Inspired by Tokyo's Imperial Gardens, the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden opened its doors in 1981 and is a part of the California State University. The donation of funds came from the namesake's widow, and her passion for gardens led to the creation of this space. A serene garden and a sight to behold, it is dotted with several trees, including Japanese black pines, pink cloud cherry, fern pines, saucer magnolias, and Chinese flame trees. A koi pond with a bridge and fish, garden art, a pagoda, a tea house, fountains, and a zig-zag bridge add to the beautiful landscape. The garden is a much-favored spot for weddings.
The perfect thing to do on a bright sunny day is to head to Rancho Los Alamitos. Admire the 19th Century ranch house that houses an interesting museum about local history, then explore the surrounding area. Make sure you stop by the barn and check out the livestock, which is often the highlight for children. You can also stroll through the beautiful garden. The gift shop has interesting things to take back home too. Overall, a historical place with lots of education, along with fun thrown in.
Visitors to El Dorado Nature Center can explore a diverse range of habitats, including serene lakes, lush woodlands, and meandering streams. The center boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through these habitats, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the local flora and fauna. El Dorado Nature Center also hosts educational programs and events, making it a great place for families and school groups to learn about the natural world. It's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers, birdwatchers, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat.
160 acres (65 hectares) of unspoiled nature can be seen at the east point of the Santa Monica mountains at Runyon Canyon Park. This pet-friendly park has two southern entrances and a northern entrance at Mulholland Drive. Go for a hike or head to the play area where your kids can play. Keep your camera ready as celebrities are known to unwind here as well.
Have an adventure at Adventure City! This theme park has a lot of exciting rides and attractions. Watch a performance at the Children's Theater, take a ride on the Freeway Coaster, win a prize at the arcade and hug a rabbit at the Petting Farm. This theme park is a fantastic attraction where you can bring your whole family, though the majority of the rides are geared towards children rather than teens and adults.
Once known as the "Tin Can Beach", Bolsa Chica State Beach is now a popular beach which attracts visitors all year-round. It is an ideal place to go sunbathing, play volleyball, have a family day out and try other water sports. Surf fishing of fishes like croaker and corbina are among the other activities you can partake in here. Also, on this three-mile long sandy stretch is a designated place where you can camp in your RV vans. Bolsa Chica is a great spot to sit back and enjoy everything that the beach has to offer.
Named after Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential African-American educator, and civil rights leader, Mary M. Bethune Park serves as a welcoming oasis for both residents and visitors. This park features baseball and softball fields, basketball and handball courts, allowing visitors to partake in various sporting activities. Families, friends, and individuals can enjoy leisurely strolls, outdoor gatherings, and moments of relaxation at one of the many picnic shelters. Facilities like a gymnasium, barbeque grills and multi-purpose rooms are also available. This is a place where history, nature, and human connection converge.
Nestled in the heart of Ballona Wetlands lies the educational haven - Ballona Discovery Park. This haven of learning offers an immersive experience where visitors of all ages can delve into the intricacies of coastal ecosystems. Through interactive exhibits and guided tours, the park unveils the wonders of wetland habitats, fostering a deeper understanding of their significance. Visitors discover vibrant native plant gardens and a peaceful walk by the water where birds play. It's a place to learn and enjoy nature's beauty together.
Heading southbound on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, this is one of the last beaches before reaching the port of San Pedro. It's also one of the few on the peninsula with a good stretch of sand. Secluded and primarily frequented by locals, this beach nonetheless provides lifeguards and restrooms, in addition to peace and quiet. Due to the unique land formation—atop which sits the beach, Royal Palms Beach is one of the best places in the entire area to take in a sunset.