Day: January 23, 2023

Ten million residents in Los Angeles County means that little can actually be secret, but there are some hidden beaches that just might surprise you and become a new favorite.

Summer is heating up and throngs of people will be out searching for a place to plant their beach chair where the spray of the surf in the breeze will cool them down on a hot summer’s day. So where can you go to enjoy a day at the beach without crowds of beachgoer’s ruining your fun time?

These beach options are must do’s for those who want to experience surfing, swimming, rock-climbing, hiking, and sunbathing away from crowded, over-used beaches. Let us introduce you to adventure beaching at its finest, while guiding you toward a relaxing and serene day in the sun.

The 6 Best Hidden Beaches in Los Angeles that you Must Experience

1. El Matador State Beach

32215 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265-2529

Website

This Malibu hidden stunner will become a favorite beach getaway at first sight. El Matador State Beach is one of three “pocket beaches” that make up the Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach area.

Accessed from a somewhat steep path from the street and cliff-side parking area above, this picturesque beach will not disappoint. Mammoth rock formations punctuate the beach which adds to the overall atmosphere and helps to create some of the most stunning photo opts you’ll find in the area. Don’t be surprised if your visit is shared with both amateur and professional photographers alike conducting photo shoots. The beach itself is somewhat narrow, so arrive early to get a good spot. Bring a picnic as there is no food service available. There are also no lifeguards on duty. Portable toilet facilities are available in the upper parking area.

Hopefully, your time at the beach will coincide with low tide so that you can more fully explore caves, tide pools, and hidden nuances of the rock formations.

2. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park

5970 Palos Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275

Website

The Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is the perfect spot for those into hiking and nature watching. Part of the Abalone Cove Ecological Reserve, the area is rich with possibilities which often includes views of whales migrating offshore, pelicans, and sea lions swimming in the surf or sunning themselves.

A haven of natural beauty and great vistas, the Abalone Cove Shoreline Park beckons park goers to hike the many trails of the beach park’s share of the 64 acres that encompass the ecological reserve. While famed for its nature-rich tide pools, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes has closed the portion of the beach and tide pool areas at Portuguese Point of Abalone Cove Shoreline Park due to the unstable cliffs above the area and falling rocks.

Beach park grounds are open every day from 9 a.m. – dusk (closed December 24th-25^th and New Year’s Day). This is a protected area so enjoy a hike, comb the beach for sea glass and unusual rocks, take lots of pictures, but leave behind any treasures you find for others to enjoy as well.

3. Leo Carrillo State Beach

35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, CA 90265

Website

This inviting beach park is a part of the larger Leo Carrillo State Park and includes a 1.5 mile stretch of outstanding beachfront perfect for swimming, windsurfing, and beachcombing.

The beach is divided into two distinct beach areas, north beach, and south beach. The dividing line is noted as Lifeguard Tower 2, visible from the bluff which overlooks the beach. Access to either beach area is gained through parking areas on the Pacific Coast Highway or from inside the Leo Carrillo State Park Campground.

North beach is described as a family-friendly, dog-friendly beach (pets must be on-leash). Closest to the campground area, this open, sunny section of beach is just right for a day of play in the surf. Bring your own food and goodies as there are no food service options in the area.

South beach is home to coastal caves, offshore reefs, and tide pools ready for the adventurous to explore. The combination of rocky outcroppings, surf-worn stones, and silky sand make this a beautiful beach. This is also a great place for kayaking and body surfing.

4. Topanga Beach

18700 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265-5525

Website

Located at the bottom edge of Topanga Canyon in the southern area of Malibu, Topanga Beach is a surf haven for locals and visitors. The waves and ocean swells make this beach a destination for surfers.

Some may find a small area for swimming and bodysurfing but oftentimes lifeguards will call swimmers to come in. Non-surfers can enjoy a day of sunbathing and fun while experiencing the compelling exploits of surfers just off the beach, great sunsets, and scenic views.

