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    Malibu Canyon

    4.4 (21 reviews)

    Malibu Canyon Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Malibu Canyon

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    Bryan N.

    One of my favorite hikes! We went all the way down to the base and jumped from the side piece of the dam into the water! The water was pretty cold in the winter, so it would be definitely better to go during the summer time! This hike is more at the medium-advance level due to the obstacles such at climbing up ropes and ladders.

    Scouting route
    Stephanie P.

    "DAM" THERE'S POISON OAK IS EVERYWHERE!! BACKGROUND: The Rindge Dam in Malibu Canyon, located 2.5 miles north of Malibu Lagoon, where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean. During improvements to the Malibu Rancho, the 100-foot-high dam was built in 1925 by May Rindge, with a 574 acre-foot reservoir to control floods and conserve the water of Malibu Creek. The reservoir filled with silt in less than twenty five years and is under consideration for demolition, part of efforts to restore the Malibu Creek watershed and re-establish native species, especially the Steelhead Trout. The dam is one of the few vestiges of the Rindge period of Malibu. STATS: Distance: 5-6 miles. Elevation Gain: less than 500 Trailish: Out and back. Numerous creek crossings Poison Oak Rock & Boulder Hopping Slippery Algae Covered Rocks Great Scenery ESSENTIALS: At least 3 liters of water Know your limits Hiking boots that can resist water Layered Clothing Gloves High protein food/snacks Electrolytes Camera (waterproof or some form of protection) Hat (optional) Sunblock Technu OUR ROUTE: I rarely do the same hike twice, but when I do it's worth it, I've hiked this route twice now and look forward to a good rain to drop much needed water in this area. Our route took us down Malibu Creek which parallels Malibu Canyon Road to the Dam where we explored and stop for breaks and lunch along the way. Me and The Crew began this adventure following a single track trail that lead us though canopies of trees, as well as poison oak that seemed to be growing from the ground up through the trees. It was everywhere. We come to the canyon where boulders occupied a majority of the stream that runs to the dam. Up and over, scale like a Spidy man, might as well jump we got along till the boulders shrunk to rocks, then it was skip, hippity hop, might as well jump, or just take the plunge and dredged through it in hopes it would rinse off at least some of the PO we plowed through. The water might not potable and might be murky, but sometimes it's safer to just walk through it than to avoid it, especially when safe rock hopping is virtually impossible or the rocks are covered with green slime. One hiker slipped on a rock and ended up with a non-functioning cell phone, she was using as a camera. Once at the dam, the adventure continued. There were re-bar ladders embedded in the cement blocks to climb down and up with short crossings in between. Then down a bum sliding dirt slope, we eventually arrived at the watering hole, not the bar, an actual watering hole. While some went in the frigid water, the daredevils swam to the far side where they sprang into the water, still others chilled on the rocks, ate lunch, and took pictures. This is a good time to use that Technu, PO breakout prevention. Disclaimer: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up. Review 70 Yelp 100+ Challenge 2015 #HIKEITUP #WATER #POISONOAK

    This butterfly was feasting along the Backbone Trail.
    Sean S.

    Malibu Canyon is beautiful. There's several trails along the way. Parking just south of Piuma Road on the west side of Malibu Canyon is the Backbone Trail. A nice climb up a single track trail that connects to a dirt road and continues up and around the hill top for excellent view of Malibu Canyon toward the south.

    Notice saying the dam is closed
    Michael S.

    The parks dept has "closed" the dam. Didn't think you were ever supposed to be there so not sure what's different now. Anyway this place is awesome and everyone should jump in at least once in there life. It's a little tricky getting down there so bring some fit friends.

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    12 years ago

    great drive easier than topanga a little more out of the way but it you have time take this instead of topanga from the valley down to PCH.

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    Ask the Community - Malibu Canyon

    Review Highlights - Malibu Canyon

    Further downstream, Malibu Creek waterfalls 100 feet over the Rindge Dam, then carves its final path into Malibu Lagoon.

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    Malibu Pier - There were a lot of people having lunch at the Malibu Farm Restaurant.

    Malibu Pier

    4.2(63 reviews)
    2.5 km

    MALIBU PIER @ MALIBU…read more Parking is available on the street, but it does get pretty busy since this is a major tourist area. I'd recommend starting to look for street parking once you're about three minutes away. There is parking nearby, but you'll most likely have to pay for a lot or structure. I came here with my friends on a weekend, and it was very crowded. There are tons of restaurants along the pier and surrounding area, plus a lot of seagulls and pigeons everywhere. The pier itself has so much going on -- vendors selling little souvenirs like magnets, lots of people walking around, and overall just a very lively atmosphere. The weather was absolutely beautiful when we went -- super sunny and bright -- which made the experience even better. While it does get crowded and some areas feel a bit tight, that's kind of part of the charm. There's always something happening, and it feels energetic and exciting. The pier is very walkable, so I'd definitely recommend wearing comfortable shoes since you'll probably be walking around for a while. One thing to note though: even if it's sunny during the day, it can get pretty chilly, especially with the ocean breeze, so make sure to bring a jacket. Overall, I'd highly recommend stopping by on a busy weekend if you want that lively, classic pier experience. It's crowded, but it's beautiful and full of energy.

