Labor Day Weekend Events In Ventura County and Surrounding Areas

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It is a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The second Labor Day holiday was on September 5, 1883. In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday.

Oregon was the first state to officially enact Labor Day as a holiday by law on February 21, 1887, followed that year by Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York. Since then, all 50 states have made Labor Day a state holiday.

2026 Labor Day weekend events around Ventura County and nearby areas:

Thu-Mon, Sep 3-7: Simi End of Summer Carnival at the Simi Valley Town Center

Fri-Sun, Sep 4-6: The Carnival for Las Virgenes Schools in Agoura Hills

Fri-Mon, Sep 4-7: Malibu Chili Cook-Off and Carnival

Sat, Sep 5: Ventura Nationals at Ventura County Fairgrounds (9AM-5PM)

Sat, Sep 5: Live Music at Harbor View Park at Channel Islands Harbor (4-6PM)

Sat, Sep 5: Free Concert at the Plaza in Simi Valley - Ticket to Ride (6-9PM)

Sat/Sun, Sep 5-6: Aloha Beach Festival in Ventura

Sat/Sun, Sep 5-6: C-Street Classic Surf Contest in Ventura

Mon, Sep 7: Santa Paula Labor Day Parade (10AM)

Mon, Sep 7: Labor Day Tractor Fair at Santa Paula Agriculture Museum (11AM-2PM)

Mon, Sep 7: CRPD Concert in the Park - 90’s Rock Show - Iconic Sounds of the 1990s (5PM) (CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS)

LOCAL AREA BEACHES IN VENTURA COUNTY, MALIBU AND SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Forty-Seven Things to Do In Thousand Oaks

The City of Thousand Oaks was incorporated on September 29, 1964. Most of Newbury Park was annexed by the city in the 1960s/1970s. Casa Conejo, Newbury Park's first planned community built in the early 1960s and the Lynn Ranch area of Thousand Oaks are unincorporated areas of Ventura County that technically are not annexed into the City of Thousand Oaks. The City of Thousand Oaks also annexed the Ventura County portions of Westlake Village in 1968 and 1972. That said, this list also includes a few things to do in the City of Westlake Village.

Enough history for now! Let's look at the future...like tomorrow or this coming weekend. Here are 47* things to do in the City of Thousand Oaks in random order.

*It started out as 47 things to do but we've lost count since originally posting this.

• Sky Zone Thousand Oaks at Janss Marketplace

• Enjoy peace and serenity at Gardens of the World

• AMC Dine-In Thousand Oaks 14 Movie Theater at The Oaks

• Conejo Valley Botanic Garden

• Conejo Creek Bike Path

• SVN2 Indoor Golf in Newbury Park

• Wildwood Park in Thousand Oaks

• Sunset Lanes Bowling at the Sunset Terrace Restaurant

• The Slime Kitchen at The Oaks Mall

• Hike the Western Plateau

• Stagecoach Inn Museum in Newbury Park

• Chumash Indian Museum/Oakbrook Regional Park in Thousand Oaks

• The Mighty Axe in Thousand Oaks

• The Landing at Westlake Lake

• Lang Ranch/Woodridge Open Space in Thousand Oaks

• Tarantula Hill in Thousand Oaks

• Rancho Potrero Community Equestrian Center in Newbury Park

• Marty's Hobbies Store in Thousand Oaks

• Moon Rabbit Pottery Studio in Newbury Park (opened July 2026)

• Hillcrest Open Space Preserve

• Angel Vista Peak in Newbury Park

• Bank of America Performing Arts Center Thousand Oaks

• Rancho Potrero Open Space in Newbury Park

• Farmers’ Markets in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village

• The Oaks Mall

• Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa Recreational Area in Newbury Park

• K1 Speed Indoor Go Kart Racing and Arcade in Newbury Park

View of Boney Mountain from the Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa area.

• Janss Marketplace

• Triunfo Creek Park Open Space in Westlake Village

• Thousand Oaks Community Art Gallery in Newbury Park

• Grant R. Brimhall Library and Newbury Park Branch Library

• Hitting Zone Indoor Batting Cages in Westlake Village

• Community Pool at Samuelson Aquatics Center, Cal Lutheran

• Chuck E. Cheese's in Thousand Oaks

• The Promenade at Westlake and The Lakes at Thousand Oaks

• Los Robles Trail System

• Vista Del Mar Trail in Newbury Park

• Boulderdash Indoor Rock Climbing in Thousand Oaks

• Regal Janss Marketplace 9 Movie Theater

• Westlake Village Dog Park (technically in the City of WLV)

• The Village at Dos Vientos Ranch in Newbury Park

• Play Netball at Oakbrook Neighborhood Park in Thousand Oaks

• Conejo Mountain Edison Road Trail in Newbury Park

• Borchard Park Labyrinth and Fitness Equipment in Newbury Park

• Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas at The Promenade at Westlake

• Hillcrest Open Space Preserve in Thousand Oaks

• Conejo Creek Dog Park in Thousand Oaks

• Rabbit Flats Disc Golf Course in Thousand Oaks

• Sapwi Trails Community Park in Thousand Oaks

• California True Colors Garden in Thousand Oaks

• Sundays at the Kids' Adventure Garden in Thousand Oaks

• Galactic Challenge at The Oaks Mall in Thousand Oaks

• Pickleball courts in the Conejo Valley (and surrounding areas)

• Dave & Buster's Thousand Oaks

• Escapology Escape Rooms at Janss Marketplace

• 101 Escape Rooms in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks

• Los Robles Greens Public Golf Course and Driving Range in Thousand Oaks

For other things to do, visit Do Something, Kids' Activities and Fitness and Sports.