There are restrooms, showers, and a picnic area which make for a much nicer day at the beach. Care should be taken as the sand is littered with rocks. At low tide, exploring the exposed beach area is a treat but it is suggested that water shoes be worn due to slippery areas amid the rocky terrain. A partial rock wall enclosure at either end of the beach helps to make the beach feel secluded, protected, and appealing for parents with small children.

Note: This beach is not dog-friendly.

5. Point Dume State Beach

7103 Westward Beach Rd Malibu, CA 90265

Website

Point Dume State Beach is one of the most beautiful hidden beaches on our list. This secluded stretch of sand is a favorite of locals, visitors, and rock climbers. Rock climbing is the activity of the day for experienced adult climbers with the proper equipment.

If you’re not a climber, a trail will take you up to the top of Point Dume where, standing above the beach, you’ll find stunning, scenic views of the beach ocean, and the city skyline in the distance. A peek over the cliff will also expose the secret “Pirates Cove,” a hidden, exclusive cove where you’ll undoubtedly encounter local sea lions.

Point Dume State Beach features rocky coves, headlands, and hiking trails. Facilities include picnic areas for your convenience while spending the day swimming, snorkeling, scuba-diving, windsurfing, or watching the area’s wildlife including gray whales during their December-April migration. The beach park is open from sunrise to sunset.

6. Lechuza Beach

31711 Broad Beach Rd., Malibu, CA 90265

Website

Lechuza Beach is a secluded, hidden gem close to El Matador Beach. There is an accessible entrance off of Broad Beach Road and Bunnie Lane.

Although Lechuza is a public beach, parking and access is granted through a residential neighborhood area with on-street parking. Walk down the path (there are two different paths) and then wonder at the truly inspirational sight once the beach comes into view.

The character of this sandy cove is similar to El Matador with huge rock formations adorning the beach. You’ll feel as though you’ve found your own little safe haven at Lechuza. Enjoy a day of sunbathing, exploring tide pools, walking, and soaking in the relaxation of this oasis. Not ideal for surfing or swimming due to the many rocks and gentle waves, this beach is perfect for a restful sunny day lounging on the sand.

Somewhat sheltered by its location and shape, the beach is near-ideal when escaping windy days. You won’t regret a day at Lechuza. It may become your favorite place to just be.

Do you have a favorite beach, outdoor venue, or summer plans to share? Tell us about it HERE in the comment section below.

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Glamping, or glamour camping, is a way to experience the outdoors and appreciate nature without foregoing the basic creature comforts. There’s no shame in glamping. Whose idea was it that a night on the hard, cold ground and a sore back in the morning made camping more legitimate?

Grant yourself a relaxing reprieve from the connected world and enjoy your rapport with nature. From luxury tents to yurts, cabins, and glamour lodging, glamping is about experiencing the epitome of diversion and repose in the midst of nature’s wonder.

We’ve compiled the best, and most unique, options to give you a head start on your California glamping adventure.

SAFARI WEST

At Safari West, glamping gets wild! Deemed the “Sonora Serengeti,” Safari West offers tours and day trips through a prized wildlife conservation facility, but it’s the nights that adventure glampers truly treasure.

Stay in one of the luxury canvas tents imported from Botswana, each with a private deck, en-suite bathroom, hot and cold running water, and polished wood floors. Slumber to the sounds of the Serengeti; the nature calls and rustle of the animals. Space heaters and electric blankets are provided, as is a free continental breakfast.

Dining is available on-site at the Savannah Café where the South African traditional Braai (akin to BBQ), is served up from a custom wood-fired grill. This is truly a one-of-a-kind glamping experience.

Safari West
3115 Porter Creek Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95404

Website

SHELTER CO.

The ultimate glampers dream in California is personally-designed luxury camping produced by Shelter Co. This designer event company can perform miracles!

