Beyond the glitz of L.A. lies Rancho Palos Verdes.. I enjoy this coastal haven where dramatic cliffs meet serene trails and luxury seamlessly blends with untamed nature. To me, Rancho Palos Verdes means unusual cliffs along the Pacific and dramatic ocean views. I visit for scenic hiking, and tranquil elegance. I know many people won't skip whale watching and golfing either. I like to visit in the off-season for that quiet feel but it's fantastic year round.
What I Think You Should Do in Rancho Palos Verdes:
- Visit Point Vicente Lighthouse and Interpretive Center: Watch for whales and enjoy panoramic views from a historic cliffside beacon.
- Hike the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve: Explore coastal trails like the Portuguese Bend Reserve with sweeping ocean views.
- Stay or dine at Terranea Resort: Indulge in spa treatments, fine dining, and trails at this oceanfront luxury resort.
- Explore Abalone Cove Shoreline Park: Wander tide pools, sea caves, and rugged beaches in this stunning nature preserve.
- Play golf at Trump National Golf Club: Tee off with views of the Pacific at this dramatic cliffside course.
Best Time to Visit Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
The best time to visit Rancho Palos Verdes is from March through October for mild, sunny weather perfect for hiking, beachcombing, and outdoor dining. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds, while winter is cooler but still beautiful with possible gray whale sightings.
How to Get to Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
- If you are traveling by car: Rancho Palos Verdes is located about 45 minutes south of downtown Los Angeles, accessible via CA-110 and Palos Verdes Drive.
- By Plane: The nearest major airports are Los Angeles International Airport (LAX, 30–40 min) and Long Beach Airport (LGB, 35–40 min).
- By Transit: While limited, local buses from Metro and Torrance Transit provide connections from nearby areas. A car is recommended for exploring.
Where to Stay in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
- Terranea Resort – A luxurious oceanfront resort offering upscale rooms, restaurants, a spa, and coastal trails.
- Best Western Plus San Pedro Hotel & Suites – A convenient and affordable option just outside RPV, with easy access to nearby coastal towns.
- Private Vacation Rentals – RPV offers various upscale home and villa rentals with cliffside views and tranquil surroundings.
Unique Things to Do in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Admire the stunning Glass Church / Wayfarers Chapel -
Learn about the Pacific gray whale at The Point Vicente Interpretive Center -
Take a picture of Point Vicente Lighthouse -
Abalone Cove Shoreline Park & Ecological Reserve -
Play a round of golf at Trump National Golf Club -
Test your skills on Los Verdes Golf Course -
Have a picnic at Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center -
Watch pelicans from the Ocean Trails Reserve -
Visit Green Hills Memorial Park -
Hike along the McBride Trail -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Admire the stunning Glass Church / Wayfarers Chapel
- • Learn about the Pacific gray whale at The Point Vicente Interpretive Center
- • Take a picture of Point Vicente Lighthouse
- • Abalone Cove Shoreline Park & Ecological Reserve
- • Play a round of golf at Trump National Golf Club
- • Test your skills on Los Verdes Golf Course
- • Have a picnic at Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center
- • Watch pelicans from the Ocean Trails Reserve
- • Visit Green Hills Memorial Park
- • Hike along the McBride Trail