Perched atop the bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Rancho Palos Verdes is a coastal city south of Los Angeles. It’s known for its affluent lifestyle, world-class golf courses and rugged protected areas that provide a setting for coastal hikes and clifftop weddings.
Things to do in Rancho Palos Verdes
One of the most striking landmarks in Rancho Palos Verdes is Wayfarers Chapel, which was designed by the son of Frank Lloyd Wright in the mid-20th century. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it was conceived as a memorial to the 18th-century scientist Emanuel Swedenborg. With its organic architectural style, glass walls and clifftop setting, it’s one of Southern California’s most sought-after wedding venues.
Also on the National Register of Historic Places is the Point Vicente Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1926 to guide ships through the Palos Verdes Peninsula’s treacherous waters. Coincide your visit with one of the lighthouse’s open days to explore the interior, then enjoy a stroll along the clifftop. At the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, you’ll find exhibits about the natural and cultural history of the region.
Forming part of the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve is Portuguese Bend, an area of rolling hills, rocky outcrops and steep canyons. It encompasses one of the largest continuously moving landslides in North America and a pillow lava outcrop known as the Ailor Cliff. Hiking trails wind their way through the reserve and offer spectacular views of Santa Catalina Island.
Getting around Rancho Palos Verdes
Rancho Palos Verdes is around 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Los Angeles and 40 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Rancho Palos Verdes and exploring the area.