Whether you want a romantic private escape, you need accommodations for a family reunion, wedding, or even a corporate event, Shelter Co. delivers.  Shelter Co’s experienced technicians can deliver a complete set up, including accommodations, furniture, dining configurations, optional amenities, and concierge services to turn your dream glamping experience into an unbelievable reality.

Website

TREEBONES

Glamping in Big Sur is indicative of the rugged central California coast. The natural beauty of the area abounds with wildlife and opportunities to commune with nature. Treebones is a premier Eco-Glamping resort.

For over twenty years, guests have found their way to Treebones to experience glamping in an environmentally friendly atmosphere. Treebones luxury yurts offer comfortable queen or king-sized beds, hot and cold running water, and spacious redwood decks outfitted with Adirondack chairs where guests can savor the peace and tranquility of the hills and the ocean below from the privacy of their yurt.

71895 Hwy 1

South Big Sur, California 93920

Website

EL CAPITAN CANYON

Looking for glamping opportunities in Santa Barbara? Just 20 miles to the north, you’ll find the El Capitan Canyon Resort.

Located on over 300 acres of wooded coastal hills, this destination takes glamping to a new level. Choose from 12’ X 14’ Safari tents on raised wooden platforms or from a variety of cozy cabins, some of which include fireplaces, kitchen appliances, indoor bathrooms, soaking tubs, telephones, and more.

All glamping accommodations provide willow beds and casual western-themed furnishings. The “resort” designation refers to the wide range of available amenities and services including a general store with gourmet fare and daily meal specials, a heated swimming pool, concierge services, and all of the extras you’d expect to find in a traditional resort.

At El Capitan, nature lodgers can experience the natural beauty of stunning groves of sycamore and oak trees, enjoy the quiet meandering of the El Capitan creek (at certain times of the year), and use the cruiser bikes provided, hike, or drive to visit the glorious, sandy beach below.

11560 Calle Real

Santa Barbara, CA 93117

Website

VENTURA RANCH KOA

Located below Ventura County’s Topatopa mountain range just outside of Santa Paula, this delightful family retreat offers guests an outdoor experience with an activity-filled twist. Cozy rustic accommodations for glampers include tepees, glamour tents, and deluxe cabins which include a partial kitchen, private bedroom, and bath. Traditional KOA campsites are also available.

The Ventura KOA has made its mark with 76 acres of pristine views, area wildlife including roaming peacocks, ziplining, arts and crafts, a rock climbing tower, jumping pillow, playground area, gem mining, the Bigfoot Watering Hole, and pool. The pool is a seasonal pool, open usually from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This is a great option for active family glamping.

7400 Pine Grove Road

Santa Paula, CA 93060

Website

MENDOCINO GROVE

Dog friendly, Mendocino Grove goes above and beyond to provide glampers and their families the comforts of a truly delightful, pleasure-filled vacation without all of the hoopla. Accommodations include fully-furnished classic (12′ x 14′) and family (16′ x 20′) tents situated on wooden platforms.

Tents come with comfortable beds and warm, comfy bedding including down comforters. Rustic redwood decks boast relaxing, leather butterfly-chairs to cradle you as you witness the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the area and the mammoth trees surrounding your campsite.

A quarter of a mile from your campsite is the Big River Beach and trail, and a two-minute drive will get you to the quaint village of Mendocino where you’ll find fantastic food options and shopping. Mendocino Grove is contentment personified.

9601 CA-1

Mendocino, California 95460

Website

RUSSIAN RIVER AUTOCAMP

Just minutes from the Russian River, this trendy, forested camping retreat offers customized Airstream trailers with all of the comforts of home. Here, you camp among the tall redwoods in a quaint, unassuming setting, curated to be a true concept experience.

While the AutoCamp concept takes you back to a bygone era, the retro airstreams are tricked-out like a comfy-cozy hotel room and include flat screen TVs, spa bathrooms, walk-in showers, kitchenettes, and have free Wi-Fi for your enjoyment and convenience. Right outside your front door you’ll find a patio with a small table and chairs, lounge chairs, and a fire pit.

