Tuna Canyon Park, Westside Travel Guide

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Discover Tuna Canyon Park in Malibu: Breathtaking ocean views, diverse hiking trails, and a peaceful escape into nature.

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Tuna Canyon Park

Tuna Canyon Park, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Topanga, offers a serene escape with panoramic ocean views and diverse hiking trails. This 1,255-acre park features coastal sage scrub, native grasslands, and the pristine Tuna Creek, providing a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Tuna Canyon Park

Malibu, California, 90265, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tuna Canyon Park.

Arrive early to secure parking, as spaces are limited, especially on weekends.
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is limited shade along the trails.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the rocky and uneven terrain.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no restrooms or water refill stations in the park.
Take photos and make notes at each junction, as there are no signs or markings in the park.

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Explore Tuna Canyon Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tuna Canyon Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu, turn onto Topanga Canyon Road. Drive 3.8 miles to Fernwood Pacific Drive and turn left. Fernwood Pacific eventually turns into Tuna Canyon Road. Continue for about 3.8 miles; the park entrance, an unmarked fire road, will be on your right at the intersection of Tuna Canyon and Hearst Tank Motorway. Limited street parking is available before and after the park entrance. Be aware that Tuna Canyon Road becomes a one-way street beyond the trailhead. Parking is free.
Public Transport

From downtown Los Angeles, take the Metro Bus Line 534 towards Santa Monica. Get off at the 'PCH & Malibu Pier' stop. From there, transfer to the Malibu Shuttle. Check the shuttle schedule and get off at the nearest stop to Tuna Canyon Park. Walk approximately 1 mile to reach the park entrance. A single fare for Metro Bus is $1.75.

Discover more about Tuna Canyon Park

Tuna Canyon Park, a hidden gem in the Santa Monica Mountains, spans 1,255 acres between Malibu and Topanga, offering stunning 360-degree views from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Santa Monica Bay. The park's trails wind through coastal sage scrub, native grasslands, and deep canyons, showcasing the diverse Southern California plant communities. Tuna Creek, one of the most pristine aquatic habitats in the region, flows through the eastern end of the park.The park offers a variety of hiking experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs. Popular trails include the 1.6-mile round trip to Hearst Tank Motorway, featuring a stone labyrinth, and the 3.8-mile trail to Big Rock Lateral, offering views of Las Flores Canyon. For a longer hike, explore Budwood Motorway for even more magnificent views.Tuna Canyon Park is also rich in history. The area overlooks lands sacred to the Chumash, Tataviam, and Tongva peoples. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) established a camp in La Tuna Canyon, building roads, trails, and firebreaks. The CCC also played a crucial role in fighting fires in the region.