Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- Important essentials for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- Activities for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in January: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in February: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in March: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in April: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in May: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in June: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in July: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in August: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in September: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in October: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in November: weather and what to pack
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America
Based on the climate and weather in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America, the best time to go is June. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America by month
January
January is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you go to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in February, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
April here is warm. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
May in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
If you are traveling to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in June, you will notice that it is extremely hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
July for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Sandals
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
If you are traveling to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in August, you will notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
If you go to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you are traveling to Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in October, you will notice that it is crisp and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in this region is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December for Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
If you go to King Gillette Ranch, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
What to do in Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California, United States of America
The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area lies in Southern California, spanning over 150,000 acres. It showcases stunning mountains, warm beaches, and gorgeous landscapes that attract tourists worldwide. The area attracts both locals and international visitors who want to experience its natural beauty and recreational offerings. Here are some of the top attractions in the Santa Monica Mountains Nation Recreation Area:
1. Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is a blend of rugged mountains, lush meadows, and crystal clear streams. The park is home to hiking and biking trails, camping grounds, and rock climbing spots. The park is also famous for its diverse wildlife, including bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, and birds of prey. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, fishing, and swimming at the park's three natural reservoirs, which are surrounded by oak and sycamore trees.
2. Backbone Trail
The Backbone trail is a 70-mile trail that runs through the entire Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. The trail is ideal for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders who want to explore the mountains' rugged terrain. The trail offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as a glimpse of local wildlife. Visitors can choose to hike the entire trail or opt for shorter sections, depending on their fitness level.
3. Point Mugu State Park
Point Mugu State Park is located at the western end of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, with over 70 miles of hiking trails through mountains, canyons, and pristine beaches. It is an ideal spot for bird watching, camping, picnicking, and other recreational activities. Visitors can explore the park's historic structures, including a World War II-era radar station atop Point Mugu.
4. Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach is one of the most popular and expansive beaches in Southern California. It is a favorite spot for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach features over 100 picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. The beach's impressive size and moderate elevation also make it an excellent vantage point for whale watching as they migrate up and down the California coast.
5. Solstice Canyon
Solstice Canyon is located in the eastern Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and is considered one of the best hiking spots in California. Visitors can explore the canyon's vast network of hiking trails, take a dip under the stunning Solstice waterfall or visit the ruins of the Keller House, one of the area's oldest structures.
In conclusion, there are numerous tourist attractions in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area that offer visitors solace and adventure. From pristine beaches to rugged mountains and hidden waterfalls, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area promises unforgettable experiences. No matter your interest, there is something for everyone - the perfect destination for a day trip, weekend getaway or a family vacation.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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