We’re pretty lucky here in Southern California to have so many opportunities to be outside every day of the year. But with so many options to explore the outdoors, how does one decide which spots to experience first? Well, you’re in luck, as we’ve put together the ultimate Southern California bucket list for everyone who loves the outdoors. This great list includes some of the best outdoor adventures in Southern California, rife with some of the best things to do outside in the region, and the top hikes around the SoCal area. Fall in love with the hiking trails, the lakes, the waterfalls of SoCal all over again, friends. This list of outdoor adventures is truly the ULTIMATE bucket list for folks looking to experience the area in all of its expansive beauty.

Take a look and see which ones you’ve already tackled or which spots you need to put at the top of your list. You really can’t go wrong with any single one of these magnificent places. Have fun exploring!

Please note, Holy Jim Trail is temporarily closed.

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How’s that for a healthy dose of fun? If you can’t get enough of the best outdoor adventures in Southern California, here are 10 More Outdoorsy Things in SoCal that should be added to the list. Which one will you tackle first?

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best outdoor adventures in southern california

What are the most unique things to do in Southern California?

Most folks pitch up to SoCal looking to visit the movie studios or maybe head to the beach or the Hollywood sign. Still, some of the most unique things to do in Southern California have to do with locals, not the expansive media presence. Head to the Salton Sea for an eerie look at a deserted landscape, or maybe the Griffith Park Old Zoo to hobnob with locals and their littles. The Venice Canals are always beautiful to wander, and the International Banana Museum may make you giggle with its hilarity and strangeness.

Where can I go in Southern California that only the locals know about?

If you’re looking for fun places to go without the heaps of tourists that filter into the region every year, then you’re going to want to stay off of the main Los Angeles drag. Head to hike the Millard Canyon Falls Trail, or maybe get yourself an invite to the Magic Castle. The Keys Creek Lavender Farm is great for a day out and about in the great outdoors, and the Myrtle Creek Botanic Gardens are perfect for family photos and getting the wiggles out when your tiny ones need to stretch their legs.

Which hidden gems in Southern California should I visit?

Head to the El Pescador Beach in Malibu if you’re looking for a beautiful beach that’s both secluded and only frequented by locals. Rincon County Beach in Carpinteria is also a great spot, right on the Santa Barbara County line and rife with tidepools and swimming opportunities. Sunset Beach in Orange County is a local favorite for free parking and easy access, and you can bet your bottom dollar that the view is unlike any other. Free and easy, these hidden beaches are well worth a visit.