Older version of City of Thousand Oaks sign.

Public Beaches In and Around Santa Barbara

We've compiled highlights of public beaches ranging from Malibu to Carpinteria. so how about if we stretch the boundaries of that list further west a bit to include some of the popular beaches of Santa Barbara.

The City of Santa Barbara maintains four miles of beaches, including East Beach, West Beach, Leadbetter Beach, Shoreline Park and the Mesa neighborhood. The city offers a number of parking lots along the waterfront. Dogs not allowed on city beaches from East Beach to Leadbetter.

East Beach stretches from Stearns Wharf on the west to roughly across the street from the Santa Barbara Zoo. There are over a dozen volleyball courts, a play area, the full service East Beach Grill and picnic facilities. The Cabrillo Pavilion Bathhouse at 1118 East Cabrillo Boulevard is open M-F from 8am to 5pm and has showers, lockers, a weight room, beach wheelchairs and volleyball rental.

West side of East Beach looking towards Stearns Wharf.

There's a also a fun bike path stretching from here to West Beach and Leadbetter. Bring your bikes or rent them across the street on Cabrillo Boulevard near State Street. And on Sundays year-round is the Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show.

West Beach is located on the west side of Stearns Wharf to the Santa Barbara Harbor. Good for sunbathing, swimming, picnics, kayaking, volleyball and other fun. West Beach is easily accessible and family-friendly, with a wide walkway/bike path. There's also a wading pool, playground and the Los Baños Pool nearby. The beach is adjacent to the Santa Barbara Harbor, where among other things you'll find the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum.

It definitely doesn't suck to be at the beach next to the Santa Barbara Harbor at sunset!

Leadbetter Beach and park is between the Santa Barbara Harbor and Shoreline Park, across from Santa Barbara City College. The area has reservable picnic and barbecue sites, outdoor showers, restrooms and a grassy lawn. Popular for beginning surfers and sailboats, as well as sunbathers and fitness enthusiasts.

Shoreline Park is a 14.6-acre coastal bluff park west of Leadbetter Beach that has a playground, restrooms, picnic tables, barbeques, a group picnic area, benches and beach access stairs.  The park has sweeping views of the coastline, city, and Santa Ynez Mountains. The Torii Gate at the center of the park takes you to a staircase down the bluff to the beach below, where you'll find a narrow and rocky beach area.

View from Shoreline Park looking east towards Leadbetter Beach.

The Mesa beach area between Shoreline Park on the west and Arroyo Burro Beach is accessible via the Mesa Lane Steps near the corner of Mesa Lane and Edgewater Way. This is a residential area where primarily locals access the relatively narrow and rocky beach area below. About a mile away on the east is another beach access point at the eastern end of Camino Al Mar.

Arroyo Burro Beach is a beach park managed by the County of Santa Barbara. It is also referred to as Hendry's Beach, as the Boathouse at Hendry's Beach is located here at 2981 Cliff Drive. Decent sized parking lot with restaurant serving up moderately priced meals and drinks indoors/outdoors, seven days a week from 7:30am to 9pm. Arroyo Burro Beach is a sandy beach, good for surfing, boogie boarding and fishing, with an adjoining park with grassy areas and picnic tables. Restrooms available. From the 101 take Las Positas Road south to Cliff Drive. Turn right and travel 1/2 mile to the park entrance.

Arroyo Burro Beach also welcomes dogs! Dogs must be leashed but the Douglas Family Preserve next door at 2551 Medcliff Road allows dogs to be off leash.

Arroyo Burro Beach

Goleta Beach Park is a 29 acre Santa Barbara County park known for its 1,500 foot fishing pier and sunbathing beaches. Great destination for bicyclists on the area's paved trail system. There are also BBQ picnic areas, volleyball, horseshoes and children's playgrounds as well as the Beachside Bar Cafe. Find your way to Sandspit Road and you're there. Learn more at www.countyofsb.org/parks/parks02.aspx?id=7682.

For beachside parks in Isla Vista, including beach access points at Camino Pescadero Park, El Embarcadero, Camino Corto, Escondido Pass and Camino Majorca, visit www.ivparks.org/parks/descriptions.

