Looking for a little peace and quiet in Southern California? Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to these 10 picturesque oases that are all a slice of paradise right here in SoCal. Do you have a favorite spot on the list?

Please note, the Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens are temporarily closed.

1. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens -- San Clemente
facebook/casa romantica cultural center and gardens
tripadvisor/gare there
Most people have no idea this hidden gem is hiding right here in SoCal. Show up for an afternoon of exploring and you will soon be enchanted. From fragrant gardens to mesmerizing ocean views, this is one local gem that will completely refresh you the moment you walk through the entrance. Casa Romantica is located at 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA.
2. Keys Creek Lavender Farm -- Valley Center
Keys Creek Lavender Farm
There are few things more relaxing and tranquil than the smell of lavender. Head to Keys Creek Lavender Farm where you'll be treated to the scent of an entire field of lavender. Stroll through this hidden oasis in SoCal and your senses will be soothed. You can find Keys Creek Lavender Farm in Valley Center at 12460 Keys Creek Rd.
3. UCR Botanic Garden -- Riverside
flickr/mathew mendoza
Head to the University of California in Riverside and you'll discover a hidden botanic garden that's absolute paradise. Stroll through picturesque trails and take in the sights and sounds of nature at this lush 40-acre garden filled with over 3,500 differen plant species. UCR Botanic Garden is located at 1 Botanic Gardens Drive in Riverside, CA.
4. Self-Realization Fellowship and Meditation Gardens -- Encinitas
tripadvisor/henry d.
tripadvisor/alaska marion
Tucked inside the city of Encinitas you'll find the Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens. Stroll through colorful gardens and meander down a winding trail that leads straight to an epic ocean view. This serene spot is truly heaven on earth. You can experience this slice of paradise for yourself at 215 W K Street in Encinitas, CA.

Related Stories

Disappear Into Nature In These Dreamy Glass Cottages In Southern California

Disappear Into Nature In These Dreamy Glass Cottages In Southern California

 You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Judy's Donuts In Southern California

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Judy's Donuts In Southern California

 Escape To The Country When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Southern California

Escape To The Country When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Southern California
5. Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve -- Newport Beach
tripadvisor/su yoga
With over 1,000 acres of open space to explore and discover at this tranquil nature preserve, you'll find plenty of trails where you can wander and ponder in the great outdoors. Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is located at 2301 University Drive in Newport Beach.
6. Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens -- Fallbrook
facebook/myrtle creek botanical gardens
If you love discovering secret gardens then you're going to adore this romantic botanic garden and wild bird sanctuary tucked inside the charming town of Fallbrook. This magical oasis is located in a fairytale setting surrounded by wildlife, lush plants, and beauty in every direction. You can find Myrtle Creek Gardens and Nursery at 2940 Reche Rd, Fallbrook, CA 92028.
7. Descanso Gardens -- La Cañada Flintridge
flickr/dirtinmypocket
One of the loveliest gardens in SoCal just so happens to be the perfect place to escape for an afternoon of tranquility. You'll find lush trails, an abundance of greenery, and just enough solitude to completely recharge your soul. Descanso Gardens can be found at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge.
8. Oak Glen Preserve -- Oak Glen
flickr/roy randall
tripadvisor/janet f.
When you need a little nature fix in the great outdoors, head over to Oak Glen Preserve where you'll find a variety of walking trails, peaceful ponds, and a variety of wildlife tucked inside this 2,100-acre nature preserve. Oak Glen Preserve is located at 39611 Oak Glen Rd in Oak Glen, CA.
9. Echo Mountain -- Altadena
flickr/traveling man
When you really want to get away from it all, you can find nothing but peace and quiet in the Angeles National Forest. One of our favorite spots for fresh air and solitude is along the trail to Echo Mountain. Time your hike just right and you'll have plenty of alone time. If you head out on the weekend you may find yourself surrounded by fellow hikers so plan your journey accordingly. The trailhead to Echo Mountain is located at 3302 Lake Avenue, Altadena, CA 91001.
10. Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park -- Riverside
flickr/daniel orth
Those of us who live in Southern California are fortunate to have an abundance of parks to choose from whenever we want to get away from it all. Head to Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park to enjoy a quiet day on the trail where you can also take in a stunning sunrise or sunset. Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park is located at 400 Central Avenue in Riverside, CA.

So many peaceful spots are hiding right here in SoCal. Do you have a favorite place on this list where you like to relax and recharge?

For more ideas on where to recharge in Southern California, check out these nine gardens in SoCal that will take your breath away.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles