We're quite fortunate here in Southern California to have a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy all year long. Whether you love spending time near the ocean, wandering along a woodsy trail for a hike, or having an urban adventure at one of SoCal's most epic parks, there's plenty to see and do here without spending a dime.
Here are 10 places we know you'll enjoy if you love spending time outside in SoCal.
1. Discover a hidden cave at Aliso and Wood Canyons Regional Park.
Nestled inside this 4,500 acre park you'll discover one of the coolest local gems -- a hidden cave. Take a hike along Dripping Cave Trail within the park and you'll get to see this sight for yourself. The park is located at 28373 Alicia Pkwy, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656.
2. Hike to a waterfall from Eaton Canyon Nature Center.
Fun for the whole family, a waterfall hike should always be at the top of the list. Start your adventure at Eaton Canyon Nature Center at 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107 and set out on a fairly easy 4-mile round trip hike that will take you to Eaton Canyon Falls.
3. Take a bike ride or a long hike along the greenest rolling hills in SoCal.
Whether you choose to hit the trail on foot or by bike, you'll be in awe at the beautiful green rolling hills tucked inside Chino Hills State Park located at located at 4721 Sapphire Rd, Chino Hills, CA 91709.
4. Stroll along Ventura Harbor Village.
If your ideal day outdoors includes strolling along a picturesque village with a magnificent waterfront view, then we're pretty sure you'll want to explore this splendid harbor destination. Ventura Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura, CA 93001.
5. Take a scenic hike through Guajome Regional Park.
If you love variety, Guajome Regional Park is a splendid place to be. From woodlands to wetlands and everything in between, you'll get to see a little bit of everything when you head down a trail in this picturesque paradise. Guajome Regional Park is located at 3000 Guajome Lake Rd., Oceanside, CA 92057.
6. Go on a hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve.
You'll find hiking trails galore and an epic ocean view when you spend some time exploring Torrey Pines State Reserve. It's located at 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037.
7. Spend a day among the blooms at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden.
Although admission to this local SoCal garden is typically $10 for non-members, Santa Ana Botanic Garden, located at 1500 N College Ave., Claremont, CA 91717, offers a variety of free days throughout the year. The next free day is coming up on May 10, 2019 in honor of National Public Gardens Day. Mark your calendar!
8. Take a walk through picturesque gardens from around the world at Gardens of the World.
Most people are shocked to discover this slice of paradise in SoCal is free to the public. You'll be treated to a variety of international gardens including an English rose garden, Italian garden, and even a Japanese garden. Gardens of the World is located at 2001 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.
9. Spend a day at SoCal's most spectacular urban park.
There's never a dull moment at this 1,200-acre park located in the heart of America's Finest City. From peaceful nature trails to architectural delights and lush and fragrant gardens, this scenic setting has it all. Balboa Park is located in the center of San Diego.
10. Pick your favorite pier in SoCal to see a spectacular sunset.
We all have our favorite piers in SoCal. Which one is yours? Head to one close by or one you've always wanted to visit and show up to watch the sun go down. It will be the highlight of your day and it's completely free to enjoy. Pictured here: Huntington Beach Pier.
What do you think of this list of free outdoor activities in SoCal? If you're looking for more outdoorsy adventures, we think you'll also enjoy reading The One Place In Southern California That Offers The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure.
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