7-Day Volunteering Itinerary in Calabasas, California

• Day 1: Heal the Bay Aquarium - Spend the day learning about marine life and conservation efforts as you volunteer to clean and maintain the tanks.
  Located in neighboring Santa Monica, the aquarium is only a 45-minute drive from Calabasas.
• Day 2: Topanga State Park - Join a volunteer group to help maintain hiking trails and restore local habitats in one of the largest urban parks in the country.
  Pack a lunch and spend the day enjoying the stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains.
• Day 3: Los Angeles Regional Food Bank - Spend the morning sorting and packing food donations at one of the largest food banks in the country.
  Located just 24 miles from Calabasas, the food bank provides an essential service to the community.
• Day 4: Malibu Lagoon State Beach - Volunteer to help protect and restore the wetlands at this stunning beach located along the Pacific Coast Highway.
  During low tide, take a guided tour of the lagoon and learn about the local flora and fauna.
• Day 5: The Gentle Barn - Spend the day caring for rescued farm animals and helping with daily chores at this sanctuary for farm animals.
  Located just a short drive from Calabasas, The Gentle Barn provides a unique and rewarding volunteer opportunity.
• Day 6: LA City Animal Shelter - Spend the day helping care for animals and assisting with adoptions at one of the largest animal shelters in the country.
  Located in downtown Los Angeles, the shelter is just a 30-minute drive from Calabasas.
• Day 7: Paramount Ranch - Join a volunteer group to help maintain the historic buildings and movie sets at this popular filming location located in the Santa Monica Mountains.
  Pack a lunch and spend the day exploring the old west town and the beautiful surrounding landscape.

Time and Costs Estimates:

• Heal the Bay Aquarium (3 hours, free)
• Topanga State Park (4 hours, free)
• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (4 hours, free)
• Malibu Lagoon State Beach (4 hours, $12 parking fee)
• The Gentle Barn (4 hours, $20 suggested donation)
• LA City Animal Shelter (4 hours, free)
• Paramount Ranch (4 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: $32

Transportation:

It is recommended to rent a car as public transportation options are limited. Expect to spend around $200-300 for a one-week rental. Traffic can be heavy during peak travel times, plan your travel accordingly.

Useful Tips:

If you have extra time, consider checking out some of the other nearby volunteer opportunities. You can also explore the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area or head into downtown Los Angeles for some sightseeing. If you have less time, consider prioritizing the volunteer opportunities that interest you the most. Don't forget to pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle!

Airports:

The closest airport to Calabasas is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 30 miles south of the city center. Other nearby airports include Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) and Hollywood Burbank Airport (LGB), both within 25 miles of Calabasas.