Amazing Coastal Hikes

Sure, beach going is great, but sometimes you want to lace up the hiking boots before sinking your toes in the sand. These three coastal wanders offer a variety of ocean scenery, secluded beaches, and some mellow time on marshland trails.

Week: 09.15.2021
Regions: Southern CA

Give Me El Moro

Hike the backcountry to coastal views at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County

Woman hiking the backcountry trails overlooking the Pacific at Crystal Cove State Park
Hiker looking at map post at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County
Two hikers passing through a tunnel leading to Crystal Cove State Beach in Orange County Southern California
Woman walking on a backcountry hiking trail overlooking the Pacific at Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County
The backcountry trails at Crystal Cove State Park all lead to the coast—ensuring you get your sea-nery, and some bonus time on the beach. This 2.8-mile hike covers the higlights with glorious coastal views and a beach detour.
Read the full story

Sea Change

Plan a Relaxing Autumn Visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium

penguins exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
sea otters exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
jellyfish exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium
Right in time for the balmy fall days, the crowds have left and Monterey Bay Aquarium is at its shoulder season best. Fewer people means relaxing with more room to roam and enjoy the animals, exhibits, and nearby outdoors for biking, hiking, and beaches.
Get Tickets to the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Secluded Royale

Hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County

Woman hiking down the stairs to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Hikers going down stairs on a trail towards Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Hiker going down stairs towards Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Hikers going down to Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Panoramic coastal views and a killer leg workout combine on this 2.7-mile (round-trip) out-and-back hike to secluded Coast Royale Beach in Orange County
Read the full story

Bay Watch

Hike around Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County

Two hikers go down the stairs towards the waters at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
Two hikers at a trailhead map for Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
A woman looks through a telescope out towards Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
Two hikers walking along a boardwalk bridge at Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve in Orange County
Hike among six habitats within Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve: open water, mudflat, saltmarsh, upland, riparian, and freshwater marsh, all of which have their own thriving communities of flora and fauna.
Read the full story

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Go, Tell It on the Mountain

    {NOTE: Due to atmospheric rivers that can come this time of year, always be sure to check ahead for trail closures and hazards. And of course, wait for better weather and drier con

    View

  2. Serene Las Gallinas

    A serene stroll alongside marshland, passing ponds and grasses frilled in seasonal wildflowers, with Mount Tam a beacon in the background … how nice. As part of the esteemed Bay Trail, San Rafael’s Las Gallinas Valley Birding Loop and Wildlife Ponds comprises about 3.5 miles of wide-open trail.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

    View
  4. Hike at Olompali State Historic Park in Marin

    Historically Serene

    Olompali State Historic Park is a small park that packs big California history. Go on a mostly easy 3-mile loop hike where oak trees, big-leaf maples, and madrones are stunning in autumn.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View

  2. Dune It Right

    Want a beach that will really get you away from it all? Monterey's Fort Ord Dunes State Park is just the ticket. And it often glows golden toward sunset.

    View
  3. A woman walks the path next to the beach at sunset at Palisades Park in Los Angeles County

    Santa Monica’s Most Beautiful Walk

    With its sweeping views of Santa Monica Bay and the Santa Monica Pier, the 26-acre Palisades Park, perched along the beach bluffs, may be a tourist’s delight for its quintessential California vibes–but it’s just as beloved by locals. Follow this 2.5-mile loop to experience it like one.

    View

  4. The Undead Ghost Town

    Every Halloween, the worlds of the living and the dead blur together. In the “living ghost town” of Randsburg that condition is permanent. This strange gold-rush town near the El P

    View