    I've been wanting to try the Malibu Pier for a few months now and went early this morning. There…read morewas a Russian(?) guy and his kid randomly hanging around the cars parked in the street. I got out to check things out and he starts walking over to my car as I go to the pier. I'm keeping an eye out because I don't know if he there to break into cars or something. I get back in my car because I didn't realize the pier opens till 7. The guy is still hanging around for some reason so I lock my car. Another car pulls up and tries to park behind me and the guy jumps into spot and starts telling the guy in the car he can't park there. He then makes his kid stand in the spot as a human barrier and then starts arguing with the guy in the car, then he takes a swing at the guy in the car. The guy in the car gets out and they start arguing. The Russian guy was about to get beat down because the other guy was clearly bigger, so I get out and yell at him and told him I was going to call the cops. They argue a little more and the guy in the car drives across the street to park. Then a truck comes up with a bunch fishing gear and the Russian guy and his kid help him unload and go towards the pier. This place doesn't seem safe. I'm not sure why this even happened as there was plenty of street parking. Needless to say, I left and won't be back.

    Photos
    Malibu Pier
    Malibu Pier - A little boat and a blue garbage can.

    A little boat and a blue garbage can.

    Malibu Pier - Paddle boarding at Malibu Pier

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    Paddle boarding at Malibu Pier

    Topanga Days - Wonky Tops handmade crochet Hippie Merch Booth @ Topanga Days. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day Weekend  2022 in LA

    Topanga Days

    3.4(24 reviews)
    11.7 km

    It's 2026 Topanga Days. Oh how times have changed ... for the worse…read more Who actually pays an outrageous $74.00 to enter / $63.60 online? They tell you ''become a member & save". Save what, $5.00? Back in the day people were really upset to pay $25.00! Imagine a family of four going for a day out this weekend ... that's $296.00 just to get in. You wander around only to find way less vendors than ever before & too much of the same thing. No exciting surprises. No special gifts. No unusual handcrafts. Hungry? ZERO healthy food, just expensive junk food. So much for a healthy community! The only good deal is the giant lemonades over at the far end for $7, which you will need for hydration. Wait, what about the music? A few standout singers & bands but for the most part, mediocre, nothing really memorable, just background noise unless you've had plenty of alcohol & really don't care. Familiar faces from over many years are rare, as many in the community no longer show up to dance & play. HUGE disappointment - Overpriced, pure greed on the part of the Topanga Community Center (TCC), who put this on every year to fill their coffers. SMH with absolute disgust. Is anything about Topanga Days worthwhile? The random games are fun if you participate, but the best thing is the Monday early morning community carnival, but you will have to be there before 8am to witness or participate, as Topanga road is closed until late morning for the floats. Unless you're within the community, you won't get to see any of it. If/When/Until the TCC pulls themselves together, hires fresh, younger, innovative minds that actually care, quits the greed & selfishness, lowers the exorbitant entry fee, entices better vendors & memorable music artists, Topanga Days is just not worth it anymore. Very, very sad.

    Another Great Event excellent music excellent Food great great people very fun Kids Zone...read more

    Photos
    Topanga Days - People gather under the Big Tree. Topanga Days was Completely Sold Out all weekend. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day 2022

    People gather under the Big Tree. Topanga Days was Completely Sold Out all weekend. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day 2022

    Topanga Days - Topanga Days was Completely Sold Out all weekend. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day Weekend  2022 in LA

    Topanga Days was Completely Sold Out all weekend. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day Weekend 2022 in LA

    Topanga Days - Merch Booths, Food & Music. Topanga Days was Completely Sold Out. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day Weekend  2022 in LA

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    Merch Booths, Food & Music. Topanga Days was Completely Sold Out. They bring back the 60's & 70's Memorial Day Weekend 2022 in LA

    Topanga Lookout Trail - Beautiful flowers

    Topanga Lookout Trail

    4.6(67 reviews)
    7.6 km

    On a beautiful spring day there is nothing better to do then go for a hike in the mountains! As I…read morewas up early I decided to jet out to the Topanga lookout Trail! The ride to this trail is beautiful but keep your eyes on the road! Once you get to the trailhead there is street parking. Just don't park on the street between 9-6am. Come early for a good spot near the trailhead! This walk/ hike is relatively short. The hike starts at the gate and from there stay left all the way to the end. You hike will start on a paved area and then transition to a trail. A relatively simple hike with some gradual ups and downs! The views from the trail is absolutely beautiful! Especially when the fog is rolling off the mountains! You can truly get a 360 view! And the very end of the trail you are greeted with a cement platform that has been graffiti! This Takes away from the beauty but interesting its own right! On your way back to your car, if the cloud and the fog has lifted you will be able to see the beautiful ocean from the mountain peaks! If you are seeking a quick simple hike with beautiful 360 views, then this is worth the windy uphill drive!

    Came here for a quick hike to a graffitied spot. It was about a 20 minute hike to the top and on…read morethe day we went, it was all foggy so there were no views. ahhahaha Great place to just stop and think and enjoy the silence. Great for all levels and I saw some people making a bouquet out of all the beautiful flowers on the trail.

    Photos
    Topanga Lookout Trail - Lookout

    Lookout

    Topanga Lookout Trail - Floral abundance

    Floral abundance

    Topanga Lookout Trail - Thistle

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    Thistle

    Malibu Canyon - localflavor - Updated August 2026

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