We always love discovering new destinations in California, and with a state a
s large as ours, there is a lot to discover. About 90 miles north of South Orange County is Conejo Valley. It’s a beautiful area filled with so many fun things to do.
When I arrived in Conejo Valley I was quickly pulled in by the contrast between the solitude of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of city life. I soon discovered the area was bursting with tons of activities to do that can keep couples, friends, and families busy for days.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
This is the must-do in my opinion. Located at 40 Presidential Dr, Simi Valley, California, this museum is a favorite. many visitors come back multiple times.
The museum beautifully provides a walk-through of the Reagan era, giving visitors a glimpse at the President and the person he was. Allow at least 2-3 hours for your visit; there is a lot to see and interact with.
Among the things I enjoyed most during our tour of Reagan’s Presidential Library were all of the Reagan quotes. He had a way with words and could really breaking things down into simple terms everyone could understand and identify with.
Paramount Ranch
Movie buffs may recognize the name because Paramount Ranch was home to around 200 movie crews over the years who filmed on the ranch.
Paramount Ranch was purchased by Paramount Pictures in late 1927 and was eventually sold in 1943. Then, 750 acres of the land were purchased by the National Park Service in 1980 including some of the original western town buildings allowing it to still meet the needs for filming movies. We were fortunate to get a sneak peek of Kurt Russell filming a movie while we were there so you never know who you will see!
Paramount Ranch is located in Agoura Hills, California, at Cornell Road. Bring a good pair of walking shoes so you can enjoy the whimsy and western feel. There are also ample hiking trails so you can easily get in a few hours of hiking as well!
Hike Wildwood Park
The mountains are stunning throughout Conejo Valley and also make for some fabulous day hikes with trails to meet all fitness levels. Wildwood Park wins my vote because of the two waterfalls you can find within the park and the volcanic outcroppings. The views provide much-needed relaxation and respite while offering a chance for travelers to truly take in their surroundings.
SIP Malibu
California offers a beautiful wine country and SIP Malibu is the perfect way to take in lovely wines in a hip atmosphere. The music is phenomenal and you can drink wines by the glass or select a flight that suits your preferences. Being a wine lover, I enjoyed a flight of red wines and fell in LOVE with the Hirsch Woodstock Collection Purple Haze so make sure you enjoy a glass when you visit. SIP Malibu is located at 2598 Sierra Creek Rd, Agoura Hills, California.
Center for the Arts at Pepperdine
Pepperdine University is conveniently located in Malibu, California, and has some gorgeous ocean views from campus.
Take time to tour the Center for the Arts, which is regularly updated with new pieces and collections. The Center currently is featuring an Environmental Impact collection with selections from the Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation.
There are also a variety of shows and plays happening year round at Pepperdine so be sure to check out the ticket prices!
The Center for the Arts is located at Pepperdine University at 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, California, and can be reached via the website or by phone at 310-506-4851.
Zuma Beach
“California” and “beaches” are two words that go together. Regardless of where your travels take you within in the state, you need to find the best beaches!
Conejo Valley spans from Calabasas north to Moorpark in Ventura County and there are plenty of coastal views to enjoy when visiting the area.
One of our favorites is Zuma Beach, especially for families and those who enjoy the waves. We love knowing that our kids have a second set of eyes on them with lifeguards on duty during daylight hours and the flat terrain makes it easy to keep an eye on everyone.
This also makes for consistent waves that water enthusiasts will enjoy! Zuma Beach is located at 30000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California; winter parking fees range from $3-$8 and in summer the rates range from $3-$12.
With so many fun things to do, the real question is what are you going to do first when you visit Conejo Valley?
