National Recreation Area · CA

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

The Santa Monica Mountains offer easy access to surprisingly wild places. Experience the famous beaches of Malibu or explore more than 500 miles of trails. The park abounds with historical and cultural sites, from old movie ranches to Native American centers. What will you and your family discover?

nps.gov ↗

Photos

Sunbeams reaching from glowing sun over the ocean.
Point Mugu Sunset
Trail view with yellow flowers in the foreground that lead to green mountains against a blue sky.
Zuma Canyon in spring.
Mountain silhouettes at sunrise.
View from Sandstone Peak at Sunrise
Wispy cloud covered sky over chaparral covered mountains.
Malibu Creek Overlook
People riding horses into the sunset on a mountain trail.
Equestrians on Trail
Rocks emerging from ocean.
Leo Carrillo Beach
Two individuals sitting atop a rocky outcrop while watching the sun set.
Sunset Views
Milky way shines in night sky over a mountain and oak tree.
Paramount Ranch Night Sky

Activities

  • Biking
  • Mountain Biking
  • Camping
  • Car or Front Country Camping
  • Climbing
  • Rock Climbing
  • Compass and GPS
  • Geocaching
  • Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Horse Trekking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store