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3-Day Itinerary: SoCal Weekend Adventure in LA, Ventura, Channel Islands, and Malibu
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items When people say they want to “visit Los Angeles” I realize most don't quite understand what they want to get out of it, and end up disappointed stuck in traffic trying to go from hiking the Hollywood sign in the morning to Malibu for dinner (don't do...
As an LA local, I've put together an itinerary that gives you the best of both worlds, where I've taken my friends and family when they visit. It's a mix of city, nature, local faves and iconic must-sees. Pick and choose from this itinerary, that inc...
Please note, some of my links contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on it and make a purchase through it, I receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
As an LA local, I've put together an itinerary that gives you the best of both worlds, where I've taken my friends and family when they visit. It's a mix of city, nature, local faves and iconic must-sees. Pick and choose from this itinerary, that inc...
Please note, some of my links contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on it and make a purchase through it, I receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Map
Sections
4
Day 1: Adventure: & Dining: Los Angeles
Day 2 Adventure: Channel Islands and Ventura
Day 3: Adventure and Dining: Malibu
LA Packing List Essentials
Day 1: Adventure: & Dining: Los Angeles
Get out there and see all the Iconic “LA” stops on day one. This could EASILY be broken apart in two days, so I'd suggest picking and choosing a few of these must-see's, but you can technically see almost everything in one day if your heart is set on...
Start your morning with one of the most Iconic hiking spots in LA, you might even spot a celeb or two! Relatively easy hike, with views of the city and Hollywood sign that's in a great location. Get here early so you can skip most of the crowds.
Runyon Canyon Park - Los Angeles - LAParks.org
If your heart is set on getting a glimpse of the iconic Hollywood sign, take a detour into the hills and land here.
Lake Hollywood Park
The most iconic views of Los Angeles. Bring a picnic, and walking shoes! You may have to park and walk a while. Also, be careful with Ubering since there's hardly any service up there.
Griffith Observatory
After some hiking and sightseeing, head here for the second half of your day, head here. You'll see locals gliding on rollerskates, vendors selling handmade trinkets and world-famous hot spots like muscle beach. Pro tip: rent a bicycle to explore the...
Venice Boardwalk
Delicious Mexican on the iconic Abbott Kinney Boulevard
ATLA Venice
The iconic ferris wheel and pier views, rides and fun vibes
Santa Monica Pier
Dance your heart out at this fun, hole-in-the-wall bar
The Room Santa Monica
If you're in Santa Monica, get dinner here. Sit outside and enjoy views of the Santa Monica pier and boardwalk—super nice.
Coast
A cute little detour that's a perfect bike ride if you want to take a break from the boardwalk.
Venice Canals: Walk Europe in Southern California
Day 2 Adventure: Channel Islands and Ventura
This day is all about nature and seeing California's beautiful coast, taking a ferry from Ventura to the Channel Islands and seeing some dolphins along the way. Get your ticket at Island Packers in Ventura where you're board the ferry, and be sure to...
Get your ticket to visit the Channel Islands here at Island Packers Cruises, and be prepared to be out at the islands all day. The ferry is about 45 minutes-and hour taking off from the harbor in Ventura.
Island Packers Cruises | Channel Islands National Park
Your knowledgable guide will lead you through nearly three hours of breathtaking views and natural caves hand-carved by mother nature herself. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might even spot wildlife like birds and sea lions playing the surf. Bring al...
Santa Barbara Adventure Company
A popular, moderate trail
Cavern Point Loop, California - 593 Reviews, Map | AllTrails
For THE BEST panoramic vistas!
Potato Harbor Overlook (U.S. National Park Service)
Some of the freshest seafood in town and build your own seafood tower with choices like ceviche, tiger shrimp and oysters.
Lure Fish House
Local craft beer right on the pier.
MadeWest Brewing Company – MadeWest Brewery
I love this convenient little spot that you can order your lunch to pack before you walk to the ferry. Great selection of sandwiches that come with chips, a drink, and cookies, plus piping hot coffee for the ride over!
