We’re blessed to have an abundance of trails here in Southern California that run along the water and offer a refreshing breeze on a hot summer day. If you’re looking for the perfect activity that will get you out in nature and awaken all your senses, you’ll want to explore these 8 waterfront trails in SoCal. These trails can be as short or as long as you want them to be depending on the route you take, so choose your own adventure. Grab your sunscreen and a bottle of water – it’s going to be an epic day!
- Point Dume – Malibu
flickr/liza agsalud Wildflowers and ocean views will keep you company on this short but scenic two-mile hike along the bluffs of Point Dume in Malibu. Start the trek at the 2-hour parking lot and follow the trail through the preserve toward the overlook. At the high point of Point Dume you’ll enjoy views of Point Mugu and the Santa Monica Mountains along the way.
- Mission Bay Park – San Diego
flickr/keoni cabral Whether you’re looking for a leisurely 3-mile stroll or you’re up for a strenuous 19-mile loop, Mission Bay Park provides a serene waterfront trail that goes around the perimeter of Mission Bay. It’s the perfect addition to a fun-filled day in San Diego.
- Bluff Cove – Palos Verdes Peninsula
flickr/ken shoufer If you’re looking for a short and sweet waterfront hike that the whole family will love then Bluff Cove should be your pick. At only 1.7 miles, this is the perfect distance for all skill levels. Not only is this trail easy-breezy, but its breathtaking beauty is worth the trip.
- Laguna Lake Park – Fullerton
yelp/chiante m. This scenic park in Fullerton has a perfect waterfront trail for walking, hiking or biking. The area is well maintained and never overly crowded, so it’s a great spot to take a break from your day and get out in nature.
- Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve – Huntington Beach
flickr/corey seeman Take a leisurely stroll along flat trails throughout 1,200 acres of protected wetlands at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Along the way you might spot a variety of wildlife including pelicans, sandpipers, rabbits, and coyotes. Depending on the trail you take, you can expect up to 3-miles round trip.
- San Clemente Beach Trail
flickr/rails-to-trails conservancy This picture-perfect pedestrian-only trail in Orange County is 2.3 miles of beauty that hugs the gorgeous shoreline and offers a unique and rustic setting along the train tracks. On the route you’ll run into the charming shops and restaurants of San Clemente that make for a nice detour for a lunch break or retail therapy.
- Coral Canyon State Park – Malibu
yelp/stephanie p. This scenic 2.5 mile loop in the Santa Monica Mountains is an easy hike that will give you soaring ocean views of the Malibu coast. You can find the trailhead at 25653 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu.
- La Jolla Coast Walk
flickr/xymox A trail from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores will take you through the central coastline of La Jolla along tall cliffs that will give you a panoramic view of the ocean and beach below. Start the trail at The Cave Store and follow the dirt path.
There are so many more trails to choose from in SoCal, but these are just the ones on the top of my list. Any other waterfront trails you think should have made the cut?
flickr/liza agsalud
Wildflowers and ocean views will keep you company on this short but scenic two-mile hike along the bluffs of Point Dume in Malibu. Start the trek at the 2-hour parking lot and follow the trail through the preserve toward the overlook. At the high point of Point Dume you’ll enjoy views of Point Mugu and the Santa Monica Mountains along the way.
flickr/keoni cabral
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely 3-mile stroll or you’re up for a strenuous 19-mile loop, Mission Bay Park provides a serene waterfront trail that goes around the perimeter of Mission Bay. It’s the perfect addition to a fun-filled day in San Diego.
flickr/ken shoufer
If you’re looking for a short and sweet waterfront hike that the whole family will love then Bluff Cove should be your pick. At only 1.7 miles, this is the perfect distance for all skill levels. Not only is this trail easy-breezy, but its breathtaking beauty is worth the trip.
yelp/chiante m.
This scenic park in Fullerton has a perfect waterfront trail for walking, hiking or biking. The area is well maintained and never overly crowded, so it’s a great spot to take a break from your day and get out in nature.
flickr/corey seeman
Take a leisurely stroll along flat trails throughout 1,200 acres of protected wetlands at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Along the way you might spot a variety of wildlife including pelicans, sandpipers, rabbits, and coyotes. Depending on the trail you take, you can expect up to 3-miles round trip.
flickr/rails-to-trails conservancy
This picture-perfect pedestrian-only trail in Orange County is 2.3 miles of beauty that hugs the gorgeous shoreline and offers a unique and rustic setting along the train tracks. On the route you’ll run into the charming shops and restaurants of San Clemente that make for a nice detour for a lunch break or retail therapy.
yelp/stephanie p.
This scenic 2.5 mile loop in the Santa Monica Mountains is an easy hike that will give you soaring ocean views of the Malibu coast. You can find the trailhead at 25653 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu.
flickr/xymox
A trail from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores will take you through the central coastline of La Jolla along tall cliffs that will give you a panoramic view of the ocean and beach below. Start the trail at The Cave Store and follow the dirt path.
If you’re looking to add a few more spots to your hiking bucket list you can find even more SoCal hikes over here. No matter what trail you decide to take, I hope you enjoy your day out in the fresh air!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
