We’re pretty lucky here in Southern California to have so many opportunities to be outside every day of the year. But with so many options to explore the outdoors, how does one decide which spots to experience first? Well, you’re in luck, as we’ve put together the ultimate Southern California bucket list for everyone who loves the outdoors. This great list includes some of the best outdoor adventures in Southern California, rife with some of the best things to do outside in the region, and the top hikes around the SoCal area. Fall in love with the hiking trails, the lakes, the waterfalls of SoCal all over again, friends. This list of outdoor adventures is truly the ULTIMATE bucket list for folks looking to experience the area in all of its expansive beauty.

Take a look and see which ones you’ve already tackled or which spots you need to put at the top of your list. You really can’t go wrong with any single one of these magnificent places. Have fun exploring!

Please note, Holy Jim Trail is temporarily closed.

1. Sturtevant Falls -- San Gabriel Mountains
flickr/us department of agriculture
There's something enchanting about this hike to Sturtevant Falls in the San Gabriel Mountains. You'll make your way through a magical canopy of trees and navigate a scenic path that leads to a refreshing waterfall. It's the perfect spot to experience when you just want to get away from it all. More Info
2. Descanso Gardens -- La Canada Flintridge
flickr/justin tarango
At first glance this looks like it may be a movie set because the scenery looks so picture-perfect. But it's all real, I promise. Whether you spend a day touring the gardens or take a long afternoon to just relax in the heavenly surroundings, this setting will completely refresh you for that day in the outdoors you've been craving. More Info
3. Joshua Tree
flickr/ken lund
If you're seeking an outdoorsy day in the desert, then head to Joshua Tree for some hiking or for a leisurely walk along one of the trails. Pictured here: Cap Rock hike. More Info
4. Children's Pool Beach/Sea Lion Cove
flickr/steve joshy
Nicknamed the Children's Pool almost 70 years' ago after a wall was built to block off the waves from crashing on shore so kids had a safe spot to swim, it's now primarily known for the nearby family of seals that congregate near the Children's pool and lounge on the sand and the rocks. It's a great spot for a day trip or a refreshing afternoon visit to breathe in some fresh ocean air. More Info
5. Holy Jim Falls -- Cleveland National Forest
yelp/tracie L.
yelp/karen m.
If you take this trip during the summer, you may be disappointed by the size of the waterfall. So if you have your heart set on a heavy flowing waterfall, then wait post-summertime to take this trail. If you go now, what can you expect? Gorgeous shaded trails, towering trees, and the sights and sounds of nature all around you. More Info

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6. Palomar Mountain -- San Diego County
flickr/omar bercena
Hiking the trail to the Palomar Mountain Observatory is a wonderful way to get outside and take in the scenery. The smell of the forest and trees will awaken your senses. And the view isn't too shabby either! More Info
7. Santa Cruz Island -- Channel Islands National Park
flickr/michael field
Just take a moment to let this beautiful view sink in. There's no question that Santa Cruz Island is a stunning place to explore and visit when you're in the mood to be out in nature. You'll have to take a 90-minute boat trip to get here, but once you arrive you can enjoy the plentiful hiking trails and this lush scenery as long as you want. More Info
8. Fullerton Arboretum
flickr/amanda tipton
If outdoorsy means sitting and relaxing outside for a while, then this might be the perfect spot for you. Grab a seat at this bench at the Fullerton Arboretum and be "outdoorsy" for an entire afternoon if you want. More Info
9. Idyllwild Nature Center
yelp/walker s.
yelp/lisa v.
A walk in the woods is the ultimate outdoorsy experience if you ask me. One of the best spots to experience that fresh mountain air is at the Idyllwild Nature Center. Pictured here: Nature Loop Trail. More Info
10. Starr Ranch Sanctuary -- Orange County
flickr/ryan.padilla
The Starr Ranch is an unexpectedly beautiful 4,000 acre preserve where you will encounter rare wildlife and serene surroundings all in one spot. Located in southeastern Orange County, it's easily accessible for most anyone in the SoCal area. More Info

How’s that for a healthy dose of fun? If you can’t get enough of the best outdoor adventures in Southern California, here are 10 More Outdoorsy Things in SoCal that should be added to the list. Which one will you tackle first?

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best outdoor adventures in southern california

Meghan Kraft | September 27, 2020

What are the most unique things to do in Southern California?

Most folks pitch up to SoCal looking to visit the movie studios or maybe head to the beach or the Hollywood sign. Still, some of the most unique things to do in Southern California have to do with locals, not the expansive media presence. Head to the Salton Sea for an eerie look at a deserted landscape, or maybe the Griffith Park Old Zoo to hobnob with locals and their littles. The Venice Canals are always beautiful to wander, and the International Banana Museum may make you giggle with its hilarity and strangeness.

Where can I go in Southern California that only the locals know about?

If you’re looking for fun places to go without the heaps of tourists that filter into the region every year, then you’re going to want to stay off of the main Los Angeles drag. Head to hike the Millard Canyon Falls Trail, or maybe get yourself an invite to the Magic Castle. The Keys Creek Lavender Farm is great for a day out and about in the great outdoors, and the Myrtle Creek Botanic Gardens are perfect for family photos and getting the wiggles out when your tiny ones need to stretch their legs.

Which hidden gems in Southern California should I visit?

Head to the El Pescador Beach in Malibu if you’re looking for a beautiful beach that’s both secluded and only frequented by locals. Rincon County Beach in Carpinteria is also a great spot, right on the Santa Barbara County line and rife with tidepools and swimming opportunities. Sunset Beach in Orange County is a local favorite for free parking and easy access, and you can bet your bottom dollar that the view is unlike any other. Free and easy, these hidden beaches are well worth a visit.

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Featured Addresses
Sturtevant Falls, California, USA
Descanso Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, USA
Joshua Tree, CA 92252, USA
Sea Lion Cove, California, USA
Main Parking for Holy Jim Falls and Trail, Trabuco Creek Rd, Corona, CA 92883, USA
Palomar Mountain, CA, USA
Santa Cruz Island, California 93001, USA
Arboretum and Botanical Garden at Cal State Fullerton, 1900 Associated Rd, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA
25225 CA-243, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, USA
100 Bell Canyon Rd, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679, USA