Hidden Gems: Meet Breanna Jean-Baptiste of California Dream Trails

Today we’d like to introduce you to Breanna Jean-Baptiste.

Hi Breanna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey began with a deep love for storytelling, nature, and community. Before launching California Dream Trails, I worked in the hospitality and arts industries, where I honed my passion for connecting with people and creating meaningful experiences. But it wasn’t until I moved to Los Angeles and began hiking the Santa Monica Mountains that I realized how healing and inspiring the natural beauty of Southern California could be.

I was constantly taking friends and family on these hikes, showing them secret waterfalls, coastal views, and historic film locations. Eventually, my partner and I realized—this could be more than a hobby. We could turn this passion into a business that offered others a new way to see LA—one that was off the beaten path, grounded in nature, and infused with a sense of wonder.

We started California Dream Trails with one SUV and a vision: to offer private, luxury tours that blend adventure with comfort. From hiking trails in Malibu to iconic Hollywood stops, our tours are personal, thoughtful, and designed to help people unplug and reconnect—with nature, with the city, and with themselves.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting California Dream Trails meant wearing a lot of hats: guide, marketer, web designer, bookkeeper—you name it. There were moments when the learning curve felt steep, especially as a small business trying to break into a tourism industry dominated by large tour operators.

One of the biggest challenges was launching during a time when travel felt uncertain. We had to build trust with guests by prioritizing safety, privacy, and comfort—especially for those seeking more personalized, low-contact experiences. It meant being adaptable and deeply in tune with what people needed emotionally, not just logistically.

On a personal level, becoming a mother while growing this business brought its own beautiful complexities. Balancing entrepreneurship with new motherhood forced me to rethink how I used my time and energy. It’s taught me patience, flexibility, and how to stay rooted in purpose even when things get overwhelming.

Every setback—whether it was slow bookings, tech hiccups, or the sheer exhaustion of doing it all ourselves—ultimately became part of the story. It’s never been easy, but it’s always been worth it.

We’ve been impressed with California Dream Trails, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
California Dream Trails is a boutique tour company offering private, luxury excursions through Los Angeles and the surrounding natural landscapes. We specialize in immersive, fully guided experiences—from breathtaking hikes in Malibu’s canyons to curated sightseeing tours that blend Hollywood glamour with local secrets.

Our guests don’t just visit LA—they feel it. We create space for people to unplug, connect with nature, and discover the side of Los Angeles that doesn’t show up in guidebooks. Whether it’s a quiet waterfall hike, a drive through Mulholland at golden hour, or a behind-the-scenes look at iconic film locations, every tour is designed to be personal, peaceful, and inspiring.

What sets us apart is our focus on quality over quantity. All our tours are completely private, and we handle transportation in a luxury SUV, so guests can relax and enjoy the journey. We also infuse every experience with local stories, mindfulness, and a sense of care you won’t find in big group tours. Our guests often say it feels like spending the day with a friend who just happens to know all the best spots in LA.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how we’ve stayed true to our values: kindness, authenticity, and sustainability. We’re a small, woman-owned business that thrives on word of mouth and 5-star reviews—not flashy marketing. That tells me people feel the heart we put into what we do.

If you’re looking for a more soulful, grounded, and memorable way to experience Los Angeles—California Dream Trails was made for you.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
If you’re a concierge, travel planner, hotel, or local business—we’d love to partner! We offer generous commissions and are always looking to align with brands that care about offering guests something truly special and off the beaten path.

For content creators, photographers, or media outlets, we’re open to creative collaborations that help highlight the magic of LA in a more soulful, nature-forward way.

And of course, the simplest (and most appreciated) way to support us is to book a tour or share us with someone visiting LA. Every referral, review, or kind word keeps our small business going and growing.

You can reach us through our website californiadreamtrails.com, on Instagram @californiadreamtrails, or directly at hello@californiadreamtrails.com. We’re always open to new ideas and love meeting people who are aligned with our mission.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Californiadreamtrails.com
• Instagram: @californiadreamtrails