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Nicholas Canyon Beach

4.7
·395 reviews·Malibu, United States

A serene Malibu beach known for surfing, picnics, and a less crowded atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape with scenic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes

CrowdLow
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View looking north

Nicholas Canyon Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Malibu beach known for surfing, picnics, and a less crowded atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape with scenic views.

4.7
(395 reviews)

"Beautiful place for picnic and swimming, parking is only $10."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Beat the PCH Traffic

Take the 405 North and merge onto PCH for a smoother drive to this less crowded Malibu beach.

💰 Parking Fees

Parking costs $10 on summer weekends. Consider parking on PCH if lots are full.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Surfing & Boogie Boarding

Surfing & Boogie Boarding

The waves

Catch some waves at this popular surf spot, perfect for both experienced surfers and beginners.

TikTokInstagramReddit
Picnic Paradise

Picnic Paradise

Beachfront

Enjoy a relaxing picnic with stunning ocean views. It's a peaceful spot for journaling or quiet time.

InstagramReddit
Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Ocean and shoreline

Keep an eye out for pelicans, sandpipers, and even sea lions popping their heads up.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Traffic

Nicholas Canyon Beach is a gem for avoiding LA's usual beach chaos. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag parking and enjoy a more serene experience. Consider weekdays for ultimate tranquility. TikTokInstagram

Parking & Access

Parking is available but can fill up, with a fee on summer weekends. There are stairs leading down to the beach. Some spots are closer to the lifeguard stand. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌈 Looking for a new beach in LA? Check out 📍Nicholas Canyon Beach #shebuystravel #thingstodoinla #lathingstodo #thingstodoinlosangeles #labeaches #funthingstodoinla #malibubeach
@shebuystravel
16.7K likes • 338.9K views

🚗 Beat the PCH Traffic

Take the 405 North and merge onto PCH for a smoother drive to this less crowded Malibu beach. TikTokInstagram

💰 Parking Fees

Parking costs $10 on summer weekends. Consider parking on PCH if lots are full. Instagram

Arctic Walrus in Malibu Beach 🏝️☀️🌊 #malibu #california #ca #surfing #beach #ocean #water #sun #sea #walrus #shark #whale #surfing #surfer #wave #Outdoors #nature #beatiful #pets #amazing #fyp #foryoupage #trending #trendingvideo #viral #viralvideo #tiktok #tiktokvideo #follow
@nunchakusdragon
12.6K likes • 189.4K views
Who’s heading to Nicholas Canyon Beach this weekend? ☀️🌴 Tag your crew! 🎥: @shebuystravel #LABucketList #LA #LosAngeles
losangelesbucketlist
40.6K likes • 1.1M views

⚠️ Watch for Tar

Some visitors have reported encountering tar on their feet after entering the water. Reddit

🚰 Restroom Situation

Restrooms are basic mobile plastic toilets, which might be a drawback for some. Reddit

Who’s heading to Nicholas Canyon Beach this weekend? ☀️🌴 Tag your crew! 🎥: @shebuystravel #LABucketList #LA #LosAngeles
losangelesbucketlist
13.6K likes • 606.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the PCH Traffic

Take the 405 North and merge onto PCH for a smoother drive to this less crowded Malibu beach. TikTokInstagram

💰 Parking Fees

Parking costs $10 on summer weekends. Consider parking on PCH if lots are full. Instagram

⚠️ Watch for Tar

Some visitors have reported encountering tar on their feet after entering the water. Reddit

🚰 Restroom Situation

Restrooms are basic mobile plastic toilets, which might be a drawback for some. Reddit

🌊 Rocky Entry

The break near shore can have rocks, making swimming entry potentially painful or hazardous. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(395 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Nicholas Canyon Beach is praised for its beautiful scenery, surf-friendly waves, and less crowded atmosphere compared to other LA beaches. Visitors appreciate it as a great spot for picnics and wildlife viewing. However, some find the rocky entry into the water and basic restroom facilities to be drawbacks.

"Beautiful beach! Surf or Boogie board beach. The break near shore churns rocks, making swimming entry painful and hazardous.
Clean plenty of parking (paid check website for cost) 5 minute walk down to the beach from the 1st parking lot. There are some spots closer near the lifeguard stand. Stairs down to the beach. Not crowded usually."

Brad Allen

"Went midday on a chilly weekday, just to have a picnic by the beach. It was empty, and quiet, and beautiful. The kids ended up playing in the water and had a great time. We saw pelicans, sand pipers, and a couple sea lions popped their heads out of the water. The only drawback is a couple of the ones who went into the water ended up getting some sort of tar stick to the bottom of their foot."

Yehonatan Schwarzmer

"Nicholas Canyon Beach is a beautiful coastal spot known for its soft sand, scenic cliffs, and surf-friendly waves. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and relaxing in a peaceful beach environment."

