Leo Carrillo State Park: Malibu's Coastal Playground
Discover Malibu's coastal paradise at Leo Carrillo State Park: Explore tide pools, hike scenic trails, and camp under the stars in this iconic California destination.
Leo Carrillo State Park, stretching along 1.5 miles of Malibu's coastline, offers a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, rocky tide pools, and dramatic coastal caves. Named after the actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the park provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the tide pools teeming with marine life, surf the waves, hike scenic trails, or simply relax on the beach. Inland, the park features sycamore-shaded campgrounds and backcountry trails for hiking and exploring. With its stunning natural beauty and variety of recreational activities, Leo Carrillo State Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking a coastal escape near Los Angeles.
A brief summary to Leo Carrillo State Park
- 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California, 90265, US
- +1310-457-8144
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
- Thursday 8 am-10 pm
- Friday 8 am-10 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10 pm
- Sunday 8 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Check the tide charts before visiting to experience the tide pools at their best during low tide.
- Bring sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky tide pools and coastal caves.
- Reservations for camping are highly recommended, especially during the summer months.
- Dogs are allowed in certain areas of the park, but be sure to check the park's regulations regarding leash requirements and restricted areas.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach or at one of the park's picnic areas.
Getting There
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Driving
From central Malibu, head northwest on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1). Leo Carrillo State Park is approximately 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica on Highway 1. The park entrance is well-marked and located on the right side of the highway. Parking is available within the park for a fee: $12 per day, $9 for 3 hours, $6 for 2 hours, or $3 for 1 hour. Free parking may be available along PCH, but spots are limited.
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Public Transport
While direct public transportation to Leo Carrillo State Park is limited, you can take the Metro Bus 534 towards Trancas Market from Downtown Santa Monica and disembark at Civic Center/ Stuart Ranch Rd. From there, transfer to the Malibu Dial-A-Ride to reach the park. Check the Malibu Dial-A-Ride schedule and make a reservation in advance. The bus fare is approximately $1-4. Dial-A-Ride costs vary based on distance.
Discover more about Leo Carrillo State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Leo Carrillo State Beach
2.2 km
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Danielson Monument
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Little Dume Beach
13.6 km
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Reyes Adobe Historical Site
16.7 km
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Former Home of Stan Laurel
18.6 km
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Malibu Bluffs Park
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Legacy Park
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Malibu Point
22.9 km
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Adamson House Museum
23.0 km
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Malibu Lagoon State Beach
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Surfrider Beach
23.2 km
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Pleasant Valley Historic Cemetery and Monarch Overwintering Site
23.2 km
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Malibu Pier
23.4 km
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The Murphy Auto Museum
25.8 km
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Unique Moving and Storage
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Unmissable attractions to see
Nicholas Canyon Beach
2.5 km
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Chumash Trail
2.5 km
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Wishtoyo Chumash Village
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Decker Road Scenic Drive
2.9 km
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El Pescador State Beach
4.1 km
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Malibu Springs
4.3 km
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La Piedra Beach
4.5 km
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Charmlee Wilderness Park
4.7 km
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Sandstone Peak Trailhead Parking
5.5 km
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El Matador State Beach
5.6 km
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God's Seat
5.7 km
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Lechuza Beach
6.4 km
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Broad Beach
7.6 km
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Malibu – 21 Miles of Scenic Beauty
7.7 km
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Malibu Wine Hikes
9.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Neptune's Net
3.3 km
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Sabor A Malibu food Truck
7.6 km
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Kristy's Malibu
8.6 km
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The Malibu Cafe
10.7 km
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Calamigos Ranch
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Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar
11.2 km
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The Sunset Restaurant
11.7 km
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Lily's Malibu
11.8 km
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JUJU Asian Kitchen Malibu
11.8 km
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Gravina Malibu
12.4 km
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Paradise Cove Beach Café
13.8 km
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Old Place
15.0 km
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Geoffrey's
15.1 km
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Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe
18.0 km
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HAWC café and dining space
20.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
HIPTIQUE
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Trancas Country Market
8.6 km
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Nati Boutique Malibu Trancas
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Point Dume Village
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Abierto
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Sorenity Rocks
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C.Bonz
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Skill Chart
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Creo Arthouse
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Bleusalt
22.4 km
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Nomad Malibu
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Nati Boutique Cross Creek
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Barefoot Dreams Flagship Store
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Sorenity Rocks Malibu
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The Malibu Colony Company
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant & Lounge
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Sparky’s Sports Bar
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Rafi Lounge
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Tex Mex Cantina
25.5 km
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Hide Away Bar
26.3 km
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Barefoot Bar
27.1 km
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Sea Rounder
27.6 km
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La Cascada
27.7 km
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Beachcomber Tavern
28.1 km
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Las Sirenas Bar And Grill
29.1 km
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The Thirsty Ox
29.3 km
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Rudder Room
29.4 km
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Q Club Oxnard
29.5 km
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Camelot Room
30.0 km
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