The Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon (Malibu)
It's difficult to make a mistake when looking for the ideal views where mountains and the ocean converge. The raw nature of Malibu's Corral Canyon, which can be explored on a 2.4-mile, relatively easy, and startlingly deserted (on a weekday afternoon) hike, stands out. It features coastal sage scrub and willows clinging to parched hills (lush with wildflowers after a wet winter), as well as the occasional bunny or lizard.
As the trail begins, the noise of PCH and the sea breeze follow you up. However, on this trail without any shade, things quickly calm down and warm up. At the first fork, hang left so that you can descend facing the ocean. The packed dirt path takes you on switchbacks along the east side and top of Corral Canyon, passing through wild fennel and rust-colored grasses. Wide-ranging views of the Santa Monica beaches from Point Dume all the way down to the ocean can be seen as you descend toward the water.
- Address: 25623 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Parking: Plenty on PCH by Malibu Seafood; or pay $12 in the lot at the trailhead, just east of the restaurant.
- Pets? Dogs allowed on leashes.
- Length: ~2.5 miles
- Time: 60–90 mins