El Capitan State Beach is located in Goleta, 17 miles west of Santa Barbara, Exit 117 off of Highway 101. south and you'll see the entrance to the park. A great place for camping, hiking, surfing, picnicking and beach walking. There are rocky tidepools and fun hikes galore here. There's also a 132 site campground open year-round with easy walking access to the beach. Restrooms and showers are nearby. For those into "glamping" (e.g. luxury camping), nearby El Capitan Canyon offers awesome cabins decked out with bedding, kitchenettes and bathrooms as well as deluxe canvas tents and yurts. Visit www.elcapitancanyon.com for more information. Learn more about El Capitan State Beach at www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=601.

El Capitan State Beach at sundown.

Tree lined trails in El Capitan State Beach Park.

Refugio State Beach is located at 10 Refugio Beach Road in Goleta, about 2 1/2 miles west of El Capitan State Beach. Refugio offers great fishing,  trails and picnic sites. Palm trees planted near Refugio Creek give a distinctive look to the beach and camping area. There are 61 campsites available. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=603 for more information.

Jalama Beach County Park is an hour drive from Santa Barbara and a 45-minute drive from Lompoc at 9999 Jalama Road.  It is maintained by the County of Santa Barbara. Have fun at the beach with surfing, whale watching, fishing, horseshoes, picnic areas and more. There's also a popular camping area with over 100 sites as well as seven cabins available. Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks/parks06.aspx?id=9186 or call 805.736.6316.

Butterfly Beach is on the east side of town in Montecito, accessible off of Channel Drive near, of course, Butterfly Lane, across from the Four Seasons Biltmore. No amenities but nice sand, a few benches and dog access. You'll most likely have to find a parking spot on the street. Mainly geared towards locals. You can catch a beautiful sunset from here.

Butterfly Beach in Montecito

Lookout Park is a County of Santa Barbara managed park located on four acres on the cliffs of Summerland. Take the Summerland exit off Highway 101 and turn south into the park. Dogs are allowed on leash at this park. There access to a decent strip of beach, Summerland Beach. Also a small playground, restrooms, picnic areas, BBQ grills and more. Visit www.countyofsb.org/parks/parks02.aspx?id=7946 for more info.

Carpinteria area beaches, including Carpinteria State Beach, Tar Pits Park, Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Rincon Beach Park, are highlighted at this link.

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Compilation of Public Beaches Spanning From Oxnard to Hueneme to Malibu

In a separate post, we highlighted beaches ranging from Carpinteria down south to the beaches at the Ventura Harbor. This is the 2nd installment of local area beaches that stretch from McGrath State Beach on down to the beaches gracing Malibu. We hope these compilations prove useful in guiding you to all the oceanfront fun Ventura County and adjacent areas have to offer!

Additionally, here's a compilation of beaches in the Santa Barbara area (excluding Carpinteria).

McGrath State Beach has been closed due to flooding issues since 2019. Visit parks.ca.gov/?page_id=607 or call 805.968.1033 for more information.  McGrath has 2 1/2 miles of beach available. Swimming, surfing, and water sports are discouraged because of rip currents. McGrath is 5 miles south of Ventura off the 101 freeway via Harbor Boulevard.

Mandalay State Beach is 94 acres of undeveloped beachfront land located south of Reliant Energy's Mandalay Generating Station. The natural sand dunes and the wetlands ecosystem are recognized for their important natural value and houses several threatened bird species. This is a passive, natural open space park with no support facilities. The sandy ocean beach and adjacent coastal dunes are available for public day use only. The beach is managed by the County of Ventura on behalf of the California State Parks Department. Located at the corner of Harbor Boulevard and 5th Street in Oxnard. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=609. No dogs allowed.

‘ololkoy Beach Park (formerly Oxnard Beach Park) has one of the best kids play areas around town, restrooms, lots of grass, and easy access to miles and miles of beach. The park is located at 1601 S. Harbor Boulevard. visitoxnard.com/directory/oxnard-beach-park

Oxnard Beach Park looking towards the beach.

Hollywood Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunning and viewing the Channel Islands. Free public beach volleyball courts, public restrooms on the north end of the beach, on-street parking and lifeguards on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Located right next to Channel Islands Harbor off of Harbor Boulevard. Dogs are allowed at Hollywood Beach on leash before 9am and after 5pm. West-facing beach means it’s great for catching the sunset!

Hollywood Beach

Silver Strand Beach is a 1 mile long beach near Channel Islands Harbor, about 150 yards in width. It is capped by north and south jetties, both of which have small parking lots; one next to San Nicholas Avenue (at Ocean Drive), the other next to Sawtelle Avenue. Free parking from sunrise to sunset with limited restroom facilities. This is a sandy bottom beach break which may have rip tides and an undertow, so be careful. Dogs on leash allowed before 9am and after 5pm. Lifeguards on duty daily during summer months. Accessed via S. Victoria Avenue. Visit visitoxnard.com/things-to-do/beaches/silver-strand-beach for more information.

