Leo Carrillo State Beach

Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu, California, is a popular destination known for its natural beauty and versatility. Named after actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the beach spans over a mile and features rocky tide pools, sea caves, and sandy shorelines. It’s a favorite spot for surfers, swimmers, beachcombers, and picnickers.

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The beach also offers family-friendly amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and camping areas, including sites for tents and RVs. Hikers enjoy trails in the surrounding hills that provide scenic ocean views. It’s a great place for spotting wildlife, such as sea lions, dolphins, and a variety of birds.

Leo Carrillo State Beach is part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, offering a mix of beach and wilderness experiences. The beach’s unique features have also made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows.

Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a serene coastal escape, Leo Carrillo State Beach is a must-visit spot in Malibu! Have you been, or are you planning a trip?

Discover Leo Carrillo State Beach: A Hidden Gem Near Malibu Luxury Beach Villas & Oceanfront Rentals

Tucked along the scenic stretch of Pacific Coast Highway, Leo Carrillo State Beach is one of Malibu’s best-kept secrets. With its rugged shoreline, tide pools, sea caves, and hiking trails, it’s the perfect coastal retreat for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re staying in one of the nearby Malibu Luxury Beach Villas & Oceanfront Rentals or just passing through on a California coastal road trip, Leo Carrillo offers an unforgettable experience for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Why Stay Near Leo Carrillo State Beach?

For those planning a coastal getaway, finding the right place to stay is key. Choosing a Malibu beach house rental luxury property near Leo Carrillo allows you to enjoy easy access to this iconic park while indulging in top-tier accommodations. Vacationers looking for Malibu beach villa vacation rentals by owner will find that private homes offer a more intimate and personalized experience compared to hotels. One such option is Villa Bella Malibu, located just minutes from the park and offering panoramic ocean views, privacy, and luxury amenities.

What to Do at Leo Carrillo State Beach

Leo Carrillo State Beach stretches across 1.5 miles of coastline, providing endless opportunities for outdoor fun and exploration. Here are some of the best things to do at the park:

🌊 Beach Activities

Enjoy swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing. The beach’s gentle slope and clear water make it ideal for both families and serious wave chasers.

🌿 Tide Pool Exploration

At low tide, you can walk along the rocky shore and discover vibrant tide pools filled with sea stars, crabs, mussels, and more. Coastal caves also offer fun exploration for kids and adults alike.

🥾 Hiking

With 7 miles of hiking trails, Leo Carrillo offers scenic views and chances to spot local wildlife. Trails like the Leo Carrillo Beach Trail, Yellow Hill Trail, and Nicholas Flat Trail range from easy to moderate and are perfect for morning or late-afternoon hikes.

🦌 Wildlife Viewing

This coastal park is home to everything from bobcats and coyotes to red-tailed hawks, owls, and migrating gray whales in April and May. You may even spot dolphins and sea lions right from the beach!

Camping & Family Fun

Leo Carrillo also offers a campground shaded by sycamore trees, ideal for both weekenders and longer stays. With electrical hookups, restrooms, and token-operated showers, it’s a comfortable and convenient place to enjoy nature. Families love the Junior Ranger and campfire programs in the summer, as well as the park’s dog-friendly areas like North Beach (north of Lifeguard Tower 3).

⚠️ Note: Dogs must be leashed and are not allowed on backcountry trails or South Beach.

Park Amenities at a Glance

• Restrooms and showers

• Electrical hookups (20/30/50 AMP)

• Camp store with firewood and supplies

• Designated dog-friendly zones

• Educational programs and ranger-led tours

Location & Access

Leo Carrillo State Park is located at:
📍 35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Just 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica, it’s easily accessible from anywhere along the Malibu coast. A tunnel under PCH connects the campground and parking lot to the beach, making it both safe and convenient for families.

• Day-use hours: 8 AM to 10 PM

• Fees: Parking is paid; however, walking or biking into the park is usually free

• Entry: No access permitted after gates close

Why It’s Ideal for Malibu Beach Villa Vacation Rentals by Owner Guests

For guests staying in beachfront Malibu vacation rentals, Leo Carrillo offers the perfect balance between nature and comfort. After a day of hiking, tide pooling, or dolphin spotting, return to your villa for a private spa soak or a sunset BBQ on the deck.

Properties like Villa Bella Malibu—one of the top-rated Malibu Luxury Beach Villas & Oceanfront Rentals—are just a short drive from the park. With breathtaking views, luxury interiors, and total privacy, it’s the ideal base for exploring Malibu’s natural beauty without sacrificing the comforts of a five-star resort.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re planning a family beach day, a weekend camping trip, or a long-term coastal escape, Leo Carrillo State Beach is a must-see. Combined with the comfort and elegance of a Malibu beach house rental luxury property, your trip will be nothing short of unforgettable.

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