People shyt on the natural parts of the city...but there are some undeniably beautiful areas within an hours drive of downtown.
Bridge To Nowhere - Azusa
my favorite spot to go blaze and destress. the actual bridge is a 4.5 mile hike, where you have to cross a river a few times (about knee deep). its real peaceful, inspiring, etc. there's a group that bungee jumps every weekend off that bridge...i did it back when i first moved out here. thats how i found the area
Malibu Creek - Calabasas
quick hike (about 30 mins) leads to this natural pool that people rock jump into. its a chill area where people picnic all day, hangout, etc
El Matadaor Beach - Malibu
not a lot of people know about this beach, so you don't get the weekend crowds like in Santa Monica & Venice. it's so chill and secluded that it's an unofficial nude beach...(nude beaches are not allowed in LA or Malibu). The rock formations at the edge of the beach make it feel private.
there's plenty of other spots, but I'm not giving up all my secrets