Collaborative Post
Let’s face it — making weekend plans for the family sounds simple until it’s not. One person wants to relax, another wants adventure, and someone’s always “not in the mood.” Before long, the only thing you’ve agreed on is — doing nothing.
But here’s the thing: LA is full of places that check everyone’s boxes. You just need a list that feels doable. And that’s where this article comes in. We’ve pulled together five outdoor activities that are fun, flexible, and perfect for families.
Whether you want to explore, ride, watch, or wander, there’s something here to make your weekend plans stick. So, what’s the wait for? Let’s get going!
Go Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of those things that sounds simple—but ends up being unforgettable. You hop on a boat, feel the cool breeze, and suddenly, you’re watching a dolphin leap beside you, or a whale glide across the water. Kids especially love it—every splash feels like a surprise.
What makes it even better are the guides on board. They point out animals, tell stories, and share fun facts in a way that keeps everyone tuned in. The best part? It’s easy to plan. Everything’s bookable online, and the departure points are simple to get to.
On top of that, many whale watching Los Angeles tours even offer flexible options—short 45-minute rides or longer trips of up to 2.5 hours. You can choose what fits best for your family’s pace. Just bring a light jacket—it’s colder out there than it looks.
Explore Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of those places that somehow has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for a gentle walk, a wild animal adventure, or just a shaded spot to chill out, this park delivers. For families, it’s basically a giant outdoor playground that fits everyone’s mood.
You can start with the LA Zoo, which sits right inside the park. Little kids love the zoo’s open areas and playful exhibits. Meanwhile, older ones might enjoy spotting rare animals or grabbing a map to lead the way.
Once you’ve seen the animals, there’s still more to do. The park also has a vintage train ride, pony rides, and a classic merry-go-round that’s been spinning for generations. And when everyone needs a break, shaded picnic areas are easy to find, with plenty of space to relax.
Take a Family Bike Ride on The Strand
If you’re looking for something active but not too intense, a ride along The Strand is the perfect choice. This smooth, scenic bike path runs along the coast and connects some of LA’s best-loved beaches, like Santa Monica, Venice, and Manhattan Beach.
The views are incredible, and there’s always something to look at—skaters, surfers, snack stands, even street performers. You can rent bikes near most starting points, and there are options with trailers or smaller sizes for kids.
What makes this outing shine is the flexibility. You can stop for snacks, watch surfers, or take a break at one of the many playgrounds near the beach. There’s no rush, no pressure—just a relaxed day by the ocean, doing as much or as little as you like.
Discover Tide Pools at Abalone Cove
Looking for something hands-on that still gets everyone outside? Then, tide pooling at Abalone Cove is the answer. Tucked in the cliffs of Rancho Palos Verdes, this coastal spot lets kids (and grown-ups) explore natural rock pools filled with tiny sea creatures.
It’s like a live science class—except way more fun. Crabs dart between rocks, sea stars cling to the edges, and colorful anemones sit quietly beneath the water’s surface. The bonus? You don’t need gear or tickets—just good shoes, curiosity, and a willingness to get a little wet.
It’s a low-key adventure that sparks wonder and keeps everyone moving. Just check tide charts ahead of time and pack a change of clothes in case someone gets a little too curious.
Hike to a Hidden Waterfall
Not all hikes are steep or tiring. Some feel more like a fun walk with a surprise at the end—and that’s exactly what you get with LA’s waterfall trails. Eaton Canyon and Escondido Falls are two great options.
They’re popular, but for good reason: they’re easy enough for kids and end with a waterfall that feels like a real payoff. Along the way, you’ll pass wildflowers, birds, and maybe even a lizard or two sunning on a rock.
Bring water, snacks, and maybe an extra pair of socks. Let the kids lead the way if they’re old enough—it turns the whole thing into an adventure. And if you’re worried about crowds, start early or go on a cooler day.
Wrapping Up
Finding something the whole family enjoys doesn’t have to be a struggle. With so many simple, low-stress outdoor options in LA, you don’t need to overthink it. Just pick one thing that sounds fun and go from there.
Whether you’re watching whales or riding bikes, the point is simple—get outside, have fun, and just enjoy being together.