Southern California is home to so many amazing places that it’s easy to overlook some incredible destinations when you have so many options in front of you. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of 10 delightful yet underrated places in Southern California that shouldn’t be overlooked. From a magnificent hike with soaring ocean views to a rustic steakhouse out in the middle of nowhere, you’ll want to make sure to experience these SoCal destinations for yourself.

1. California Botanic Garden
1500 N College Ave, Claremont, CA 91711, USA
cxjxgerdes cxjxgerdes/googlemaps
Did you know there was a secret garden hiding in the town of Claremont? It's not a secret exactly, but it does appear to be a Southern California hidden gem that many people don't know about and we'd like to change that. At the California Botanic Garden, you'll find a picturesque 2.5-mile trail that can be walked at a leisurely pace. Along the route, you'll spot a variety of native California plants and flowers that are a delight to the senses. Check out the California Botanic Garden Facebook page for all the information to plan your visit.
2. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Portola Avenue, Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA, USA
Tripadvisor/michael I
Palm Desert is a location that is often overlooked for a day trip, but it's one destination in SoCal that deserves another visit, especially if you plan to visit The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. In addition to the abundant wildlife and natural scenery, you'll find at The Living Desert, one highlight this SoCal zoo offers is the opportunity to feed the giraffes by hand. How adorable is that? Be sure to visit the Living Desert Facebook page for all the information on events and admission.
3. Torrey Pines State Reserve
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Tim Buss / Flickr
Perhaps one of the most jaw-dropping destinations for a hike, Torrey Pines State Reserve will leave you speechless as you look out at the stunning view. Once you arrive, you'll find several trails to hike that range from easy to moderate. Pictured here: the Guy Fleming Trail. You can find more about this hidden gem in Southern California by checking out the Torrey Pines State Reserve Facebook page.
4. Gardens of the World
2001 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362, USA
facebook/gardens of the world
Gardens of the World is one of the prettiest public gardens in SoCal and yet there are many people who tell us they never even knew it existed. Wander through this spectacular stretch of land tucked inside Thousand Oaks and you'll get to explore a variety of gardens including an Italian garden, a French garden, a Japanese garden, and an English rose garden, just to name a few. You can find out more on the Gardens of the World website.
5. Three Sisters Waterfalls Trails
1450 Boulder Creek Rd, Julian, CA 92036, USA
haruka takahashi/all trails
Tucked inside the small town of Julian, you'll find a little-known hiking trail that leads to one of SoCal's most refreshing swimming holes. Three Sisters Falls Trail is a moderate four-mile trail with a refreshing surprise at the end. Make sure to pack your swimsuit as you'll want to jump in and cool off after clocking those miles on the trail.

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6. Big Falls
3994 Upper Lopez Canyon Rd, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420, USA
austin sherman/all trails
In the event one waterfall isn't enough to satisfy you, we'll let you in on a secret about another waterfall in SoCal that just so happens to be the tallest waterfall around. To reach Big Falls, take the Big Falls Trail. You'll enjoy a moderate 4.5-mile hike on your way to this stunning waterfall that is quite a sight to see in person.
7. Prospect Park
david bellamy/googlemaps
Prospect Drive, Prospect Dr, Redlands, CA 92373, USA
Lucas Sabatka (Discopears)/googlemaps
We have so many beautiful parks in SoCal that often get overlooked. One of our favorite parks that is quite underrated is Prospect Park. You can find this peaceful escape out in nature at 352 Prospect Drive, Redlands, CA. Whether you enjoy wildlife, nature trails, or just want to escape the heat in a park filled with trees, Prospect Park is a picture-perfect place to be.
8. Stars Antique Market
526 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254, USA
victoria filice/googlemaps
In addition to the many underrated outdoorsy destinations that can be found in SoCal, there are also a few indoor destinations that get overlooked. Stars Antique Market is a splendid place to score a treasure. Whether you're an antique collector or you just love finding great bargains, Stars Antique Market is a joy to discover. You can visit the Stars Antique Market Facebook page for more information.
9. Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse
20782 Trabuco Oaks Dr, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679, USA
denis shevtsov/googlemaps
It's hard to resist a great steakhouse. Especially one that's out in the middle of nowhere as getting there is half the fun. Located in Trabuco Canyon, you'll find Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse, a charming restaurant that serves mouthwatering meals in a rustic setting that can't be beat. For more information, visit the Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse website.
10. Griffith Observatory
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
justin vidamo/flickr
One of the most remarkable places to experience in SoCal that locals often forget about is Griffith Observatory. Not only for tourists, but this stunning destination in SoCal is perhaps one of the best day trips a local can take. And it's free. You can find out more, including hours of operation and current events on the Griffith Observatory Facebook page.

What do you think of this list of underrated places in Southern California? Are there any favorite spots that come to mind that you think we should add to this list? Let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear from you!

For another fun place to add to your Southern California explorations, make sure to check out the most enchanting town in all of Southern California.

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More to Explore

Southern California Hidden Gems

Katie Feldkamp | March 28, 2023

Where are some of the best hidden gems in Southern California?

It seems hidden gems in Southern California are constantly popping up, which is great because it means there are always new places to explore! The next time you’re wanting to seek out a place that not everyone knows about, consider the following places:

  • Redwood Grove in Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Brea. You don’t have to travel to Northern California to take in the beauty of these magnificent trees!
  • Shipley Nature Center in Huntington Beach. Check out this local nature center for trails and plenty of wildlife.
  • Malibou Café at Calamigos Ranch in Malibou is an outdoor destination that couples great food and a fun atmosphere
  • Millard Canyon Falls Trail within the Angeles National Forest is a short and easy hike with a breathtaking reward.

Find out more about these and other destinations when you check out this article on hidden gems in Southern California.

 

What are some additional underrated places in Southern California?

If you’re still in search for more underrated places in Southern California, then take a look at the following destinations and consider planning a visit to:

  • Huntington Gardens in San Marino is a stunning oasis you’ll enjoy walking through time and time again
  • Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in Borrego Springs offers hikes with stunning overlooks
  • The town of Julian. Take a day trip to this historic gold country town and enjoy stepping back in time.
  • The Coronado Ferry. Take a ferry across the bay and breathe in the fresh, salty air.
  • Old Towne Orange is another historic town in Southern California that is filled with small town charm and delicious restaurants.

You can learn more about these and several other places when you check out this article on underrated places in Southern California.

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