Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Westlake Village, CA

  • Published 2022/07/05

Whether it’s your base camp for exploring Southern California or your luxury destination, Westlake Village will keep you entertained throughout your stay.

In Los Angeles County, just over the Ventura County line from Westlake Village, lies the city of Westlake Village.

In 1981, the town of Westlake Village, California, became an incorporated municipality.

The city got its name when they renamed the master-planned neighborhood Westlake Village to prevent confusion with the Los Angeles town.

The town is between Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with a lake in its center.

Thousand Oaks has already absorbed almost two-thirds of the city.

Westlake Village’s Mediterranean-like environment and year-round sunlight make it a natural playground and a paradise for outdoor lovers.

The Westlake Village region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, nearby beaches, and miles of biking and hiking paths.

Do you like the comfort of a confined space?

Top design and home decor stores, gorgeous clothes, and jewelry stores also flock to Westlake Village.

Museums, galleries, community activities, symphony performances, and live music venues abound in the neighborhood, catering to a wide range of interests.

Westlake Village has become one of Southern California’s most famous gastronomic destinations regarding food and drink.

Here are the best things to do in Westlake Village, CA:

Enjoy Various Activities along Westlake Lake

Aerial view of Westlake Village

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The 125-acre Westlake Lake has an eight-mile coastline in Westlake Village.

It’s a famous watering hole and artificial lake, built in 1969.

La Venta Drive connects many islands in the lake, one of which is home to a large number of residences.

Even though Westlake Lake is a private lake, the Westlake Lake Management Association looks after it to benefit Westlake Village residents.

Lakeside trail at Westlake Village

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Despite this, there are various ways to appreciate its beauty.

The Triunfo Canyon and other nearby streets are popular routes for running, cycling, and strolling around the lakeside.

Several restaurants are located on the lakefront on Westlake’s southwest side.

Consider simply taking a leisurely walk and soaking in the stunning scenery.

The lake is stocked with bass, but fishing and boating are only allowed for Westlake Village homeowners and visitors with proper licenses and permits.

So you might want to make some friends in Westlake Village if you want to fish there.

Boats docked at Westlake Village

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Go Hiking on the Pentachaeta Trail

At the Pentachaeta Trailhead in Triunfo Creek Park, you’ll find oak woods, a lake, and a 7.1-kilometer (4.4-mile) route.

The trail gets its name in honor of the critically endangered Pentachaeta lyonii flower species that live in the area.

This rare flower only lives in the Southern California region, and they bloom from April through June.

This trek, classified as challenging, may be arduous for some hikers.

Although the hike is challenging, hikers may bring their dogs along, but they must always be on a leash.

Relax at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village

Exterior of the Four Seasons Hotel

Patrick Pelletier, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Why not get a massage if you’re unsure what to do next in Westlake Village?

The health benefits of receiving a massage cannot be overstated.

So why not treat yourself to a day of relaxation?

Auxiliary lobby of Four Seasons Hotel

Patrick Pelletier, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Four Seasons Hotel features a spa where you can enjoy various services.

From massages to body treatments to facial treatments, the hotel provides a wide range of options for those looking to improve their health and well-being.

Choosing one of them is all you need to bid your stress goodbye.

The gorgeous waterfall of Four Seasons Hotel

Peter, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Take the Mishe Mokwa Trail to Split Rock

Sandstone peak at Mishe Mokwa Trail

Aaron Volpe / Shutterstock.com

This 3.5-mile round-trip trek to Split Rock from Mishe Mokwa Trail is rated moderately challenging.

The trail starts 32 minutes away from Westlake Village.

Bicycles and horses are banned from the area.

From the Sandstone Peak Trailhead, take the Backbone Trail for about a third of a mile.

It offers spectacular views of the Car-lisle Canyon and Balanced Rock in the nearby mountains.

Split Rock’s oak grove offers a shady area for a picnic.

Scenic sunset view from Mishe Mokwa Trail

Aaron Volpe / Shutterstock.com

Why is it called Split Rock?

