Outbound Collective logo

Topanga, California

Topanga, California is a top outdoor spot for adventurers. From scenic trails to outdoor activities, there are plenty of must-visit attractions in and near the area. Hiking in Topanga State Park is one of the most popular activities, with its trails offering stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains. The nearby Malibu Creek State Park is also a great spot for exploration, with plenty of trails to explore. For a more adventure, you can take a guided tour of the Malibu Canyon and explore its many hidden caves and canyons. If you're looking for a more relaxed activity, you can visit the nearby beaches and take in the views of the Pacific Ocean. There are also a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing that can be enjoyed in and near Topanga. No matter what type of activity you're looking for, Topanga is sure to have something for you. With its trails and activities, it's the perfect destination for any outdoor adventurer.

Top Spots in and near Topanga

  • Santa Monica, California

    Spend a Day at the Santa Monica Pier

    4.2
    *Unlimited photography options with the ferris wheel, beach, ocean, and sunsets *Abundant people watching opportunities  *Plenty of ways to get a workout in including swimming, volleyball courts, running, or riding a bike There is a bike and walking path that runs along the coast.  One of my favo...
    Read more
  • Malibu, California

    Jim Morrison Cave

    3.2
    1.2 mi / 600 ft gain
    Note: Jim Morrison Cave is closed indefinitely. The bright colors of the Jim Morrison Cave are something to not be missed, and is appreciated by people of all ages. The cave also provides a beautiful outlook of the Malibu canyon, Malibu State Park and the Pacific Ocean. There is a ton of rock ho...
    Read more
  • Los Angeles County, California

    Backbone Trail via Corral Canyon

    5.0
    2.08 mi / 89 ft gain
    The backbone trail was a vision that started in the 1980’s. It is a trail that stretches 65 Miles starting in Will Rodgers State Historic Park and ending at Thornhill Broome Beach. It has many entrance and exit points but it is anchored in the middle by the Coral Canyon Trail Head. The full trail...
    Read more
  • Agoura Hills, California

    Ladyface Peak

    4.5
    2.05 mi / 971 ft gain
    Ladyface is a volcanic ridge that juts up over Agoura Hills. It is a short but steep hike up the ridgeline, and it offers amazing views to either side. Sections of the trail are steep and sandy so it can be challenging to maintain your footing. Trekking poles are optional and can help with the de...
    Read more
  • Los Angeles, California

    Venice Canals

    4.3
    2.77 mi / 30 ft gain
    The canals are a fun and quiet place to relax away from the hectic Venice boardwalk. Take a stroll through the canals or even get in a run! The reflections in the water are the main attraction and are great for photography. Spring, after some rain, is the best time to go as the water levels are g...
    Read more
  • Malibu, California

    Hike the Backbone East from Latigo Canyon

    3.8 mi / 780 ft gain
    Starting in a dusty, generally empty parking lot, at about 2,000' ASL, you'll go immediately due north, up a few more feet before you drop down into another canyon covered in live oaks (and poison oak), thistles, ferns, and wildflowers. There's only one trail. It's windy, it's not hilly, it just ...
    Read more
  • Malibu, California

    Escondido Falls Trail

    4.3
    3.74 mi / 699 ft gain
    This 3.8 mile out-and-back hike takes place on a very easy to use trail. The first 0.75 miles on Winding Way are paved, leading you up to Escondido Canyon Trail. As you head up Winding Way, it’s safest to stay on the side of the road on the dirt. You’ll take this paved road up roughly 200 feet be...
    Read more
  • Los Angeles, California

    Kayak the Marina Del Rey Harbor

    5.0
    The Marina Del Rey harbor covers 1.5 square miles making it the world’s largest small-craft harbor. Located southwest of Los Angeles, it is the homeport to nearly 6,500 local boats, ranging from small fishing boats, large private yachts, and even a multitude of unique houseboats. The harbor is ea...
    Read more
  • Los Angeles, California

    Hike up Chatsworth Park North

    1 mi
    From the parking lot, make your way through the park until you reach the bottom of a hill filled with huge rocks and boulders. It is very hard to miss.From here, you can pick any trail you wish. They will all lead up to the top. There's a lot of rock scrambling involved, as well as boulder hoppin...
    Read more
  • Marina del Rey, California

    Ballona Lagoon

    5.0
    1.8 mi / 95 ft gain
    Such a relaxing and beautiful stroll in the Marina Del Rey/Venice area!  Park in Marina Del Rey #13 lot (4601 Vía Marina, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292). Don't forget to pay the meter! The rate as of 2021 is $0.50/15mins, or $6 for 24hrs on weekdays, and $8 for 24hrs on weekends.  Once parked, walk ...
    Read more
  • Los Angeles, California

    Stoney Point Park Loop

    4.0
    0.73 mi / 141 ft gain
    Once you've parked along Topanga Canyon Blvd, make your way down the street and start the trail off near the steel gate, close to the horse stables. As you make your way in, you will notice some rock climbers practicing on the lower elevation rocks. Make your way around this rocky park, counter-...
    Read more
  • Oak Park, California

    China Flat Trail to Simi Peak

    5.0
    5.03 mi / 1398 ft gain
    From the trailhead, simply follow the trail headed up the mountain. The first 2 miles is the hardest part of the hike, because of the steep ascent.  Continue on until you hit a junction. Turn left, and you will eventually see an old rusty gate, and a sign which says "China Flat Trail". You will ...
    Read more
  • Malibu, California

    Backbone Trail via Kanan Dume

    5.0
    4.47 mi / 1089 ft gain
    Fair warning, it can get very hot in Malibu, especially in the summer or fall. We started at the Kanan Dume Road lot. It fills up quick, both directions offer beautiful hiking, but most people tend to go west, it seems. While that's beautiful, you end on a decent uphill, so if hiking is new or c...
    Read more
  • Malibu, California

    Newton & Zuma Canyon Falls

    4.3
    2 mi / -600 ft gain
    Three waterfalls in one short hike?!...I'll take it! That's what you'll get if you make the visit to these falls in the Santa Monica mountains in Malibu. The trailhead starts on Kanan Dume road, which is also where the Backbone trail meets. Park in the designated (free) parking area and take the ...
    Read more
  • Los Angeles, California

    Stoney Point via North End

    4.0
    1.42 mi / 240 ft gain
    Stoney Point via North End is an out-and-back trail where you may see local wildlife located near Chatsworth, California.
    Read more
  • Malibu, California

    Point Dume

    4.8
    0.95 mi / 141 ft gain
    From the parking lot, make your way towards Point Dume. You will find the entrance to the trail at the end of the lot. The trail is a bit sandy, but fairly easy. Be careful of the cactus plants along the trail! Make your way up towards the cliff and you'll notice ropes hanging on the edge. Don't...
    Read more