An oceanview trail through the hills.

The Temescal Canyon Trail is a perfect way to soak up beautiful ocean views while immersing yourself in nature. There is parking right at the trail entrance for $12/day. The incline is gradual but pretty constant, making it a low to moderate challenge good for ages 7 and over. People are generally COVID conscious and wearing masks, but if you feel uncomfortable then going on a weekday is your best bet.

If you want to start with the more challenging part and then get the views on your way down (recommended) then start to the right of the loop trail. The trail post is labeled “Will Rogers.” This route will put you in the shade on the way up and you’ll even pass a small stream. Depending on the time of the year, you can see a waterfall. About 40 minutes in, you will come to a fork. Instead of taking the ridge trail or the canyon trail, take the left trail that leads to a “bienvenida” post. This takes you right up to the views. A perfect break time and location for kids hitting their walking thresholds. All the trails loop around so if you take the wrong one, you will still see the views, it might just take a bit longer. 

Along the way, you’ll see views of Malibu, Santa Monica and Downtown. Not to mention, this trail is excellent for mansion peeping. You’ll be able to see magnificent houses tucked away in the hills. The total loop takes about an hour and a half but give yourself two and a half hours to stop and enjoy the views. At the bottom, there is a park with picnic benches right off the parking lot. A great spot for lunch afterward. There are also restrooms open, however; the restrooms do not have a changing table. Lastly, if the little ones are still in the mood to play, there is a playground structure two minutes down the road on Temescal Canyon Rd.