Rancho Palos Verdes CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Rancho Palos Verdes, California.
1. The Point Vicente Interpretive Center
COASTAL HISTORY & VIEWS
The Point Vicente Interpretive Center is a specialty museum offering stunning ocean views and educational exhibits about the local coastal environment. Visitors can learn about marine life, the history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and enjoy whale watching during migration seasons. The center provides a nice blend of natural history, cultural information, and panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Wayfarers Chapel
GLASS CHURCH BY THE SEA
Wayfarers Chapel, often called the 'Glass Church,' is an architectural marvel designed by Lloyd Wright set among redwood trees overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The chapel features stunning glass walls that create a seamless connection between the interior sanctuary and the surrounding natural beauty. Though currently closed due to land movement issues (as of 2024), this iconic structure remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Rancho Palos Verdes.
3. Point Vicente Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME LANDMARK
Point Vicente Lighthouse is a historic maritime landmark listed on the National Registry of Historic Sites, standing tall on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for nearly a century. The 67-foot lighthouse continues to guide ships along the coastline while offering visitors a glimpse into Southern California's nautical past. Lighthouse enthusiasts particularly enjoy the monthly open house events when visitors can tour the interior of this iconic coastal sentinel.
4. Terranea Discovery Trail
SCENIC COASTAL PATHWAY
The Terranea Discovery Trail provides a stunning coastal walking path with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Visitors can access the trail from Pelican Cove Park and enjoy a scenic hike that leads directly into the Terranea Resort grounds. The well-maintained pathway offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and connecting with the natural beauty of the Palos Verdes coastline.
5. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park & Ecological Reserve
TIDE POOLS & TRAILS
Abalone Cove Shoreline Park & Ecological Reserve features pristine beaches, tide pools, and dramatic coastal bluffs ideal for nature enthusiasts. The reserve's numerous tide pools at Inspiration Point are best visited during low tide when visitors can observe starfish, sea anemones, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat. Well-maintained hiking trails offer stunning ocean views and access to secluded beaches where visitors can explore Southern California's coastal ecosystem.
6. Ocean Trails Reserve
COASTAL HIKING PARADISE
Ocean Trails Reserve offers scenic walking areas and hiking trails with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. The well-maintained paths wind through coastal sage scrub habitat, providing opportunities to observe native plants and wildlife in their natural environment. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in panoramic vistas and fresh ocean breezes along this preserved stretch of the Palos Verdes coastline.
7. Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center
PANORAMIC VIEWS & RECREATION
Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center offers visitors sweeping panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin, Harbor, and Catalina Island. The park features well-maintained picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails suitable for all ages and abilities. The nature center provides educational exhibits about local flora and fauna, making it both a recreational destination and learning opportunity for visitors.
8. Del Cerro Park
HILLTOP VIEWS & TRANQUILITY
Del Cerro Park sits atop the Palos Verdes Peninsula, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Los Angeles area. Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, and the surrounding coastline from this serene neighborhood park. The park serves as both a peaceful retreat and a popular starting point for hikers accessing the Portuguese Bend Reserve trail system below.
9. Nelson's
CASUAL OCEANFRONT DINING
Nelson's is a popular restaurant at Terranea Resort offering American cuisine, bar selections, and contemporary dishes with stunning ocean views. The casual eatery features outdoor seating where diners can watch the sunset while enjoying upscale comfort food and craft cocktails. Named after the television show 'Sea Hunt' character Mike Nelson, the restaurant combines laid-back atmosphere with quality dining in a prime coastal location.
10. Mar'sel
MICHELIN-RATED FINE DINING
Mar'sel is a Michelin-recognized fine dining restaurant at Terranea Resort offering sophisticated American cuisine with gluten-free and vegetarian options. The upscale eatery features farm-to-table ingredients, an extensive wine list, and elegant presentations in a refined atmosphere. Diners enjoy panoramic ocean views while experiencing seasonal menus that showcase the culinary team's artistry and attention to detail.
11. Catalina Kitchen
RESORT DINING EXPERIENCE
Catalina Kitchen is a popular restaurant at Terranea Resort serving American cuisine with vegetarian-friendly and vegan options in a relaxed yet upscale setting. The restaurant is known for its extensive breakfast buffet, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood selections that showcase regional flavors. Diners can enjoy indoor or outdoor seating with beautiful views of the resort grounds and distant ocean vistas.
12. The Palos Verdes Art Center
CULTURAL HUB & GALLERY
The Palos Verdes Art Center serves as a cultural hub featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary art in various media from both established and emerging artists. The center offers art classes, workshops, and educational programs for visitors of all ages interested in developing their creative skills. As a prominent landmark and community gathering space, the art center contributes significantly to the cultural landscape of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
13. Trump National Golf Club
COASTAL GOLF EXPERIENCE
Trump National Golf Club features a championship 18-hole course dramatically situated on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The public course offers golfers challenging play with stunning ocean views from nearly every hole and meticulously maintained grounds. Beyond golf, the club houses upscale dining options and serves as a premier event venue for weddings and special occasions.
14. Green Hills Memorial Park
SERENE MEMORIAL GARDENS
Green Hills Memorial Park offers beautifully landscaped grounds with panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin and the Pacific Ocean. The memorial park features serene gardens, fountains, and statuary creating a peaceful environment for reflection and remembrance. Visitors appreciate both the natural beauty and the thoughtful design of this hilltop cemetery that serves as the final resting place for many local residents.
15. Universal Studios Hollywood
WORLD-FAMOUS THEME PARK
Universal Studios Hollywood combines a working movie studio with a theme park featuring rides, shows, and attractions based on popular films and TV shows. Visitors can experience immersive worlds including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and The Simpsons Springfield, along with the famous Studio Tour that showcases real movie sets. The entertainment complex also offers diverse dining options and shopping at CityWalk, making it a complete day-long destination for tourists and locals alike.