Your Guide to the Perfect Santa Clarita Summer Staycation

This summer, Santa Clarita offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for those opting for a staycation. From swimming, hiking or a pleasant evening filled with dining, shopping and entertainment, there’s something for everyone in our very own backyard.
If your ideal summer day includes water slides, diving boards, hiking trails and sleeping under the stars, Santa Clarita delivers big on local attractions. Kick off your staycation with a splash at the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, presented by Kaiser Permanente, which features a waterslide and diving boards, perfect for cooling off. In addition, residents can also enjoy community pools at various City parks, including North Oaks Park, Santa Clarita Park and Newhall Park. These neighborhood pools provide swim lessons and recreational swim sessions, making for some spontaneous summer fun.
For a whimsical twist on family movie night, don’t miss out on Float and Flick, the City’s summertime swim-in movie experience! This fun and refreshing way to spend a warm evening, especially for friends and families, gives the opportunity to swim while watching “Madagascar” on July 18, at Santa Clarita Pool (27285 Seco Canyon Road) and “Surf’s Up” on August 15, at North Oaks Pool (27824 Camp Plenty Road)! This event is free, but registration is required on SantaClarita.gov/Seasons.
Just north of the City, Castaic Lake (32132 Castaic Lake Drive) offers the ultimate outdoor escape. The Upper Lake is ideal for boating, jet-skiing and fishing, while the Lower Lake is perfect for a refreshing swim or a peaceful paddleboard session. Don’t want to leave? Extend your stay with camping at Castaic Lake, where you can fall asleep under the stars and wake up to tranquil lake views. Campsites accommodate both tents, as well as RVs, and come equipped with picnic tables and fire rings for a campfire (BYOS = Bring Your Own S’mores). Insider tip: Be sure to book your spot in advance online!
If land-based fun is more your speed, Santa Clarita offers a vast and beautiful trail system that rivals any in Southern California. With over 100 miles of picturesque trails and paseos, as well as 13,000 acres of open space, you can find routes that wind through rugged canyons, scenic ridgelines, shady oak groves and peaceful creek beds, all without leaving City limits. For sweeping valley views and wildflower blooms, the Towsley Canyon Loop (24335 The Old Road) is a local favorite. This moderately strenuous 5.1-mile loop takes you through steep hills and curving trails, ideal for seasoned hikers looking for a cardio workout with a scenic payoff.
Prefer a staycation that’s more laid-back? As the sun sets, Old Town Newhall becomes the center of Santa Clarita’s nightlife. Our City’s Premier Arts and Entertainment District is a walkable amenity that is filled with boutiques, wine bars and a variety of restaurants, offering everything from gourmet BBQ to sushi to fine-dining. To learn more about Old Town Newhall, go to OldTownNewhall.com. Cap off your evening with local theater performances, ranging from drama to comedy at The MAIN (24266 Main Street), Santa Clarita’s intimate venue that hosts a rotating calendar of events. The MAIN is also home to an art gallery that features local and regional artists’ work. For a full list of productions, go to AtTheMAIN.org.
No matter your vibe, a Santa Clarita summer staycation means less traveling and more time doing what you love. Whether you’re diving into some refreshing water, hiking scenic trails, savoring fine dining or enjoying a show, your perfect summer escape is right here in our incredible City. 

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