Leo Carrillo State Park Los Angeles
Malibu's scenic gem with coastal caves, tide pools, surfing, and dog-friendly beaches. Perfect for nature lovers and campers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Leo Carrillo State Park Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Malibu's scenic gem with coastal caves, tide pools, surfing, and dog-friendly beaches. Perfect for nature lovers and campers.
"There was only a few other people here on a Friday! Unheardddddd of in Malibu."
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Check out a free CA State Parks pass from your local LA County Library for free day-use admission!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach North
The dog-friendly beach is located north of the main area. Look for a hidden trail to access it.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Caves and Reefs
North end of the beach
Explore fascinating sea caves and vibrant reefs teeming with marine life during low tide. A must-see for nature lovers!
Dog-Friendly Beach Access
North of the main beach
Bring your furry friends to a dedicated section of the beach, perfect for a day of sun and sand with your canine companion.
+1
Tide Pooling Adventures
Along the 1.5 miles of coastline
Discover a diverse array of sea creatures in the natural tide pools, offering an educational and exciting experience for all ages.
Camping by the Ocean
Campground
Experience the magic of sleeping under the stars with ocean views. Reservations are highly recommended due to popularity.
+1Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
Free Park Access: Your Library Card is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Check out a free CA State Parks pass from your local LA County Library for free day-use admission! +2
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach North
The dog-friendly beach is located north of the main area. Look for a hidden trail to access it.
🌊 Surf Spot at Leo Carrillo
Leo Carrillo is known for its surfable waves, making it a great spot for surfers.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Beach camping spots are highly sought after. Check frequently for cancellations if you can't book in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Check out a free CA State Parks pass from your local LA County Library for free day-use admission! +2
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach North
The dog-friendly beach is located north of the main area. Look for a hidden trail to access it.
🌊 Surf Spot at Leo Carrillo
Leo Carrillo is known for its surfable waves, making it a great spot for surfers.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Beach camping spots are highly sought after. Check frequently for cancellations if you can't book in advance.
🚗 PCH Access
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) can have closures. Check conditions, especially if coming from the northwest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Leo Carrillo State Park's stunning natural beauty, especially its unique coastal caves and accessible tide pools. The dog-friendly beach and beachfront camping are significant draws, offering diverse experiences. However, securing camping reservations can be challenging due to high demand, and parking can be limited during peak times.
"Amazing! Dog friendly beach as well as non dog friendly. I only checked out the dog beach but it was very nice! The park rangers were so helpful! Rocks were great and the atmosphere here is peaceful! Campground is cute and simple and there are showers and bathrooms. You need coins for the shower and one coin gets you 2 mins of a hot shower. After that it is cold but still runs. I got a good reset here! All in all, great place, easy to access and I will be back if I am in the area! Hope to be able to camp here as the sites are so cute! White bark trees growing all in and around them!"
Lacees Mom
"The tide pools were phenomenal! And it was great that there's free parking on the side of the highway, so you don't have to pay for parking. It was a small walk from where we were able to park, across the highway and down a little hill to the beach. We found starfish, sea slugs, crabs, sea anemone, all kinds of fun critters. There's a rocky outcrop that's perfect for tide pooling. Bring sandals with Velcro straps for getting across the rocks easier. It's a bit painful barefoot, or you risk getting your shoes wet."
Casey McCabe
"Clean park and restrooms. Rangers actively walk camp sites when people leave to clean up. Walking distance to the beach. Dog beach on leash on one side of rocks, no dogs on the other. Driving distance to Malibu. Handicapped sites don't have picnic tables on cement, but the spots are flat. Only electric hook up. Fill tanks with water before you get in your site. Potable water is available near dump area to fill tanks. Sites have community spouts."
Carole Riedinger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Leo Carrillo State Park is located on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu, about an hour's drive from Los Angeles. You can take the US-101 N and exit onto CA-1 S/PCH. Be aware that PCH can experience closures, so check traffic conditions before you go.
Yes, there is parking available at the park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options to Leo Carrillo State Park are limited. While some bus routes may pass along PCH, it's generally more convenient to drive. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
Yes, RVs can access the park and campground. However, specific site sizes and hookup availability should be confirmed when making reservations.