There's a Kiddie Beach Park off of S. Victoria Avenue at Sunset Drive with available parking, restrooms and benches. It is a small sliver of sand that fronts the south end of Channel Islands Harbor and thus does not face ocean waves.

Hueneme Beach Park is a 50 acre area with picnic tables, barbecue pits, walking paths, a fishing pier, sand volleyball courts, Surfside Seafood snack bar, lifeguards and restrooms. Beach parking lots and Surfside Drive parking available for a fee. No dogs allowed. Visit www.ci.port-hueneme.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=926 for more information. Located at 550 E. Surfside Drive, Port Hueneme. 

Ormond Beach is a 1,500 acre area composed of agriculture, industry and wetlands. A two mile long beach extends from Port Hueneme on the north to Naval Base Ventura County on the south. This is one of the few areas in southern California with an intact dune transition zone marsh system, hosting over 200 migratory bird species. The California Coastal Conservancy is restoring these wetlands. A bit off the beaten path, it is probably more geared towards bird watchers and hikers. Get there via Hueneme Road, going south on either Perkins Road on the north and Arnold Road on the south.

Naval Base Ventura County occupies roughly 6 miles of oceanfront space between Ormond Beach on the north and Point Mugu State Park on the south. This space is not accessible by the general public. However, there are periodic opportunities for civilians to catch a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean from NBVC during organized events open to the public.

Mugu Beach is the first publicly accessible beach area south of Naval Base Ventura County off of PCH, located adjacent to the prominent Mugu Rock. For the most part this is the most quickly accessible beach to Camarillo and Conejo Valley residents. There is paid parking ($12 last time I was there) as well as parking available on PCH. Popular with fisherman. One thing to be aware of here is that there is a significant undertow. If you bring the little ones, best to stay out of the water or just be extra careful.

South of Mugu Rock there is also some beach that is accessible with plenty of parking on PCH. No facilities and not a lot of beach, but beautiful views and a quick place to explore.

Thornhill Broome Campground and Beach is also part of Point Mugu State Park, located a mile or two south of Mugu Beach. This is a campground right on the beach with a capacity for about 60 or so RVs. But of course you can visit for the day for a parking fee. Plenty of parking also available on PCH. Porta-potties available. Dogs are allowed around here as long as they are on a leash (and paleeeze...pick up after them).

Across the street on PCH is a gigantic, steep sand dune that I've always found to be interesting. Learn more about that sand dune here.

Unusually large sand dune on the east side of PCH across from Thornhill Broome Campground

Sycamore Cove is at the southernmost beachfront portion of Point Mugu State Park. Point Mugu State Park features 3.6 miles of ocean shoreline (Sycamore Cove to Mugu Beach), with rocky bluffs, beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted native trees.

Sycamore Canyon Campground across PCH from Sycamore Cove has 58 campsites. For a challenge, ride or hike down through Sycamore Canyon from Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa in Newbury Park. You'll most likely have to pay to park here (most recently $12 for day use) as there are not many spots on PCH available on the south side...watch out...there are no parking signs all over the place.

Sycamore Cove Beach has a number of picnic benches shaded by trees and is thus a popular spot on summer weekends for the BBQ crowd as well as with the campers from the campground on the other side of PCH. Located at 9000 Pacific Coast Highway. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=630.

Trees shade the picnic tables at Sycamore Cove Beach

In the 3.3 mile stretch of PCH between Sycamore Cove Beach and County Line Beach (below) there are three or four places where you can park on PCH and access the beach.

One of these beaches I refer to as Call Box 1-35 Beach, about a mile southeast of Sycamore Cove Beach. This is not the official name of this beach in the unincorporated section of Ventura County northwest of Malibu city limits. But since the dilapidated staircase leading down to the beach is next to this call box, it seems appropriate. The address is approximately 9649 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu (yes, technically not Malibu, yet in Google maps the address says Malibu).

About half a mile southeast of Call Box 1-35 is Call Box 1-27 Beach, which I also refer to as 26 Steps Beach. 26 Steps Beach is approximately 1.9 miles northeast of County Line Beach (see below) and 1.5 miles southwest of Sycamore Cove Beach (see above), at approximately 9999 PCH, just west of Deer Creek Road. I made up the name 26 Steps Beach because there is a well-worn, tagged up staircase that leads you from your parked car on PCH near the 1-27 Call Box sign to the beach. This is not a bad little section of beach that rarely has many people. No restrooms. Parking is free on PCH.

County Line Beach is located across the street from the iconic Neptune's Net, 3 miles south of Sycamore Cove at 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Lots of surfers and places to explore. Park on PCH. Watch out for bikers...there can be hundreds of them hanging out here on many a weekend. There are outer reefs for scuba diving that have an abundance of sea life. Activities include diving, surfing, and tide pools. No lifeguards on duty. There are a few porta-johns here. Technically, County Line Beach is located in Solromar, an unincorporated community in Ventura County - but they use the Malibu zip code so hey, it’s ok to say it is in Malibu.

