Think of Malibu hikes as a gentle nudge toward adventure rather than a chore, and you’ll want to lace up. You’ll find ocean cliffs, secret coves, shady canyon loops and peaks that reward early starts with golden light. Trails range from stroller-friendly paths to strenuous ridgelines, so you can tailor a day to your pace. Keep going — the best views and quietest routes tend to be a little off the beaten path.
Top Ocean-View Hikes
Looking for ocean views that reward every step? You’ll find hikes that free you from the city’s grip and open toward endless Pacific blue. Point Dume Cove Trail is roughly a mile and gives cliffside panoramas perfect for sunset photos; you’ll feel the horizon expand as you walk. For solitude paired with a curious landmark, try Tuna Canyon Park’s 2.4-mile out-and-back to the labyrinth—fewer people, big vistas. If you want a steadier challenge with canine company, Corral Canyon Loop is 2.5 miles with a 520-foot climb that pays off in sweeping ocean outlooks. Sandstone Peak sits at 3,111 feet, the range’s high point; its 3-mile out-and-back delivers sunrise spectacle that resets perspective. And if you’re coming from Los Angeles, the Los Leones to Parker Mesa Overlook routes offer broad coastal views across varied terrain. Each trail hands you a different kind of liberation—choose the one that opens your chest and lifts your pace.
Easy Family-Friendly Trails
If ocean-views and challenging summits aren’t what you need today, Malibu also offers gentle trails that welcome kids, strollers and leashed dogs—perfect for a relaxed morning outdoors. You’ll find history, artful ruins and easy loops that free you from weekday routines while keeping effort low. Solstice Canyon’s 3-mile loop combines a waterfall and stone cabin ruins; it teaches and soothes. The MASH Site trail stays mostly flat under 2.5 miles one-way, letting you absorb pop-culture history without strain. Eagle Rock stretches to 6.5 miles out-and-back with gradual gain—rewarding but calm. Tuna Canyon Park’s 2.4-mile out-and-back finishes at a labyrinth with ocean views, ideal for reflective family time. Corral Canyon’s 2.5-mile loop offers ocean panoramas and dog-friendly paths. Choose the vibe you want—history, coastal art, vistas or quiet—and you’ll leave feeling lighter, more present, and ready to reclaim your day.
| Trail | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Solstice Canyon | Waterfall + ruins |
| MASH Site | Flat, historic |
| Eagle Rock | Gradual gain |
| Tuna/Corral | Labyrinth/ocean views |
Peaks and Vistas for Sunrise or Sunset
Want to catch the sky on fire at dawn or watch the sun sink into the Pacific? You can claim those moments on peaks above Malibu that reward effort with wide, freeing views. Sandstone Peak, at 3,111 feet, gives commanding sunrise panoramas via a 3-mile out-and-back or a longer loop — you’ll feel the range unfold beneath you. For 360-degree sunset drama, Topanga Lookout Trail’s 2-mile path leads to a broad platform that frames sky and city. Mugu Peak’s steep 1.3-mile climb delivers coastline vistas perfect for bold sunset photos. Parker Mesa Overlook (5 miles round trip) lets you witness light stretching from Venice to Malibu, and Corral Canyon’s moderate 2.5-mile loop offers gentle golden-hour solitude.
Choose a summit that matches your hunger for expansion. Pack layers, headlamps for dawn or dusk, and go claim the horizon.
- Sandstone Peak
- Topanga Lookout Trail
- Mugu Peak
Coastal Walks and Beach Access Trails
When the tide cooperates, coastal walks in Malibu give you sweeping Pacific views and direct access to sandy beaches like Malibu Lagoon and Carbon Beach, so plan your route around low tide for easier shore walks. You’ll choose trails that free you from crowded sidewalks—Point Dume Cove Trail is about a mile, beginner-friendly, and rewards you with cliffside panoramas. Leo Carrillo routes add varied coastal vistas and accessible paths. From December to mid-April, you can watch whales from overlooks; bring binoculars and presence. Low tide makes beach traverses simple and grounding, letting you move along the shore with confidence. These walks invite you to reclaim time, breathe ocean air, and set your own pace.
| Trail/Spot | Feature |
|---|---|
| Point Dume Cove | Iconic cliffs, 1 mile |
| Malibu Lagoon | Beach access, wildlife |
| Carbon Beach | Sandy shore, tide walks |
| Leo Carrillo | Scenic coastal trails |
| Point Dume Overlook | Whale watching season |
Parks With Waterfalls and Historic Ruins
Though Malibu’s coastline draws most attention, the inland parks reward you with cool cascades and evocative ruins that make short hikes feel like time travel. You can break from the expected and find waterfalls, film sets, and ranch remnants within easy reach. Solstice Canyon’s 3-mile loop pairs the Tropical Terrace ruins with a gentle waterfall—history and nature in one accessible circuit. Escondido Falls stretches about 4.2 miles round trip to a dramatic 150-foot drop that swells in spring; plan for mud and reward. Santa Ynez Canyon’s 3-mile round trip ends at an 18-foot grotto waterfall, a quiet place to breathe and reclaim time. Charmlee Wilderness Park lets you explore historic ranch ruins along an outer loop while watching the ocean. The MASH Site Trail, under 2.5 miles one-way, combines flat walking and on-location history. Consider these three reasons to choose inland trails:
- Ruins that root you.
- Waterfalls that refresh.
- Short hikes that liberate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Allowed on These Malibu Trails Year-Round?
Mostly no — many Malibu trails restrict dogs year-round or seasonally, and you’ll find only a few that allow leashed pups. Push for change: support local advocacy, follow rules, and seek designated off-leash areas to liberate outings.
What Permits or Fees Are Required for Overnight Camping Nearby?
About 70% of local campsites require a reservation; you’ll need a campground permit or reservation, sometimes a California State Parks day-use pass, and federal park or fire permits with fees—so plan, reserve early, and claim your outdoor freedom.
When Are Trails Typically Closed for Maintenance or Fire Danger?
Trails get closed seasonally and during wildfire risk, heavy storms, or trail repairs, so you should check agency alerts and local ranger updates; act proactively, stay informed, and reclaim safer access when conditions improve.
Where Are the Nearest Public Restrooms and Water Refill Stations?
You’ll find public restrooms and water refill stations at trailheads like Malibu Creek State Park, Escondido Falls, and Zuma Beach parking areas; carry a refillable bottle, stay hydrated, and support accessible, free resources for everyone on the trails.
Which Trails Have Reliable Cell Phone Reception for Emergencies?
You’ll get reliable cell reception on Backbone, Solstice, and nearby Zuma trails; they’re higher, open, and often near fire roads. Use them for safety, but don’t rely solely—carry a beacon and tell someone your plan.
Conclusion
You’ll find trails here that fit every pace and purpose, from cliffside sunset snaps to gentle family loops. I once watched a solo hiker pause at Point Dume, binoculars raised like a lighthouse guiding her day—reminding you that each trail lights a different part of yourself. With over 20 miles of public coastal paths and quiet canyons nearby, pick a hike, go slow, and let Malibu’s views redirect your rhythm and recharge your spirit.