There’s something special about hiking in Malibu in the fall. As the summer crowds thin out, the weather cools, and the coastal canyons take on a golden glow, it’s the perfect season to explore some of the best fall hikes in Malibu – where ocean views and mountain backdrops meet in one unforgettable landscape. Here are a few of the top spots to check out:
Solstice Canyon – A Classic Malibu Trail
An easy favorite, the Solstice Canyon trail in Malibu offers a little bit of everything – shaded paths, historic ruins, and rewarding ocean views. The main trail is just under 3 miles round trip and rated easy, making it a great choice for families or casual hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House and spot trickling waterfalls if there’s been recent rain. In fall, the weather makes the gradual climb comfortable, and the late afternoon light filtering through the sycamores creates a perfect setting.
Escondido Falls – Malibu’s Iconic Waterfall Hike
Escondido Falls is one of the most well-known hikes in Malibu, leading to one of the tallest waterfalls in Southern California. The lower falls can be reached with a 3.8-mile round trip, rated moderate, while the more adventurous can continue to the upper falls. The waterfall flows strongest in spring, but in fall, the quieter trails and cooler air make the journey just as enjoyable. The sycamores and canyon vegetation hold onto a bit of autumn color, creating a scenic backdrop for a weekend hike.
Zuma Canyon – Wide Open Views
If you’re looking for wide, open landscapes, the Zuma Canyon hiking trails deliver. The canyon offers several loops, ranging from shorter family-friendly options to more strenuous climbs into the hills. One of the most popular routes is the Zuma Canyon Loop Trail, about 2.6 miles, which provides sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Fall is the perfect time to visit – the crisp air makes longer treks more enjoyable, and you’ll often find the trails less crowded than during peak summer months.
Malibu Creek State Park – A Fall Favorite
Located inland, Malibu Creek State Park hiking trails showcase some of the area’s most dramatic scenery. Known as the “Yosemite of Southern California,” the park features volcanic rock gorges, oak woodlands, and a sparkling creek that winds through the valley. Trails vary in length, from easy 2-mile loops to challenging 7-mile hikes. A favorite fall route is the trail to the Rock Pool, about 2.5 miles round trip, where cooler weather makes the rocky terrain easier to explore. The park’s historic MAS*H filming site also adds a fun cultural touch to your hike.
Point Dume Nature Preserve – Oceanfront Hike
For a shorter option, the Point Dume hike in Malibu is hard to beat. The loop is less than 2 miles and rated easy, but it delivers some of the most breathtaking bluff-top views in the region. From the top, you can see down the coastline toward Santa Monica in one direction and Zuma Beach in the other. In fall, the sunsets are particularly vibrant, and on clear days you might spot dolphins or even migrating whales offshore.
Enjoying Malibu’s Natural Beauty in the Fall
Whether you’re heading out for a quick walk or planning a longer weekend adventure, Malibu’s coastal trails and canyon hikes shine in the fall. The season highlights everything that makes Malibu special – the combination of rugged natural beauty, fresh ocean air, golden hillsides, and a sense of retreat just minutes from Los Angeles. For locals and visitors alike, fall hiking is one of the best ways to experience the heart of Malibu.
Enjoyed learning about the best fall hikes in Malibu? Explore our neighborhoods page and current listings to discover the communities and properties that put them right outside your door.
The Grether Group | Compass
📧 grethergroup@compass.com
📞 (310) 230-5771
🌐 malibuluxuryrealty.com
DRE #01836632 | 02121282 | 02127780
