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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Mile-Long Cataract Club

    In winter after heavy rains, the north flank of Mount Tam glows with flows. The nearly mile-long series of waterfalls—Cataract Falls—transforms into a supercharged spectacle. Starting at Alpine Dam, a 1.6 mile (one-way) narrow trails threads through redwoods and ferns along Cataract Creek.

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  2. Sponsored

    Mini Guide to Reno Tahoe’s Lodging and Dining

    So, you’re going to Reno Tahoe for some time in nature, and some time in nurture? Excellent choice. The fun and wonder of Reno Tahoe is the easy part.

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  3. Hidden Long Ridge

    After heavy rains, the rolling headwaters of Peters Creek in Long Ridge Open Space Preserve pulsate along the forest floor via a series of small waterfalls that cut grooves in sandstone boulders. See it on a 4.5-mile loop hike starting from the Grizzly Flat parking lot.

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  4. Hike Artdoors

    Add a little color to your new year. This 3-mile loop through the Montalvo Arts Center mixes the beauty of the natural world with local artists’ creations.

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

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  2. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

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  3. People gathered around a tree at an LA Park as part of the Tree Tour led by Stephanie Carrie

    LA's Tree Tour

    Los Angeles is famous for its iconic palm trees but did you know that LA is home to one of the most diverse urban forests in the world? With over 1,000 different tree species lining its streets, LA offers a unique urban canopy waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to discover it is by joining a Tree Tour

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  4. White Tank Campground for Stargazing

    Heaven for star buffs: the best campground in Joshua Tree National Park for night-sky viewing, in a place named an International Dark Sky Park, with a full-on observatory just minutes away! White Tank Campground is at 3,800 feet in the eastern part of the park.

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