The best things to see and do in Calabasas
A city that lies due west of L.A., Calabasas is famed for its celebrity residents, sure; but what’s less known about this locale to be found in the hills of San Fernando Valley, just a short way from Malibu, is that it also boasts several must-sees in its vicinity. As ever, here, on the Good Nite Inn blog, read on and discover more about one of California’s hidden-away havens of intriguing treasures…
Malibu Creek State Park
(1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302)
Established more than 45 years ago in an effort to preserve the Santa Monica Mountains’ stunningly beautiful Malibu Street Canyon, this 8,215-acre park is a wonderful place to go exploring — not least the likes of Kaslow Preserve, Liberty Canyon and Udell Gorge, for bird-watching, fishing, hiking, horseback-riding, picnicking and rock-climbing. Moreover, you can check out remains of the indigenous Chumash people’s homesteads and learn about their fascinating culture, which was so tied to this land.
King Gillette Ranch
(26800 Mullholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 9130)
Named after its one-time owner King C. Gillette (yes, the razorblade baron himself), this ranch lies within the boundaries of the aforementioned Malibu Creek State Park and, actually, dates back to the 1920s. Given its location, it’s worth visiting if you’ve booked a stay at one of the many hotels in Calabasas, CA and if (again) you’re interested in exploring Chumash remains; in this case a well-preserved settlement. The likes of cycling, hiking and picnicking are all popular here but, perhaps most of all, it’s a place to visit if you’re especially curious about its historic, cultural and archaeological resonance.
Calabasas Creek Park
(23527 Calabasas Road, Calabasas, CA 91302)
A marvellously inviting urban park located in the heart of downtown Calabasas, this natural space is one for all ages of visitor to savour. An attraction that, in fact, dates all the way back to 1880, this period park boasts of a number of interesting exhibits, such as its own antique park, fine garden furniture and replicas of Calabasas’s historical jail and other architectural elements of note. Additionally, there’s an authentic recreation of an indigenous village (again, of Chumash origin). Educational, then, as well as relaxing and peaceful.
Malibu Hindu Temple
(1600 Las Virgenes Canyon Road, Calabasas, CA 91302)
A fixture of the Calabasas community now for almost 40 years, the Malibu Hindu Temple is owned, maintained and run by the Hindu Temple Society of Southern California — and dedicated to the Hindu god Venkateswara. A popular attraction for people from all over the country (not least those who choose to stay nearby at the likes of Good Nite Inn Calabasas), it’s not just one of the West Coast’s largest Hindu temples, but also renowned for its unforgettable architecture and beautifully carved exterior.
Inside, the temple offers several, designated meditation spaces, while around its perimeter lie its grounds, with their pristine manicured greens that are ideal for a peaceful lunch or atmospheric picnic. The place of worship also plays host to many cultural programs and ceremonial events, celebrations and gatherings throughout the calendar year.