David Johnson

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Less crowded
Good for surfing

What People Dislike

Rocky water entry
Basic restrooms
Tar in water

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Nicholas Canyon Beach, take the 405 North and merge onto Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) heading north of Malibu. This route is often recommended for a less congested drive compared to other LA beaches. TikTokInstagram+1

Public transportation options directly to Nicholas Canyon Beach are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access this location. Reddit

Traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends after 9 AM. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid significant delays. InstagramReddit

Nicholas Canyon Beach is located about a mile east of Leo Carrillo State Beach at 33850 Pacific Coast Highway. Instagram

Yes, Nicholas Canyon Beach is an excellent choice for a day trip, offering a peaceful escape with opportunities for surfing, picnicking, and relaxation. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a parking fee, typically $10 on summer weekends. Check the official website for current pricing. InstagramReddit

While the beach itself is generally accessible, parking lots and facilities may have specific operating hours. It's best to check local listings for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

No, tickets are not typically required in advance for beach access. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. Instagram

Information on specific discounts for parking is not widely available. It's advisable to check the county parks website for any potential offers. Instagram

Yes, you can park on PCH if the main parking lot is full. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Nicholas Canyon Beach is suitable for swimming, but be aware that the break near the shore can churn rocks, making entry potentially painful or hazardous. Lifeguards are present. InstagramReddit

You can enjoy swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, fishing, and picnicking. It's also a great spot for wildlife viewing. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty at Nicholas Canyon Beach, making it a safer option for swimming and water activities. Instagram

Compared to other LA beaches, Nicholas Canyon Beach is often described as less crowded, especially if you arrive early or visit on a weekday. TikTokInstagramReddit

The restrooms at Nicholas Canyon Beach are basic mobile plastic toilets. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Food trucks are often available during the summer months, offering convenient dining options right at the beach. TikTok

Absolutely! Nicholas Canyon Beach is a fantastic spot for picnics, so feel free to pack your own snacks and meals. Reddit

While the beach itself offers food trucks in summer, you'll find a wider selection of restaurants in the nearby Malibu area. Reddit

Food truck offerings can vary, but typically include popular beachside fare. It's best to check on the day of your visit for specific vendors. TikTok

Beyond the food trucks, there are no dedicated shops for snacks or drinks directly on the beach. It's advisable to bring your own. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic cliffs, the ocean waves, and the surfers provide excellent photographic opportunities. The golden hour light is particularly beautiful here. Instagram+1

Yes, Nicholas Canyon Beach offers stunning sunset views, making it a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the magic hour. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline, while a telephoto lens can be useful for photographing surfers or wildlife. TikTok

General photography is usually permitted, but be mindful of other visitors' privacy and any posted park rules. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Nicholas Canyon Beach can be a great spot for families looking for a less crowded beach experience. The presence of lifeguards offers peace of mind for swimming and playing in the water. Instagram

While the rocky entry can be a concern, kids often enjoy the waves for boogie boarding. Packing a picnic is a must, as food options are limited to seasonal food trucks. Be prepared for the basic restroom facilities. Reddit

🏄‍♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts

Nicholas Canyon Beach is a prime destination for surfers and boogie boarders, offering consistent waves. The beach is known for its surf-friendly conditions, attracting a dedicated crowd. InstagramReddit

While the break can be rocky, experienced surfers are accustomed to navigating these conditions. The less crowded nature of the beach compared to other Malibu spots makes it appealing for those seeking more space to ride the waves. TikTok

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers and Relaxation Seekers

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Nicholas Canyon Beach is an excellent choice. Its reputation for being less crowded than other LA beaches makes it ideal for quiet activities like reading, journaling, or meditation. TikTokReddit

The sound of the waves and the scenic beauty provide a calming environment. It's a perfect spot to disconnect and recharge, away from the hustle and bustle. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Surfing and Water Sports

Nicholas Canyon Beach is a well-regarded spot for surfing and boogie boarding, attracting both locals and visitors looking to catch a wave. The break near the shore can be a bit rocky, so caution is advised during entry. Lifeguards are typically on duty, providing an added layer of safety for water enthusiasts. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond surfing, the beach is also suitable for swimming, though the rocky entry point is a consideration. For those interested in other water activities, kite surfing and windsurfing have also been mentioned in relation to the Malibu coastline. Instagram

When planning your water activities, remember that the ocean conditions can change. Checking local surf reports and being aware of the rocky areas will enhance your experience and safety at Nicholas Canyon Beach. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Parking and Access

Accessing Nicholas Canyon Beach involves a short walk from the parking area, with stairs leading down to the sand. While there are approximately 150 parking spaces, they can fill up quickly, especially on summer weekends. The parking fee is typically $10 during these peak times. InstagramReddit

To maximize your chances of securing a spot and avoid traffic, arriving early in the day is highly recommended. If the main lot is full, street parking along PCH is an alternative. InstagramReddit

It's worth noting that the restroom facilities are basic mobile plastic toilets, which might be a consideration for some visitors. Reddit

The Serene Escape: Why Nicholas Canyon Beach Stands Out

In the bustling landscape of Los Angeles beaches, Nicholas Canyon Beach offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience. Many visitors highlight its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for activities like journaling, reading, or simply enjoying quiet contemplation by the ocean. TikTokInstagramReddit

The beach is known for its soft sand and scenic cliffs, providing a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing day. It's a place where you can truly unwind and connect with nature, spotting local wildlife like pelicans and sea lions. Reddit

While it offers a serene escape, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks, such as the rocky entry into the water and the basic restroom facilities. However, for many, the peaceful ambiance and natural beauty outweigh these minor inconveniences. Reddit

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