Seascape Trail

The Seascape Trail at Point Vicente in Rancho Palos Verdes is a great place for a leisurely stroll. The scenic two-mile-long paved trail winds along a cliff 150 feet above the Pacific Ocean and through the Vicente Bluffs Reserve. It's easy to walk from the beginning of the trail to the end and back in less than two hours, though you might want to plan to spend an entire day in the area. The trail is situated near the beautiful Wayfarers' Chapel, a glass-walled sanctuary in the middle of a wildflower field, and a cluster of seaside parks, including the off-leash Rancho Caninos Dog Park. The dog park is just a short drive around the bend from the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, the destination you should set in your GPS. While this pleasant museum and gift shop doesn't allow dogs inside, it's a great place to start your hike as it offers ample parking and bathrooms only 0.2 miles from the beginning of the Seascape Trail.

This oceanside escape is only a 30-mile drive from downtown L.A., but you'll feel like you're on a vacation far away from the city here. The sounds of the roaring ocean and the smell of the salt air will refresh you as you enjoy panoramic views from the stunning bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. 

At the beginning of the trail, the Point Vicente Lighthouse provides a great backdrop for a selfie with you and your dog. If you're here between December and April, be on the lookout for migrating gray whales. Continue through the Vicente Bluffs Reserve and take note of the unique basalt rock formations and coastal wildlife including sea lions and pelicans. You may even spot an endangered El Segundo blue butterfly floating overhead. Near the end of the trail, you'll find the Calle Entradero Vistapoint, a small park with a grassy lawn and picnic tables that's a great place to relax with your dog.

Don't hesitate to take a break from your busy life and spend a day exploring this oceanside retreat with your favorite canine companion—you will feel all your stress melt away here!