Malibu Creek State Park is the premier nature wonderland of the Santa Monica Mountains. Grasslands, oak woodlands and rolling hills make up more than 8,000 acres of scenic beauty. The area was once home to the Native American Chumash who had a village here called Talepop. Paramount Pictures & 20th Century Fox both used the area for filming including M*A*S*H & The Planet of the Apes. Hiking trails of every length wind through canyons covered in wildflowers each Spring.
#270 Backbone Trail
Backbone Trail is a National Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. After more than 50 years in the works, the trail is finally complete. It runs for 67 miles from Will Rogers State Park to Point Mugu State Park. From majestic ocean-view peaks, chaparral-covered hills and winding canyons, the trail will keep you going at each turn. Several access points make this trail available for all skill levels at any duration.
#245 El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach is one of the Jewels of Malibu. Its iconic rock formations, sea caves and coves make for an unforgettable coastal escape. This beach is a favorite among photographers with its limitless shore and winding bluff to sea trail.
#225 Sandstone Peak
At 3,111 feet, Sandstone Peak is the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains. A moderate-strenuous 3 mile round trip hike takes you to one of the best vistas in Southern California. Malibu, the Channel Islands, Ventura and Santa Barbara can all be seen on a clear day. Once at the top, do not forget to sign and enjoy the log.
#199 Charmlee Wilderness Park
Charmlee Wilderness Park is a beautiful coastal park in the Santa Monica Mountains. Beautiful trails wind through rolling hills with wildflower-filled meadows that offer stunning views of Malibu on sacred Chumash land. With the convergence of mountains and ocean, this is Southern California at its most iconic.
#179 El Pescador State Beach
Meaning 'the fisherman' in Spanish, El Pescador State Beach is a great pocket beach in the Santa Monica Mountain National Recreation Area. From tide pools to sandy beach, this beach has something for everyone and rarely attracts large crowds. It is a slice of Malibu heaven.
#160 Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park on the coast of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is one of the jewels of Malibu. With its secret rocky coves and white sandy beaches, the place has it all. Named after Leo Carrillo, famous actor on the State Park Board, this beach has also been featured in many movies and television shows. It is the perfect spot to catch a sunset.
#144 Point Dume Nature Preserve
Point Dume Nature Preserve is a beautiful headland hill on the cliffs of the Santa Monica Mountains in Malibu. A hike to the top provides a 360 degree view of the surrounding ocean and mountains. Secret coves and white sandy beaches line the ocean below.
#101 Malibu Pier
Malibu Pier on the stunning coast of Malibu is a wonderful classic wooden pier. Originally built in 1905 for the local ranches, the pier is now owned by California State Parks and has been a public pier since 1934. Enjoy the stunning coastal views while on a beautiful sunset stroll.
#86 Solstice Canyon
Solstice Canyon is a beautiful spot in the Santa Monica Mountains. A 2 mile round trip hike takes you into the canyon to the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House which was designed by Paul R. Williams, famous African American Architect in 1952. The house blended in with its natural surroundings and can be discovered by its blueprint foundation today. A nearby waterfall is also a highlight that can be seen flowing all year long.
