We are blessed for so many reasons living in Southern California. I think the first thing on just about everyone’s list is the great weather which means we get more opportunities to get outside and enjoy our local resources. Recently we took advantage of a break in the rain and headed out with the kids to Point Vicente in Rancho Palos Verdes. Winter is a great time of year at Point Vicente because not only is the weather ideal for exploring, but the Gray Whale migration is in full effect. The park offers over 1 mile of trails, great views of Catalina Island, whale watching, and a small museum with local history and information about the whale migration. In short, the kids loved it – mud puddles, whales, the lighthouse, and the museum; plus Mom and Dad got a chance to get out and get some fresh air. Here are the quick notes for this weekend adventure…..
Where: Point Vicente Interpretive Center – 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Directions: For hiking – Palos Verdes Drive West (or PV Drive South) to Hawthorne Blvd. Drive west on Hawthorne Blvd to Calle Entradero. There are several areas to park at trail entrances or drive to the main parking lot before the road turns uphill to PV Drive West. For the Interpretive Center and Whale Watching – Drive South on Palos Verdes Drive South to the entrance on your right.
What to bring: Running shoes are fine for the easy trails. We like to bring snacks and binoculars to sit and watch the whales as they pass by the point. There is little shade so if the weather is warm, dress appropriately. In spring, after 10 am the west wind can be cool so a windbreaker is nice to have, and in late spring, fog may be a factor.
What to do: Walk on over 1 mile of trails; Whale Watching (December through May); visit the museum to learn about local sea life, geology, history about the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and whale migrations; tour the Point Vicente Lighthouse (The Lighthouse is open on the 2nd Saturday of each month 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Also, don’t forget the Whale of the Day festival -Saturday, March 11, 2017 10am to 4pm at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center.
Food Options: Golden Cove Shopping Center offers many food options including a Starbucks with arguably the best ocean view, the legendary Admiral Risty, sandwiches, Mexican food, sushi, Italian food, and a Trader Joes with just about anything you could want.
