Imagine rummaging through a treasure chest, looking for the bobble that is worth the most. Your…read morehands touch different forms of riches like bricks and Spanish Pirate coins of gold, and also strands of pearls, mounds of rubies and sapphires. You stop searching when both your hands cradle a diamond so large it could not fit into a happy meal box. Thinking you hold the key to your future, personal island, you ignore the green jewel slightly visible amongst doubloons, all the while not knowing that the green jewel was an emerald that dated back to one of the first QI dynasty's and thus worth 100 times more than the diamond you bolted with. That is basically what Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is, a sprawling, green oasis that only shows its green edges just a bit so it kind remains a dormant emerald of lush price. I have been to this park many times, and thus I know that if one walks a bit into the park innards, one will cross a big lake. Not great lake big, not Chicago river big, but it is for sure not the type of lake that can be described as small, or medium, or dirty with trash. It is a clear blue lake that can be witnessed while sitting down to call calm from the ripples unto you, or you can fish there, if that is your pleasure, or you can just walk past it and admire the blue beauty. When you are walking make sure to keep your eyes on the ground on occasion, because bird remains can be squished. The remains on the ground are logs. I know this might sound elementary but on this day I connected that bird remains dropped from above go splat. I always assumed that bird remains were a splat from inception. But after this visit I realized that bird remains that are delivered close to the ground remain logs but delivered far from above are splats. If you are into ducks and geese, you will see these walking about, not frolicking, there was none of that just peaceful strolls. I clipped a video of a single goose or duck taking a waddle, and eating grass while its neck was crooked. Of particular wonder, was the bird chirps and tweets, audible- somewhat- in the video. These bird sounds were more present when I was there, of course, so they should be appreciated, not by listening to a video, but by listening to them while you take your own video of them. I think the greatest asset of this park is how big it is iin the inside- not Grand central park big, not football field big- but big enough for it to have different trails that lead to different areas of the park. Like this one time, I went to the park and I found an area that had like broken ground and in the center there was a tire. I felt like that was a perfect place to sit and meditate. In the center of cracked ground, atop a tire. But here is the thing, I have tried to find it, and have failed. I have found it other times, it is not like a shifting dimensional place, it is just not easily found cause of the size of the park and its different forks. As I walked the park, I thought of forks in the road and how they might impact the life trajectory of a human being. I pondered on how sometimes we take the left instead of the right path and how this means our life changed completely because of that decision. Taking a path and not the other is for sure a huge decision, not like leaving lettuce out of your subway turkey, but more like not getting lettuce on your Turkey Cobb. After a decision is made, after a fork path is chosen, and the other fork path is left behind, how can a person continue in peace with the choice they made and not really wonder what life would be if the other path was chosen? I do not know the answer to this big question but I guess it comes from fully understanding what will both paths demand of us as we walk through them, and what they will offer once we complete them not only in tangible and concrete ways but also in how they will help us fulfill our heart and hope's purpose. Like, after a path is crossed can we ever really know that where we arrived was always meant to be? I guess not. But I do not want to settle and just say that this is the reason why the journey is more important than the destination because the destination is never the afterthought. Thus in some cases the path belongs to the destination and the choice of which path to take belongs to the person. So before starting a path a person should, when ever possible, think, not only about the journey, not only about the destination, but also about how the path will make them feel from start, to middle and finish, and let those thoughts also define the choice of which path to take when we humans face a fork in the road. Yeah, this park will also have you collecting your thoughts, and I wonder what you will do with them. If reflection by a pond, is not your thing this park also much more. It offers the opportunity for steps that can be completed while walking or running. If you have kids and are looking for a free way to entertain them they also have a play area and grass.

