Top 20 Lakes around Los Angeles
Best lakes around Los Angeles offer diverse recreational opportunities and scenic beauty, ranging from urban oases to extensive outdoor adventures. The region features a mix of natural and man-made lakes, many of which are nestled within parks or mountain ranges. These bodies of water provide a variety of activities for visitors seeking to explore the natural landscape. Los Angeles and its surrounding areas are characterized by a varied topography, from coastal plains to mountain ranges, influencing the types of lakes found here.
Best lakes around Los Angeles
- The most popular lakes is Bluff Cove, a beach that is a scenic rocky cove popular with local surfers, scuba divers, and snorkelers. A hiking trail descends to Bluff Cove Beach, with opportunities to explore tide pools at low tide.
- Another must-see spot is Malibu Lagoon State Beach, a wetland and lagoon formed by Malibu Creek meeting the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can find picnic tables and nature trails, which are excellent for bird watching and studying the tidal wetland ecosystem.
- Visitors also love Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead & Water Refill Station, a facility that serves as the starting point for a 3.5-mile loop trail around Hollywood Reservoir. This trail offers views of the lake and is suitable for bikers and hikers.
- Los Angeles is known for its urban lakes, mountain lakes, and coastal lagoons. These areas provide a variety of settings for activities such as hiking, boating, and bird watching.
- The lakes around Los Angeles are appreciated by the komoot community, with 15 upvotes and 7 photos shared across 15 highlights.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Malibu Lagoon State Beach
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Los Angeles River
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Bluff Cove
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Eaton Canyon Waterfall
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Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead & Water Refill Station
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While bike paths through Malibu are 'here now" and suddenly gone and you're in traffic, there are few places as pleasant to visit by bicycle as Malibu. Be sure to bike up Malibu Road, but if you're adventurous and in good shape, take the bottom of Mulholland rd (from far north of Malibu) up to the valley side of the canyon. You can then reward yourself with a long downhill ride on curvy Decker. (You'll be on your breaks for miles). This is a great town to lunch, coffee or just watch the waves.
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As you ride along Palos Verdes Drive West, look down into Bluff Cove, a scenic rocky cove popular with local surfers, scuba divers, and snorkelers braveing the shoreline. A hiking trail descends to Bluff Cove Beach, with a steeper trail leading to Flat Rock Point, where you can explore tide pools at low tide. Walking south beyond the cove takes you into Palos Verdes Estate Shoreline Preserve, continuing to Palos Verdes Point and the rusted remains of a shipwreck along the Shipwreck Hiking Trail.
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Here you will find a water bottle refill station and signage for the 3.5-mile loop trail around Hollywood Reservoir. There are restrooms and free parking is available, though it may be tricky to find a spot midday.
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If you come down from Pincrest Dr, cross the bridge and keep right walking a loop to get under the bridge. From here follow the creek by crossing the stream over rocks and trunks around 10 times before you reach the small lake with the waterfall. Have great fun by taking a "shower".
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All along the Los Angeles River there is a parallel Greenway, covered by bridges and with some green areas ideal to rest at any point of the way. As you probably guessed, the river flows all the way through LA, so cycle's forecast is sightseeing!
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Along the river there are several nice bike trails that allow you to avoid traffic and enjoy a bit of nature. The trails go under the bridges and give you a view of the river. On either side of the river there are several nice green areas like Lake Balboa Park, Balboa Sports Center and 3 municipal golf courses.
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This river's headwaters are actually in the Simi Hills and Santa Susana Mountains, and as the name suggests it does actually flow through downtown Los Angeles. If it looks unnaturally straight, you're not imagining things: The river's natural, meandering course has been replaced with a concrete channel. With that said, the river remains a pretty companion, with nice running, walking, and biking trails on both banks.
