5-Day Nature Itinerary for Hello in August 2023

1. Day 1: Griffith Observatory
   20 minutes (8.5 miles) from Downtown LA

   Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Griffith Observatory, offering panoramic views of the city and a variety of exhibits. In the morning, explore the planetarium and exhibits inside, then grab lunch at the Cafe at the End of the Universe. In the afternoon, take a hike in Griffith Park, home to over 50 miles of hiking trails. At dusk, enjoy the sunset over the city at the observatory.

2. Day 2: Malibu Creek State Park
   45 minutes (31 miles) from Downtown LA

   Experience the natural beauty of Southern California at Malibu Creek State Park. In the morning, hike to the stunning M*A*S*H site, where the TV show was filmed, then enjoy a picnic lunch by the creek. In the afternoon, cool off with a swim at the Rock Pool, a natural swimming hole. End the day with a sunset hike to the top of Castro Peak for breathtaking views of the park.

3. Day 3: Joshua Tree National Park
   2 hours (132 miles) from Downtown LA

   Explore the unique landscape of Joshua Tree National Park. In the morning, take a self-guided tour of the park's iconic rock formations and Joshua trees, then have lunch at the Crossroads Cafe in Joshua Tree village. In the afternoon, hike to the 49 Palms Oasis, a hidden oasis in the park. End the day with a stargazing tour, taking advantage of the park's dark skies.

4. Day 4: Channel Islands National Park
   2 hours (96 miles) from Downtown LA

   Escape to the peaceful and pristine Channel Islands National Park. In the morning, take a ferry to Santa Cruz Island, the largest of the five islands, and take a guided hike to Scorpion Canyon. Have a picnic lunch on the beach, then spend the afternoon kayaking through the sea caves. End the day with a sunset hike back to the ferry.

5. Day 5: Cabrillo National Monument
   2 hours (125 miles) from Downtown LA

   Discover the history and natural beauty of San Diego at Cabrillo National Monument. In the morning, explore the historic lighthouse and museum, then have lunch at the award-winning Point Loma Seafoods. In the afternoon, take a hike along the Bayside Trail for stunning views of San Diego Bay. End the day with a sunset picnic at the Tidepools, watching for sea life like starfish and anemones.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on a day trip to Big Bear Lake for hiking and water activities. For more nature experiences, visit the El Dorado Nature Center in Long Beach or the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. To maximize your fun, consider renting a campervan and camping at some of the locations on this itinerary.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Griffith Observatory (3 hours, free admission)
• Malibu Creek State Park (6 hours, $12 parking fee)
• Joshua Tree National Park (8 hours, $35 entrance fee per vehicle)
• Channel Islands National Park (10 hours, $59 round-trip ferry ticket)
• Cabrillo National Monument (6 hours, $20 entrance fee per vehicle)
• Total Estimated Costs: $126 per person (excluding hotel and transportation)

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.