Thanks in part to his 30-plus seasons leading CBS’s The Amazing Race, Phil Keoghan has explored more than 100 countries—and he’s still continually circling the globe. It’s telling, then, that the New Zealand–born host insists the Golden State is hard to beat for a homecoming, citing its wondrous weather, vibrant culture, and, as he puts it, a “melting pot of people who influence everything from food to fashion.”
In addition to his Amazing Race duties, the Emmy-nominated host—who grew up in Antigua and is now based in Los Angeles with his wife and daughter—has also served as the creator and host of CBS’s Tough as Nails competition series. Plus, the award-winning director and cycling enthusiast has been honored as one of the world’s most influential philanthropists for the more than $1 million he’s raised for multiple sclerosis research.
Here, he shares his favorite ways to explore Golden State beaches, hiking trails, state and national parks and more. To paraphrase his Amazing Race catchphrase, “California is waiting for you. Good luck. Travel safe. GO!”
Where do you live? I live very close to the ocean in Santa Monica, right next door to Venice, arguably the coolest neighborhood in the world. I love people watching and it’s hard to think of a better place than Venice Beach to do that.
Why there? I see L.A. as the best travel hub on the planet…10–12 hours away from Europe, Asia, and my home country, New Zealand. I love that so many international friends connect through L.A. and being just 15 minutes from the airport, it’s super convenient for them to build in a layover to come and stay with us. I love the energy of being close to the sea. I grew up on the island of Antigua in the Caribbean and absolutely love being able to hear the soothing sound of ocean every day. It’s a privilege!
Who or what is your greatest California love? Oh, so many things, but for me the best part of any place is the people who live there. I have met the most extraordinary people living in the Golden State. There is something special about living in what is considered the most diverse state in America based on culture, economics, and demographics—a melting pot of people who influence everything from food to fashion. All this along with wonderful weather—what’s not to love?
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? So many…that everyone surfs, says “dude” a lot, wants to be famous, and is a vegan-eating, yoga-loving Zen master. Do they exist? Sure, but they are just a small part of a wide-ranging type of people who call California home.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? There can be no rhyme or reason for how long it takes to get anywhere in L.A. Leave way earlier than you think you need to and if you’re early, find one of the many great cafés to chill.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? The Hollywood Bowl, a one-of-a-kind outdoor venue offering world-class performances with awesome acoustics. Sitting in the shadow of the Hollywood Hills and being surrounded by a passionate crowd gives me goose bumps every time.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I love driving out to the desert, and a favorite spot is Joshua Tree. There’s something comforting about camping near the rugged rock formations and looking up at the stunning night skies. Leaving the hustle and bustle of L.A. starts with a scenic drive into the Mojave Desert. Passing through the vast open landscapes is like taking a deep-cleansing breath. The vastness, raw beauty and silence make the desert a magical experience. Joshua Tree is the perfect spot to explore from, and I love the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunrise.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Burritos. Holy Guacamole on Main Street in Santa Monica has been a favorite of mine for almost 30 years, but there so many other great options accessible everywhere with an endless number of food trucks and affordable options on pretty much every corner, day or night. Mixing tasty fresh Californian ingredients with authentic Mexican recipes makes “Cal-Mex” food the perfect choice when it comes to feeding an appetite.
What is your favorite way to play in California? Exercising in the world’s best outdoor gym. I love that there is the option to surf and ski in the same day. Having the choice to do a sand run or hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains keeps me highly motivated to work out. Just a few miles from my house I can be mountain biking along the 67-mile-long Backbone Trail, pathways originally established by Native Americans. It rises up above the Pacific Ocean with breathtaking panoramic views, lots of wildlife like deer, bobcats, and over 200 species of birds. It’s quite mind-blowing that such a diverse ecosystem is so close to one of the biggest cities in the world. The Backbone Trail is a hidden gem so many people miss, but a must for nature lovers and adventurers who love serenity and exploration.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? For me it’s Abbot Kinney, a laid-back spot in Venice offering a great mix of eclectic shops, cafés, high-end boutiques, and the work of local artists. There’s a great creative energy here. All this, plus excellent options for getting caffeinated.
Best California song? The first song I think of when I think of California is “Shut Down” by The Beach Boys. The lyrics “It happened on the strip where the road is wide” make me think of a hot sunny day, souped-up muscle cars, and a crowd of supporters wearing Bermuda shorts—“two cool shorts standin’ side by side”—ready to illegally drag race along a road near the beach. Not advocating for anyone to break the law…BUT…the lyrics make me want to be there at that race. I’d want to drive, of course. I think all The Beach Boys’ songs epitomize “California Dreamin’” more than any other group or musician.
How would your California dream day unfold? Prefacing that this is a dream day, it’d be a four-mile soft-sand run down to Venice and back; Groundwork Coffee; breakfast at the Great White café; a helicopter trip out to Indian Wells for some pickleball with friends; lunch in Palm Springs; back to Malibu for some afternoon paddleboarding; and dinner at Nobu Malibu, followed by nighttime walk along the beach.