Before the main Leo Carrillo State Beach area while heading south on PCH is the Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach area. There’s a California State Parks parking lot at 40000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Parking is available for approximately 50 cars. There’s a moderately narrow trail that takes you down to the beach, which is also a fairly narrow beach with lots of rocks. You can also walk to this beach from the main Leo Carrillo Beach. Dogs allowed on leash.

Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach parking lot.

Leo Carrillo State Park consists of 1 1/2 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and beach combing; one of our favorites for exploring sea caves, rocks and tidepools. Located at 35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, Leo Carrillo is about 1 1/2 miles south of County Line Beach. On the north side of PCH, there are 135 campsites in over 2,500 acres. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=616 or call 805.488.1827. Dogs on a leash are allowed in day use areas, campground and north beach (north of lifeguard tower 3). Dogs are not allowed on back country trails or south beach (south of lifeguard tower 3). Park on PCH or in the state lot ($12) and take the tunnel under PCH to the beach. More details on how to get to Leo Carrillo from the 101 freeway at this link.

Nicholas Canyon County Beach is one mile east of Leo Carrillo at 33850 Pacific Coast Highway. Great beach where you can hang out, fish, picnic, surf and more. About 150 parking spaces available. Generally $10 to park on summer weekends, or park on PCH. More info at beaches.lacounty.gov/nicholas-canyon-beach. Restrooms available.

A view of Nicholas Canyon County Beach, just a mile east of Leo Carrillo.

Located between Leo Carrillo and Point Dume State Beaches, Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach is made up of a number of cove or cliff-foot strands known as "pocket beaches" along the west end of Malibu, including El Pescador, La Piedra and El Matador. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633 Dogs are not allowed on state beaches.

El Pescador State Beach is 1.4 miles east of Nicholas Canyon at 32900 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Steep, uneven stairs lead to about 10 acres of narrow, sandy beach. It is just east of Decker Canyon, the curvy, steep road that takes you up to Hidden Valley/Westlake Village. Dogs are not allowed on state beaches. Limited parking is available (fees vary) or park on PCH. Small, secluded beach. When the tide is not too high, you can trek you way east towards La Piedra Beach and back.

Porta-potty available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633.

Sign on PCH east of Decker Canyon Road, prior to El Pescador State Beach to the west of it.

La Piedra State Beach is .3 miles east of El Pescador at 32700 Pacific Coast Highway. A fairly long hiking path (may be a bit challenging for those lugging a lot of stuff) leads to 9 acres of narrow, sandy beach. Dogs are not allowed on state beaches. Limited parking available for a fee (which vary) or park on PCH. Porta potty available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633.

El Matador State Beach is .3 miles east of La Piedra at 32350 Pacific Coast Highway, just east of where Encinal Canyon Road intersects with PCH. A dirt path, then dozens of stairs, leads to 18 acres of narrow, sandy beach with stunning, rock formations and caves.

Dogs are not allowed on state beaches.  There is a parking lot with room for 25 or so cars where you can pay $3/hour or $10 for all day (as of June 2025).  You can also park on PCH, but on the north side...for whatever reason parking is prohibited on the south side of PCH. This means you have to cross PCH, which can be a challenge. There are porta-potties available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633

Stunning rock formations at El Matador State Beach.

Lechuza Beach in Malibu, a mile east of El Matador State Beach, is maintained by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. It is a small, sandy beach with beautiful rock formations and views up the coast. Accessible via the northeast end of Broad Beach Road.  More information and specific access points at mrca.ca.gov/parks/park-listing/lechuza-beach. Dogs not allowed on the beach.

Zuma Beach is located at 30000 Pacific Coast Highway about 3.5 miles east of El Matador. With 1.8 miles of beach, Zuma is one of the largest and most popular beaches in Los Angeles County, Zuma is known for its long, wide sands and excellent surf. Plenty of facilities, including several food stands, restrooms, showers, volleyball, etc. Plenty of street parking on PCH and over 2,000 parking spaces (currently $8 weekdays and $15 weekends). Visit beaches.lacounty.gov/zuma-beach for more information. Zuma is known for riptides, so do be careful out there.

NOTE: Fires, including BBQs, are not allowed on any beach in Malibu; the exception is that fires may be allowed in designated spots at some state beaches. Dogs not allowed on the beach also.

Zuma Beach

Point Dume State Beach is a 63 acre promontory that juts out into the Pacific and features headlands, cliffs, rocky coves and vast beach access for swimming, surfing, scuba diving and fishing. Westward Beach borders Zuma Beach at Zuma's south side. There is plenty of parking on Westward Beach Road, which parallels Westward Beach. To the southeast of Westward Beach is a small 300 foot or so beachfront area called Pirate's Cove Beach (which due to its seclusion was once used as a nude beach).

