How to get to Lake Balboa Park, Los Angeles, California

How to get to Lake Balboa Park, Los Angeles, California

Sunset at Lake Balboa Park

It’s been an epic journey, from working in Singapore to studying and working in Canada, and now finally living here in Los Angeles, California. I’m still adjusting—just like wearing new shoes and running with them for the first time. Everything is new, fresh, untouched, more like a newfound place where you feel somewhat lost wherever you go. It's both exciting and frightening. Moving to a new country always brings a mixture of emotions, especially after enjoying the splendors of another and becoming familiar with a city's secrets.

This move has been challenging, as I once again leave my newfound family and friends to start over. It always feels that way, an inherent part of moving away from familiarity and embracing new beginnings. I’m lucky to be going through this not-so-comfortable phase of my life with strong moral support from my dear husband. Let’s go! 



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Travel Tips
  • For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
  • For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.



How to get there

  • Location: 6300 Balboa Blvd., Van Nuys, Los Angeles, California 91406
  • Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Parking: Free 


Lake Balboa Park

Lake Balboa Park is in a busy part of Van Nuys, California. It's named after the main area, Anthony C. Beilenson Park. The park features a large 27-acre lake, golf courses, and a wildlife reserve.

It's well-known for its beautiful park and lake. The area stretches from Roscoe Boulevard in the north to Victory Boulevard in the south. It's a quiet escape from the busy city life. 


My Soap Opera Moment

The stress and pressure of daily life can drain the vitality from someone’s core, especially when they are exposed to a new environment. To combat these emotions, I immerse myself in nature. Let the natural healing of nature seep into your mind and soul. Allow the air to flow through your nerves and let the rays of sunshine pierce the shadows that envelop you.


Pedal Power: Bike Tire Failed!

My place is near a park called Lake Balboa Park. I love being in nature, and knowing it is just a few miles from home makes me happy. I have an adorable husband who understands my deep longing for fresh air, trees, hikes, and sunsets. We arrived there late, with just enough light for a breezy cycling afternoon. 

Unfortunately, my bike tires were not cooperating that day; the back tire gave out before we even started. But that didn't stop me from cycling around the park; the bicycle just had to keep itself steady as my feet struggled with every pedal. It’s winter in California in January, with cold winds and low temperatures, while on the other side of the globe, my friends are enjoying their time at home with a snowstorm alert outside their windows. I felt blessed, with a wink in my eye and a shy grin, though I missed my friends dearly and wished them all the best.


 

Massive playground to conquer!

After we circled the park, my bicycle seemed to give up; the torturous exercise, along with bystanders shouting to add more air to the tires, was no help at all. I relied on my trusted feet to continue the journey as the day began to fade away.



Dazzling, Shimmering Lake: Quack-tastic Party!

Ducks were everywhere on the lake, which is perfectly situated in the middle of the park, allowing everyone to take a stroll and see everything it has to offer. There were barbecue pits, a children's playground, picnic tables, a jogging path, a fishing area, bike rentals, and restrooms, too. It's a wonderful place to spend some time alone, with your special someone, family, or friends.




Sunset Zooms by in a Flash

As the sky changed from red to orange, purple to pink, or vice versa, I thought about how light moves, how colors dance, and how beautiful it is to witness such an amazing sunset right in the park. Some people would go high into the mountains or drive far to the beach to see such stunning colors. The funny thing is, I'm actually one of those people; it's different when you're out there, I tell you, but sometimes I seem to forget that this can happen in nearby places too, just like this park. Simple and beautiful.

Sunset can happen really fast—a few seconds red, then orange, then it's gone. You can't blink an eye unless you're kissing someone by your side, with another wink and a shy grin. It was a lovely way to end the day, with an amazing sunset and a warm hand holding mine. I guess I'm a little bit braver now to see a different chapter of my life in the City of Angels, the famous city of Los Angeles in California.


Travel Packing Checklist for couples

Bonus Tip: Use a Travel Packing Checklist

Here’s my secret to making travel hassle-free: I use a Travel Packing Checklist. This ensures I don’t forget essential items and prevents those frantic last-minute shopping trips for things I already own but left behind. I didn’t realize how much I needed this notebook; it truly keeps my journeys organized and stress-free. 
Check out Flying Starfish Studios for unique journals, notebooks, and planners.

Here's another special Packing checklist designed for families. It includes packing lists for babies and kids to ensure nothing is overlooked!

Have fun and be safe  ^__^


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