8 Reasons to Visit Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
Located approximately 30 miles south of Los Angeles’ westside is the affluent oceanside suburb of Rancho Palos Verdes. The city is commonly abbreviated as RPV, and it literally translates from Spanish to “Ranch of Green Sticks,” which is probably a nod to the city’s green veranda-like hills.
Although this small coastal city is a bit further away from the usual LA attractions and destinations, there are several reasons to visit. Below are eight must-see places to explore, if you happen to be in the neighborhood of Rancho Palos Verdes.
The Point Vicente Lighthouse
The famous Point Vicente Lighthouse was first built in 1926, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This town jewel—close to 70 feet in height—sits on an elevated cliff near the Pacific coast.
To visitors, tourists, and photographers, this lighthouse is a scenic and memorable landmark. However, to seafarers, Point Vicente is a beacon for safely navigating their ship’s position. If you’re in Rancho Palos Verdes, the Point Vicente lighthouse and Interpretative Center is a prime location for whale watching from December through April.
South Coast Botanic Garden
If you’re lacking inspiration, perhaps consider a visit to a botanical garden. Fifty years ago, the site of the South Coast Botanic Garden was a sanitary landfill. Fortunately, it was reclaimed by the residents of Rancho Palos Verdes, and has since been redeveloped into one of the world’s most beautiful and restorative nature and habitat locations.
Though there are options to become a garden member, this venue is open to the public, and hosts a number of flower shows and events throughout the year.
Abalone Cove Shoreline Park
Compared to the beaches in LA, which tend to be overcrowded and commercialized, Abalone Cove is one of the city’s best kept secret beaches. This hybrid beach/park/hiking spot is an ideal destination for visitors who enjoy doing many activities at the beach.
The park features two beaches (Abalone Cove and Sacred Cove), tidepools, bluff-top viewing spaces, and various trails. The park is also a State Ecological Preserve, so taking home any animals or marine life is strictly prohibited.
The Glass Church
Known for its geometrical glass architectural designs by the American landscape artist Lloyd Wright, The Glass Church (also known as Wayfarers Chapel) is not just a popular venue for weddings, it’s also another landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.
It’s perched on top of a cliff near the Pacific coast, and it’s unique and modern design, indoor greenery, and picture-perfect rose garden make the chapel one of Palos Verdes’ top must-visit sites.
Palos Verdes Nature Preserve
One of the reserves (Abalone Cove) was mentioned earlier, but there’s actually a total of 10 reserves—including Agua Amarga, Alta Vicente, Filiorum, Forrestal, Portuguese Bend, San Ramon, Three Sisters, Vicente Bluffs, and Vista Del Norte—protected under the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve.
This area spans approximately 1,400 acres, featuring an array of rolling hills, a protected habitat, and canyons with panoramic ocean and island views. For families visiting Palos Verdes, these green spaces are great for kids to explore nature and wildlife.
Los Verdes Golf Course
Designed by Billy Bell, a notable American golf course architect, the Los Verdes Golf Course features a manicured venue, colorful landscaping, and sweeping ocean views. Many people consider this hidden golf course among the best in the city—it was even awarded LA County’s Course of the Year in 2011. Visitors can easily book their desired tee times online.
Promenade on the Peninsula
Although most of Palos Verdes consist of green and open spaces, this doesn’t mean the city is lacking in dining, shopping, or leisure activities. Promenade on the Peninsula is a premier destination for locals, and it features an ice skating rink, medical and professional services, a splash pad, electric car charging stations, and the upscale Regal Promenade Stadium 13 complete with cushioned reclining seats.
Terranea Resort
Rancho Palos Verdes has plenty of affordable and upscale hotels located throughout the city. However, the 102-acre Terranea Resort is a five-star destination that offers everything from guided city tours and breathtaking beach views to its own private cove and chefs with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients. From a romantic getaway to a family-friendly vacation, Terranea exclusively offers its visitors a little bit of everything.