El Moro Canyon is a 2,200-acre chaparral canyon that's so gorgeous you'll forget you're only a few miles away from home. Part of Crystal Cove State Park and with 18 miles of campgrounds and hiking, biking and horse trails, you can spot breathtaking views of the ocean and Catalina Island on one side and grassy hills on the other. Spring makes for the best hiking days, in fields of blossoming wildflowers and among super-friendly, super-fearless wildlife such as deer, squirrels and rabbits. (And lizards and snakes, but those are less cuddly.) After you're done with the moderate hike (beware: There are inclines!), head down to the beach to check out the tidepools—just don't squish the wildlife!