Parks and recreation opportunities are among the hidden gems of Los Angeles. Despite being a sprawling metropolis, there is easy access to great outdoor experiences in all parts of the LA metro area. You might enjoy the sunny, much-photographed beaches that sprawl all along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) and along the “beach cities,” which are accessible from 405 South. There’s terrific hiking in the nearby mountains, just a short drive east of the city. And major parks, like Elysian and Griffith, are great spots to walk, lounge, picnic, and much more.