Harbor Cove Cafe
Day 3: Adventure and Dining: Malibu
Day 3, we're taking it eaaasssy. Today is all about enjoying the views with fresh food and wine tasting. If you went hiking the day before, you might be a little sore, so get ready to truly relax and recharge on your last day.
Nestled right on the coast for some Hawaiian-style dining, like banana and macadamia nut pancakes or traditional eggs benedict with shaved duroc smoked ham. Pro tip: tell them it’s your birthday or a special celebration, they’ll treat you to their fa...
Duke's Malibu
Great local wine 1,400 feet up into the hills of Malibu. You’ll want to make a reservation in advance, but the atmosphere coupled with decadent views is well-worth it.
Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio
Fresh, local seafood . . . it gets busy, for good reason
Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe
Dine with your toes in the sand, literally. Get the seafood tower and drink from the watermelon shell!
Bob Morris's Paradise Cove Beach Cafe - Paradise Cove Malibu
LA Packing List Essentials
If you're headed to LA, consider this list for a flawless long weekend where you'll stay warm, stay cool, and look incredible at every stop. You're welcome :)
Take this with you to the Channel Islands to keep your packed snacks fresh.
YETI Hopper Flip 18 Portable Soft Cooler
My samsonite luggage has been with me all around the world for the last 10+ years and has been through it all, yet it's still my most reliable, durable suitcase. Soo many memories with these bags!
Samsonite Centric 2 Hardside Luggage Set
An absolute MUST for hiking . . . the Channel Islands and rest of California gets chilly, so a cute, snug, and comfy fleece jacket is a gamechanger.
33,000ft Women's Lightweight Softshell Jacket
I have a yeti for every occasion, and for stopping and sipping on some wine, this is my fave.
YETI Rambler 10 oz Wine Tumbler, Insulated
Fill this up with piping hot coffee or tea for your hike to get you through the early morning.
YETI Rambler 20 oz Travel Mug, Stainless Steel
LA gets sunny, and these shades help you effortlessly capture each memory, and look good while doing so :)
Ray-Ban | Meta Smart Glasses, Wayfarer
Trust me when I say you'll want good hiking shoes, and these are stunners for walking around town for casual looks too.
Timberland PRO 6IN Women's Soft Toe Boot
You will be heartbroken if your phone or device loses battery power mid-photo or upload. Don't risk it! I love this power bank because it shows you exactly what's left, great for on-the-go recharge!
Anker 20,000mAh Power Bank, 87W Fast Charge
I'm usually a Yeti girl, but I love how sleek this one is. Plus, you can swig OR sip through the built in dual drinking feature. Love.
Owala FreeSip 32 oz Insulated Water Bottle
An essential “going out” dress . . . I have one in black for a classic LBD look, a colored one for brunch/farmers markets. It can easily be dressed up with heels or downplayed with white sneakers, plus extremely comfy.
GOKATOSAU Women's Halter Deep V Mini Dress
For accessorizing your looks, don't do what I used to do . . .toss my jewelry in ziplock bags. I found this and have never looked back.
Benevolence LA Velvet Jewelry Box - Emerald
Few things are worse than your lotions/sprays leaking out onto all of your perfectly packed things. These are lifesavers!
TRANOMOS 8 Pack Silicone Bottle Covers
Don't underestimate California's dry climate. These handcreams are my favorite, plus they are so lightweight and smell incredibly fresh without overpowering your sesnes.
L’OCCITANE Hand Cream Classics 3-Piece Set
Ok, theft happens all the time in LA especially in Venice/Santa Monica. This cross body bag will keep all your important things close to you, and it looks sleek, perfect for a day out on the town.
INICAT RFID Blocking Crossbody Sling Bag
This is a splurge, but having a pair of buttery soft, enduring yoga pants is just as important as a little black dress for going out. LA is all about athleisure and laid back vibes, and these are it for hiking, exploring griffith, or a day out.
Alo Yoga Women's High Waist Vapor Legging
Keep the sun out of your face, babe! Hiking or a day out on the town, a cute baseball cap is an essential
Atticus Poetry Embroidered Cotton Baseball Hat