If PCH is closed, you may need to approach from the northwest via Ventura County. Check Caltrans for the most up-to-date road closure information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day-use admission fees apply, but California residents can obtain free day-use passes by checking them out from participating LA County Libraries with a valid library card. +2
Reservations are highly recommended for camping, especially during peak season. Day-use entry does not typically require reservations, but arriving early is advised due to parking limitations.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset for day-use. Campground hours may vary, and it's best to check the official California State Parks website for the most current information.
Yes, the free California State Parks day-use passes obtained from LA County Libraries are valid for entry into Leo Carrillo State Park. +2
The primary way to get free entry is through the California State Parks library pass program. Otherwise, standard day-use fees apply.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Leo Carrillo offers swimming, surfing, surf fishing, hiking, tide pooling, exploring coastal caves, and camping. It's also a popular spot for beachcombing and photography.
Yes, a specific section of Leo Carrillo State Park is dog-friendly. This area is located north of the main beach, and a hidden trail leads down to it.
The park boasts 1.5 miles of coastline with accessible tide pools, especially during low tide. You can find various marine life like sea anemones, starfish, and small crabs.
Yes, Leo Carrillo is known for its surfable waves and is a popular spot for surfers.
While primarily known for its beach, there are opportunities for hiking and exploring the coastal bluffs and surrounding areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or extensive food services directly within Leo Carrillo State Park. It's recommended to bring your own food, snacks, and drinks for your visit.
You'll find various dining options in the nearby Malibu area, ranging from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Plan for a short drive to access these.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Leo Carrillo. There are designated picnic areas, and you can also set up on the beach. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Some picnic areas may have BBQ grills available on a first-come, first-served basis. It's advisable to bring your own portable grill if you plan on barbecuing.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and meals, especially if you plan to spend the entire day. Coolers are recommended to keep food fresh.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastal caves, tide pools, dramatic rock formations, and the expansive beach itself offer stunning photographic opportunities. The sunsets here are also spectacular.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most beautiful light for photography. Low tide is also ideal for capturing tide pool details.
Drone usage is typically restricted in California State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the specific park regulations or contact the park office for the most current drone policy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline, while a macro lens is useful for tide pool photography. A tripod can be beneficial for sunset shots.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Be mindful of nesting birds or other protected species.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gentle waves in some areas are also suitable for younger children to play in the water. Consider bringing sand toys, buckets, and nets for tide pool exploration. The park's accessibility and the variety of activities, from beachcombing to simply building sandcastles, make it an engaging outing. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited. The dog-friendly beach also means families can bring their well-behaved canine companions along for the fun.
🐶 Pet Owners
+1Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and be prepared to clean up after them. Bringing plenty of water for your pet is crucial, especially on warm days. This amenity makes Leo Carrillo a standout option for pet-loving visitors looking for coastal adventures.
🏄 Surfers and Beach Enthusiasts
For those interested in camping, the beachfront campground provides an unparalleled experience for surf enthusiasts, allowing for early morning sessions and late evening paddles. Book your camping spot well in advance as they are highly sought after.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Leo Carrillo's Unique Geology
Tide pooling is a highlight here, offering a chance to observe a diverse ecosystem up close. The park's reefs are home to various species, making it a fascinating spot for both amateur naturalists and experienced marine biologists. Remember to check tide charts before your visit to maximize your exploration time and safety.
Beyond the immediate coastline, the park also offers opportunities for hiking, allowing visitors to experience the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains that meet the sea. The varied terrain provides a rich environment for both flora and fauna. Always be mindful of slippery surfaces and changing tides when exploring the rocky areas.
Camping at Leo Carrillo: A Beachfront Experience
Securing a spot can be challenging, but Redditors suggest frequently checking the reservation system for cancellations. Persistence can pay off, allowing you to snag a coveted site even during peak season. The campground provides basic amenities, making it a comfortable base for exploring the park and surrounding Malibu area.
While the beach camping is a major draw, the park also offers other camping options. For those seeking a surf-centric experience, Leo Carrillo is noted for its surfable waves, adding another layer of appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Dog-Friendly Adventures at Leo Carrillo
+1This special area allows dogs to roam and play on the sand, making it a great spot for canine exercise and enjoyment. It's important to note that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, even in the designated area, to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors and wildlife.
When planning your visit with a dog, remember to bring essentials like water, waste bags, and any comfort items your pet might need. This dog-friendly beach is a significant draw for visitors looking for outdoor activities that include their four-legged family members.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit