Leo Carrillo State Park - California Beaches

On the western outskirts of Malibu California is a state park with picturesque natural features and diverse beaches. Leo Carrillo State Park has rock arches, caves, tide pools, and trails to explore. Highway 1 follows the coastline behind each of the beaches and separates them from the rest of the park. This inland portion of the park offers a campground with over 100 camp sites and excellent camping facilities.

Hiking trails branch out from Canyon Campground and including options of varying difficulty from a short nature trail loop to steeper trails with views out over the Pacific to the Channel Islands. Mountain bikers can ride the steep rugged Yellow Hill Fire Road Trail starting near the park visitor center.

Leo Carrillo State Park has four separate beach access points, each with a different feel. Below is a list of these beaches.

South Beach has a narrow sandy beach in a round cove where rocks are exposed at lower tides. Restrooms are behind the beach and the campground is across the highway. Free parking is available along the highway shoulder. It’s possible to walk south from this beach to Nicholas Canyon County Beach.

North Beach is a more typical wide sandy beach backed by a long paved parking lot. Dogs are allowed on leash north of lifeguard tower 3. Restrooms are near the beach.

Between South and North Beach is an area known as Sequit Point. In this area there are rock arches and tunnels to walk through. Tide pools are exposed at low tide. This is a fun area for kids and families to explore.

Staircase Beach has a separate parking area and a trail down the bluff to the beach. Here you can walk the narrow beach in both directions except at high tide.

County Line Beach is the final beach in Leo Carrillo State Park. It is in a sandy cove up the highway near the border between Los Angeles and Ventura County.

Lifeguards are staffed seasonally at North and South Beach for those who want to swim, surf, or body board. If they are not present, then use caution as rip currents can develop along this shoreline. Note that the campground fills up regularly so reservations are recommended.