Palos Verdes Estates CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Palos Verdes Estates, California.
1. Palos Verdes Shoreline Park
SCENIC COASTAL PARK
Palos Verdes Shoreline Park offers visitors dramatic ocean views and a serene walking path along the cliffs. The park is renowned for its natural beauty and is a favorite spot for photographers, walkers, and picnickers. Wildlife sightings and sweeping vistas of the Pacific make it one of the area's most memorable outdoor attractions.
2. Neighborhood Church Of Palos Verdes
HISTORIC COASTAL CHURCH
The Neighborhood Church Of Palos Verdes sits atop ocean bluffs, housed in a stunning Spanish-style former mansion. Beyond its active congregation, the church is well known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic sea views. It also serves as a popular venue for weddings and community events.
3. Malaga Cove
PICTURESQUE COASTAL COVE
Malaga Cove is famous for its charming plaza, historic library, and quiet beach surrounded by rocky bluffs. Visitors enjoy relaxing strolls, tide pool exploration, and artistic architecture. The nearby Malaga Cove Plaza offers a blend of shops and cafes ideal for a leisurely day.
4. Bluff Cove
SURFING AND HIKING SPOT
Bluff Cove is a secluded area popular with surfers, hikers, and those seeking rugged coastal scenery. The cove features dramatic cliffs and waves, providing a peaceful escape from city life. Trails along the bluffs grant panoramic vistas of the ocean and frequent wildlife sightings.
5. Lookout Point Park
PANORAMIC VISTA PARK
Lookout Point Park is a small but striking park offering some of the best panoramic views along the peninsula. It's an ideal setting for sunset watching, quiet reflection, or photography. Benches throughout the park allow visitors to relax and soak in the expansive ocean scenery.
6. Golden Cove Shopping Center
LOCAL SHOPPING & DINING
Golden Cove Shopping Center is a popular destination featuring a variety of boutiques, eateries, and services. Dining options range from casual cafes to international cuisine, catering to both locals and visitors. The center's location on the cliffs provides diners with scenic ocean views.
7. South Coast Botanic Garden
LUSH BOTANICAL OASIS
South Coast Botanic Garden offers over 87 acres of gardens with collections ranging from desert cacti to Japanese landscapes. Family-friendly programs, birdwatching, and seasonal events draw visitors year-round. The garden's tranquil paths provide a perfect escape into nature.
8. Terranea Resort
LUXURY RESORT EXPERIENCE
Terranea Resort is a sprawling luxury destination overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It boasts a world-class spa, multiple renowned restaurants, and access to scenic hiking trails. The property's elegant architecture and coastal setting make it a premier choice for both relaxation and adventure.
9. Point Vicente Lighthouse
HISTORIC COASTAL LANDMARK
Point Vicente Lighthouse is a century-old beacon perched on picturesque cliffs, serving as an icon of Palos Verdes' maritime history. It features a small museum and is surrounded by trails that offer spectacular whale-watching opportunities. The lighthouse is especially photogenic, making it a favorite stop for visitors.
10. Del Cerro Park
HILLTOP HIKING & VIEWS
Del Cerro Park sits atop the Palos Verdes Peninsula, offering sweeping views of the coastline and Catalina Island. Well-maintained trails make it a popular spot for hikers, bikers, and families. The park is known for its dramatic sunsets and wide-open green spaces.
11. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park
TIDE POOLS & COASTAL TRAILS
Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is a protected area home to rich tide pools, hiking trails, and panoramic ocean views. Visitors often explore the diverse marine life in the tide pools or walk scenic bluffs overlooking the Pacific. The natural setting makes it a standout for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
12. Malaga Cove Plaza
CHARMING VILLAGE CENTER
Malaga Cove Plaza is a quaint shopping and dining destination known for its Mediterranean architecture and relaxing ambiance. Boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes surround the central plaza, ideal for leisurely browsing. Regular art shows and community events add to its local appeal.
13. The Original Red Onion
CLASSIC MEXICAN RESTAURANT
The Original Red Onion is a beloved local eatery serving authentic Mexican cuisine since 1949. Its festive atmosphere and generous portions draw loyal patrons and newcomers alike. The colorful decor and lively ambiance make it a popular dining choice for families and groups.
14. Promenade on the Peninsula
UPSCALE SHOPPING CENTER
Promenade on the Peninsula offers an array of upscale retailers, dining options, and entertainment venues. The open-air mall is known for fashion boutiques, specialty stores, and a weekly farmers' market. Its central location makes it a hub for shopping and casual gatherings.
15. Nelson's at Terranea
OCEANFRONT CASUAL DINING
Nelson's is a popular oceanfront eatery located at Terranea Resort, famed for its laid-back vibe and breathtaking sunsets. The menu features coastal-inspired American fare, with both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the surf. It's a favorite spot for both lunch and romantic evening meals with a view.