La Honda, California
La Honda, California is a great place to explore and enjoy the best outdoor activities and attractions. From tranquil hikes to adrenaline-filled activities, it's an outdoor lover's paradise. With its awe-inspiring backdrop of redwood forests, picturesque beaches, and lush marshlands, La Honda is a treasure trove of breathtaking attractions. Be sure to visit the Redwood National Park, Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods National Monument to make the most of your trip. From there, embark on a thrilling journey of discovery on the Skyline to the Sea Trail, Butano State Park, and Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve. La Honda promises to be a memorable haven for both the intrepid explorer and the laidback traveler.
Top Spots in and near La Honda
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Santa Cruz, California
Lighthouse Field State Beach
4.0This beach is less crowded compared to other beaches in Santa Cruz. I got there early on a Saturday and found easy street parking. There was plenty of space to spread out on the soft sand. Later in the day I saw dolphins several times! This is close to the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. It’s al...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Seabright State Beach
5.0This is a wide, beautiful beach that's an amazing spot to spend the day and enjoy a bonfire at night in one of the designated fire rings. Seabright is probably the most popular spot in Santa Cruz for a bonfire, due to its convenient proximity to the Beach Boardwalk. But luckily, this beach is tuc...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Twin Lakes SB
This one-mile stretch of beach is the perfect option for those looking for a peaceful Santa Cruz experience, but without the crowds. The beach features soft sand, playful surf, an awesome view of Walton Lighthouse, and a handful of fire pits to choose from. It's a great spot to spend the entire d...Read more -
Castro Valley, California
Lake Chabot Regional Park Loop
4.38.65 mi / 1263 ft gainLooking for a fun day on a lake, but don't want to drive too far? We recommend heading out to the East Bay where you can combine a nice hike with an afternoon of fishing. This moderately challenging hike remains scenic throughout the 8.5 mile trek around the lake, and offers many opportunities fo...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Lake Merced Loop
4.74.53 mi / 180 ft gainLake Merced Loop is a loop trail in the southwestern part of San Francisco. This trail is used for running and walking. You'll see plenty of people getting exercise or taking their dog for a stroll. There are also benches and tables around the loop. The lake itself is fresh water and is used for...Read more -
Sunol, California
Hike the Pleasanton Ridge Trail
4.36.4 mi / 1443 ft gainPleasanton Ridge Trail is a 6.4 mile loop. The loop is shared by dog walkers, trail runners, hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. From the ridge your viewpoints will include Mount Diablo and the San Francisco Bay. This hike from the Foothills Staging Area is an excellent introduction ...Read more -
Capitola, California
Camp at New Brighton Campground
/ 0 ft gainThis Capitola camping spot is the place to be if you're looking to do a variety of activities in a variety of landscapes. You can swim, fish, or explore the nearby forest of Monterey Pine and coastal Oak. In the evening, walk into Capitola for live music and great fish tacos. The S.S. Palo Alto,...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Fort Funston Trail
4.71.81 mi / 253 ft gainFort Funston is an SF gem I discovered when looking for a dog friendly hike near the city. Located west of Lake Merced, you'll find a gorgeous Northern California beach oasis where you and your dog can run wild and free :). Parking is located at the top of the park where you'll descend a steep se...Read more -
Aptos, California
Maple Falls
4.57.98 mi / 1089 ft gainAs you enter the park, you'll need to pay $8 for parking via a self-pay envelope, so it's recommended that you bring exact change. Fees may change, please check Parks.CA.Gov for updates. At the park booth, be sure to grab a map. The hike can be a little tricky with no cell service and limited tra...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Surf the Hook
4.0The hook is a surf spot found on the east side of Santa Cruz, located along East Cliff drive. If you keep driving past Pleasure Point, you'll get to it. It's a right hand point break that is usually smaller in size than Pleasure Point. It's a very crowded spot due to the easy access parking lo...Read more -
Santa Cruz, California
Surf Pleasure Point
4.0Pleasure Point is located on the east side of Santa Cruz, California. It is a right hand point break that breaks year round. It is a popular surf spot for many people that live in the San Francisco Bay Area. There are 3 different peaks that break at Pleasure Point. Sewers, which is the furthest ...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Bernal Heights Park
4.70.95 mi / 128 ft gainBernal Heights Park is an excellent week night adventure for those who need an escape from the city. Sit atop this small, grassy peak in peace and look out over the San Francisco skyline. Park on the street bordering the park and follow a pathway that leads up to the top. You will be instantly g...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Billy Goat Hill
4.0Billy Goat Hill Park is located in the Glen Park neighborhood of San Francisco. The park has street parking at the top of the park on Beacon Street or at the base of the park on Ladley Street. Getting to the swing is only a short walk up or down the stairs that run through the middle of the park....Read more -
San Francisco, California
Bouldering at Glen Canyon Park
5.0Want to get out of the climbing gym, and do some bouldering in the city? Head to Glen Canyon park! After you park the car, take a short hike on a shade-covered path to the boulders. This climbing spot has history dating back to the 1930s when people first started scaling these boulders. This is a...Read more -
San Francisco, CaliforniaMount Davidson
4.51.03 mi / 299 ft gainMount Davidson Park is located in the southwestern part of the city nestled between Diamond Heights and Portola Dr. The climb isn't too difficult, but to reach the top of the 928ft summit, you should wear close-toed shoes and be ready for some loose gravel or mud if it's been raining. The hike is...Read more -
San Francisco, California
Glen Canyon Park Trail
5.01.76 mi / 394 ft gainGlen Canyon Park Trail is a loop most commonly used for running or hiking in the southwestern side of San Francisco, California. Parking for the loop is street parking, so be sure to take any valuables out of the car with you. Note: There are restrooms available at the Glen Canyon Recreation Ce...Read more
