Things to Do in Pacific Palisades

Explore Pacific Palisades:
The Ultimate Pacific Palisades Travel Guide

Updated on May 28 2024 9:01am

Pacific Palisades offers much more than just being an A-list LA hideout. Explore the best of Pacific Palisades with our comprehensive guide.

Pacific Palisades offers much more than just being an A-list LA hideout. The Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles is an idyllic and charming area that has much to offer visitors. With its rich history, cultural offerings, picturesque parks, and stunning beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From the Getty Villa museum and the Rustic Canyon Recreational Park to the Will Rogers State Beach and the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine, visitors can explore and experience a diverse range of activities and attractions. The neighborhood is also home to a variety of culinary options, including Gladstones for fresh seafood, Vittorio's Ristorante & Pizzeria for Southern Italian cuisine, and Casa Nostra Ristorante for classic Italian dishes. Visitors can also enjoy world-class golf and tennis facilities at The Riviera Country Club and immerse themselves in classical music at Chamber Music Palisades.

Restaurants

Gladstones stands as a timeless emblem of Southern California's culinary scene, with its classic seafood offerings and iconic beachside ambiance. For nearly five decades, this landmark establishment has delighted patrons with its fresh catches and picturesque views of California sunsets. Owned by former Los Angeles Mayor Richard J. Riordan, Gladstones offers not just a meal, but an experience—a chance to unwind, savor delectable seafood, and revel in the simple pleasures of life. Meanwhile, Vittorio's Ristorante & Pizzeria, a family-owned gem since 1984, captures the essence of Southern Italian cuisine, drawing in locals and Hollywood luminaries alike with its authentic flavors and warm hospitality. Tucked away in the hills, Vittorio's exudes a familial charm, inviting diners to indulge in traditional dishes that evoke memories of the old country. Completing the trifecta of culinary excellence in Pacific Palisades is Casa Nostra Ristorante, where Italian tradition meets California freshness. With a commitment to using the finest ingredients, Casa Nostra crafts dishes that transport diners to the heart of Italy, offering a cozy retreat for intimate gatherings or romantic evenings. In these esteemed establishments, Pacific Palisades beckons both locals and visitors to embark on a gastronomic journey steeped in history, flavor, and unparalleled hospitality.

Will Rogers State Beach

If you're looking for a great beach destination in Southern California, look no further than Will Rogers State Beach. This beautiful beach is located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, and is a popular spot for surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers alike. With 1.75 miles of coastline, a bike path, and facilities like volleyball courts, restrooms, and a playground, there's something for everyone to enjoy. This beach has a fascinating history and has been featured in a number of movies and TV shows. Don't miss out on this gem of a beach!

Surfing

Surfing in Pacific Palisades is a thrilling and rewarding experience for surfers of all levels. With its prime location along the Southern California coast, Pacific Palisades boasts some of the best surf spots in North America. Will Rogers State Beach offers a picturesque setting with sandy shores and the potential for exhilarating waves. Whether it's catching a ride on the long right-hand rollers during the summer season or enjoying consistent clean waves with rideable swells in the winter, surfers can find their perfect wave at this beach. Additionally, Sunset Point Beach provides a beginner-friendly atmosphere with gentle waves and stunning views. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Palisades district, surfing here offers not only an exciting adventure but also a chance to connect with nature and experience the laid-back surf culture that defines this coastal paradise.

The Getty Villa

Nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, the Getty Villa is a museum and educational center that transports visitors back in time to ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The museum's collection of 44,000 Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities dating from 6,500 BC to 400 AD is displayed in a masterful ensemble of buildings, plazas, and landscaping that finally provides a real home for these relics of another time and place.

