Malibu Hiking Trails: Scenic Routes for All

Most people come to Malibu for the ocean. What surprises them is everything behind it. Step back from the shoreline and the Santa Monica Mountains rise immediately — canyon trails, coastal bluffs, wetland walks, and ridge paths with views that will stop you mid-stride. The best part? Some of the finest hiking in Malibu begins practically at our doorstep. Lace up your shoes, grab a water bottle, and let us show you around.

1. Malibu Lagoon State Beach Trail — Right Next Door Easy · 2 miles · Flat · All fitness levels
   This is the one we send every guest to first, because it genuinely surprises people. The Malibu Lagoon is where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean — and the walking trail that winds through it is one of the most peaceful and scenic strolls in all of Southern California. Take the walking path to overlooks around shorebird-filled wetlands, connect to Surfrider Beach, and make your way east to the Malibu Pier.
   The Malibu Pier is less than a mile from The Malibu Motel, which means this entire walk begins and ends within easy reach of your room. It’s flat, easy, and genuinely beautiful — perfect for an early morning before the crowds arrive. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the lagoon area, so bring binoculars if you have them.

   Hiking tip: Go at sunrise. The light on the water and the mountains behind is unlike anything you’ll see at midday.
   

2. Malibu Bluffs Park Trail — Two Minutes Up the Road Easy to moderate · 2–5 miles depending on route · Some elevation
   Malibu Bluffs Park sits at 24250 Pacific Coast Highway — a short drive or bike ride from the motel — and offers some of the most sweeping coastal views in the area without requiring a serious commitment. The bluffs look out over Santa Monica Bay, and depending on the time of year, pelicans, dolphins, or whales may accompany you on the descent toward the water. On a clear day the view is nothing short of cinematic.
   The trail connects down toward Malibu Lagoon and the Pier, making it a great option for guests who want to build a longer morning loop — bluffs down, beach back.

   Hiking tip: Parking at Malibu Bluffs Park is free. The park opens at 8am so early birds may need to walk from PCH.

3. Corral Canyon Loop — A Local Favorite, Just Up PCHModerate · 2.5-mile loop · 520 ft elevation gain · Dogs welcome on leash
   Ask a Malibu local where they hike on a Sunday morning and Corral Canyon comes up more than anywhere else. It’s short, moderate, conveniently located right off PCH, and you get beautiful views of the ocean from most of the hike. The trailhead — the Sara Wan Trailhead — sits right next to Malibu Seafood, which makes the post-hike plan very easy to figure out.
   This is one of the best scenic trails in the area for the effort-to-reward ratio. Views appear right away — within half a mile of the trailhead — and stretch all the way around the loop. It’s the kind of hike that makes you feel like you’ve earned Malibu.

   Hiking tip: Hike the loop clockwise for better ocean views on the way down. Parking fills up fast on weekends — there’s free parking along PCH at the trailhead if the lot is full.
   
   4. Solstice Canyon Trail — Into the Heart of the Mountains Easy to moderate · 2.8-mile loop · 400 ft elevation gain
   The trail winds up the side of the canyon, alternating between uphill, flat, and downhill sections, with beautiful ocean views visible along the way. The destination is the Tropical Terrace — the remains of a house built by renowned architect Paul Revere Williams, tucked into lush canyon greenery with a waterfall nearby. It’s the kind of place you stumble into and immediately want to come back to.
   The trailhead is just a few miles up PCH from The Malibu Motel — close enough for a spontaneous afternoon adventure, rewarding enough to plan your whole day around.

   Hiking tip: The trail starts just past Malibu Seafood heading north on PCH — turn right onto Corral Canyon Road and continue to the gated entrance on the left. Arrive early, especially on weekends.

A Few General Hiking Tips for Malibu

Hiking in Malibu is beautiful year-round, but a few things are worth knowing before you head out:

• Water is non-negotiable. The sun and the dry canyon air will catch you off guard even on mild days. Carry more than you think you need.

• Sunrise and golden hour are magic. The light on the mountains and ocean in the early morning and late afternoon is worth setting an alarm for.

• Layers help. Marine layer can make mornings cool even in summer. A light jacket stashed in a day pack is never a bad call.

• Check conditions. Trails can close after rain or fire. A quick check on AllTrails before you head out takes thirty seconds and saves a wasted drive.

Back at The Malibu Motel
One of the genuine pleasures of staying with us is that Malibu’s best outdoor experiences are right outside your door. Hike in the morning, swim in the afternoon, and watch the sun go down from PCH. That’s a Malibu day done right. We’re happy to give you personalized trail recommendations based on your fitness level, how much time you have, and whether you’re bringing kids or a dog. Just ask at check-in — we know Malibu hiking trails.

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