At the end of Westward Beach Road (WBR), access to the protected 34-acre Point Dume Natural Preserve begins from the cul-de-sac. A gradual ascending trail leads to an ancient coastal bluff sand dune with spectacular views...we've seen whales, seals and dolphins over here. A stairway from the east side of the bluff-top preserve allows access to a more isolated beach and tidepools (look but don't touch). Location/Directions: Take Kanan south to PCH and turn right. WBR is over the rise, at the foot of the hill. Park free on WBR or pay a fee at Westward Beach lot. No restrooms at the Preserve but some can be found on WBR. Call 310.457.8143 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=623 for more information.

NOTE: Dogs are not allowed on trails in the Point Dume Natural Preserve or on the beach.

Looking down on the beach at Point Dume

Paradise Cove Beach is located at 28128 Pacific Coast Highway, accessed via Paradise Cove Road. Parking (as of June 2026) is $10 weekdays ($15 weekends/holidays) for if you spend up to 4 hours at the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe (and spend at least $30 there) or $45/$65/day (weekdays/weekends) if you park there just for the beach. Or, you can park on PCH and walk there. There are restrooms, cabanas, lounge chairs and chairs for rent, and a small pier. Visit www.paradisecovemalibu.com.

Escondido Beach is a short, narrow strip of beach accessible just west of Geoffrey's Malibu via a long stairway at 27420 PCH or near the corner of Escondido Beach Road and Malibu Cove Colony Drive. Look for access signs. No dogs allowed. No facilities.

Dan Blocker Beach is located at 26000 Pacific Coast Highway (between Solstice Canyon and Corral Canyon Roads. A sandy, narrow beach that draws surfers and scuba divers. Limited free roadside parking. Restrooms are available. Corral Canyon (trail map HERE) is located across the street at 25623 PCH. The trailhead is on the north side of PCH next to Malibu Seafood restaurant. The beach can be accessed via a seasonal trail under PCH. 310.305.9546

On June 14, 2016, a new beach stairway access was completed at 24038 Malibu Road. Very little parking available there and no facilities at the beach.

Malibu Beach is a 167 acre beach at 23050 and 23200 Pacific Coast Highway that includes Malibu Lagoon, Malibu Lagoon Museum and the Malibu Pier. Malibu Surfrider Beach next to the pier is quite popular with local surfers. Parking available for a fee, or park on streets surrounding Malibu Country Mart and walk across PCH at the signaled crosswalk at Cross Creek Road.

Malibu Surfrider Beach viewed from the Malibu Sportfishing Pier

Perhaps the most expensive strip of beach in the world is Carbon Beach, which stretches about a mile and a half between the Malibu Pier and just east of Carbon Canyon Road. This wide beach is a beautiful strip of sand, but public access points can be challenging to find and parking can be a challenge. Learn specifics at THIS LINK but specifically, the public accessway points are at 22670 PCH, 22466 PCH and 22126 PCH. No restrooms and no dogs allowed at this beach.

Las Tunas Beach is located at 19444 Pacific Coast Highway, about 4 1/2 miles east of the Malibu Pier. It is a narrow beach beneath the bluffs that holds a special attraction to surf casters. Free parking lot. Located between Tuna Canyon and Las Flores Canyon Roads.

And there's more...the California Coastal Commission Shoreline Public Access Program helps maximize public access to the beach along the California coast. When you see one of those "Coastal Access" signs, that means you can get to the beach. More on the program at www.coastal.ca.gov/access/accndx.html. The L.A. County Dept of Beaches and Harbors has published Malibu beach accessways at file.lacounty.gov/dbh/cms1_151453.jpg, including 11 accessways on PCH, Malibu Road and Broad Beach Road. But if you do check them out, be mindful of those who live there!

Things to Do Around Ventura County When It's Really, Really Hot Outside

It's sure hot out here! What's there to do around town that will cool me off!? Looking for things to do when its really, really HOT outside!? This list of mostly indoor activities is somewhat random in order so take a close look and you'll find something cool to do in and around Ventura County.

Community Pools, Splash Pads and Water Parks in Ventura County

Conejo Valley/Agoura Hills/Oak Park

• Hitting Zone Indoor Batting Cages in Westlake Village

• Build-a-Bear Workshop at The Oaks Mall

• We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym in Agoura Hills

• Kids World Indoor Playground in Oak Park

• Chuck E. Cheese's in Thousand Oaks

• Reign & Shine Play Lab in Oak Park (ages 6 months to 10 years)

• Monarchs Gym in Newbury Park and Agoura

• My Gym Children's Fitness Center in Thousand Oaks

• The Oaks Mall Indoor Play Area (up to age 5)

• Boulderdash Indoor Rock Climbing in Thousand Oaks

• The Arterie Art Studio in Thousand Oaks

• Open Gym at Conejo Recreation & Park District Facilities

• Sky Zone Thousand Oaks

• 101 Escape Rooms in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks

• K1 Speed Indoor Go Kart Racing and Arcade in Thousand Oaks

• The Mighty Axe in Thousand Oaks

• Play Out Loud Indoor Playground in Agoura Hills

• Jumpify Indoor Playground at The Oaks Mall

• Escapology Escape Rooms at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks

