Exploring the Natural Beauty of Agoura Hills, California in 7 Days

• Day 1: Visit the Paramount Ranch which was initially a film set that came into prominence during the 1920s. Today, it is an excellent place for hiking and horseback riding. The shaded picnic areas are a bonus, making it wonderful for a relaxing afternoon.
• Day 2: Explore the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area which is one of the largest urban parks in the world. Go hiking, take a picnic, or even have a BBQ here. Enjoy breathtaking views and fresh air.
• Day 3: Discover the Zuma Beach which is known as one of California's most famous beaches. A perfect place for surfing, bodyboarding, and volleyball, it also has a playground and picnic areas which make it a great spot for families.
• Day 4: Visit the Malibu Creek State Park which spans over 8,000 acres, nesting over forty miles of hiking trails. The park has several exciting destinations to explore, including the M*A*S*H set, which is also home to several camping sites and bird-watching opportunities.
• Day 5: Check out the Peter Strauss Ranch which is a historical landmark and a popular hiking spot. Travelers can enjoy birdwatching, picnics under large sycamore trees and browse the visitor center and park museum.
• Day 6: Embark on a horseback riding tour at the Malibu Riders where travelers can enjoy views of the mountains and beaches along the trails.
• Day 7: Visit the Gardens of the World, where travelers can experience a much-needed oasis filled with botanical gardens in several cultures around the world. The place is perfect for relaxing and winding down after a week of traveling.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Paramount Ranch (2-3 hours, free admission)
• Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (1 day, $10 for parking. Hiking is free)
• Zuma Beach (1 day, $16 for parking)
• Malibu Creek State Park (1 day, $12 for parking)
• Peter Strauss Ranch (2-3 hours, free admission)
• Malibu Riders (2 hours, $100-$200 per person)
• Gardens of the World (2-3 hours, $9 for adults, $6 for seniors and children)
Total Estimated Costs: $147-$347 per person

Transportation

Travelers can rent a car or use ride-sharing apps to navigate around Agoura Hills conveniently. Parking is also available at each location; however, some parking fees may apply. Agoura Hills is approximately 38 miles northwest of Downtown Los Angeles, so it is best to plan accordingly for travel time and mileage covered.

Useful Tips

Add more days to the itinerary to explore other natural parks and beaches in the area, such as the Leo Carrillo State Park, Topanga State Park, and Point Dume State Beach. Travelers can subtract a day or two and dedicate more time to the parks they wish to explore thoroughly. Do pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks for a comfortable hike or day at the beach.

Airports

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the nearest airport to Agoura Hills, located approximately 26 miles southeast of the city center. Burbank Airport (BUR) is also a viable option, which lies about 30 miles east of Agoura Hills.