8 day itinerary for Leo Carrillo State Park

Itinerary

Leo Carrillo State Park is a fantastic destination for a family looking to enjoy the great outdoors, especially in the summer. With its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for adventure. Here’s a fun and active 8-day itinerary for your family:

## Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day

Morning: Arrive at Leo Carrillo State Park and set up your campsite. Make sure to get settled in and familiarize yourself with the area.

Afternoon: Head down to the beach! Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The beach here is beautiful, and you can explore tide pools during low tide.

Evening: Enjoy a family picnic dinner on the beach while watching the sunset. Don’t forget to bring some s'mores supplies for a campfire treat!

## Day 2: Hiking and Wildlife Watching

Morning: After breakfast, hit the trails! The Nicholas Flat Trail is a great choice for families. It’s about 3 miles round trip and offers stunning views of the coastline and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Afternoon: Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks. Afterward, you can explore the Nature Center to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.

Evening: Return to your campsite for a relaxing evening. Play some family games or share stories around the campfire.

## Day 3: Kayaking and Snorkeling

Morning: Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from a nearby rental shop (check in advance for availability). Spend the morning paddling along the coast and enjoying the ocean views.

Afternoon: After lunch, grab your snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world at the beach. The waters here can be clear and full of marine life!

Evening: Have a fun family dinner at a local restaurant in Malibu or cook up a feast at your campsite.

## Day 4: Explore Malibu

Morning: Take a break from the park and head into Malibu. Visit the Malibu Pier for some sightseeing and maybe grab breakfast at a local café.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Malibu Lagoon State Beach. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and has beautiful walking trails. You can also check out the Adamson House Museum nearby.

Evening: Return to Leo Carrillo for a campfire night. Share your favorite moments from the trip so far!

## Day 5: Biking and Beach Games

Morning: Rent bikes and explore the park’s trails. The Pacific Coast Highway has some bike-friendly paths that offer stunning views.

Afternoon: Head back to the beach for some fun beach games! Bring a frisbee, beach ball, or even a kite to fly.

Evening: Have a family cookout at your campsite. Let everyone take turns cooking their favorite camping meal!

## Day 6: Rock Climbing and Caving

Morning: If your family is up for it, consider a guided rock climbing session. There are local companies that offer family-friendly climbing experiences.

Afternoon: After climbing, explore the caves at the park. They’re a fun and adventurous way to spend the afternoon!

Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening at your campsite. Stargazing is fantastic here, so bring a telescope or just lay back and enjoy the night sky.

## Day 7: Beach Relaxation and Art Day

Morning: After a week of activities, take a more relaxed morning. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some downtime at the beach.

Afternoon: Set up an art station at your campsite. Bring along some supplies for painting or drawing the beautiful scenery around you.

Evening: Have a family talent show around the campfire! Everyone can showcase their unique skills, whether it’s singing, storytelling, or even a magic trick.

## Day 8: Departure Day

Morning: Pack up your campsite and enjoy a final breakfast together. Take a last stroll along the beach or a short hike to soak in the beauty of the park one last time.

Afternoon: Before you leave, stop by the park’s visitor center to pick up some souvenirs and learn more about the park’s history.

Evening: Head home with wonderful memories and a camera full of photos!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time at Leo Carrillo State Park! Enjoy the sun, the sand, and all the adventures that await you and your family! 🌞🏕️🌊