Spent several days at Leo Carrillo State Park, north of Malibu via PCH, splitting our time between the beach and the campground – one being walking or biking distance to the other.
Here’s how that looks: Wake up, make breakfast, go to the beach. Horse around till lunch, back to campsite, make lunch. Nap. Go to beach, horse around. Catch sunset and/or fly kite. Head back to campsite. Make dinner. Make S’mores. Fall asleep. Repeat.
The campground is average, it’s selling point being proximity to a nice beach that features tidal pools, star fish, anemones, caves, and plenty of running space. If you have kids you won’t be at a loss for entertainment. In fact, Leo Carrillo has been the first camping spot for all our kids and served as a great introduction. Play hard, sleep hard.
When it comes to a quick escape from L.A., Leo Carrillo is about as easy as it gets. There’s a camp store on site that sells just about everything you’ll need (at surprisingly fair prices), and if you just aren’t up to cooking Neptunes Net is right up the PCH. Of course, the proximity makes it a crowded place during peak times, so take that into account. Reservations can be made, but sites are first come first serve (and people do line up to get them).
If you happen to surf bring the board – Leo Carrillo, County Line, and Staircase are all close by and good breaks.
*Tip: Get site 54 if you can, it’s the biggest and best.
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