Camarillo/Oxnard/Ventura/Ojai/Port Hueneme

• Ventura Harbor Village

• Golf N' Stuff in Ventura

• Jump 'n Jammin Children’s Entertainment Center

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Ventura

• Red Door Escape Room at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard

• Lakeshore Learning Free Crafts on Saturdays in Ventura

• Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard

• My Gym Children's Fitness Center in Ventura

• Skating Plus Roller Rink in Ventura

• Pacific View Mall Kids Club in Ventura

• Firefly Ceramics in Ventura

• The Ultimate Escape Rooms at Ventura Harbor Village

• Boulderdash Indoor Rock Climbing in Ventura

• Bee Fun Zone at the U.S. Seabee Museum in Port Hueneme

• kidSTREAM Children’s Museum in Camarillo (ages 0-10)

• Nexus Family Center at Calvary Nexus in Camarillo

Moorpark/Simi Valley/Fillmore

• LA Kings Iceoplex Ice Arena in Simi Valley

• Imagymnation Gymnastics Center in Simi Valley

• The arcade at Big Z Family Fun Center in Simi Valley

• Lazertag Extreme in Simi Valley

• Rockin' Kids Play Center at the Simi Valley Town Center (ages 0-6)

• The Ronald Reagan Library and Museum in Simi Valley

• Color Café Pottery Painting Studio in Simi Valley

• Skateboarding Hall of Fame and Museum in Simi Valley

Other Locations and Activities

• Museum of Santa Barbara Sea Center

• MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in Santa Barbara

• Over 50 museums in Ventura County

• 120 movie screens around Ventura County

• Over 40 local area public beaches from Carpinteria to Malibu

• Ventura County bowling alleys

• 17+ libraries in the Ventura County area

• Ventura County shopping malls

• Color Me Mine Ceramics Studio in Calabasas

These are just a sampling of the various activities and events in Conejo Valley Guide, so make sure to explore and find something fun to do!

Free Concerts and Live Music All Summer Long Around Ventura County

We’re looking forward to another outstanding summer of free live music throughout Ventura County and surrounding areas here in 2026! The compilation below has links to more detailed information.

Concerts subject to change. List will be updated regularly as new events are added.

Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village/Newbury Park

• Free Concerts in the Park in Thousand Oaks starting at 5pm

  • Memorial Day Monday, May 25: Garth Guy - The Premier Garth Brooks Experience

  • Saturday, July 4: The New West Symphony

  • Sunday, July 19: Twisted Gypsy - Fleetwood Mac Tribute

  • Sunday, August 9: Wild Night - Van Morrison Tribute

  • Labor Day Monday, September 7: 90’s Rock Show - Iconic Sounds of the 1990s

• Saturday Night Concerts at Berniece Bennett Park in Westlake Village at 7pm

  • Saturday, June 6: Stone Soul, Motown Dance Party

  • Saturday, July 25: Tom Petty/Stevie Nicks Tribute

  • Saturday, August 15: 90s Rockshow

  • Saturday, August 29: Surf City All Stars

• City of Westlake Village TGIF Series of free events (time/locations below)

  • May 29: Agoura High School and Lindero Canyon Middle School Jazz Bands at Berniece Bennett Park at 7pm (food trucks at 6pm)

  • June 12: Thousand Oaks DJ, World Cup Watch Party of the USA vs Paraguay match at Berniece Bennett Park at 6pm (activities start at 5pm)

  • August 7: 5-Star Theatricals at 31200 Oak Crest Drive at 7pm (food trucks at 6pm)

• The Promenade at Westlake hosts live entertainment on Saturdays from 6:30-9:30PM from Memorial Day weekend (May 23) through Labor Day weekend (September 5) near the fountain.

• City of Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Festival every Friday/Saturday from June 5 to June 27 at 7PM. Eight free concerts at eight locations. (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS)

Agoura/Oak Park/Calabasas/Woodland Hills

• City of Agoura Hills Free Summer Concerts in the Park at Chumash Park. Concerts start at 6pm on the following Sunday nights:

  • June 14: Skynyrd Reloaded (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute)

  • July 5: Disco Inferno (followed by patriotic drone show)

  • August 2: Fortunate Son (CCR Tribute)

  • August 16: Turn the Page (Bob Seger Tribute)

• Valley Cultural Foundation’s Free Concerts at Warner Park in Woodland Hills on Sunday nights from June 14 to August 23 (except the July 4th Saturday event) at 5:30PM (emerging artist) followed by headline acts.

