Grab your basket, throw in some sandwiches, a drink, and a few pieces of fruit, and you’re all set for an affordable afternoon adventure. The many green spaces, beaches, and hidden gardens in Los Angeles offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with friends, on a romantic date, or even alone with a good book or podcast. Here are the best picnic spots around L.A.
1. Griffith Park
This spot is the quintessential L.A. picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. The park is huge, the views are stunning, and you can find many attractions starting with the observatory to the Old Zoo and Amir’s Garden. It is also a perfect place to take great pictures of the city, hiking and even horseback riding!
Keep in mind that to have your picnic, you need to make a paid reservation at least 30 days in advance, and alcohol is not allowed.
📍 Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA 90027
2. Echo Park
This location is lively throughout the day, offering stunning views of DTLA, swan boats gliding on the water, and excellent opportunities for people-watching. Whether you’re planning a birthday picnic or just hanging out with a few friends, this is one of the best picnic spots in Los Angeles. If you forgot to bring food, don’t worry, there are plenty of food vendors nearby to satisfy your cravings.
📍 Location: 751 Echo Park Ave Los Angeles, CA 90026
3. Leo Carrillo Beach
©2018, California State Parks. Photo by Brian Baer
Leo Carrillo Beach is naturally divided into three sections. The south side features a rocky shoreline, while the central area has cliffs with numerous coves that offer a bit of privacy. The north side showcases a more traditional beach vibe.
This 1.5-mile stretch is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, windsurfing, and fishing, making it one of the best places to picnic in LA, as well as a popular filming location.
📍 Location: 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
4. Point Dume State Beach
Malibu is one of the most beautiful towns near the city, and its stunning beaches are the main attraction. One of the prettiest spots is Point Dume, which is the perfect place to pack a picnic for a beachfront meal while seals and dolphins frolic against the sunset. Just be sure to watch out for those hungry seagulls! It’s definitely one of the top places to picnic near Los Angeles.
📍 Location: 6800 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
5. Valley Village Park
This park has everything you need, including shaded play areas for kids, both covered and uncovered picnic areas (no reservations required), and plenty of trees. Nestled in a residential area, it has a cozy neighborhood-park vibe, but bounce houses are not allowed. It’s a great picnic spot in L.A. and also an incredible place to bring your pup!
📍 Location: 5000 Westpark Dr, North Hollywood, CA 91601
6. Will Rogers State Beach
Will Rogers State Beach is stunning and perfect for a picnic. This expansive and relatively quiet beach offers breathtaking views of the mountains to your right and the Santa Monica Pier to your left. Located on the border of Santa Monica and Malibu, it’s a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
📍 Location: 17000 CA-1, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
7. El Matador Beach
El Matador Beach offers a wealth of activities for an unforgettable day by the coast, featuring sea caves, archways, wildlife viewing, and a lengthy stretch of white sand. You can find picnic tables next to the parking lot, perfect for enjoying a local meal from Rockwell Kitchen while taking in the incredible views.
📍 Location: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
8. Arlington Garden
Tucked away in the midst of Pasadena’s urban bustle, Arlington Garden is one of Los Angeles’s hidden gems. This peaceful retreat, created through community revitalization efforts, offers a calming escape from city life. Picnicking is allowed and free, making it an ideal spot for a quick bite while surrounded by the beautiful trees and plants.
📍 Location: 275 Arlington Dr, Pasadena, CA 91105
9. The Arboretum
With waterfalls, peacocks, and stunning wildlife, this place truly feels like paradise. It features numerous picnic areas and serves as a tranquil retreat where you can spend hours exploring tropical forests filled with diverse flora and fauna. You can even participate in one of its meditation events for a deeper sense of relaxation.
📍 Location: 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007
10. Getty Center
To access this delightful spot, you’ll need to take a monorail ride up to the museum, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching from the hills and ocean in the west to Downtown in the east. At the Lower Tram Station, you’ll find picnic tables, benches, and grassy areas for a relaxing break.
📍 Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049