There’s nothing more rewarding than getting out in nature and exploring some of the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us here in Southern California. And although we’re not known for our waterfalls in this part of the country, you might be surprised by how many we have. So if you’re looking up the “best waterfalls in Southern California,” you’ll find this list to be quite handy. Take a look at this list of waterfalls and see if you can recognize where they are located in our fabulous state.

1. Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon Falls Trail, Altadena, CA, USA
Wikimedia Commons
First up on our list of relatively easy-to-find "waterfalls near me" in Southern California is Eaton Canyon Falls. This waterfall is hidden near Pasadena on the Eaton Canyon Trail. Learn more about how you can walk to this magical waterfall in Southern California.
2. Escondido Falls
Escondido Falls Terrace, Escondido Falls Terr, Fremont, CA 94539, USA
Flickr/Kenneth Moore
Malibu has more to offer than sand and beaches. This stunning waterfall is tucked away off the Winding Way Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. There's a lot to enjoy about this stunning, picturesque waterfall hike in Southern California.
3. Sturtevant Falls
Sturtevant Falls, California, USA
Flickr/Michael Chen
Located in the Santa Anita Canyon, this trail is about a 9-mile hike round-trip. After a long day in the woods there is nothing more picturesque than 50-feet of cascading water. Looking to continue your adventure? Hike to Sturtevant Camp, another breathtaking day hike in Southern California.
4. Holy Jim Falls
Main Parking for Holy Jim Falls and Trail, Trabuco Creek Rd, Corona, CA 92883, USA
Flickr/Dave and Jessica
This calming waterfall can be spotted in Orange County along the Holy Jim Trail. Looks like the perfect stop to dip your toes for a little splash. And, while you're in the area, be sure to check out the nearby small town of Trabuco Canyon California.
5. Heart Rock Falls
Flickr/Logan Brumm
Next up on our list is a little-known waterfall that really lives up to its name. As you can tell from the photo above, it's shaped like a heart! Learn more about hiking to this little-known waterfall in Southern California.
6. Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007, USA
Flickr/Bridget Samuels
This lovely sanctuary of paradise is located in Arcadia, CA. What a nice way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Learn more about what makes the arboretum such a unique Southern California day trip destination.
7. Paradise Falls
Wildwood Park, San Bernardino, CA, USA
Flickr/Roy Randall
Located in Thousand Oaks, you can see this stunning waterfall while taking a leisurely 2-hour hike through Wildwood Park, a little-known park that will make you feel as though you've discovered one of Southern California's best-kept secrets.
8. Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls, California 92065, USA
Flickr/John Lemieux
This spectacular spot features 80-feet of water-flowing goodness. The hiking trail to get here is in Ramona outside San Diego. It's best to hike here in the spring, winter and fall as the scorching temps in the summer can put a damper on the experience. When it comes to the best waterfall trails in SoCal, Cedar Creek Falls definitely makes the cut.
9. Tahquitz Falls
Tahquitz Falls, Palm Springs, CA 92264, USA
Flickr/Joe Bielawa
A waterfall out in the desert is always a sight to behold. Located in Riverside County, Tahquitz Falls can be seen while enjoying a nice two-mile hike through this area. While it's beautiful year-round, Tahquitz Falls actually makes for a beautiful winter hike in Southern California.

We sure live in a beautiful place with so much to explore. Lace up those tennis shoes; put on some sunscreen, and have a little date with Mother Nature out in the fresh air. And don’t forget to snap some pictures! The next time you’re looking for waterfalls near me in Southern California, we hope this list comes in handy. How many of the amazing waterfalls in Southern California have you experienced? Which ones are on your bucket list? Let us know!

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Beth C. | April 21, 2022

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