01
Best classic canyon loop
Temescal Canyon Loop
Pacific Palisades • Shady Canyon-To-Ridge Loop With City Views • Classic Nearby Hike
A go-to loop with a solid climb, ocean glimpses, and a real “in the mountains” feel just up the coast from Marina del Rey.
Start from Temescal Gateway Park and follow the loop up through oaks and chaparral to a ridgeline with views over the Palisades and the bay. The climb is steady and rocky in spots, so expect a workout but no technical sections. Go early on weekends for easier parking and cooler temperatures, and carry more water than you think you’ll need—shade comes and goes on the upper half.
02
Best big-view ridge hike
Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa Overlook
Santa Monica Mountains Above Pacific Palisades • Steady Ridge Climb With Big Ocean Panoramas • Best Coastal Viewpoint
A sustained climb from a lush canyon to a bluff-top overlook with some of the widest ocean views close to Marina del Rey.
The lower trail starts in a surprisingly green canyon before switchbacking up to join the main ridge in Topanga State Park. From there, continue to Parker Mesa Overlook, where benches and sweeping views stretch from Palos Verdes to Malibu on clear days. It is longer and more demanding than it looks on the map, so budget a few hours and be ready for sun exposure on the ridge.
03
Best quick cardio climb
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Culver City • Urban Stair-Climb And Hilltop Park • Quick Workout Close To Home
A short, steep stair route or winding trail to a hilltop with big city and ocean views, perfect when you only have an hour.
From the base, you can choose the direct staircase for a heart-pounding climb or the gentler switchback trail that loops up to the summit. At the top, there is a small park area and a sweeping view over the Westside, downtown, and on clear days out to Catalina. Sunset is popular and parking can fill, so consider timing your visit slightly off-peak or parking lower in the neighborhood and walking in.
04
Best relaxed canyon escape
Solstice Canyon Loop
Malibu • Historic Canyon Walk With Creek And Ruins • Best Mellow Half-Day Escape
A mostly gentle canyon trail with shade, creek crossings, and old stone house ruins that feels far removed from city traffic.
The main canyon route is relatively flat and family-friendly, following a seasonal stream to the remains of a mid-century residence and small waterfall when water is flowing. You can keep it easy on the main path or add one of the steeper side trails to pick up more views over the coast. It makes a great half-day outing from Marina del Rey, especially when you pair the hike with a stop at a nearby Malibu beach.
05
Best easy nature walk from the marina
Ballona Wetlands and Marvin Braude Coastal Path
Marina Del Rey And Playa Del Rey • Flat Coastal Path And Wetlands Nature Walk • Easiest Car-Free Outing
An easy, mostly flat route that combines a seaside path with glimpses of the Ballona Wetlands, ideal for a low-key walk or jog.
From the marina area, you can hop on the Marvin Braude coastal path and walk south toward Playa del Rey, watching for herons, egrets, and other birds in the adjacent wetlands. The route is paved and shared with cyclists, but there are side paths and viewpoints where you can step away and linger. It is more of a scenic walk than a backcountry hike, but it is hard to beat for convenience, fresh air, and sunset light over the water.