Why visit
It offers some of the most photogenic tide pools and sea caves on the LA-area coast, plus a rare chance to camp steps from the beach. The mix of rocky exploration, sandy beach, and bluff hiking makes it a full-day coastal adventure with a wild, remote feel.
The beach is studded with caves, tunnels, and reefs carved into the coastal rock, exposed at low tide to reveal tide pools teeming with sea stars, anemones, and crabs. North Beach and the main beach offer sand for sunbathing and swimming, while the rocky areas reward careful exploration and are popular for surfing and snorkeling. Inland, hiking trails climb the bluffs and into the Santa Monica Mountains for canyon and ocean views. A large campground sits across Pacific Coast Highway in a sycamore-shaded canyon, making this one of the better spots for car camping near the coast in the LA area. The park is well known to film and TV fans, as its caves and beach have appeared in many productions over the decades. Because it sits at the far northern edge of Malibu near the Ventura County line, it feels more remote and wild than the Westside beaches closer to the city.
History
The park is named for Leo Carrillo, the actor and conservationist who served on the California Beach and Parks Commission and championed the preservation of the state's coastline and historic sites. The land was set aside as a state park to protect this rugged stretch of shore, its tide pools, and the surrounding canyon habitat.
Insider Tips
- ✦Time your trip to morning low tide for the best caves and tide pools
- ✦Wear shoes with grip, as the rocks are slick and uneven
- ✦Cross Pacific Coast Highway with care to reach the canyon campground
Photo Tips
- 📸Shoot the sea caves and rock arches at low tide when the most rock is exposed
- 📸Capture tide-pool close-ups of sea stars and anemones in the morning
- 📸Frame the rugged rock formations against the surf in warm late-day light
Before You Go
- ✓Check the tide schedule, since tide pools and sea caves are only accessible around low tide
- ✓A common mistake is exploring caves on a rising tide — know the tide direction to avoid getting cut off
- ✓Confirm camping reservations and current fees separately if you plan to stay overnight
Visiting with family
Tide pools make this a hit with curious kids, but the wet rocks are slippery and the surf near the caves can be strong, so supervise closely. Check the tide chart so you arrive when the pools are exposed.
Where to Eat Nearby
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Leo Carrillo State Park FAQ
What is Leo Carrillo State Park known for?
It is known for its sea caves, tunnels, and rich tide pools, along with a sandy beach, bluff hiking trails, and a popular canyon campground across the highway.
Can you camp at Leo Carrillo?
Yes, there is a campground in a sycamore canyon across Pacific Coast Highway. Reservations and fees are handled separately, so book and confirm prices in advance.
When are the tide pools best?
Tide pools and sea caves are best at low tide. Check a tide schedule and aim for a morning low tide for the safest and fullest exploration.
Nearby Neighborhoods
WestsideSanta Monica
Santa Monica is a breezy beachfront city famous for its historic pier, wide sandy beaches, and walkable shopping. It blends classic Southern California seaside leisure with a polished, pedestrian-friendly downtown. Visitors come for the ocean, the sunsets, and the easygoing coastal energy.
WestsidePacific Palisades
Pacific Palisades is a serene coastal neighborhood where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the sea, prized for hiking, ocean bluffs, and a cozy village center. It's home to cultural gems like the Getty Villa and the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine. The pace is calm, scenic, and outdoorsy.
More Beaches in LA
BeachesVenice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a vibrant, eccentric oceanfront promenade famous for street performers, artists, and the open-air Muscle Beach gym. It's a free, free-spirited slice of LA culture where the beach, the skate park, and the carnival of vendors all blend together.
BeachesMalibu Pier
Malibu Pier is a historic wooden pier reaching into the Pacific beside the world-famous Surfrider Beach, offering ocean views, fishing, dining, and easy beach access. It is a relaxed gateway to Malibu's surf culture and coastline.
BeachesEl Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach is a dramatic, secluded Malibu cove famous for its towering sea stacks, sea caves, and arches carved into the cliffs. Reached by a steep trail and stairs, it rewards visitors with one of the most photogenic stretches of coastline in Southern California.
BeachesZuma Beach
Zuma Beach is one of Malibu's largest and most popular sandy beaches, beloved for its wide shoreline, clean water, and reliable surf. With ample parking, lifeguards, and full facilities, it is a go-to spot for swimming, sunbathing, and a classic SoCal beach day.
Helpful Guides
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FamilyThe Best Family Activities in Los Angeles
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Leo Carrillo State Park on the map
See Leo Carrillo State Park and what's nearby in Malibu.
Map pins are approximate and for visitor planning only — they may not mark the exact entrance or parking. Please check official directions before visiting.
Places shown on this map (9)
- Leo Carrillo State Park — Beaches
- Malibu Pier — Beaches
- El Matador State Beach — Beaches
- Zuma Beach — Beaches
- Point Dume — Beaches
- Malibu Lagoon State Beach — Beaches
- Malibu Creek State Park — Parks
- Santa Monica — Neighborhood
- Pacific Palisades — Neighborhood