Last Updated on Jan 12, 2025
Malibu's state parks are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering diverse landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to pristine beaches. Malibu Creek State Park is a favorite for hikers and climbers, with its scenic trails, volcanic rock formations, and serene creeks that once served as a backdrop for Hollywood productions. Leo Carrillo State Park features a unique blend of beachfront and wooded trails, offering tide pools, sea caves, and even camping opportunities. Point Dume State Beach and Preserve boasts stunning coastal cliffs and panoramic views, making it ideal for whale watching and peaceful walks. At El Matador State Beach, visitors can explore dramatic rock arches and secret coves, perfect for a quiet retreat or stunning photography. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, home to the iconic Surfrider Beach, offers a mix of wetlands and surfing opportunities, while Charmlee Wilderness Park provides peaceful trails and picnic spots with sweeping ocean vistas. These parks showcase the incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure that Malibu is known for.
Leo Carrillo State Park is a gem of Malibu, offering a perfect blend of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure. Spanning over 1.5 miles of beach, it features tide pools, sea caves, and rugged cliffs that are ideal for exploration and photography. The park is also a favorite for camping enthusiasts, with well-maintained campsites nestled among the trees, just a short walk from the ocean. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and fishing along the sandy shores, or hike the scenic trails that wind through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific. Nature lovers will appreciate the park's diverse wildlife and its rich plant life, making it a peaceful retreat for all who visit. Whether you're seeking a day of adventure or a weekend getaway, Leo Carrillo State Park provides an unforgettable coastal experience.
Malibu Creek State Park, often heralded as "The Yosemite of Southern California," spans over 8,000 acres of diverse landscapes including tallgrass plains, oak savannahs, and dramatic peaks. Situated just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. The park's 14-mile Malibu Creek is the main watercourse of the Santa Monica Mountains, culminating at Malibu Lagoon, and is bordered by 15 miles of scenic trails through oak and sycamore woodlands. Known for its cinematic history, Malibu Creek State Park was once owned by 20th Century Fox Studios and has served as a backdrop for iconic films and TV shows including "Planet of the Apes" and "MAS*H." Since opening to the public in 1976, it has continued to captivate visitors with its breathtaking vistas of volcanic rock gorges, scenic pools, and expansive views of Las Virgenes Valley and Malibu Canyon.
Point Mugu State Park is a stunning natural escape in Malibu, offering visitors over 5 miles of pristine beaches and more than 70 miles of hiking trails that wind through the Santa Monica Mountains. This park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from sunbathing and swimming along its unspoiled coastline to exploring its diverse ecosystems, which include rugged cliffs, canyons, and grassy valleys. The park's trails, such as the scenic Ray Miller Trail, reward hikers with panoramic ocean views and glimpses of local wildlife. Popular spots like Sycamore Cove Beach provide a peaceful setting for picnics and relaxation, while the nearby campgrounds are perfect for overnight stays under the stars. Whether you're looking to hike, bike, camp, or simply connect with nature, Point Mugu State Park offers a memorable experience in the heart of Malibu's natural beauty.