I guess it’s something I take for granted, being so close, just a short walk from my real estate office. On quiet days I’ll take a walk just to see how much the creek (Malaga Creek to many, Frog Creek to the dozens of kids that frequent the local waters) is flowing.
But today was different. I had two six-year-olds in tow—our youngest daughter and the neighbor’s kid—meeting up with fellow Kindergarteners for an afternoon of outdoor exploring. And let me tell you, they had an absolute blast. As the dads chatted, the kids roamed just out of sight but well within earshot. Their laughter, shrieks of excitement, and silly chatter filled the air—the soundtrack of childhood at its best. They balanced across logs suspended over the creek, leaped into shallow pools, scrambled over and under fallen trees, and squeezed into places only little bodies can manage.
And they weren’t alone. A handful of kids were collecting guppies for their fish tanks. Some were on the hunt for frogs. Families wandered along the water’s edge, while mountain bikers cruised by, heading for the trails that snake up the hillside. In the vast sea of people that is L.A., Frog Creek is a welcome refuge. No screens, no schedules—just kids, fresh air, and the freedom to get a little wet and muddy.
Getting There
Park at the end of Via Tejon, just down from the U.S. Post Office and Malaga Bank in Malaga Cove. From there, you can access the creek (best in spring and early summer) or venture into the Malaga Dunes, west of the PV Golf Club.
If you’re into mountain biking, you’re in for a challenge. With a little creativity, you can link together nearly six miles of singletrack in the Malaga Cove area. Be ready for some serious climbing—while it’s not the highest elevation, the terrain gets steep fast.
Make a Day of It
After a morning of adventuring, refuel at Malaga Cove Ranch Market. Their breakfast burritos, pizzas, and sandwiches are always a hit. And if you’re in the mood, they have cold beer on tap and a solid wine selection. If your ride or hike takes you farther, Lunada Bay’s Lunada Market has a great deli and even a sit-down option on weekends.
So pack a snack, bring a towel (just in case), and let the kids be kids. Some of the best days are the ones spent outside, getting a little dirty, and making big memories.
