Occupying land that was once part of Rancho La Puente, Hacienda Heights is a leafy neighbourhood in Los Angeles. It was formerly blanketed in avocado, citrus and walnut orchards before being transformed into a commuter town and renamed Hacienda Heights in 1961.
Things to do in Hacienda Heights
Hacienda Heights is home to the largest Buddhist temple in North America, Hsi Lai Temple, which was completed in 1988 in a combination of Ming and Qing dynasty architectural styles. Translating as “Coming West”, the temple serves as a spiritual centre for the local Chinese community. In addition to its ornate halls and shrines, the temple includes a traditional Chinese garden dotted with sculptures.
Want to stretch your legs? Head to Peter F. Schabarum Regional Park, which encompasses more than 230 hectares of hiking trails and recreational facilities on the border with Rowland Heights. Enjoy a stroll along the federally protected stream and participate in a fitness class or take advantage of the picnic facilities. Elevated views across Hacienda Heights can be enjoyed from the Ahwingna Trail.
Sprawling east of Hacienda Heights is Chino Hills State Park, which is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains. It is an important wildlife corridor and provides a popular setting for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. On its southwestern edge is the Black Gold Golf Club, which centres around an 18-hole course designed by Arthur Hills that offers magnificent views across Los Angeles County.
Getting around Hacienda Heights
Hacienda Heights is around 25 minutes’ drive from the centre of Los Angeles and an hour from Los Angeles International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Hacienda Heights while renting a car gives you greater freedom to explore the area.