The Santa Monica Mountains host some of the most breathtaking views in all of California. Here are some ideas on how to take it in.

one: Mountain Bike riding in Malibu Creek State Park

One of the most iconic aspects of the Santa Monica Mountains is how close it is to scenic ocean beauty. With so many twists and bends, cliffs and ridges, there is so much to explore and discover. The land here is rugged and dry. Spring will bring beautiful blooms of purple, yellow and of course our state poppy orange. Rattlesnakes and Mountain Lions are commonly sighted in the area, so be mindful of where you are going, it is best to explore with a buddy or two if possible.

Malibu Creek is located off the 101, exit Las Virgenes. It runs all the way to the ocean, although the trek is not easy. For your bike ride we suggest you start at either Juan Bautista De Anza Park. It is well known that these trails allow mountain bikes and you come in less contact with hikers.

The scenery around the start features meadow views placed against a dreamy mountain background. Later on the path splinters in multiple directions. You will be able to decide whether you would like to take on more or less incline, however should you choose less incline you may have to turn back sooner.

The climb is worth it, but regardless the whole ride has down hill areas and you will find your adrenaline pumping just seconds into the trail.

Two: Hiking to Eagle Rock in Topanga Canyon State Park, Trippet Ranch

First Time Visiting Writer, Andrew Mattison Posing for Photo at the Top of Eagle Rock.

If you are looking for another epic trail to behold the mountains and sapphire ocean Eagle Rock is where you want to go. The trail is of moderate length. There and back should last around two to three hours depending on your pace.

You will want to park either in the designated parking lot or on the street. Signs will guide you south towards the correct trail, but it is hard to miss.

When you make it to the top of Eagle Rock, you are granted a stunning canyon view down to the water. The rock itself is immense and the face is probably between 100 to 200 hundred feet high. There are even caves you can explore, accessible from the top, but you should exercise caution before making your way around the edge.

Three: Ocean and City view hike from Will Rogers Historic State Park

View of Santa Monica and Ocean, from hike at Will Rodgers Historic State Park.

Our last trail is an easier excursion and conveniently located close to West LA.

Will Rogers State Historic Park features a polo field and stables in one of the most high end neighborhoods in the entire world. Luckily the state held onto this area so that travelers from all over could enjoy some of the most brilliant views a journey to Los Angeles could offer.

Following the main path you start to climb and almost immediately you are able to take in views of the crescent shore leading down from Pacific Palisades to Hermosa Beach and Rancho Palos Verdes.

Depending on what you have in mind, you can go further into the trail leading back into the mountains or if you are in the mood to get back to the city, call it a day! You can be back to Santa Monica in a matter of Minutes.