach next to the Metrolink train station, and it runs under the bluffs, next to the train tracks with splendid views of the beach all along the way. The full hike is about 3 miles (ca. 5 km) long (each way). The south end of the hike terminates at Trestle Beach or San Mateo Creek.

This hike is considered easy, and it is great for families with small children.

Tip: No bathrooms on the trail. So make sure to stop at the north beach restrooms. Your next rest stop is the San Clemente Pier.

Start your hike from the train station and start enjoying the scenery along the way. You will be able to watch surfers wait for the right wave and then scramble to ride the wave. You can see body surfers closer to the beach. Try to catch the odd squirrel running along the tracks or try to hide in the brush.

Soon you will be climbing the wooden bridge that takes you above the tracks, a creek, and a small brush forest. The view from the bridge is great. You can see the pier in the distance.
Although the train tracks are mostly fenced-in along the trail, you will find several exits that provide easy access to the beach.

About halfway through your hike, you will hit the Pier area. It is a great place to relax, have a meal and enjoy the scenery. Plan to spend some time on this pier either on the first leg of the hike or on your way back. Stroll on the pier and enjoy the view of the waves breaking on the beach. Watch the surfers trying to catch the perfect wave. Take in the view of the whole San Clemente coastline from the deep end of the pier.

At the start of the pier, you will find many restaurants to choose from. A very well rated restaurant is “Fisherman's Restaurants”. We didn’t eat there this time, but we are planning to return to it soon. We decided to eat at the Fisherman’s Galley instead. Contrary to similar beach shacks, this place was surprisingly excellent. It has many healthy choices along with the expected Hamburgers and Hotdogs. We tried: A crispy fresh salad; a veggie burger, fish, and chips and a cheeseburger. We had regular fries and sweet potato fries. All were very delicious, and the price was right. I will definitely come back to this place for lunch. Best of all is the location: Right on the main trail, overlooking the pier and the beach. You can watch the throngs of people as they walk by, and you can enjoy the waves lapping against the sand – from the outdoor seating area.

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert

Tip: An alternate trailhead is from Del Mar Ave directly to the Pier. Then you can head south and extend your hike to San Onofre State beach or head north and extend your hike to Doheny State Beach.

Although the pier is an important stop along the way, your hike is not done yet. Keep going south on the coastal trail. When you reach Calafia beach, you will also be at the edge of the San Clemente State Beach. You have the option of climbing the steep ramp to the camping area. Overlooking the bluffs, you will find the Lifeguard headquarters building. In front of that building, there is a terrace with a breathtaking view and some benches to enjoy the view and relax.
At this point, you can turn back and head north to the train station, or you can keep going south to San Mateo Creek and Trestle Beach.

If you choose to continue, you will experience a more subdued hiking experience. Fewer crowds frequent this area. You will have a better chance of hearing the surf and the calls of the seagulls. You might even catch a glimpse of frolicking dolphins and migrating whales.
Trestles beach itself is famous for great surfing. It is officially part of San Onofre State Beach, south of the Orange County / San Diego county line.

Once again, you must make a choice. Is this going to be an extended hike or bike ride? Keep going to San Onofre State beach or hike up the San Mateo Creek trail to the San Mateo campground. If you are getting tired, you had better start heading back to the train station.

If you get hungry along the way, there are many places where you can stop and have a picnic – or you can stop at on the pier restaurants for a nice lunch and drinks. 

The Fishermen's Restaurant is right at the entrance of the Pier and hangs over the waves. The outdoor seating commands a magnificent view of the surfers below.

The food is also excellent. I tried both their Fish and Chips and the Clam Chowder. Both were delicious.

The service is a little slow due to the popularity of this place. When you walk in, you don't need to wait to be seated. Just find a table and enjoy your meal and the view.

Additional Information:

Map of trail

The California Coastal Trail (Orange County Sections)