Things To Do
in Calabasas
Calabasas sits in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, blending hillside views with suburban charm. It offers upscale shopping, family-friendly parks, and easy access to nature trails. The town preserves ranch-era history alongside modern comforts, from cafes to boutiques.
Its central location in the LA region makes it a convenient base for exploring both coastal and city attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Calabasas and check into your hotel. Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying some delicious avocado toast and specialty coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the scenic Calabasas Commons, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful landscaping.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Getty Center for an immersive experience in art and architecture. Enjoy a guided tour of the exhibitions followed by a peaceful walk through the gardens that offer spectacular views of Los Angeles. Cap off the visit with a delightful lunch at the museum café featuring fresh local ingredients.
As evening falls, explore the local dining scene by heading to a renowned restaurant in the area. Enjoy a sumptuous meal while witnessing the sunset over the hills. After dinner, unwind with a walk through the quaint streets of Calabasas, possibly spotting some celebrity homes.
Start your day early with a refreshing hike at the scenic Calabasas Peak Conservation Park. Immerse yourself in nature as you traverse the trails, enjoying the panoramic views from the top. Don’t forget to bring along a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
After your hike, head to the Calabasas Farmers Market to explore local produce and artisanal products. Taste samples from various vendors, and perhaps pick up some goodies for a picnic. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a nearby park, savoring your market finds while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
For dinner, choose a cozy bistro in town known for its cozy ambiance and gourmet dishes. Savor a glass of fine wine while dining on expertly crafted dishes made with local ingredients. After dinner, bask in the lively night ambiance by enjoying some live music at a nearby venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $150-300 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per tank | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe and family-friendly
- Scenic hills and parks close to LA
- Well-connected by roads to the greater LA area
- Strong local coffee and farm-to-table scene
- Expensive real estate and lifestyle costs
- Limited nightlife within Calabasas itself
- Traffic around peak hours and freeway congestion
- Public transit options are limited locally
Places to Visit in Calabasas
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic adobe complex with rustic walls, horse stables, and period interiors; ideal for golden-hour portraits.
Ranch-style architecture and preserved historic homes with gentle light.
Scenic creekside views with bridges and seasonal foliage.
Water reflections and palm-lined walkways against modern architecture.
Rock formations and canyon vistas just outside Calabasas for dramatic landscapes.
Food in Calabasas
Calabasas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised meat in corn tortillas with onion and cilantro; widely available at LA-area taquerias.
Must-Try!
Sourdough with smashed avocado, chili flakes, lemon, and toppings at many cafes.
Plant-forward bowls with fresh vegetables, protein, and vibrant dressings.
Light, flaky white fish with lime, cabbage slaw, and cilantro.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, breads, cheeses, and prepared foods; a good place to try artisanal snacks.
Rotating trucks offering Mexican, Asian, and healthier options in evening hours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly hello, maintain respectful personal space, and follow quiet-hour norms in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Calabasas
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tips of 15-20% at restaurants and bars are standard; tip bartenders and delivery drivers; tip for rideshares.
Most places accept cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay), though some small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with hot peaks; bring sunscreen, hydration, and a hat; early mornings are best for outdoor photos and hiking.
Mild, occasional rain; hills can be slick after rain; layering is important; softer late-afternoon light.
Calabasas at Night
Hiking in Calabasas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular ascent with canyon views and city panoramas.
Network of trails through rolling hills and canyons.
Extensive trails with rock formations and scenic riverbed scenery.
Airports
How to reach Calabasas by plane.
Major international hub about 35 miles southwest of Calabasas; drive or ride-share is common.
Small, convenient airport in Burbank about 25 miles north; good for domestic flights.
Public-use airport in the San Fernando Valley; mostly general aviation, with some commercial flights.
Nearby general aviation airport about 30 miles west; limited commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Affluent, family-oriented, with good schools and many outdoor activities.
Commuters and remote workers who value proximity to LA and nature.
Active older adults attracted by amenities, safety, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Several courses and driving ranges in the region; popular among locals.
Public courts and clubs; active local leagues.
Community leagues and youth programs prevalent in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calabasas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based bowls, salads, and veggie-forward dishes; ask for dairy-free options and substitutions.