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| Point Dume in the iconic final scene of Planet of the Apes | Photo: @filmtourismus |
For film fans, hikers, and lovers of the great outdoors, here are five breathtaking locations that have appeared in Oscar-recognized films.
Located in Malibu, Point Dume State Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline with dramatic cliffs and wide sandy beaches. The area’s striking scenery has made it a popular filming location, most notably serving as the setting for the unforgettable conclusion of the original "Planet of the Apes." The beach has also appeared in "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me" as Dr. Evil’s Volcano Island. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views, explore tide pools, and even spot migrating whales from the cliffs.
1. Point Dume State Beach
Oscar Nod: "Planet of the Apes" (Honorary Award for make-up artist John Chambers)Located in Malibu, Point Dume State Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline with dramatic cliffs and wide sandy beaches. The area’s striking scenery has made it a popular filming location, most notably serving as the setting for the unforgettable conclusion of the original "Planet of the Apes." The beach has also appeared in "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me" as Dr. Evil’s Volcano Island. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views, explore tide pools, and even spot migrating whales from the cliffs.
2. Malibu Creek State Park
Oscar Nod: "How Green Was My Valley" (Best Picture Winner)
Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park has played host to numerous Hollywood productions. This scenic park doubled as Wales in John Ford’s "How Green Was My Valley" and was also a key filming site for the television series "MAS*H." The park’s diverse terrain includes a rock pool, a popular climbing wall, and extensive trails for hiking and camping. Visitors can explore the historic sites and relive their favorite cinematic moments while enjoying the natural beauty of this protected area.
Oscar Nod: "La La Land" (Six Oscars) & "Rebel Without a Cause" (Three Nominations)
One of Los Angeles’ most recognizable landmarks, Griffith Observatory has starred in multiple award-winning films. Its most famous appearances include "La La Land" and "Rebel Without a Cause," with both films capturing the location’s sweeping city views and celestial charm. The observatory, opened in 1935, sits atop Griffith Park and offers various hiking trails leading to its iconic dome. Visitors can tour the exhibits, peer through telescopes, and take in the spectacular panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline.
Oscar Nod: "Julius Caesar" (Best Art Direction Winner, Four Nominations Including Best Picture)
Tucked into the foothills above Hollywood Boulevard, Bronson Canyon has served as a backdrop for countless film and television productions. The rugged terrain and recognizable quarry have made it a favorite setting for Westerns like "The Searchers" and sci-fi classics such as "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." The cave within the canyon is best known as the entrance to the Batcave from the 1960s "Batman" television series. The short, scenic hike to the cave provides an immersive experience for film buffs looking to explore Hollywood history.
Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park has played host to numerous Hollywood productions. This scenic park doubled as Wales in John Ford’s "How Green Was My Valley" and was also a key filming site for the television series "MAS*H." The park’s diverse terrain includes a rock pool, a popular climbing wall, and extensive trails for hiking and camping. Visitors can explore the historic sites and relive their favorite cinematic moments while enjoying the natural beauty of this protected area.
3. Griffith Observatory
 Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling outside the Griffith Observatory in "La La Land" | Photo: Lionsgate |
One of Los Angeles’ most recognizable landmarks, Griffith Observatory has starred in multiple award-winning films. Its most famous appearances include "La La Land" and "Rebel Without a Cause," with both films capturing the location’s sweeping city views and celestial charm. The observatory, opened in 1935, sits atop Griffith Park and offers various hiking trails leading to its iconic dome. Visitors can tour the exhibits, peer through telescopes, and take in the spectacular panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline.
4. Bronson Canyon
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| "The Batcave" at Bronson Canyon | Photo: Yuri Hasegawa |
Tucked into the foothills above Hollywood Boulevard, Bronson Canyon has served as a backdrop for countless film and television productions. The rugged terrain and recognizable quarry have made it a favorite setting for Westerns like "The Searchers" and sci-fi classics such as "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." The cave within the canyon is best known as the entrance to the Batcave from the 1960s "Batman" television series. The short, scenic hike to the cave provides an immersive experience for film buffs looking to explore Hollywood history.
5. Point Fermin Lighthouse
Oscar Nod: "Crash" (Three Oscars Including Best Picture)
Located in San Pedro, Point Fermin Lighthouse is a Victorian-era beacon that stands as a testament to California’s maritime past. The lighthouse and surrounding park have appeared in various films, most notably "Chinatown," where detective Jake Gittes uncovers a key piece of the plot. The nearby Angels Gate Park, home to the Korean Friendship Bell, was featured in "The Usual Suspects." Visitors can stroll through the gardens, enjoy the coastal scenery, and take in the historical significance of this unique filming location.
These five locations provide the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of the movies while exploring some of Southern California’s most picturesque outdoor destinations. Whether retracing the steps of classic characters or simply taking in the natural beauty, these cinematic sites offer something special for film lovers and adventurers alike.
Located in San Pedro, Point Fermin Lighthouse is a Victorian-era beacon that stands as a testament to California’s maritime past. The lighthouse and surrounding park have appeared in various films, most notably "Chinatown," where detective Jake Gittes uncovers a key piece of the plot. The nearby Angels Gate Park, home to the Korean Friendship Bell, was featured in "The Usual Suspects." Visitors can stroll through the gardens, enjoy the coastal scenery, and take in the historical significance of this unique filming location.
These five locations provide the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of the movies while exploring some of Southern California’s most picturesque outdoor destinations. Whether retracing the steps of classic characters or simply taking in the natural beauty, these cinematic sites offer something special for film lovers and adventurers alike.
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