When you arrive at the location, you will see a massive rock that has been split into multiple sections, one of which is big enough for you to pass through alone.

A leash is required if you bring your dogs on the trails, roads, and campgrounds.

During and after heavy rain, park resources may be at risk; therefore, trail closures may be necessary.

As soon as the trails are dry enough to be used by the general public, the authorities will reopen them.

Nature trail at Mishe Mokwa Trail

Aaron Volpe / Shutterstock.com

Play Ball Games at Westlake Village Community Park

The Westlake Village Community Area is a 20-acre sports park that has taken over an underused hillside.

They built three illuminated soccer fields, three lighted softball and baseball fields, an in-ground skatepark, a children’s play area, and a perimeter walking and jogging route on nine acres of leveled land.

The synthetic grass saves money and water, while the slopes are covered with drought-resistant native plants that will mix in with the oak forest foothills next door.

It’s a YMCA collaboration, so there’s a pool and other visitor facilities.

From securing a site to preparing construction paperwork, the city collaborated with the YMCA to design the project in several stages.

Climb the Echo Cliffs

Daytime view of Echo Cliffs

L.A. Nature Graphics / Shutterstock.com

Since it takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes to go up to Echo Cliffs, it is one of the least visited crags in Los Angeles.

This is a terrific way to keep the crowds at bay, but it might take a long time to get there.

Nighttime climbing at Echo Cliffs is a fantastic treat since the area is well-shaded and pleasant, particularly in the autumn and spring.

There are current restrictions on climbers’ access to Echo Cliffs.

Additionally, authorities have locked off certain parts to safeguard the area’s rare plants and animals, so visit the local visitor center for guidance.

Swing Your Clubs at Westlake Golf Course

Westlake Village Golf Course is situated midway between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

Ted Robinson designed the Westlake Golf Course, which opened in 1967.

The trees and lakes on the course add to the course’s difficulty.

With a maximum length of 5005 yards from the tips, the Westlake Golf Course caters to a broad spectrum of golfers.

Westlake Golf Course is an excellent option if you want to get some exercise while playing.

Westlake Golf Course is a great place to perfect your golf game.

Enjoy the 40-stall night-lighted driving range, a pro-shop with snacks, a 24-hour bar, and nine teaching pros.

It also has rental clubs for those who want to hit the course or the driving range.

Trek to Sycamore Canyon Falls

Cascades of Sycamore Canyon Falls

L.A. Nature Graphics / Shutterstock.com

Visitors must ascend the Santa Monica Mountains of Point Mugu State Park for more than three miles to reach the beautiful sandstone waterfall with pools and cascades.

You should park your car in Sycamore Canyon, in the Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area, when you get there.

Parking, restrooms, and park history are all available at no charge.

See the Satwiwa Culture Center on your left as you travel south along the route.

After passing the Cultural Center, stay on the asphalt road and continue your journey.

Take the old track to the left at a water tank and follow it past two Satwiwa circle trail crossings before returning to the start.

You may find hidden Valley Overlook after a few more miles of driving.

To the left is a waterfall route.

Go six miles to the right to reach the bottom of the canyon.

Take caution while crossing fast-moving rivers.

After a distance of two miles, make a left.

Follow the creek as it meanders through the woods to the falls.

A sandstone boulder is used to build a beautiful pool and drop cascades at the base of this waterfall.

You can’t miss this 100-foot waterfall.

Catch an Event at Bernice Bennett Park

Visit Bernice Bennett Park for a day of relaxation.

Berniece Bennett Park is a 4.9-acre park that’s excellent for a picnic, a stroll, or just running around.

Various annual events and music series take place in this area, including Saturday Concerts in the Park.

Every summer weekend, live bands perform various genres in multiple settings, from country to pop and jazz.

Bring a blanket to the park for a cozy lunch, and then dance the night away beneath the stars.

Food vendors and trucks are present at these popular, energetic events.

Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Promenade at Westlake Village

Night scene at The Promenade

Rostom Aghanian, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

When it comes to shopping, eating, and entertainment in Westlake Village, no one does it better than the Promenade.

