Private Adventures at Trump National

I love Huntington Beach, but there’s just some days when you need to get away and explore. There are so many beautiful beaches all around here, it’s hard to not venture out.  Early sometime last year, my husband and I decided we wanted to go for a hike so we hopped in the car and turned to Yelp of all places to tell us where. We always wanted to visit the Trump National Golf Course and someone posted about hiking trails there so we went…

Trump National Golf Course is a completely public (and beautiful) course set on the cliff line in Ranchos Palos Verdes.  My husband has yet to golf there, but will soon. The hiking trails and parking are completely free and open to the public! And there is hardly ever anyone there. Even on a Saturday afternoon, the trails were near empty. 
We were a little surprised by this as you can actually walk the paths right next the cart path on the course or walk up and down the cliffs and hillside. You can also go in the pro shop and bar/restaurant also completely open to the public. Now, most don’t do this after hiking around, but you can sit on the outdoor patio and enjoy lunch from the restaurant if you want. (That is of course not free)
But, there are several picnic tables all around the large grass field directly in front of the clubhouse where can pack your own lunch and just sit and enjoy the views. A romantic day date perhaps? Or in my case, stretch and enjoy a protein shake post hike. 
Now, if you go on a day in non active wear attire, I definitely recommend having a seat in the bar or restaurant and enjoy a delicious snack and beverage. I cannot wait to come back and check out their Sunday brunch.  
Last but not least, and if you only buy one thing on your trip out here, you must buy the gold chocolate bars. They are delicious! And I happen to know the founders, met them on a trip to Cabo (a story for another time). The bars are a perfect treat; almost to pretty to eat. You can check the chocolates out on their website: http://www.debrand.com

We have since been back to Trump National several times to show family and friends, hike, dine or for a pit stop on a drive along the coast. It is certainly worth the drive. Plus, if you’ve never seen the Long Beach Port of Entry in the harbor, the size of the ships and sheer magnitude of the operations alone will blow your mind. If endless ocean views aren’t your thing that is… there’s something for everyone SoCal.

Until next time… Happy exploring!

Cheers!