Review #958 2026-022…read more This write-up for Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is long overdue. My son was born at Kaiser Permanente South Bay Center, which is right next door, & my husband wanted me to "waddle-walk" at the park while I recovered from childbirth. O_o As my toddler grew, we started exploring parks away from home (there's 2 within walking distance), & started visiting Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park in 2018 & more frequently in 2021 after the pandemic lockdown. According to the city's webpage, Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is home to 300+ species of migratory birds... wowza! The lake is part of the natural habitat of S. CA for native plants & animals. I'm not a birdwatcher so I'm unfamiliar with our feathered friends at the park. I only recognized Canada Geese, Mallard Ducks, American White Pelicans, & Hummingbirds (not sure of the species). I've seen a raptor once, but couldn't tell what it was. According to Wikipedia, this is one of the best places to see the secretive "Marsh Wren." With my deteriorating eyesight, I highly doubt I can spot this elusive bird that's known for camouflage, ground creeping instead of flying, & hiding in vegetation. Some guy did spot on on 01/19/26, likely a bird watcher because his name pops up a lot on the log, though he didn't post a pic for validation. If you're the curious type, there's a bird list log of what's been spotted here: eBird (https://ebird.org/). There's lots of features at this park: children's playground, picnic tables & BBQ pits, fitness zone, bike & jogging paths, hiking trail, fishing (must have valid fishing license; catch & release only), & 9-hole par-36 golf course (east of the lake); there's a disc golf course but I don't recall seeing this since I'm usually at the playground with the kiddos, playing frisbee in the shade, watching my hubby's workout at the therapeutic fitness area, or doing my steps on the jogging path. Sometimes my kids would run through the grass, scaring the birds, & I have to lecture them to stop in case an angry mob of geese decides to turn around & attack them because they feel threatened. Yeesh! Luckily it was a "young & dumb" phase that quickly passed. At one point, boating & fishing was allowed in Lake Machado but the water quality took a dump & became toxic so no one is allowed in the water, & "Catch & Release" signs have been posted with warnings not to eat the fish from the lake. We usually park in the parking lot off Vermont Ave. that's somewhat close to the playground; that free lot has more than enough space, no matter day or time of our visits. The 231-acre park should have other lots surrounding the park. We haven't explored the east side of the lake so not sure what's there except for the golf course. What's Interesting: There was an infamous alligator named "Reggie" that lived at the park between 2005 - 2007, & was finally captured on 05/24/2007 & relocated to the L.A. Zoo. He was likely an illegal pet that grew too large & was set free at the park. His former owners likely are unaware this is more harmful to the animal & environmentally harmful because the park is not a suitable habitat/home. Reggie got his 5-mins. of fame & then some... we even saw him at the zoo & shared his infamous story with the kiddos. Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is a lovely park to enjoy a picnic &/or BBQ, make use of their free therapeutic fitness equipment & get in shape, get lots of extra steps in on the jogging path (my kiddos prefer using their scooters or bikes), or come out & just get some free air.

Blue Lake Park is an illustration of the many benefits of community planning :-)…read more Whether you're interested ina place to rent a boat, go fishing, take a hike, play tennis, or just want a quiet, almost secret place to sit and commune with nature, this place can fill the bill. With the East and Wast Yale Loop trails surrounding it like elaborate bookends, there are bridges, beaches, and wonderful places to take relaxing walks. Come and enjoy!

Blue Lake Park is located in a residential neighborhood near the Woodbridge area of Irvine. Despite…read moreits name, there is nothing about this park that resembles a lake. The park has a grassy area, basketball courts, a kids playground, and some covered tables. There is mainly street parking and also a small private parking lot that is currently blocked off for construction. The swimming pool is also under construction. This is a park mainly used by the residents in the area.

This place is a premier birding hotspot in the area. The diverse habitats--ranging from the…read moreexpansive reservoir to quiet, leafy coves--attract a stunning variety of waterfowl and local species. It is incredibly peaceful to walk along the water and just listen to the birdsong. Whether you are a casual observer or a dedicated birder with a ebird checklist, you'll find plenty to see here. Beyond the wildlife, the park is well-maintained with clean facilities and great trails, making it a perfect escape into nature. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a quiet morning of birdwatching! Note: There is a parking fee here.

Use to be my favorite park Not after a FESTATION of…read moreCantharis livida (beetle) flying in my hair, on tables , blankets food, clothes & our hidden Easter eggs . we just recently have a new born baby added to our family . Couldn't ENJOY the day or the new born trying to keep these nasty Flying beetles off of her . Easter Eve at the Bonelli Park was very uncomfortable. Also to find out these flying beetles snuck into our items as we brought them home . i've been to plenty of parks in my lifetime and never had this unsanitary bug infestation like this......NEED TO CONSIDER SPRAYING !!!!

I love this park! When I used to work at a school nearby, I used to take my special education…read morestudents with my teacher's assistants for a walk on CBI (community based instruction) to Weymouth Corners and visit the post office and the bakery, as well to other shops in the area so they (the students, not the adults ) could practice making purchases and other daily life skills. Then we would continue to AP to eat lunch and feed the ducks which the kids loved to do. Averill is a nice, peaceful spot to escape the rat race for a short while and recharge before continuing with the stress and demands of daily life. Many students, unfortunately, live in foster homes that rarely take the children out into the community to learn how to function in the REAL world. Too many are placed in front of the TV when they are not at school, just being fed and receiving the bare minimum of personal care so CBI is important for them to be able to function in the community after they become adults and age out from qualifying for foster care anymore. The benches by the lake or the gazebo located in the upper part towards the northeast part of AP are especially restful areas to regain your sense of sanity and to recharge. If you happen to be in Pedro, bring a snack and beverage so you can spend time with the ducks and enjoy some downtime in a peaceful place.

Amazing park to visit when the weather is nice! We enjoyed the duck pond, waterfall, and rolling…read moregreen hills. Such a great reset place or picnic area!

Whittier Narrows is one of my favorite spots when I just want something clean, calm, and easy. The…read morewhole area is really well-kept and relaxing -- perfect for a low-key day outside. We rented a tandem bike and that was honestly the highlight. It was so fun riding together around the park, and the paths are smooth and spacious so it never felt crowded or stressful. Overall, it's just a really peaceful place to unwind, get some fresh air, and do something a little different. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a simple, relaxing outing!

