These are easy, SoCal beginner-friendly coastal hikes around Malibu, Palos Verdes, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and Costa Mesa. Mind you, all routes here are commonly rated easy on AllTrails. Translation: short distances, minimal elevation gain, and maximum scenery.
If you’re easing into hiking, traveling solo, or just want something scenic without the suffering, bookmark this list.
Easy Hikes in Malibu
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| chaparral2012, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
Point Dume Nature Preserve
Location: Malibu
Distance: ~1–2 miles (depending on route)
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
Point Dume is peak Malibu energy. Short coastal trails lead to bluff overlooks with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. You’ll spot cliffs, beaches, and sometimes dolphins if you’re lucky.
Good to know:
-Can be windy
-Popular, especially on weekends
Ocean Overlook Loop Trail
Location: Malibu
Distance: ~1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
This short loop gives you coastal scenery without committing to a long hike. The trail is mellow, well-maintained, and perfect for photos.
Good to know:
-Easy parking compared to other Malibu trails
-Ideal if you want something quick but scenic
Easy Hikes in Palos Verdes
Del Cerro Park Loop
Location: Rancho Palos Verdes
Distance: ~1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
This is more of a scenic walking loop than a hike, but the ocean and Catalina Island views make it worth it. It’s peaceful, approachable, and great if you’re just getting started.
Good to know:
-Great for sunset
-Benches along the route
Palos Verdes Shoreline Park
Location: Rancho Palos Verdes
Distance: ~1–2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
This coastal walk hugs the cliffs and feels more like a relaxing stroll than a hike. The views are nonstop, and it’s one of the easiest ways to experience Palos Verdes’ dramatic coastline.
Good to know:
-Dog-friendly
-Great for casual walkers
Easy Hikes in Laguna Beach
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| KimonBerlin, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
Crystal Cove State Park – Easy Coastal Trails
Location: Laguna Beach
Distance: Varies (many short coastal routes)
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
Crystal Cove has several flat coastal paths near the beach that are perfect for beginners. You’ll get ocean views, tide pool access, and that classic Laguna Beach scenery.
Good to know:
-Best early morning or weekdays
-Bring water — limited shade
Aliso Creek / West Ridge Trail
Location: Laguna Beach
Distance: ~2–3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
Wide trails, gentle terrain, and open views make this a great choice for beginners. It’s popular but never feels too intense.
Good to know:
-Kid-friendly
-Good mix of nature and open space
Easy Hikes in Dana Point
Dana Point Headlands Loop
Location: Dana Point
Distance: ~1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
This loop gives you elevated ocean views, coastal breezes, and a quick workout without feeling overwhelming. One of the best easy hikes in Orange County.
Good to know:
-Minimal shade
-Ocean views the entire way
Salt Creek Trail
Location: Dana Point
Distance: ~1–2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
This is a chill coastal access trail near the beach. It’s smooth, approachable, and perfect if you want something low-key.
Good to know:
-Beach nearby
-Great post-beach walk
Easy Hikes Near Costa Mesa
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve – Mesa Trail
Location: Near Costa Mesa
Distance: ~1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
This flat loop winds through wetlands and bird habitats. It’s peaceful, scenic, and ideal for beginner hikers or anyone wanting a calm nature walk.
Good to know:
-Excellent birdwatching
-Best in the morning
Mesa Trail Loop
Location: Costa Mesa area
Distance: ~1–2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s great:
Good to know:
-Easy parking-Great for photography
-Minimal elevation gain
Know Before You Go
Best time to hike:
-Fall through spring is ideal
-Summer can get hot, especially with limited shade
What to bring:
-Sunscreen and a hat
-Comfortable walking shoes
-Phone or camera for photos
Parking tips:
-Some state parks require fees
-Street parking fills up fast in coastal areas
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy Southern California’s coastline. These easy coastal hikes prove you can get fresh air, ocean views, and that “I did something outdoorsy today” feeling — without suffering.
If you’re new to hiking, traveling solo, or just want scenic walks that don’t feel intimidating, start here. Easy hikes are still hikes — and honestly, the views are just as good.
Trip Resources
If you’re planning a road trip, here are some helpful sites that I use. Note, below are affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission for every booking, with no extra cost to you. Thanks so much, in advance!
Hey, I'm Christy Buena, a Filipina-American Los Angeles native and travel enthusiast. I love visiting new places and trying new food. Welcome to my adventure blog where I capture both State & National Park visits, family excursions, and road trips, while sharing my travel photos and recaps. My goal is to visit as many National Parks using my “America the Beautiful” annual pass. 
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