Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden California follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!
This page will be built upon the more I visit Topanga Canyon. Just like all of Los Angeles, you can tell that the secrets are THICK out here, mostly tucked away in lush, wooded pockets not open to the public. That’s ok though because there are still plenty of public spaces to explore!
When one thinks of Topanga Canyon, visions of a bohemian oasis filled with artists and free spirits high above the craziness of Los Angeles may come to mind.
Plenty of famous artists have called this area home. Music legends like Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, and The Doors found inspiration tucked within its winding canyon roads.
During the 1960s, this small community became a haven for the West Coast counterculture and psychedelic movements.
The name Topanga means “where the mountains meet the sea,” a title given by the Tongva people, the area’s original inhabitants. Often described as a vortex, Topanga’s magnetic energy still lives on through its artists, dreamers, and poetic seekers. 
I have only visited this area twice, but that was more than enough time for me to fall in love. Lush greenery welcome you on the windy roads with quirky shops and tasty cafes. There are MANY hiking trails out here which we will hopefully explore during another visit.
I would like to offer 4 hidden gems worth visiting in this area with promises to return with more lovely recommendations in the future.
1. Hidden Treasures 
Vintage thrift-lovers, appreciators of eclectic and bizarre finds and bohemian art lovers, this place is for you! They specialize in colorful clothing, costumes, antique knickknacks and accessories.
But the entire place is decorated head-to-toe making it one big art installation. Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s still worth a visit just for the sights itself!
Address: 154 S. Topanga Canyon Blvd, Topanga, CA 90290 Website
2. Spiral Staircase + Inn of the Seventh Ray
You get a two-for-one experience here and both businesses have been co-owned by the same lady for over 50 years! I was told she still helps out all the time at 87 years old!
Guided by a philosophy of natural living, the Inn became known for organic ingredients, slow-cooked meats, wild-caught fish, house baked breads, and biodynamic wines. Meals are thoughtfully prepared without refined additives, emphasizing health, sustainability, and mindful dining rooted in nature. 
3. Great Wall of Topanga
I feel you really know you’re entered Topanga Canyon once you drive by the famous Great Wall of Topanga. It stopped me in my tracks when we first drove by it. “What is this??” I wondered. Although not attached to anything open to the public, the wall is worth slowing down a bit to appreciate. This is off a busy road btw and the photo I took was not easy to get!
The community-built folk-art landmark is located along Topanga Canyon Boulevard and was created by local resident Rick Denman. It is a continuously evolving mosaic wall made from repurposed items like tiles, toys, and found objects. And it just may summarize the town in one statement piece!
Address: 1136 N Topanga Canyon Rd, Topanga, CA 90290
4. Café on 27
Not only does this restaurant have delicious, organic food, but it’s also set up in what sort of qualifies as a treehouse! No matter what, it’s up against the canyon which makes it beautiful enough. Parking is insane to be prepared to park on the street on a rather busy road.
It was completely worth it for us though. The café has a bunch of vintage items and just an all around unique feel that goes perfect with the Topanga vibe. The café is also connected to a couple cute shops. Have fun!
