We’re a pretty social bunch here in Southern California, but sometimes we just want a little peace and quiet so we can have a moment to ourselves without being surrounded by large crowds. If you need to take a time-out and remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city, then these eight spots in SoCal will give you exactly what you’re looking for.
- Amir’s Garden – Los Angeles
flickr/kansas sebastian Griffith Park may be packed with people, but if you head over to Amir’s Garden, you’ll find this hidden gem isn’t nearly as populated. Grab a seat at this darling bench and take in the sights and the sounds of nature happening all around you.
- Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve
flickr/cc chapman There’s nothing like getting out in nature to get away from the crowds. Head to the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and take a peaceful hike with nothing but nature and beautiful scenery to surround you.
- Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens
flickr/brian washburn This enchanting garden is a great way to dodge the noisy city crowds and escape into a tranquil setting. You’ll find walking trails, wildflowers, and an abundance of natural scenery that will make you feel completely zen.
- Cave of Munits
yelp/paolo h. You won’t find much of a crowd on this remote hike in West Hills in the San Fernando Valley. Make your way inside this historic cave and look back out at the view. What you will find is nothing but miles of hauntingly beautiful scenery.
- The Pacific Surfliner
flickr/loco steve If it’s a crowded freeway that makes you want to drive in the other direction, then check out this relaxing train ride on the Pacific Surfliner that will let you leave your car behind. Pictured here: the charming train station in San Juan Capistrano.
- Starr Ranch – Orange County
flickr/ryan.padilla Doesn’t this quiet hiking trail at Starr Ranch look like a sure bet when it comes to getting some solo time? You won’t find a lot of people out on this trail, so take a moment to sink into that relaxed feeling you can only get when all you can hear are the sounds of nature.
- Topanga Canyon Inn B&B – Topanga, CA
facebook/topanga canyon inn B&B Tucked high up in the hills of Topanga Canyon, this secluded and elegant Bed and Breakfast will bring some calm to your busy week. Just getting away from the busy city for one night will do wonders for your spirit and make you feel at peace again.
- Mount San Jacinto State Park – Riverside County
flickr/greg gjerdingen You’ll definitely find a crowd at Mount San Jacinto State Park – crowds of towering trees, that is. This dedicated wilderness area in Riverside County is always a good spot to spend a long afternoon where you can soak up the sweet scent of the forest.
What other spots are you drawn to in Southern California where you can avoid a crowd? If you want to add more and peace and quiet to your day, try taking these 6 Country Roads in Southern California For An Unforgettable Scenic Drive. The scenery alone will remind you why you love this place.
flickr/kansas sebastian
Griffith Park may be packed with people, but if you head over to Amir’s Garden, you’ll find this hidden gem isn’t nearly as populated. Grab a seat at this darling bench and take in the sights and the sounds of nature happening all around you.
flickr/cc chapman
There’s nothing like getting out in nature to get away from the crowds. Head to the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and take a peaceful hike with nothing but nature and beautiful scenery to surround you.
flickr/brian washburn
This enchanting garden is a great way to dodge the noisy city crowds and escape into a tranquil setting. You’ll find walking trails, wildflowers, and an abundance of natural scenery that will make you feel completely zen.
yelp/paolo h.
You won’t find much of a crowd on this remote hike in West Hills in the San Fernando Valley. Make your way inside this historic cave and look back out at the view. What you will find is nothing but miles of hauntingly beautiful scenery.
flickr/loco steve
If it’s a crowded freeway that makes you want to drive in the other direction, then check out this relaxing train ride on the Pacific Surfliner that will let you leave your car behind. Pictured here: the charming train station in San Juan Capistrano.
flickr/ryan.padilla
Doesn’t this quiet hiking trail at Starr Ranch look like a sure bet when it comes to getting some solo time? You won’t find a lot of people out on this trail, so take a moment to sink into that relaxed feeling you can only get when all you can hear are the sounds of nature.
facebook/topanga canyon inn B&B
Tucked high up in the hills of Topanga Canyon, this secluded and elegant Bed and Breakfast will bring some calm to your busy week. Just getting away from the busy city for one night will do wonders for your spirit and make you feel at peace again.
flickr/greg gjerdingen
You’ll definitely find a crowd at Mount San Jacinto State Park – crowds of towering trees, that is. This dedicated wilderness area in Riverside County is always a good spot to spend a long afternoon where you can soak up the sweet scent of the forest.
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