Filming Location

Pacific Palisades has long been a coveted destination for filmmakers seeking picturesque backdrops and versatile settings. From the iconic Palisades Charter High School to the tranquil suburban streets, this affluent neighborhood has played host to an array of film and television productions over the years. Notable mentions include the 2003 Disney hit "Freaky Friday," which captured the essence of high school life within the walls of Palisades Charter High. The eerie ambiance of the Pearson residence in the cult classic "Phantasm" found its home on Corsica Drive, adding to the area's mystique. Even music found its place here, with Black Flag's rebellious "Slip It In" music video shot amidst the halls of Palisades High School. From comedy to drama, Pacific Palisades has lent its charm to an eclectic mix of stories, making it an enduring favorite among filmmakers seeking authenticity and allure.

Pacific Palisades in Television

Pacific Palisades, a coastal haven nestled in Los Angeles, has often served as a backdrop for television narratives, embodying the essence of California's allure. Aaron Spelling's 1997 TV series, aptly titled "Pacific Palisades," paid homage to the area, capturing its affluent lifestyle and scenic beauty. In the contemporary hit "Modern Family," the Dunphy children's educational journey unfolds at Palisades Charter High School, showcasing the community's academic excellence. Additionally, the iconic rivalry between Beverly Hills and Pacific Palisades High School, as depicted in "90210," adds a touch of local flavor to the storyline, with scenes set against the backdrop of sun-kissed beaches and charming eateries like Cafe Vida. Through these television portrayals, Pacific Palisades emerges as not just a location but a character in its own right, weaving its vibrant tapestry into the fabric of popular culture.

Riviera Country Club

The Riviera Country Club is one of the world's most prestigious golf and tennis clubs. Founded in 1926, the club has hosted some of the most significant golf and tennis tournaments in history. The club's natural beauty, coupled with the challenging golf course and state-of-the-art tennis facilities, make it a popular destination for elite athletes and leisure enthusiasts alike.

Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine

The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is a spiritual sanctuary that offers a unique experience of tranquility and inner peace. Founded by Paramahansa Yogananda, the Lake Shrine is dedicated to providing people from all over the world a place to experience serenity and calmness. The Lake Shrine is designed to provide visitors with a spiritual environment that promotes relaxation, inspiration, and self-realization.

Temescal Gateway Park

Nestled in the lush Santa Monica Mountains, Temescal Gateway Park is a natural paradise that offers visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Spanning 141 acres of oak and sycamore canyons, ridgetop views, and miles of trails, this historical park is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and families looking to spend some quality time outdoors. Discover the scenic Temescal Canyon Trail and the unique Skull Rock formation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Rustic Canyon Recreational Park

Nestled in a prime location where Santa Monica meets Pacific Palisades, Rustic Canyon Recreational Park offers a range of amenities for the whole family to enjoy. With its hidden "locals only" vibe and rich Hollywood history, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a picturesque spot to spend a day in Los Angeles.

Chamber Music Palisades

Chamber Music Palisades is a non-profit, public benefit corporation that was established in 1997 in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, by two professional musicians and two other local residents. The organization's primary objective is to promote and support classical music. CMP achieves this goal by producing professional chamber music concerts, commissioning new compositions, and offering educational opportunities to young people. The group performs free concerts in local schools and venues for community families. The guest artists featured in the concerts are largely drawn from The Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Los Angeles Opera Orchestra, music faculties of regional universities and colleges, and the Hollywood recording industry.

Neighborhood Guide

After you decide that you would like to move to Pacific Palisades, the choices continue. The Pacific Palisades Neighborhoods Guide serves as an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to explore the diverse and vibrant neighborhoods within this charming coastal enclave. From the historic Alphabet Streets to the exclusive Riviera, and from the tranquil El Medio Bluffs to the picturesque Santa Monica Canyon, each neighborhood has its own unique appeal and lifestyle offerings. Whether you are a nature lover seeking the serene beauty of Rustic Canyon or a golf enthusiast looking to reside near The Riviera Country Club, there is a neighborhood to match every taste and preference. The guide provides essential insights into the amenities, schools, and distinctive characteristics of each area, making it easier for prospective residents to find their perfect home. With its blend of natural beauty, upscale living, and a strong sense of community, the Pacific Palisades truly offers a coastal paradise for those seeking the ideal place to call home.