Los Angeles is a city that seems to have it all—fantastic weather, beautiful people, amazing restaurants, and a ton of fun activities. Whether you’re a local or just visiting this Hollywood-centric city, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest health and fitness trends. From the “Lemon Juice Detox Diet” to the “raw food diet,” new crazes appear almost daily.
However, these diets aren’t for everyone. Some people just want to live a healthy lifestyle without being extreme. To help you out, we’ve put together some health-focused activities and spots in Los Angeles that the whole family can enjoy, without compromising on taste or fun.
**Hiking: Escondido Falls and Shipwreck Trail**
Los Angeles isn’t just about beautiful beaches; it also has stunning hiking spots. Escondido Falls in Malibu offers a four-mile round trip with breathtaking ocean views and a 150-foot waterfall. It’s a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Bring a picnic or dine at Neptune’s Net while watching surfers.
Another fantastic hike is the Shipwreck Trail in Palos Verdes. Despite being a bit of a drive, the views are totally worth it. You’ll walk along the PV shoreline, discover tide pools, and find remnants of a Greek freighter called the Dominator that crashed about 40 years ago.
**Juicing: Liquid Juice Bar and Pressed Juicery**
Juicing is a popular but manageable trend in LA, and most of the juices taste great! Liquid Juice Bar on Melrose offers fantastic juices, smoothies, and Acai bowls made from scratch. The variety is endless, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love.
Pressed Juicery in Westwood is another favorite. The shop offers a range of fresh-pressed juices from vegetables to citrus fruits. They even have special juices for different moods or health needs, and if you’re up for it, they offer 3 and 5-day juice cleanses.
**Eating Healthy: M Café and Local**
Finding a healthy restaurant in LA can be overwhelming, but M Café on Melrose is a standout. Created by Gwyneth Paltrow’s private chef Lee Gross, M Café offers macrobiotic, clean, and natural food that celebrities and health-conscious locals love.
Another great choice is Local in Silver Lake, known for its fresh, organic, and locally sourced menu items. They offer everything from sandwiches and burgers to baby back ribs with mac and cheese, plus a large vegetarian menu. Local also features a popular organic salad bar and has ample indoor and outdoor seating, making it a perfect spot to enjoy with your dog.
**Surfing: Malibu Lagoon State Beach**
Malibu Lagoon State Beach, also known as Surfrider Beach, is renowned for its consistent, smooth-breaking waves, attracting surfers from around the world since the 1960s. Located near the luxurious mansions of Malibu, this spot is perfect for surfers of all levels. The nearby historic Malibu pier is great for walking, people-watching, picnicking, or fishing. If you’re looking for a healthy activity in LA, surfing at Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a top choice.
With these activities and spots, you can maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying all that Los Angeles has to offer without going to extremes.