County: Ventura
City: Malibu
Address: Pacific Coast Hwy (near Point Mugu)
Coordinates: 34.062535803222005, -118.9867031544466
Entry Points:
<h3 data-start="747" data-end="776">Summary </h3>
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<p data-start="780" data-end="808"><strong data-start="780" data-end="788">Name</strong>: Deer Creek Beach</p>
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<p data-start="811" data-end="886"><strong data-start="811" data-end="823">Location</strong>: Just west of Malibu, CA, along Highway 1 at Deer Creek Road</p>
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<p data-start="889" data-end="979"><strong data-start="889" data-end="910">Access & Features</strong>: Unassuming, narrow beach with stair access; sand and rock terrain</p>
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<p data-start="982" data-end="1058"><strong data-start="982" data-end="996">Activities</strong>: Fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving (kelp reef, marine life)</p>
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<p data-start="1061" data-end="1285"><strong data-start="1061" data-end="1084">Conservation Status</strong>: Acquired by the Trust for Public Land in 2022–2023; pending transfer to the National Park Service, adding 1,250 acres and 2 miles of coastline to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area</p>
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<p data-start="1288" data-end="1398"><strong data-start="1288" data-end="1315">Ecological Significance</strong>: Habitat for marine mammals, coastal wildlife, and site of regional biodiversity</p>
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<p data-start="1401" data-end="1499"><strong data-start="1401" data-end="1425">Recreation Potential</strong>: Part of future public access plans and the Coastal Slope Trail extension</p>
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Parking Fee:
$0.00
Restrooms:
No
Other Notes:
<p data-start="153" data-end="477">Deer Creek Beach is a quiet, undeveloped coastal stretch located just west of Malibu along the Pacific Coast Highway. Accessible via a concrete stairway descending from roadside parking near Deer Creek Road, the beach features a narrow mix of sand and rocky terrain, often influenced by tide conditions that limit its width.</p>
<p data-start="479" data-end="801">This secluded area remains largely untouched and is a favorite among anglers, snorkelers, and scuba divers. Offshore, a vibrant reef and kelp forest create excellent diving conditions and support a wide array of marine life. Despite its low profile, the beach is a hidden gem for those seeking natural beauty and solitude.</p>
<p data-start="803" data-end="1183">Deer Creek Beach is part of a broader conservation effort to protect the surrounding 1,250-acre coastal landscape. This region includes over two miles of shoreline and plays a vital role in preserving critical wildlife habitat. The area is slated for future inclusion in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, expanding public access while safeguarding biodiversity.</p>
<p data-start="1185" data-end="1629">Above the shoreline, coastal hills offer panoramic ocean views and are home to species such as mountain lions, deer, coyotes, and a variety of native birds. Visitors can often spot whales, dolphins, and sea lions offshore. The property also contains a section of the planned 70-mile Coastal Slope Trail, which will eventually link Topanga State Park to Point Mugu, providing hikers with continuous access to scenic coastal and mountain terrain.</p>
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<p data-start="1631" data-end="1808">With its rich marine ecosystems, dramatic views, and expanding recreational potential, Deer Creek Beach is a rare example of California coastline preserved in its natural state.</p>