Welcome to coastal adventure and canyon charm at Leo Carrillo State Park. It is nestled 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu, California. Spanning over 2,500 acres, this coastal gem blends sandy beaches, tide pools, scenic trails and shaded campgrounds beneath giant sycamores—making it a perfect seaside escape.
What Makes Leo Carrillo State Park Unique
This park stands out for its dramatic combination of oceanfront and backcountry landscapes. You can surf rolling Pacific swells in the morning. You can explore tide pools and sea caves at low tide. Then, head inland to hike canyon ridges. Discover the historic Nicholas Flat Natural Preserve. Named for actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the park carries his legacy both in name and in its role preserving California’s natural coastal heritage.
Top Activities & Amenities
🏕️ Campsites & Campground Facilities
The main Canyon Campground offers 135 family sites nestled under towering sycamores. Each site comes with picnic tables and fire rings. There are also vault toilets and coin-operated hot showers available. A separate hike-and-bike area suits minimalists. A group campground at the canyon’s end accommodates up to 50 people and includes BBQ pits and restrooms.
🏖️ Beach Access & Surfing
1.5 miles of sandy shoreline provide space for body surfing, walking, fishing and sunbathing. South Beach offers gentle beginner waves while North Beach attracts surfers and tidepool explorers. Lifeguard towers, sand wheelchairs and accessible restrooms serve beachgoers daily.
🌊 Tidepooling & Sea Caves
At low tide, explore the rocky reefs and caves near the northern beach. Tidepools brim with sea stars, anemones and crabs. A natural sea cave arch at the south end is a favorite for photographers and adventurous visitors.
🥾 Hiking Trails & Backcountry
Several trails wind through the park. The easy Yellow Hill Fire Trail climbs to blufftop views across Channel Islands. The challenging Nicholas Flat Trail meanders through wildflower-filled canyons to a seasonal stock pond. A short nature loop near the Campfire Center offers interpretive signage.
🐾 Wildlife Viewing & Interpretive Programs
Coastal birds, bobcats, mule deer and tidepool creatures await attentive visitors. Junior Ranger programs, campfire talks and weekend nature walks run Memorial Day through Labor Day, led by park staff from the small weekend visitor center.
🎾 Sports, Playground & Group Areas
Campground amenities include a volleyball court, playground and group BBQ area. Beach volleyball nets are also available on the sand.
🏓 Visitor Convenience & Accessibility
A camp store by the campground entrance offers basic supplies, firewood and snacks. RV dump station, recycling bins and drinking water spigots are onsite. Accessible campsites, restrooms, showers, wheelchair-accessible beach mats and sand wheelchairs ensure inclusive enjoyment.
Visitor Tips
- Parking & Fees: Daily vehicle fees range from $3 (one hour) to $12 (all day); buses pay $50–$125.
- Camping Reservations: Sites available year-round; reserve online or call. Summer weekends fill fast.
- Pets: Leashed dogs allowed in camping/picnic areas and South Beach service road—not on trails or in caves.
- Beach Safety: Beware rip currents; swim near lifeguards; stair tunnels cross Highway 1.
- Tidepool Etiquette: Observe without disturbing—no removal of creatures or shells.
- Trail Safety: Bring water and sturdy shoes; canyon trails are remote with limited cell service.
- Fire & Wood: Fires allowed in provided rings only; purchase onsite—no gathering wood.
- Wildlife Concerns: Watch for rattlesnakes, ticks and poison oak inland; keep a respectful distance from marine mammals.
- Seasonal Hazards: The Woolsey Fire in 2018 impacted vegetation; some inner-canyon trails may be periodically closed for restoration—check park updates.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Plan an early spring camping trip to witness wildflowers blooming in Nicholas Flat and canyon ridges. Arrive at sunrise to surf the glassy morning waves and catch the soft light on sea caves. Hang back on summer evenings. The stars shine bright over camp. The sound of ocean surf soothes beneath sycamore canopies. For a hidden gem, head inland on the Nicholas Flat Trail toward the stock pond—often calm and flanked by blooming canyon oaks. On departure, grab a fish taco and ocean view at Malibu Farm Café on the pier to complete your quintessential Malibu coast experience.