TOP 10 Amazing Southern California Hidden Gems
Southern California is home to many beautiful hidden gems. Our list features destinations that tourists often overlook. Some are in town, while others are way off the beaten path. If you are looking for somewhere unique and a little less of a tourist stop, check out these hidden gems.
Ojai Valley California
The Ojai Valley is an area in Ventura County, California. The hub of the valley is the City of Ojai, one of the smallest towns in the county, with just over 8,000 residents. Located a few miles up Highway 33, about 12 miles inland from Ventura and the coast.
Wrigley Botanical Gardens
Wrigley Botanical Gardens are located on Catalina Island, a popular day trip off Southern California about 22 miles from Los Angeles. One of the island’s main attractions, the gardens, features a stunning monument to William Wrigley Jr.
Moorten Botanical Gardens
A hidden gem in Palm Springs’ desert, the Moorten Botanical Gardens is the perfect destination for anyone who appreciates desert flora. Established in 1938 by Chester “Cactus Slim” Moorten and his wife, Patricia, and now owned and operated by their son, Clark Moorten.
Sherman Gardens Corona Del Mar
It’s little surprise that Sherman Gardens is regularly ranked as the top attraction in the pretty California town of Corona Del Mar. This hidden gem covers over two acres of land packed with flora and fauna from around the globe.
Point Dume Malibu Coast
Point Dume Nature Preserve has one of the best views you will find anywhere along the Southern California coast. On a clear day, you can see the Malibu coast to Santa Monica. The preserve is 32 acres and has several fenced trails, one leading to a secluded beach.
Coachella Valley Preserve
Coachella Valley Preserve is just a short day trip from Palm Springs. Take a nice easy walk through a real oasis in the middle of the desert, or work up a sweat under the sweltering desert sun, and then retire for a cool drink in the shade of a gorgeous palm tree oasis.
Whitewater Preserve
Once the Whitewater Trout Farm and Hatchery home, the Whitewater Preserve near Palm Springs have become a sanctuary of the Southern California Wildlands Conservancy. It is abutting the San Gorgonio Wilderness and part of the 33,000 acre Sand to Snow Preserve System.
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Get out your hiking boots and explore the over 1,600 acres of open space on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Ten of the area’s largest preserves consisted of rolling hills, steep canyons, and rocky outcrops with the Pacific’s natural habitat and views.
Laguna Lake Park Fullerton
Laguna Lake Park is a beautiful relaxing lake in the middle of Fullerton. Activities include fishing, picnicking, and hiking. The 7-acre lake is surrounded by mature trees that provide plenty of shade. Park benches are situated around the lake where you can sit and enjoy the view.
