Our Favorite Places to Explore Around UCLA

Published: November 30, 2022

Here at UCLA Rec we are all about getting outdoors and getting moving! In today’s blog we will be providing you with some of our favorite spots in LA to do both of those things, courtesy of our followers and employees.

Griffith Park

Our first stop is none other than the iconic Griffith Park. Located 17 miles from UCLA and just above Hollywood, this is the perfect place for all of your outdoor needs. According to the Griffith Observatory Website the park is, “The largest urban-wilderness municipal park in the United States, Griffith Park is filled with trails, trees, trains, attractions… and the Hollywood Sign!” There are a total of 53 miles of trails in the park! Whether you head up to Griffith to hike the Hollywood Sign or spend some time studying in the grass, it is a great place to get outside.

A bird's eye view of the Griffith Observatory and mountains surrounding it.

Los Liones Trail

A UCLA fan-favorite, next up we have the Los Liones Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains. Just 14 miles from UCLA, you can find a gorgeous sanctuary filled with beautiful and rich vegetation, as well as a STUNNING outlook of the beach. This hike is perfect for any level of hiker, as the loop is only 2.6 miles long, with the option to add onto the loop at the top and climb to a higher viewpoint. You’ll know you are in the right place when you see the iconic “Los Liones” gate at the trailhead!

A photo of two people walking down Los Liones Trail with a view of the ocean.

Will Rogers Beach

Will Rogers Beach is not only very easily accessible from UCLA, but it is also one of the least crowded beaches in LA. At 11.1 miles away from UCLA, it is one bus ride away from campus. Besides the gorgeous view of the mountains and beautiful views of sunset, this beach also has volleyball courts, picnic tables, and a snack shack! It is also common to find fruit carts selling the most tasty treats perfect for a day at the beach.

A photo of a life guard tower at Will Rogers Beach with a view of the ocean and the sand.

Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine

The Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is a gorgeous treasure hidden in the Palisades. It is located only 12 miles away from UCLA and quite close to Will Rogers Beach. This beautiful location features meditation gardens, a lake, a huge variety of plants and greenery, as well as many amazing nooks and crannies to explore. This is a perfect place to unwind from the stresses of school and will have you forgetting you are even in the city.

A photo of the Self Realization Fellowship Shrine. A structure is seen overlooking a lake with lots of greenery.

Point Dume Trail

Point Dume Trail is a bit of a hike from UCLA, but it is well worth the day trip. Located in Malibu, 28 miles from campus, it is the perfect place to spend time in the mountains at the beach! Although this hike begins at the cliff at Point Dume, it ends on the beach where you can swim, relax in the sand, and observe tide pools. This hike offers very cheap parking, perfect for a college student and is a great way to explore the beauty of Malibu. An added bonus is the drive home on the PCH, the best road to blast music on.

A photo of two people standing at a lookout point on the Point Dume Trail overlooking the ocean.

We hope you enjoy these suggestions are you explore LA! Remember to check us out on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!