Corral Canyon Park Sara Wan Trailhead
Scenic Malibu hike with panoramic coastal views, offering a peaceful escape and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Corral Canyon Park Sara Wan Trailhead
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic Malibu hike with panoramic coastal views, offering a peaceful escape and wildlife spotting opportunities.
"What a wonderful hike with great view. Came around 8am and was the only one here but a great hike."
Bring Cash for Parking
The parking machine might be out of order; cash is king for the $8-$12 fee. :moneybag:
Wear Long Sleeves & Pants
Overgrown brush can scratch. Protect your skin and look for wildlife! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Along the main loop trail
Breathtaking ocean vistas stretch across the coastline, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the park
Keep an eye out for local fauna amidst the coastal shrubbery. Remember to respect their habitat.
Picnic Areas
Near the trailhead
Enjoy a meal with a view after your hike in the designated picnic spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Fees
Trail Conditions & What to Wear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Parking
The parking machine might be out of order; cash is king for the $8-$12 fee.
:moneybag:Wear Long Sleeves & Pants
Overgrown brush can scratch. Protect your skin and look for wildlife!
:athletic_shoe:Stay on Marked Trails
Avoid veering off-path to prevent getting lost or damaging the environment.
:world_map:Hydrate Well
The trail is exposed with no shade, so bring plenty of water.
:droplet:Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Parking
The parking machine might be out of order; cash is king for the $8-$12 fee.
:moneybag:Wear Long Sleeves & Pants
Overgrown brush can scratch. Protect your skin and look for wildlife!
:athletic_shoe:Stay on Marked Trails
Avoid veering off-path to prevent getting lost or damaging the environment.
:world_map:Hydrate Well
The trail is exposed with no shade, so bring plenty of water.
:droplet:Check for Trail Closures
Recent social media posts indicate trails are open, but always good to double-check.
:information_desk:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Corral Canyon Park's Sara Wan Trailhead for its stunning coastal views and peaceful atmosphere, making it a family-friendly hike. While parking can be a hassle and the trails are exposed, the scenic rewards and proximity to amenities like Malibu Seafood make it a worthwhile visit for a dose of Malibu's natural beauty.
"What a wonderful hike with great view. Came around 8am and was the only one here but a great hike. Took me about an hour to complete taking my time and enjoy the view and peacefulness of it all.
The parking machine was not working at the time I came so be sure to have at least $12 to pay for the parking in cash."
Luis Garcia
"Family-friendly hike in Malibu. The trailhead is located right off the PCH, next to Malibu Seafood. It’s $12 to park in the small lot, or you can find free parking along the PCH. A porta-potty is available by the trailhead. Though short (~2.5 miles), it’s a nice trail and pretty popular among families with young kids.
The trail is exposed with no shade. It’s narrow and there are lot of tall plants that scratch a bit, so you may wish to wear pants rather than shorts. There is a gradual elevation change, but not challenging. There is a point at the hike where you can veer off path, but that’ll take you to a different trail that’s considerably longer."
Shanelle S
"Great location, clean and clear path. There’s no maps or directions but google maps shows the main path that is almost 3 miles but you can choose 2, 3, or 4 miles path. There are a small parking lot and you have to pay cash but you can park in street too that’s free. After hiking you can enjoy the good seafood place next to the start point."
Amir Khamesi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sara Wan Trailhead is located at 25623 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, right off the PCH. It's easily accessible by car.
Some visitors mention it's near Malibu Seafood.Yes, there's a small parking lot at the trailhead that charges a fee (around $8-$12, cash is recommended as machines may not work). Free parking is available along the PCH, but can be difficult to find.
Yes, free parking is available along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). However, finding a spot can be challenging, especially during busy times.
Public transport options to this specific trailhead might be limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach the park.
The Sara Wan Trailhead is distinct from the entrance that leads to caves. This trailhead offers coastal views and different hiking paths.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a parking fee for the main lot, typically ranging from $8 to $12. It's advisable to bring cash as the payment machines may not always be functional.
While specific hours aren't always posted, it's generally best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience. Social media posts indicate the park is open.
No advance booking is typically required for general access to the park. Parking fees are paid on-site.
The main restrictions involve respecting the natural environment, staying on trails, and being aware of wildlife. Dogs are generally not permitted on the trails.
The main loop is considered family-friendly and not overly challenging, making it suitable for most ages.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main loop is about 2.5 miles and offers a gradual elevation gain with panoramic coastal views. It's a hard-packed soil trail.
Most visitors complete the main loop in under an hour, with some taking about an hour to enjoy the views and peace.
No, the trails are largely exposed with very little shade. It's crucial to wear sun protection and bring plenty of water.
There are no maps provided within the park. Google Maps can guide you on the main path, which is approximately 3 miles, but you can choose shorter or longer routes.
The trailhead offers fee parking, picnic areas, restrooms (porta-potty available), educational displays, and sitting benches.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic coastal views from the higher points of the trail are spectacular. The golden hour light in the late afternoon can also create beautiful photo opportunities.
Yes, if you're lucky, you might spot wildlife. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals.
Late afternoon visits can offer beautiful lighting for photos as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the coast.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state and county parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and apply sunscreen, as the trail is exposed with no shade. Dressing kids in long sleeves and pants can help protect them from the overgrown brush. While the main trail is family-friendly, always supervise children closely and stay on marked paths.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save money on food and drinks. The picnic areas provide a pleasant spot to enjoy your provisions. The hike itself is rewarding and offers a genuine taste of the Malibu landscape without the hefty price tag often associated with the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
Trail conditions can vary, with overgrown brush being a common observation. Visitors often recommend wearing long sleeves and pants to protect against scratches. While the main trail is clear, it's wise to stay on marked paths to avoid getting lost and to preserve the natural environment. Keep an eye out for wildlife, but also be aware of potential hazards like snakes.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, there are opportunities to veer off the main path, but these can lead to significantly longer and potentially more rugged trails. It's always best to be prepared with adequate water, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.
The Malibu Coastal Experience
Many visitors highlight the peacefulness of the park, especially during quieter times. The sound of the ocean and the fresh sea air contribute to a rejuvenating atmosphere. After your hike, the convenience of having Malibu Seafood nearby offers a perfect opportunity to refuel with fresh seafood. This combination of natural beauty and local amenities makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a taste of the Malibu lifestyle.
While the park is known for its coastal views, it's important to note that it's distinct from other Malibu attractions like those with caves. The Sara Wan Trailhead focuses on the open coastal trails and the expansive views they provide.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit