Point Mugu State Park Activities

Surfing

One of the best surfing spots in the area is north of the state park along the coast of the Navy base. On those rare times when the base opens its gates to the public, surfers flock to the area to test themselves against the waves there. Surfers like the amazing right and left breaks. In good conditions there is a fast hollow break that can keep even the most experienced surfers pushing the limits. A 2012 surfing contest on the base drew 142 competitors and over 7,000 spectators.

On occasion the point at Mugu Rock can serve up some great waves, including a right tube. Access is difficult over boulders and rocks are a danger to surfers.

Caution: Check with rangers or lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities.

Surfing County Line Beach

Many surfers head south of the park to County Line Beach where the waves are easy to access. A mixed sand and rock bottom deserves caution. At the southern end expect a fast beach break and an outer reef break. The rocky north end is known as The Point. Parking is along the highway. Portable restrooms are found at the beach.

Stand-up Paddleboard Race: Malibu Downwinder

April TBA, 2024
The annual Malibu Downwinder is a stand-up paddleboard race that begins at Mugu State Park, just south of Mugu Rock and finishes 7 miles south at Leo Carrillo State Beach. The competition is usually scheduled for late April or early May. After the race awards and a BBQ are held at Carrillo Beach.
Malibu Downwinder

Proceeds from the race are donated to the Wishtoyo Foundation and to support the Leo Carrillo Lifeguards and Junior Lifeguards programs.

Kayaking around Point Mugu

Experienced kayakers launch from Sycamore Cove Beach and make the 5 mile paddle up the coast to Point Mugu Beach. Challenging waves can make for a difficult launch and landing spots along the coast are few. Launching and landing in the churning waves is easier with someone on shore to assist.

Paddlers along the coast are likely to be greeted by dolphins and other marine life. Pelicans drop in now and then. Once past Mugu Rock, kayakers should avoid going so far north that they are adjacent to the Naval Air Station.

Hiking at Point Mugu State Park

Set off on almost any of the dozens of trails crisscrossing Point Mugu State Park and expect to be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the coast. Much of the foliage was burned in the 2013 fire, creating a desolate landscape until plants can regenerate, but in the meantime it provides unfettered views of the beach, ocean, and Channel Islands.

Sycamore Canyon Trail

A full-day adventurous hike can be made by setting out on the Sycamore Canyon Trail. The trek to Deer Camp is a 6½-mile round trip, while adding a return via Overlook Trail makes the full hike 10 miles. The Deer Camp hike only involves a couple hundred feet of elevation gain, while the Overlook Trail adds another 500 feet of uphill trail.

Picnic tables and water are available at Deer Camp.

Family Nature Hikes

Park rangers lead easy hour-long nature hikes, free to anyone who has paid a camping or entrance fee. Gather at the entrance kiosk at Sycamore Canyon campground on Wednesdays at 10:00 AM. Information: (310) 457-8185

Educational Field Trips are offered for grades 3 - 12. Sycamore Canyon Guided Wild Adventures are led by park staff and docents. Self-guided explorations are available for all grade levels. Teachers should contact the park to arrange the field trips.

Junior Ranger Program

The Junior Ranger Program is designed for children ages 7 to 12. The program begins June 17 and ends on August 31. Participants learn about park animals, plants, and park history. At Point Mugu State Park they Junior Rangers meet on Fridays at 10:00 AM at the entrance station kiosk at Sycamore Canyon campground. Information: (310) 457-8185