Watch the Sun Rise on SoCal’s Serene Coast

Steep, rocky cliffs that rise then fall to meet with the foamy surf give the 26-square-mile Palos Verdes Peninsula a wild NorCal coastal vibe. This unique enclave, once home to what many consider Southern California’s first theme park, is nestled on a secluded and exclusive part of the state’s enviable coastline. The fact that it is populated by more million-dollar estates and hidden beaches than visitors catching rays makes a visit just that much more alluring.

The serene, distinct beach community rewards those who escape here some of the most spectacular ocean vistas and sandy coves along the coastline—all just a short drive from the bustling LA scene—as well as an uncrowded outdoor paradise that happily possesses more hiking trails than tourist hang-outs. You might call it the best place in Southern California to watch the sun rise and set over the Pacific.

Undersea history                                                                             

Local Southern Californians going back a few decades remember the former occupant of 90 acres of this land that once reigned as the world’s largest “oceanarium,” Marineland of the Pacific. The theme park opened just one year before Disneyland with a $5 million investment aimed at making it the most unusual cultural, educational and entertainment center on the Pacific Coast. The location was chosen because of its overwhelming natural beauty, located adjacent to the Pacific Ocean with undersea life displayed in huge tanks. The exhibits of ever-changing marine life—from dolphins to sea lions—meant a new show for park- goers with every visit. To the dismay of many, Marineland’s doors closed abruptly in 1987 when the theme park was taken over by the owners of Sea World who moved the ocean animals to San Diego. The precious coastal property that brought busloads of students, families and even early-day explorers remained nearly abandoned for the next two decades.

“Sea Hunt” at Terranea

There is ample natural beauty and rich history to absorb in Palos Verdes, however, you can find bounteous portions of both in one destination resort. The Mediterranean-inspired Terranea resort now resides on the majestic 102-acre private peninsula once occupied by Marineland of the Pacific, yet the resort itself only occupies one quarter of the total area. Poised perfectly on the southern tip of the peninsula, the resort was ten years in the making to ensure that the beauty of the peninsula was absorbed respectfully and ecologically into the area’s natural coastline setting. The untouched half-century-old trees, the use of local stone for construction, the creation of a two-mile hiking trail through the property and along the coast (which connects to the Palos Verdes Peninsula trails system) and the planting of 14 acres of natural Coastal Sage Scrub habitat are a testament to the area’s graceful resurrection.

With ocean vistas stretching out to Catalina Island, the resort offers 360 guest rooms and suites, as well as deluxe and spacious bungalows, casitas and villas. Guests can frolic in a variety of saltwater pools and enjoy a deluxe spa, a nine-hole golf course and eight restaurants, cafes and bars spread throughout the grounds graced with flowers, gardens and ocean breezes. The restaurants, from casual to local-favorite chic, all take advantage of the resort’s greatest asset—the out of doors, complete with ever-crashing waves. The eateries feature seasonal dining menus with local, sustainable ingredients from the Chef’s Garden at the signature fine-dining mar’sel restaurant, as well as sea salt made from the resort’s own Sea Salt Conservatory. Terraneas’s nearby Catalina View Garden grants an additional bounty of fresh “farm-to-Terranea” produce as well as four beehives with honey. Nelson’s, a fun restaurant and bar, is a tribute to Mike Nelson, the character played by ocean preservationist/actor Lloyd Bridges in the 1950’s television series, “Sea Hunt,” filmed on the site and in the waters around Terranea.

The Cielo Point Pool at Terranea, one of four, is a retreat designed just for adults, perched provocatively on the edge of the Pacific Ocean.  Private seaside cabanas, a full-service bar and fire pits create the perfect backdrop for watching the sun dip into the horizon. The Resort Pool is a family favorite with a 140-foot waterslide. The Spa at Terranea combines two of Terranea’s most highly sought-after adult amenities – the luxurious private bungalow accommodations and its award-winning holistic spa, as well as the Spa Café and the Spa Pool.

The sandy Cove at Terranea is a magical spot nestled below the resort. Created by the resort’s designers and overlooking the rocky tide pools, it is a great spot to watch dolphins at play, the winter migration of whales or just relax on the sand. For adventure, head to Pointe Discovery, the resort’s activity center, for a bounty of planned experiences—from tide pooling and nature walks to kayaking tours that depart from here regularly.

Explore the Peninsula

There lots to explore in this area that once played host to Portuguese, Spanish and British adventurers who anchored in the sheltered coves of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Plan some leisurely time in the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, located at 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West, where both nature and local history come together—with an emphasis on the Pacific gray whale. A top spot to see the winter whales and hike, you can also glimpse some nostalgic remnants of Marineland on display.

Designed by Lloyd Wright (son of Frank) and cradled in coastal redwoods is the Wayfarers Chapel, known as “the glass church.” The historically designated chapel, built in 1951, is open to the public. You may recognize it as the filming locale for some scenes in the television show “The OC.” Stop by to see the unique geometric architecture and take in the breathtaking ocean vistas; a visitor center and tower make the chapel very visitor friendly. (www.wayfarerschapel.org)

Approximately 1,400 acres with more than 30 miles of trails through rolling hills, steep canyons and rock outcrops make up the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve with spectacular ocean vistas and precious habitat. Here, you will discover a variety of preserves that range from sea level along the coastal edges of Vicente Bluffs to 1,300 feet above the surf at Vista del Norte. Plan a visit to the Abalone Cove Ecological Reserve here that features two beaches, Abalone Cove and Sacred Cove, tide pools to explore, bluff-top viewing points and bountiful trails. (http://pvplc.org/_lands/abalone_cove.asp)

Photography courtesy of Terranea.