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40 foot water fall in the San Gabriel Mountains. The hike up to the falls is moderate with several stream crossings. It can get busy during peak times, but is definitely work the trek up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for outdoor activities in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles offers a variety of lakes for outdoor enthusiasts. For hiking and scenic views, the Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead & Water Refill Station provides access to a 3.5-mile loop trail around Hollywood Reservoir. If you're looking for water sports, Castaic Lake is one of the largest and most accessible swimming lakes near Los Angeles, offering boating, fishing, and an expansive sandy beach. Pyramid Lake is also ideal for jet skiing, boating, and swimming.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Los Angeles?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lake Balboa, located in the San Fernando Valley, is a popular destination for traditional lakeside amusement like pedal boating and walking. Franklin Canyon Lake is also considered picturesque and offers safe, accessible trails for families, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. For a beach-like experience, Malibu Lagoon State Beach provides picnic tables and nature trails, excellent for bird watching.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near lakes in Los Angeles?
For easy hikes around lakes, you can explore the Easy hikes around Los Angeles guide. Specifically, the Lake Balboa Trail offers a pleasant 1.7-mile loop suitable for all skill levels. The Hollywood Reservoir also features a relatively flat 3.3-mile loop trail that is popular for walking and jogging.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at lakes near LA?
The lakes around Los Angeles showcase diverse natural features. You can find picturesque settings with views of the Downtown LA skyline at Echo Park Lake, or the iconic Hollywood Sign from Hollywood Reservoir. Bluff Cove, while a beach, is a scenic rocky cove popular for exploring tide pools at low tide. Franklin Canyon Lake has transformed its canyon into a lush riparian oasis, attracting migrating birds.
Are there opportunities for camping near lakes in the Los Angeles area?
Yes, for those looking to camp, Pyramid Lake offers picnicking and camping amenities, including unique day-use areas accessible only by boat. Crystal Lake in the Angeles National Forest is another great option for camping, surrounded by mountain air and trees, though swimming is not permitted there.
Which lakes are good for swimming in Los Angeles?
Castaic Lake is one of the largest and most accessible swimming lakes near Los Angeles, featuring an expansive sandy beach. Puddingstone Reservoir (Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park) also offers a beach area for swimming. Santa Fe Dam Reservoir has a swim beach available during summer months.
Can I find lakes with historical significance in Los Angeles?
MacArthur Park Lake holds historical significance as one of the original reservoirs supplying water to Los Angeles in the 1800s. It offers captivating views of Downtown Los Angeles and features a scenic trail.
What are some options for cycling or mountain biking near lakes?
Many lakes offer cycling opportunities. The Hollywood Reservoir Trailhead & Water Refill Station marks the start of a 3.5-mile loop trail suitable for bikers. Lake Balboa's 1.3-mile path connects to a broader regional trail network. For more extensive mountain biking, you can check out the MTB Trails around Los Angeles guide, which includes routes like 'Sullivan Canyon β Topanga State Park'.
Are there any lakes near Los Angeles that are good for birdwatching?
Franklin Canyon Lake is a prime spot for birdwatching, attracting migrating birds to its lush riparian oasis. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, a wetland and lagoon, also offers nature trails excellent for birdwatching and studying the tidal wetland ecosystem.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Los Angeles?
The best time to visit depends on your desired activity. For swimming and water sports, summer months are ideal, especially at lakes like Castaic Lake or Santa Fe Dam Reservoir. For hiking and enjoying cooler weather, spring and fall offer pleasant conditions. Many lakes, like Echo Park Lake, are popular year-round for strolls and picnics.
Are there any lakes that are considered 'hidden gems' or less crowded?
While many lakes in the LA area are popular, Franklin Canyon Lake, constructed in 1914, offers a serene escape and is considered one of Southern California's most picturesque man-made lakes, providing a tranquil setting for birdwatching and family walks away from the busiest spots.
Can I fish in the lakes around Los Angeles?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at several lakes. Echo Park Lake and MacArthur Park Lake both offer fishing opportunities. Lake Balboa is known for fly-fishing, and Castaic Lake, Pyramid Lake, and Santa Fe Dam Reservoir are also open for fishing. Always check local regulations and permit requirements before fishing.
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