There are tents available for the fall and Airstreams for the winter. Tents come down on November 1, but Airstreams are available all year round.

Photo courtesy of Aubrie Pick

Property amenities include the mid-century modern clubhouse, fire pits (indoors and out), the on-site Canteen with food and beverages, free bike rentals, picnic area, and hammock among the redwoods. The friendly staff are happy to provide plenty of intel on area activities from hiking, kayaking, dining options, day trips, and more. AutoCamp takes concept glamping to an 11!

14120 Old Cazadero Rd

Guerneville, CA 95446

Website

JALAMA BEACH CAMP

The Jalama Beach Campground is about as far away from civilization as you can get and still be on a California beach. A beautiful spot, the campground is off of a one-way road fourteen miles off of Highway 1, just south of Lompoc.

Once settled in one of the seven cabins, there’s only one place to go … the beach. The cabins, operated by Santa Barbara County, overlook the stunning Jalama beach, a habitat for a wide variety of marine wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might see whales or dolphins swimming off-shore, or catch a glimpse of the sea lions sunning on the coastline.

The general store is well-equipped and includes a grill which produces some great food and is famous for its clam chowder and hamburgers. The cabins are newer and provide all of the comforts of home including television but you’ll need to bring your own bedding, towels, and food stuffs. Reserve early! Cabins are booked at least six months in advance.

9999 Jalama Rd.

Lompoc, CA 93436

Website

WELLSPRING RANCH

Shangri-la is has come to San Luis Obispo County, California on the enchanted Central Coast in the form of the Wellspring Ranch Bed & Breakfast. A beautiful eco-retreat on a 160 acre secluded parcel of wooded splendor, this glamping couple’s sanctuary is a great mix of the outdoors and high-end amenities.

Wake with the sun to a hearty fire and breakfast and then head out to visit wine country, go hiking, to the spa, yoga, and more or just stay and lounge in your comfortably appointed accommodations. This quiet retreat has 6 lodging options from bedroom lofts and cabana yurts, to the Luxe Airstream.

There is a maximum of fourteen guests at any one time. Don’t miss your chance to visit Wellspring Ranch for glamping B&B style.

9150 Santa Rita Rd.

Cayucos, CA 93430

Website

SIERRA MOUNTAIN LODGE

Come the Sierra National Forest and savor the pleasure of nature without all of the hoopla that goes with so many other locations. Sierra Mountain Lodge is an all-suite facility just twenty-four miles from the closest entrance to Yosemite National Park.

Studios and one & two bedroom suites feature flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, and separate living rooms. Roomy and comfortable with everything you need to be at home while visiting Yosemite, this lodge is just the ticket to restore balance between nature and the busy world beyond these mountains.

45046 Fort Nip Trail

Ahwahnee, CA 93601

Website

We’ve been inspired by the opening of one of the coolest Los Angeles Rooftop Bars – Spire 73, to offer up our suggestions for a change of perspective where the perfection of LA nights can be celebrated in the most unique way possible: on the roof.

The great thing about LA nightlife is not the fact that it continually evolves in the most dynamic and inherently impressive ways (which it does!), but that there’s something for everyone if you know how to find it.

Come for the views, music, food, drink, and people, then stay for a night out that you won’t soon forget.

1. Spire 73

Address:

900 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles

Spire 73 is LA’s newest, and the Western Hemisphere’s tallest, open-air cocktail bar. You’ll find this new outdoor venue on the 73^rd floor of the InterContinental Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

Spire 73 is perched 1100 feet above Wilshire Boulevard with its dramatic, steely lines surrounded by glass to shield patrons from wind. Modern, ultra-cool textures embrace seating options including lounging benches, caged cabanas, and mid-century modern themed chairs. Well-placed stone fire pits warm, and divide, seating areas, serving to add a measure of intimacy for patrons.

In addition to the impeccable atmosphere, Spire 73 boasts signature cocktails and offers dedicated culinary masterpieces rivaling the extensive drink menu and their selection of whiskey.

