Rancho Palos Verdes is the gem of the South Coast - Los Angeles County, featuring much history, museums, nature and the Pacific Ocean, always a beckoning sight.

Attractions

South Coast Botanic Garden, Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA

Tongva Indians in Rancho Palos Verdes, Ca History

Point Vicente Lighthouse Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Dining

Events

Festivals

Rancho Palos Verdes, CA Whale of a Day at

Shopping

Sports

Vacations

While Rancho Palos Verdes lacks industry, the residents feel like they live in the lap of luxury. Set atop hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, nearly all parts of Rancho Palos Verdes sport stunning views.

One of the highlights to a visit is the Point San Vicente Lighthouse. You can actually tour the light station, which is open to the public once on twice a month, and allows you to climb the stairs to the top to look out.

Rancho Palos Verdes is located in the South Bay Area of Los Angeles County. With scant hotels, in recent years a new housing development and luxury ocean view resort opened, Terranea. Popular for weddings, the hotel and surroundings are quite romantic, and slightly rugged.

Tall grasses in earthen colors contrast with the expansive ocean where you can often watch migrating whales pass by.

Located adjacent to the Point San Vicente Lighthouse is Point Vicente Interpretive Center. A beautiful facility that also hosts wedding and special events includes nearly 10, 000 square feet of exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Peninsula, with a special emphasis on the Pacific gray whale.

The patio deck of the building is one of Southern California's best whale watch sites for the annual migration of the Pacific gray whale, from December through April. Many have enjoyed watching blue whales and other types of whales and dolphins, also. From December to May, American Cetacean Society volunteers gather daily at the Center to conduct a census of whales passing through the Catalina Channel.

Open daily, 10 AM to 5 PM, year-round, with extended hours during summer. The facility is closed on January 1, Thanksgiving Day, December 24, and December 25th. The park grounds are open until dusk. Picnic areas are available. Barbecues and fires are prohibited. Dogs must be leashed. Point Vicente Interpretive Center 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (310) 377-5370. palosverdes.com