THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A focused 3-hour, 5-mile guided walk that climbs secret stairways and winds canyon paths on Santa Monica’s north bluffs. Explore coastal trees, historic homes and local stories while getting a solid workout above the Pacific.
A focused 3-hour, 5-mile guided walk that climbs secret stairways and winds canyon paths on Santa Monica’s north bluffs. Explore coastal trees, historic homes and local stories while getting a solid workout above the Pacific.
You meet at the twenty-foot Totem Pole on the Palisades, the ocean daring you with a steady hiss as stairs pull upward into a pocket of canyons and quiet streets.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Garden Safaris · Santa Monica, California
You meet at the twenty-foot Totem Pole on the Palisades, the ocean daring you with a steady hiss as stairs pull upward into a pocket of canyons and quiet streets.
This 3-hour, roughly 5-mile urban walk threads coastal bluffs, tucked staircases and mid-century yards, alternating steep stone steps with shaded canyon switchbacks. Guides point out unusual coastal trees—Torrey pines and salt-pruned eucalyptus—that have learned to lean into the wind, and homes that trace Santa Monica’s architectural arc from Craftsman porches to clean-lined modern facades.
The landscape here is shaped by the Palisades' marine terraces and nearby Santa Monica Mountains; beneath manicured lawns the geology tilts toward the sea. Long before city planners mapped streets, the Tongva people moved through these canyons; later, the Annenberg/Marion Davies estate at the beach became a social landmark now open as the Annenberg Community Beach House where the walk ends.
Practical guidance is straightforward: expect repeated stair climbs, short steep gains and paved trails with loose stone in places. Start in the morning to avoid peak sun and beach crowds, wear grippy walking shoes, and carry at least 1 liter of water. Public transit reaches Palisades Park and street parking is limited; the route finishes at the Beach House on PCH for easy pickup or a post-walk drink. Small-group pacing and breaks make this a good option for hikers comfortable with moderate elevation changes who want a city walk that feels like a coastal trail.
Meet at the twenty-foot Totem Pole at the north end of Palisades Park (near 101 Ocean Ave). The walk ends at the Annenberg Community Beach House on PCH.
The tour is family-friendly for ages 12+ but includes steep stairs—assess mobility and stair-climbing ability before booking.
Service animals are allowed; other pets are not recommended due to stairs and private residential areas.
Tours may be canceled in heavy rain; check confirmation details and reschedule or receive a refund if canceled 24 hours prior.
Garden Safaris operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You meet at the twenty-foot Totem Pole on the Palisades, the ocean daring you with a steady hiss as stairs pull upward into a pocket of canyons and quiet streets.
You meet at the twenty-foot Totem Pole on the Palisades, the ocean daring you with a steady hiss as stairs pull upward into a pocket of canyons and quiet streets.
This 3-hour, roughly 5-mile urban walk threads coastal bluffs, tucked staircases and mid-century yards, alternating steep stone steps with shaded canyon switchbacks. Guides point out unusual coastal trees—Torrey pines and salt-pruned eucalyptus—that have learned to lean into the wind, and homes that trace Santa Monica’s architectural arc from Craftsman porches to clean-lined modern facades.
The landscape here is shaped by the Palisades' marine terraces and nearby Santa Monica Mountains; beneath manicured lawns the geology tilts toward the sea. Long before city planners mapped streets, the Tongva people moved through these canyons; later, the Annenberg/Marion Davies estate at the beach became a social landmark now open as the Annenberg Community Beach House where the walk ends.
Practical guidance is straightforward: expect repeated stair climbs, short steep gains and paved trails with loose stone in places. Start in the morning to avoid peak sun and beach crowds, wear grippy walking shoes, and carry at least 1 liter of water. Public transit reaches Palisades Park and street parking is limited; the route finishes at the Beach House on PCH for easy pickup or a post-walk drink. Small-group pacing and breaks make this a good option for hikers comfortable with moderate elevation changes who want a city walk that feels like a coastal trail.