Came here for disc golf recently on a Saturday morning, the course is set up really nicely with…read morechallenging tree hazards and mandos. There are 27 holes in all that are super enjoyable to play for a good walk in the park. I can see the benefits of having a cart for your discs, as the distances are longer than other courses. The ground is a bit uneven in lawn care with lumpy tall grass and ground squirrel holes. With so many holes it's rare to bunch up with other players so no need to ask to play through. There was one incident that was intimidating, a loud and pushy player filled with bravado came up to our group to give unsolicited advice and talk smack.

This man made lake sits on 125 acres and is private. It is so pretty and is surrounded by over 1300…read morehuge and bougie homes. It has 8 miles of shoreline and was built in 1969. You can fish, but you must throw them back. There are lots of places to sit and just enjoy the views too. I am not sure if swimming is allowed. There are a couple of upscale restaurants along the shore that one can dine at. The rest of the area is a business plaza. I did not feel like I was still in LA. The neighborhood is so gorgeous!

Who feels like chilling today?! I DO, I DO!!!!! But I don't feel like going far...Hmmmm, where to…read morego? Westlake Lake!!!~ That is where! In 1969, this lake was created as a community development...But wait...there is more...Get this, it was designed to control flooding & to create a scenic focal point for the community. This would replace the town's earlier plan for a concrete flood control channel. Absolutely brilliant plan! But let's not get all "environmentally jacked up" because this review is more about the scene here... As George Costanza's dad Frank would say, "SERENITY NOW!" There are several restaurants and shops along the lake. You can also "catch & throw," along the lake, sit on a bench and enjoy the calmness. *Plenty of parking in the lot *Restaurants are $$$ *FREE ~ Walking around the lake and enjoying the peacefulness

This park is nestled in urban Redondo Beach/ Torrance. It should be nicknamed Charlie Brown's Park…read morebecause it looks like it needs a little love. No trash or odd humans, but a lot of forgotten trees and groundscape (?). Might be/ have been a scout campground. Some native plant restoration started and that should be good if people stop walking through it. It's pretty quiet. My partner is an aspiring bird watcher but was disappointed here. There is potential tho. PS - if you look at my photos you will see a reclaimed part of park that doesn't look open yet.

This park, while a welcome and random change in the middle of suburbia, is just fine. It's a little…read moreTOO untended without clear paths. I'm trying to cut it some slack because having a park is better than no park at all, but I feel like more could be done with this space. There are BBQ grills, with plenty of sinks; there is the small pond with turtles and fish; and there's one vista point of the ocean that's lovely. But there's not much else that you'd want to spend time extensively here for. I feel like even children would get bored easily with the lack of things to explore, and it's definitely not exciting (or even a decent walk) for adults. You can make reservations to camp overnight. There is a seed library and children's Little Free Library. Closed on Wednesdays, easy parking.

Very beautiful place. Just an hour's drive from La Crescenta, much closer than Big Bear…read more There's still snow there, the road is clear, and along the way, there's a mountain stream and a reservoir where you can stop. Download a map in advance, as there's no signal there. There's a small lake where you can take a walk, and a forest with a cozy family café where you can grab a snack.

Plenty hiking opportunities, refreshing air, and a nice scenic drive in. Be sure to have a full…read moretank, as there is no gas services. There is a cafe/ convenience store across from the campground where you can also purchase your day use park pass for $5. I experienced a foggy day, which gave a cooling effect to my hiking. Restrooms are vault toilets, so unpleasant smells and a mess are a given. The lake has lots of swampy algae, therefore not appropriate for swimming or water sports. However, they do allow fishing with permit. I am a nature enthusiast and it was saddening to see the lack of humans respect for nature, with graffiti and trash in some areas of the park. Crystal lake definitely could use more funding to preserve its natural beauty. The loveliest part is listening to woodpeckers as they work, watching an eagle fly above with a fish in its talons, and treading quietly not to startle the squirrel who is crossing my path. I suggest picking up a map with hiking trails from the rangers post or convenience store, before planning your day!

Beautiful spot in nature with many campgrounds nearby…read more The largest pinecones I've seen in southern ca. were here-cool! In the summer they do kayak and paddle board rentals here. Plenty of picnic tables. Great spot for some day use to get out in nature.

I enjoyed this lake a lot. Came here on a Saturday and got here around 3pm. It was super busy and…read morewhen we arrived the parking lot was full. I was directed to go across the street and walk down. Parking was $10 per car and across the street it was free. However, it's a walk from the parking across the street. They also have a yearly pass which is $30. They also have bathrooms close by. We fortunately found parking and unpacked and went down to the lake. There's plenty of space for a lot of people. You can fish, swim and even kayak. There is also a spot to rent out equipment to do all that. We brought our own boats for kayaking. The lake isn't too big, you can go down the whole thing within 10min or less. Very small but it's very calm and beautiful. My family loved it. It's a great spot to hang out and relax. We'll come back again if we're ever in the area.