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Tuna Canyon Park: Malibu's Coastal Hiking Gem

Discover Tuna Canyon Park in Malibu: Hike scenic trails, enjoy panoramic ocean views, and explore a hidden natural escape in the Santa Monica Mountains.

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Tuna Canyon Park, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains near Malibu, offers 1,255 acres of hiking trails with panoramic ocean views. This less-traveled park features diverse plant life, a stone labyrinth, and stunning vistas from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Santa Monica Bay.

A brief summary to Tuna Canyon Park

  • Malibu, California, 90265, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure parking, as the lot is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes due to rocky and uneven trails.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the trails offer minimal shade.
  • Take photos at trail junctions, as the park lacks signage.
  • Be prepared for narrow, winding roads leading to the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu, turn onto Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Drive 3.8 miles and turn left onto Fernwood Pacific Drive. Fernwood Pacific Drive will turn into Tuna Canyon Road. Continue for approximately 3.8 miles; the park entrance, an unmarked fire road, will be on your right at the intersection of Tuna Canyon Road and Hearst Tank Motorway. Limited free street parking is available. Be cautious of narrow, winding roads.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Request a ride to 2807 Tuna Canyon Road, Topanga, CA 90290. Be aware that cell service can be unreliable in the canyon, so arrange your return trip in advance. The drop-off point is near the trailhead, an unmarked fire road at the intersection of Tuna Canyon Road and Hearst Tank Motorway. Ride-sharing costs from central Malibu typically range from $20-$30.

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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. The park boasts dramatic 360-degree views, stretching from the San Gabriel Mountains to the Santa Monica Bay. Its trails offer a tranquil escape with diverse landscapes, including coastal sage scrub, oak woodland, and native grasslands. The park's trails cater to various skill levels, making it ideal for families and experienced hikers. Popular trails lead to viewpoints like Hearst Tank Motorway, featuring a stone labyrinth, and Big Rock Lateral, known for its ocean vistas and a rock formation in the shape of a heart. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, as you explore the park's serene environment. The park's name comes from the native prickly pear cactus, locally referred to as 'tuna'. While the park offers a natural escape, it's worth noting that there are no restroom facilities or picnic tables available.

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