A Local's Guide to Southern California

For 13 years I lived in southern California, and I still haven’t seen and done all I want to do. While it would take forever to list everything and we’d all be here a while reading it, here’s my condensed version of my last trip back west. From local hits to tourist attractions, here’s my guide to traveling around Souther California like a local, from a local.

First stop, we’re headed to Hollywood. A hike to the Hollywood sign followed by Skyspace L.A. is the perfect first way to get your touristy cravings out. Whether you hike all the way to the back of the Hollywood sign or just halfway, it’s worth the view to see all of L.A. from the hills. I suggest parking on a side street near where you want to start your hike (again depending on how long you want to hike) and walking to the trailhead. Bring lots and lots of water, wear sunscreen, and be prepared to be in the sun for most of the hike. Once you’re done your hike grab some food near Hollywood Boulevard and head to the Skyspace Building where you can ride the SkySlide, a glass slide 1,000 feet above Downtown L.A. I highly recommend going around sunset so you can slowly see all of Los Angles light up the night as the sun begins to fade away. It’s definitely worth it.

Growing up in southern California made for a pretty magical childhood. I have so many favorite memories that it’s hard to choose which one was my absolute favorite, but going to the Griffith Observatory is definitely right up on the top of that list. So after you’re done thrill-seeking at the Skyspace Building, rest in awe of the night sky California has to offer. Their telescopes and exhibits are perfect for anyone who’s head is stuck in the clouds. The views of Los Angels from the observatory are beautiful as well. This is one place you are not going to forget.

There are so many beaches all up the coast of California that I haven’t even been to them all (well not quite yet). But I sure have some favorites. We’ll start at Huntington Beach. Swim in the cool Pacific Ocean water, ride your bike on the bike trail that goes along the sand or rent a surrey to ride with some friends. Once the ocean air and SoCal sun tires you out, grab a bite to eat Ruby’s Diner at the end of the Huntington Beach Pier. You can spend the day playing in the sand, surfing Cali’s waves, or window shopping to your hearts content.

Next up, we head to Laguna Beach. From walking the boardwalk that runs alone the main shore, playing volleyball or soccer on the sand courts or playing on the playground near by, Laguna beach has a lot to offer. The town is full of art and color. There are shops, art galleries, theaters, festivals, and always new restaurants to try out. If you’re looking to see a show, the Laguna Playhouse is my favorite. But if you are looking for something more active, my favorite hike in Laguna is hands down the hike to the Top of The World. It’s a fairly easy hike with rewarding views at the top. Laguna Beach never gets boring. My other favorites include the Sawdust Festival, the Laguna Art Museum, and exploring the tide pools at Heisler Park. And quick local pro tip, at the intersection of Mermaid Street and 3rd St. is one of the steepest streets in Southern California. It’s so steep some locals even give it the nickname of “Rollercoaster Road.”

Surprised I haven’t mentioned surfing too much yet? Well not to worry, we’re about to get to that. The year before I moved across the country my sister and I went surfing every Sunday with our friends. We’d wake up at 5:30, grab our wetsuits, and drive to the beach to catch the good ways before the lifeguards and beachgoers got in the way. Those early morning surf sessions are one of my favorite memories of the year before we moved. Those mornings were full of catching waves, watching the dolphins and eating donuts and fresh squeezed orange juice after we cleaned off our boards. My favorite beach to surf at was Blackies, right next to the pier in Newport Beach.

While in Newport Beach there are four things you must do: 1. visit Balboa Island, 2. spend a day at the Newport Dunes, 3. explore Pirates cove and 4. spend at least a week in Crystal Cove.

Going to Balboa Island is a great day trip. Balboa Island, Balboa Peninsula, and Balboa Village are all a must. From nightlife to arcades, and great restaurants to beaches, you’ll just have to trust me on this one. The ferry that takes you from the main land to the island in itself is worth the trip. Balboa is also home to great food and shops. After all the excitement Balboa Island has to offer, chill out with a bonfire on Balboa Peninsula Beach. It is quite magical.

Next stop is Newport Dunes, which is pretty much a mix between a waterpark and Wipeout, but on the water. They have beach cottages and a RV resort fit for all types of travelers. And from the waterpark to other water activities, it’s fit to please even the toughest adventurer. Newport Dunes was my favorite place to go as a teen. My parents would make a whole day out of it. We’d invite friends, pack a picnic lunch and spend the whole day playing on the various, and always changing, obstacle courses. If you have little kids you’re traveling with, this adventure is a sure way to get them to sleep well after.

Ever watch Gilligan’s Island and wonder whether the beach in the theme song is real? Well the answer is yes, and better yet, you can explore it yourself. Pirates Cove in Corona Del Mar is one of my absolute favorite beaches to explore. There are rocks to walk on, a pretty extensive beach to swim in and lots of areas to adventure around. Park on the side of the street and walk down towards the beach or in the parking lot beachside. The main beach is nice but if you want a little more adventure, head to the right towards the cliffs and take the path down towards the shore. (It might look like you aren’t going anywhere but I promise you are). Going during low-tide is your best bet for maximum beach and exploration area. And for those of you who like to climb, there’s some trad and boulder routes (mostly boulder though) along the side of the beach. Make sure you bring the appropriate gear and know the current rules for climbing before you go.

Lastly, Crystal Cove is a must. The beaches are lined with old beach houses making you feel like time has rewinded. And hiking in Crystal Cove State Park is always beautiful. You can’t go wrong with any hike here. While in Crystal Cove, there are two restaurants you must eat at: The Shake Shack, and The Beachcomber Cafe. Both places overlook the water and serve great food. Crystal Cove is also the perfect place for anyone who just wants to explore. Some of my favorite memories include taking strolls on the beach in Crystal Cove with friends searching for tide pools and cool old houses.

While this is only a short list of places to visit in Souther California, it’ll help jumpstart your next trip to the west coast. From art galleries to beaches, food to shows, and festivals to hikes, Southern California really does have it all.