Palos Verdes Estates Shoreline Preserve — Attraction in Palos Verdes Estates

Located at about the southern most end of the Santa Monica Bay, this natural area has a great perspective view on much of the LA Basin, as well as being a vantage point to enjoy the sunsets! On a foggy day without the view, this place may be just good enough to stop, eat a bag or box lunch and take a hike thru the natural preserve. Though the better weather conditions, bring the views from here into focus! With the shoreline way below the parking lot and surfers of Bluff Cove in view, it becomes apparent how high up this overlook is. Fair weather views of the South Bay coastline have a good perspective from here, with maybe a vague outline of the coast from the LAX area northward. Optimal weather views are awesome! On a clear day with a good AQI or air quality index for Los Angeles, everything in the distance may be visible from here! I’ve seen the buildings of Santa Monica, Century City and Downtown LA. At about 24 miles away, the Hollywood Sign is the furthest man-made object I’ve been able to see from here. Though I believe I’ve seen the antenna lights on Mt. Wilson at night from here, at about 36 miles. The photos posted were taken with fair air quality for LA. Thus the buildings of LA and sign wouldn’t have been visible then. Point Dume in Malibu, at the northern most end of the Santa Monica Bay, is visible on a clear day, at about 27 miles across the water! I’d say a trip to this spot is well worth a visit. In addition to the views, it’s also a hiking continuation area, where folks who wish to follow the coastline may do so, without backtracking to get their vehicles. My only concern here is the cliffside safety of visitors, for those who are unfamiliar with the landscape. With loose soil on the down slope and no railing at the edge, an unintended stumble tumble down may be avoided, by staying close to the parking lot at the stop, when stepping out to look! Parking here is free, with spaces angled toward the views. There may be additional street side parking...

Nestled along the rugged cliffs of Palos Verdes, this park offers an unparalleled view of the Pacific Ocean. As the sun dips below the horizon during sunset, the entire coastline ignites with warm hues. The distant silhouette of Downtown LA adds to the magic. It’s a place where nature paints its most captivating canvas.

While parking can be a challenge due to limited spaces, the reward is well worth it. Whether you’re gazing at the waves crashing against the rocks or exploring tide pools, the Palos Verdes Shoreline Park invites you to pause, breathe, and soak in its beauty. It’s a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Beyond the views, the park exudes tranquility. Seabirds glide gracefully, and if you’re lucky, you might spot migrating gray whales. Solitude seekers will find solace here. So, grab your spot early, embrace the coastal breeze, and let the Palos Verdes Shoreline Park leave an indelible mark on your...

Only wish it was less well known as when I was younger. Guess that happens to wonderful places and my review will add to that...Love to drive here, walk here, sit and dream here, write and draw here. Been coming for nearly 50 years and still not tired of it. The whales migrate at certain times of year... what a treat to see them off the shore. Wish places like this weren't only liveable for the rich. Love the tidepools and hikes too. Clear days seeing Catalina is beautiful. Recent trip there met a sweet man and his family with a strong accent... he said 'that's my tree!' To a tree I've visited my whole life that I consider my own... how wonderful that generations can have such an intimate relationship with such beautiful places! I'd give it 10 stars if I could. Take time to explore the whole coastline in PV and all the wonderful gifts it has to offer... one spot busy? Drive on to the next! 😁 I go as...