2. Mama Shelter

Address:

6500 Selma Ave, Los Angeles

“Mama Loves LA” and Los Angeles loves Mama Shelter. The rooftop bar of the Los Angeles location of the French hotel chain, Mama Shelter, is right in the heart of Hollywood and beckons those seeking a respite from the glitz and pretentious side of LA to the welcoming arms of this laid-back oasis.

Mama’s rooftop bar is reminiscent of a Caribbean beach hangout without the beach, colorful, comfy couches with blankets and pillows, tables and chairs, and bar seating amid scattered heat lamps offer opportunities for lounging and enjoying the ambience of this eclectic rooftop bar and lounge.

Customers can relax playing board games while enjoying the Mediterranean inspired menu infused with a SoCal finesse. Mama Shelter’s signature cocktails thrive on a take of mom-inspired titles including “Throw Mama from a Train,” “Mom’s Night Out,” “How I Met Your Mama, “and “Mama Mia.”

Image Source: UrbanDaddy

3. Upstairs Bar at the Ace Hotel

Address:

933 S Broadway Los Angeles

The Upstairs rooftop bar the 1920’s era Ace Hotel is proclaimed as having been inspired by the famous Les Deux Café of Hollywood. This intimate bar scene offers a chill vibe with dim, soft lighting, good music and lots of comfy seating areas.

Lounge around the concrete pool, people watch the rich mix of clientele, or bask in the comprehensive views of downtown LA. Events differ every night of the week and include live bands, DJs, pop-up vendors, themed parties, and more.

While the plastic drinkware used to serve your beverages may put some off, you will find the establishment’s take on traditional favorites a fun and unique offering. And if oysters are your thing, try the oyster happy hour special or the frozen drink of the day.

Image Source: AceHotel

4. Skybar

Address:

8440 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood

Skybar is the LA hotspot credited with starting it all; a glamorous rooftop bar at the Mondrian Hotel. Multi-level seating areas which include a gorgeous pool with poolside service and, as many say, the most stunning views of Los Angeles, make Skybar a standout.

A destination bar to experience the posh nightlife of the quintessential LA bar scene, Skybar is a place to see and be seen in LA; the definition of what is often assumed to be the overall nature of LA. Skybar still utilizes its secretive Sunset Strip entrance and maintains its nightlife cred among locals.

With vine covered walls trimming the all-embracing window-like views of this West Hollywood venue, this Latin style bar and lounge provides sinuous nooks and unconfined seating areas which encourage inclusion as much as they do privacy. After dark is when the action really begins at Skybar with world class DJs and pulsating music filling the air while customers enjoy the fresh tastes of the bar menu and house specialty drinks like the Redheaded Moscow Mule.

Image Source: TimeOut

5. The Rooftop at the Standard

Address:

550 S Flower St, Los Angeles

The Rooftop at The Standard in downtown LA offers sweeping, bird’s eye views of downtown LA and the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance. The spacious rooftop bar encompasses two levels which include a classic style German Biergrten in addition to the u-shaped bar, a heated swimming pool, an AstroTurf deck, and a dance floor hosted nightly by popular DJs.

An outdoor fireplace accentuates the lounging area comprised of plush couches and standard table and chair seating. On the upper level, you’ll find he Rooftop’s unique waterbed pods, adding to the conspicuously arresting atmosphere; after all, why submit to the ordinary?

Food and drink are on par with the amazing atmosphere of this bar and lounge. Looking for a refreshing new favorite? Try the watermelon beer. This Los Angeles rooftop bar is a favorite among locals, especially when taking out friends from out of town.

This a true LA experience.

Image Source: MrandMrsSmith

6. L.P. Rooftop Bar

Address:

603 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood

With striking views of the Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Hills, this casual-chic, trendy LA rooftop bar still manages to emit a laid-back vibe. The elongated rooftop bar of the E.P. & L.P. Asian Eating & Drinking house at Cienega and Melrose is replete with purposeful eclectic contradictions in terms of its décor and atmosphere, food, and clientele.

Think neon signs and strewn low-light bulbs, Asian influenced street food and a “secret” bar snack menu, and a place to go and be seen for the young LA crowd. Food options are especially good if yours is an adventurous palate. Try the special churro with the mouth numbing (literally) chocolate Szechuan pepper dessert.

The rooftop also contains Frankie’s Bar, dubbed a “secluded nook” in the rear corner of the rooftop footprint with its famous neon sign “Where Love Lives” if you want some privacy.

Image Source: Revere Magazine

7. High Rooftop Lounge

Address:

1697 Pacific Ave, Venice

Set above the Hotel Erwin, the High Lounge is the one and only rooftop bar and lounge in Venice Beach. The High Rooftop Lounge offers a casual atmosphere with panoramic views including, according to locals and tourists alike, the best sunset views in LA.

This is a hotspot in Venice Beach with a good mix of patrons. Large sofas offer plenty of seating for large parties, and fluffy blankets and heaters are provided if it gets chilly. Nights are full of activity and excitement with live DJs and daily drink specials for your pleasure.

The Mezcal cocktail comes highly recommended, and favorite food options include the sliders and fresh guacamole with chips. After a full day in the surf and sun, this is a great place to unwind and let loose with a group of friends.

Image Source: High Venice

8. Perch LA

Address:

448 S. Hill Street, Los Angeles

Perch LA is a restaurant and bar encompassing the13th-15th floors of the Pershing building in Downtown Los Angeles. A flight of stairs up from the 15th floor, you will find the Perch Rooftop Lounge.

A fitting locale, as the 360 degree view of the downtown cityscape makes you feel as though you are perched dramatically above it all. This rooftop lounge is unique in that it has an upscale ambience but is unassuming, and relaxed.

Nightlife is busy most nights with the potential for a wait before entering. Some nights offer live music, otherwise DJs provide the background music for the night’s revelry. The bar has a renowned selection of fine French wines and delicious signature cocktails.

Ask for a Midnight in Paris to start the evening on the right foot. Choose gathering around a cozy fire pit to enjoy music, delicious cocktails, and magnificent views, by making Perch your nightlife destination in Los Angeles.

Image Source: TimeOut

9. W Hollywood Rooftop Pool – WET

Address:

6250 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a late afternoon respite from the hustle of West Hollywood, check out the rooftop pool bar at the W Hotel in Hollywood. This famous pool bar, WET, is not your ordinary pool bar. Primary use is reserved for guests of the hotel, but outside patrons can gain entrance through reserving a daybed or cabana.

Some of the hottest DJs in LA spin from 1-5 pm with the exception of the herald Sunday Pool Party where attendees will enjoy the rowdy awesomeness of an all-out exclusive LA pool party from 1-7 pm (tickets must be purchased online). At night, the dress code is “dress to impress” upscale. Men are required to wear collared shirts and closed toe shoes to access the bar. Regular hours for the adult pool bar are 1-8 pm.

Image Source: W Hollywood

10. Filifera

Address:

1550 N El Centro Ave, Los Angeles

Atop Hollywood Proper Residences, Filifera is one of LA’s newest rooftop bar and lounge alternatives. This exquisite space, located on the 22nd floor, provides breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills and the surrounding area while serving small plate bites and skillfully crafted drinks such as the Mezcal Margarita or the Passion Fruit Fizz.

The relaxed, easy going atmosphere invites you to enjoy a consummate night out on an LA rooftop among the stars while socializing in impeccable surroundings and listening to live music or attending any one of their scheduled events, film screenings, or culinary happenings.

Locals looking for a new haunt will appreciate the fact that Filifera is in the process of stationing itself as a favored place to go and may want to take this opportunity to be among the first of its regular clientele.

Image Source: LiveHollywoodProper

So … what are your favorite bars in LA?

Share your recommendations down below!

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