Explore the Best Parks in Malibu, California

There’s more to Malibu than its stunning beaches. The eastern border of the California city extends into the Santa Monica Mountains, where visitors can hike through picturesque canyons and wander through scenic nature preserves. Moreover, there are charming picnic spots along the coastline, providing ideal locations for recreation. Consequently, enjoying a park in Malibu doesn’t always mean spending the day at the beach.

Malibu Creek State Park

The 14-mile Malibu Creek flows through the Santa Monica Mountains, ultimately reaching Malibu Lagoon at the beach near the pier. However, there’s plenty to do in this state park beyond just rock skipping. Engage in various activities, including hiking trails that lead to historical filming locations like where the TV show M*A*S*H was filmed, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and even kayaking on a small lake. The park also offers many open spaces for enjoying the beautiful oak woodlands and rugged mountain canyons. With the city of Los Angeles just 25 minutes away, overnight camping is also available, although reservations are required. If you’re not quite sure how to navigate the park, consider participating in a guided hike led by a knowledgeable park docent to learn about the area’s flora, fauna, and cinematic history.

Trancas Canyon Park

Trancas Canyon Park, located a couple of miles inland from Zuma Beach, is one of the finest parks for families. The park features a spacious playground with sweeping views of the mountains and the ocean, as well as a fenced dog park. Additionally, the expansive grassy field is a perfect spot for a picnic, complemented with covered tables for shade. Facilities such as restrooms and water fountains are available, and parking is ample. Conveniently, nearby is Trancas Market, where you can grab picnic essentials, including pressed paninis, salads, and pizzas.

Malibu Bluffs Park

Malibu Bluffs Park, located just north of the Malibu Pier and past Pepperdine University, serves as a premier recreation hub for families. This six-acre park features two baseball fields, a soccer field that doubles as a scenic picnic area, a play structure, a skatepark, picnic tables, restrooms, and a jogging path that winds around the bluffs with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The Michael Landon Community Center, named after the actor from Little House on the Prairie, often hosts community classes and gatherings. While the park is a home field for local recreational sports, weekends can be crowded, making it advantageous to visit during mid-morning on weekdays for a tranquil experience amid stunning ocean views.

Las Flores Creek Park

Located a few miles inland from the renowned Duke’s Restaurant, which overlooks the ocean along the Pacific Coast Highway, Las Flores Creek Park offers simple yet delightful amenities: a modern playground for children, picnic tables, restrooms, and accessible walking trails. This park is an excellent location for educating visitors about Malibu’s native plants, featuring comprehensive information about its wildlife and history. After exploring, visitors can easily head to Duke’s for a delightful lunch or dinner.

Malibu Country Mart

Malibu Country Mart is a luxurious retail center home to trendy boutiques and popular restaurants, often frequented by celebrities and paparazzi alike. For families with children, there are two playgrounds available for enjoyment between shopping and dining experiences. The original playground is centrally located near John’s Garden café and the Toy Crazy toy store, featuring swing sets built into sand. The newly constructed playground near Whole Foods Market highlights modern interactive play features along with typical slides and climbing structures. The proximity of Country Mart to the pier offers a seamless transition from one attraction to another during your visit.