Leo Carrillo State Beach was named after a star of Broadway and
television. He served 14 years on the State Beaches and Parks
Commission and was instrumental in the states acquisition of the
coastal property in and around Malibu. The state beach is located
in the Santa Monica Mountains, 30 miles northwest of Santa Monica
off the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).
The park extends 1.5 miles and is an ideal beach for swimming,
surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and sunbathing. There are waves
for long and short boards and plenty of space for the summer surf
crowds. The winds pick up in the late afternoon, providing fantastic
conditions for windsurfing.
The major activities at Leo Carrillo are windsurfing and kite
surfing. When the wind picks up you can witness a coastline full
of colorful sails. There are also tide pools, coastal caves and
reefs for exploring. Leo Carrillo is a great family beach. There
is easy beach access and a large beach for group picnics. The
park also offers back country hiking. And during the summer, children's
programs are available at the visitors center.
There is a large camping area at Leo Carrillo, shaded by a forest
of giant sycamore trees. There are 135 camping sites available,
each with a table and a fire ring. Camping at Leo Carrillo costs
$15.00-$25.00 a night, depending on the season. There are also
hike and bike sites for touring cyclists and west coast backpackers.
During the summer time the camp sites fill up quickly, so making
reservations in advance is highly recommended.
Leo Carrillo’s parking lot is on the northwest side of
the state beach. It is pricey to park here. The cost is $10.00
a day and you pay at the ranger post. There is limited free parking
along the PCH.
NO alcohol/glass containers
NO dogs
NO vehicles on the beach
NO fires
Bathrooms/showers available