The "Almost" Secret Treasure of the South Bay

Do you like hiking? Do you like the ocean? Do you like beautiful scenery and ocean life? If you are looking for a fantastic day which will cost you virtually nothing you should make your way south of Los Angeles to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. My recommendation is to put on some good hiking shoes that you don't mind getting wet, using one of the internet map programs and finding your way to the parking lot at 5970 Palos Verdes Drive South, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. Cost for parking is $5.00. This parking lot has access to two beaches Abalone Cove and Sacred Cove. Sacred Cove is an easier hike and very beautiful, but if you are up for the hike Abalone Cove is a beautiful, amazing place to visit.

It is a long hike to get to the cove you have to exit the parking lot and head south along a trail which will lead you out to Palos Verdes Drive South. Keep following the road south, the trail isn't marked, but it is worn down by travelers so you will see the trail. You will have to climb over the piping that runs along the road and you will eventually after about ½ mile see the trail down to Abalone Cove. If you have your camera the view from the top of the hill is often spectacular. On a clear day you can see gorgeous views of Santa Catalina Island. Be careful on the hike down the bottom of the cove because it is steep and there are loose rocks on the trail.

When you get to the bottom you will find a small secluded beach which is great for a picnic, but make sure you take all of your trash with you when you go. During the summer there is a lifeguard on duty at Abalone Cove for swimming. The real treasure at Abalone Cove is the tidal pools. They provide a wonderful look into an ocean ecology which is often difficult to find especially in this pristine of condition. The tidal pools are quite large and are located on an outcropping to the south of the beach. You will see sea anemones, sea stars, crabs and many other creatures in the tide pools. It is truly fascinating to small children, but you should always be respectful of the nature here or it will cease to exist. A good rule of thumb is that if you are going to touch something, make sure your hands are clean and only touch with one finger.

A bonus for this beach is that if you find yourself out there during the winter months December through April you have a good chance of seeing a whale off of the coast. This beach is a wonderful hidden treasure in your backyard if you live in the Los Angeles Area. If you are visiting Los Angeles and are looking for a nice hike, beautiful scenery, and a relaxing day head to the south bay.