#57 La Cumbre Peak
La Cumbre Peak at 3,997 feet high soars above the Santa Barbara Skyline in the Santa Ynez Mountains. Miles and miles of mountain and ocean views can be seen from this beautiful peak which can be accessed by driving up East Camino Cielo. Boulders, sandstone and pine trees decorate the slopes.
#55 Cayucos
Cayucos on the Central Coast is known as the last of the California beach towns. With a population just under three thousand, this quiet beach town is a friendly retreat. Historic buildings with shops and restaurants line the beach while rolling green hills drop to the shore and delight the soul. Time has stopped here and worries are no more.
#54 Korean Bell of Friendship
The Korean Bell of Friendship in Angel's Gate Park, San Pedro was given to the city of Los Angeles from the Republic of Korea in 1976. It was presented to the United States for the country's bicentennial and honors Veterans of the Korean War. The bronze bell itself weighs 17 tons and is 7 and a half feet tall. Sweeping views of the ocean can be seen from the bell making this an essential sunset spot.
#52 Smuggler's Cove
Smuggler's Cove on Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park is a premiere Hike in Southern California. The trail is 8 miles out and back making it a moderately strenuous hike. Carry lots of water and use caution in the summer heat. The trail crosses the beautiful island to a hidden cove which is perfect for relaxing and watching the waves roll in. Great views of Anacapa Island can also be seen. This trailhead can be reached by taking an Island Packers Cruise to Scorpion Ranch.
#50 San Clemente Boardwalk
San Clemente Boardwalk is one of the best ocean trails in Orange County. Connecting San Clemente with Dana Point, this trail follows the railroad adding to the atmosphere. The views are panoramic and it is a great place to watch the sunset. Following the coast for several miles, this trail can be tailored to anyone's needs.
#48 Mount Soledad
Mount Soledad, with its elevation of 824 feet, is one of the best spots to view a panorama of San Diego. The Mount is also a Veterans Memorial paying tribute to those who have served our country. Views of La Jolla, the Coast and Downtown San Diego are magical here. Dr. Seuss' last home is also located on the slopes of Mount Soledad.
#47 Point Mugu State Park
Point Mugu State Park is located in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. From the rugged mountains to the giant sand hill on the breezy coast, this park offers more than 70 miles of hiking trails. Boney Mountain State Wilderness Area is also located within the boundary of the park. Point Mugu is also known for Giant Mugu Rock which was formed when the land was cut through the mountains for the creation of the Pacific Coast Highway. This "Point" has been featured in numerous films and commercials.
#42 Port San Luis
Port San Luis Harbor District is a recreational harbor and pier for the people in San Luis Obispo County. Steamboats first sailed into the wharf built here in 1837. The railroads then carried goods inland. Whether boating, fishing or strolling, everyone is welcome at Port San Luis. Even the California Sea Lions have made themselves home.
#40 Solana Beach
Solana Beach is a great sandy stretch of coast in San Diego's North County. Located below a series of cliffs, you enter a world of ocean vistas for endless miles. Although a rather small and new community, incorporated in just 1986, Solana Beach has had quite the history of inhabitants. From the San Dieguito hunters of bison, mastodons and camels living 11,000 years ago to the memorial services of Desi Arnaz, energy is in the air. Sunsets are a must in Solana Beach.
#38 Dana Point Headlands
Dana Point Headlands on the beautiful Orange County Coast is named after author Richard Henry Dana, Jr. who wrote Two Years Before The Mast in 1840. Mr. Dana considered this stretch of coastline "the only romantic spot on the coast." Dana Point became an important trading harbor for nearby Mission San Juan Capistrano. Today, the peaceful Dana Point Harbor has shops and restaurants as well as trails leading up to the headlands. The area has also been designated as a California Historical Landmark.