Westlake Village has a lot to offer visitors, from seasonal restaurants to fashionable boutiques.

Close view of The Promenade's water fountain

Lux Blue / Shutterstock.com

This mall is a great place to go for a day of shopping and dining.

While you’re there, sit in the luxurious theater and enjoy a good film.

Keep an eye on the hotel’s website for upcoming events since they may be announced there.

Sip and Enjoy Nabu Wines

Since its doors opened in 2016, NABU Wines has torn down boundaries in the wine industry.

The winery pays tribute to the founders’ close ties to vineyards in the Napa Valley and Malibu Coast.

Wines from the Napa Valley and the Malibu Coast appellations come from NABU winemakers using responsibly farmed fruit.

You may sample wines from vineyards across the Malibu Coast AVA, giving you a firsthand look at the region’s unique rocky red volcanic terroir.

It provides Malibu’s red wines their signature smoky flavor and its white wines their lovely mineral edge.

Enjoy a Dinner Date at the Stonehaus

Stonehaus is an Italian-inspired boutique wine shop just off the 101 highway between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles.

Few sites exist in the greater Los Angeles region like the Stonehaus, where people may gather together in a unique way.

The Stonehaus is a one-stop-shop for various experiences, including a freshly roasted coffee bar, a gourmet lunch menu, a tasting area, and a wine bar.

Its Executive Chef’s creations, such as gourmet salads and paninis, are available during lunchtime.

Fresh, healthful, and seasonally appropriate foods create a menu reminiscent of an upscale European restaurant.

As the day wears on, the vibe softens into a winery-like ambiance.

In addition to its distinctive fireplace and private vineyard, the stone courtyard area provides the ideal setting for experiencing what the Stonehaus offers.

Whatever your interest, you will appreciate and cherish every minute of your visit to this restaurant.

Stay at the Breathtaking Westlake Village Inn

Landscape of the Westlake Village Inn

Rostom Aghanian, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This inn’s beauty and enchanting setting are beyond description.

It’s a small hotel featuring a winery, bar, restaurant, spa, lounge area, and a Mediterranean-style pool.

Even the gardens, which seem like something out of a fantasy, are awe-inspiring.

Beautiful gardens, a picturesque lake, cobblestone walks, vineyards, and gazebos complete the Westlake Village Inn.

It has been described as “reminiscent of Italy,” a fantastic location to stay in, and a great spot to host events.

Admire the Stunning Views at Triunfo Creek Park

The Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy owns and maintains Triunfo Creek Park.

It’s a 600-acre park near Westlake Village/Agoura with dense oak woodlands, natural grasslands, and wildflower blankets in the spring.

You can see this daisy-like yellow blossom only in Southern California between April and June.

One of the trailhead’s educational kiosks explains the unique wildflowers present at the location, including the chocolate lily and the white globe lily.

The Westlake Vista tract, which the Conservancy owns and manages, is accessible by hiking paths from the site.

If you go down the Westlake Vista Trail to a section of fence around the Las Virgenes Reservoir, you’ll hear the calls of birds and other animals.

To get the best views of the region, go for the route that follows the fence up the mountain.

You’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of Westlake Lake and the Santa Monica Mountains to the south.

Go Swimming at Westlake Athletic Club

Tennis, aquatics, and a lot of fun are some of the activities you can do at Westlake Athletic Club.

It offers junior and adult programs, clinics, and individual lessons for players of all abilities and ages.

The club’s 12 newly resurfaced, illuminated tennis courts are a great asset.

National Men’s 45 Hardcourt Championships take place yearly at the club on a lake.

Water fitness and lap swimming programs are also popular at the club’s Olympic-sized pool, which has six lanes.

This updated fitness facility completes your training and exercise options; get fit during your vacation.

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of things to do here, whether you want to go hiking through the town’s parks and trails or relax at home.

You may take advantage of Westlake Village’s natural beauty, peace, and quiet.

While visiting Westlake Village, you won’t run short of things to do or memories to make.

Start planning your trip today!

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