Entry Points & Other Info

Entry Points:
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Parking Fee:
Yes

Parking Notes:
If you enter the State Beach, there is a parking fee. Free parking along PCH, parking is at your own risk.

Restrooms:
Yes

Other Notes:

Leo Carrillo State Beach is a stunning coastal destination located along the western edge of Malibu, featuring approximately 1.5 miles of sandy shoreline and rocky coves. Part of the larger Leo Carrillo State Park, which spans over 2,500 acres, the beach is known for its natural beauty, sea caves, tide pools, and dramatic rock formations. It’s named after actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo and has been a protected area since 1953.

The beach is divided into several distinct zones, including North Beach, South Beach (also known as Arroyo Sequit), and the more secluded Staircase Beach. Each section offers a different coastal experience, from broad sandy stretches to intimate coves and reef-protected zones ideal for exploration.

Leo Carrillo State Beach supports a wide variety of recreational activities, such as surfing, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, tidepooling, windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and surf fishing. The area is especially popular with families and pet owners, as dogs are allowed on leash in designated areas of North Beach.

Across the Pacific Coast Highway, the park’s campground sits under large sycamore trees and offers both tent and RV sites, some with hookups. Campground amenities include restrooms, hot showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and a seasonal camp store. Park rangers lead interpretive programs, including Junior Ranger activities, guided nature walks, and evening campfire events.

Beyond the beach, hiking trails wind through coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and riparian woodland, providing access to inland habitats and scenic overlooks. The park connects to the Nicholas Flat Natural Preserve, adding opportunities for more rugged outdoor adventures.

 

With its diverse ecosystems, rich recreational offerings, and striking coastal scenery, Leo Carrillo State Beach is a favorite destination for both day visitors and overnight campers seeking the best of Southern California’s natural coastline.