Warning: This Seaside Hike Involves Near-Criminal Levels of Relaxation

Would you like a dip in the Pacific?

By The Editors
April 19, 2017 9:00 am

Summer is not quite here, but we’re staring down the barrel of a 90-degree weekend.

That means it’s time to stretch those legs and soak up some vitamin D.

Luckily, the seaside Zuma Canyon hike can help you achieve that.

Things it includes: wildflowers, a soft sand beach and a refreshing dip in the Pacific.

And we’ve got all the gear and snacks you need to make an entire day of it.

Before You Go…

On the way to the PCH, stop at Huckleberry and grab both a light breakfast and some sandwiches, salads and cookies for a picnic. Get either a roasted turkey sando or get the rotisserie platter. Order online to have it ready to roll when you get there.

1014 Wilshire Blvd (map)
Huckleberry Website

Delicious Edibles

We recently tried Marigold Sweets, a line of cannabis-infused chocolates that are laced with hybrid strains and topped with a CBD salt that renders it more of a body high. It’s great for relaxing the muscles after a long hike, and also great for the beach. They are made by Vanessa Lavorato, one of the elevated food nerds on Viceland’s Bon Appetit.

Website

The Hike

There are several trails at Zuma Trancas Canyons in Malibu to choose from. If you’re looking for a light hike, the two-mile Zuma Loop Trail is for you. If you want to extend it by three miles, you could tack on the Canyon View Trail. 

For those looking for a longer hike, in the six-hour range, take Zuma Ridge Trail up from the Bonsall or Busch lots. Once at the top hang a right at Trancas Edison Road and follow it to the Zuma Canyon Connector, which connects to the Kanan-Edison Trail. This will take you back to the parking lot. You will encounter a big ascents through a landscape blanketed in chaparral and wildflowers. The trail has been affected by the rains so wear good hiking shoes and, obviously, bring plenty of water and sun protection. 

Zuma-Trancas Canyons Trailhead (driving map)
Zuma Canyons (trail map)

The Beach

After the six-mile hike, head down to Zuma Beach for some rest and relaxation. It’ll be 90 degrees outside, but the water will still be cold, which will do your muscles some good. Take a dip, and then enjoy your picnic and a nice nap.

Zuma Beach (driving map)

The Gear

Kawatha Outdoor Dry Bag Cooler
Howler Brothers Horizon Hybrid Short
Huckberry Camp Towel

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