  • June 14: Dog n Butterfly - The Heart Experience

  • June 21: The Purple Generation - Tribute to Prince

  • June 28: Cali Country All-Stars

  • July 4: July 4th Extravaganza with Doctor Wu - The Music of Steely Dan

  • July 12: Flashback Heart Attack - 80s Tribute

  • July 19: Ridin’ The Storm Out - REO Speedwagon Tribute

  • July 26: Abbey Road - Beatles Tribute

  • August 2: New Romantics - Taylor Swift Tribute

  • August 9: Start Me Up - Rolling Stones Tribute

  • August 16: Super Soul Groove - Disco/Funk/Soul/R&B

  • August 23: Led Zepagain - Led Zeppelin Tribute

• Sun Sets Summer Concert Series at Calabasas Lake on Sunday nights at 6pm.

  • June 14: Billy Nation - Billy Joel Tribute

  • July 19: Jumping Jack Flash - Rolling Stones Tribute

  • August 2: Gold Rush Country

  • August 23: Fantastic Diamond - Neil Diamond Tribute

• Music in the Park at Oak Canyon Community Park in Oak Park at 6:30pm

  • Saturday, July 11 - Fantastic Diamond - Nel Diamond Tribute

• The Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge is hosting a free summer concert series starting May 24th. More info at THIS LINK.

Moorpark/Simi Valley

• Summer Music in the Park Free Concerts at Rancho Simi Community Park on Saturday nights at 6:30pm.

  • Saturday, June 20: Wallen Outlaws (Morgan Wallen Tribute)

  • Saturday, July 18: TLR (Eagles Tribute)

  • Saturday, August 15: Buffett Beach (Jimmy Buffett Tribute)

• City of Moorpark Concerts in the Park at Arroyo Vista Park at 6pm

  • June 27: Fast Times (80s Music)

  • July 25: The 805 Social Club (Pop)

  • August 22: Blue Breeze Band (Soul/R&B)

  • September 26: Country Nation

• Concerts at the Plaza at the Simi Valley Civic Center Plaza takes place from 6-9pm on the following Saturday nights:

  • 7/11: Soul Jukebox & The Funky Divas (Dance Soul)

  • 7/18: Sonic Kiss (Duran Duran Tribute)

  • 7/25: The Way (80s/90s Hits)

  • 8/1: Pre-Existing Condition (Classic Rock) and Pretty Boy Floyd (Hollywood glam band - not a tribute band!

  • 8/15: America Made (Toby Keith Tribute)

  • 8/22: JACK’D (Dance Band)

  • 9/5: Ticket to Ride (Beatles Tribute)

Camarillo/Oxnard/Port Hueneme/Ventura/Santa Paula

• Summer Concert Series at Constitution Park at 7pm on designated Saturday nights.

  • Saturday, June 27: 90s Rock Show

  • Saturday, July 11: Savor

  • Saturday, July 25: Blue Breeze Band

  • Saturday, August 8: Yellow Brick Band

• Camarillo Community Band Free Concerts in the Park at 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings, July 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Constitution Park

• Free Concerts by the Sea at Harbor View Park at Channel Islands Harbor is on Saturdays from 4-6PM for 8 weeks - July 11 to September 5.

• Heritage Square Summer Concert Series from 6-8pm on Friday nights from June 12 to August 21 - reserved tables and seats available for a free. Free lawn seating available (donations appreciated) for this concert series that offers a wide variety of musical genres.

• Free Seaside Live Music at Ventura Harbor Village includes a variety of performers beginning Memorial Day weekend through August

• Rock the Collection Free Concert Series at The Collection at RiverPark

  • July 29: The K-Tel All Stars (70s Tribute)

  • August 12: DSB (Journey Tribute)

  • August 26: Twisted Gypsy (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

  • September 9: That’s What I Like (Bruno Mars Tribute)

• Santa Paula Parks & Rec Concerts in the Park 2026 planned for Friday evening, June 19, July 17 and August 21 at Santa Paula Creek Sports Park, 301 Harvest Loop. Details at www.instagram.com/spparksandrec

Santa Barbara

Free Thursday Night Concerts at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara on Thursday nights, July 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 6-7:30pm.

Have something to add to this list? CONTACT US!!

Check the Events Calendar for things going on around town as well as the Local Events and Community Forum sections of Conejo Valley Guide.

Hike to the Rock Pool at Malibu Creek State Park in Agoura Hills

One of the most popular destinations in Malibu Creek State Park is the Rock Pool, a picturesque place that is easily accessible for all ages.

As seen in the photo above, it can be stunning to see after solid rains but can also dry up. One fun way to get to the Rock Pool is via the Grassland Trail, accessible on Mulholland Highway just west of Las Virgenes Road, where street parking is available.

Take the Grassland trail, with moderate hills, .7 miles to the Crags Road main fire road/trail in Malibu Creek State Park, and turn right. Alternatively, you can park in the Park's lower parking lot, pay $12 for a bit more secure parking, and take the main trail into the park.

The scenery along the Grassland Trail can be quite beautiful, particularly after the rainy season.

Soon you'll see the sign where you can see the Visitor Center is on the left. That's the direction you'll be taking to get to the Rock Pool. Veering to the right gets you to another popular site at the Park, the old M*A*S*H television series set.

You'll see a bridge over the creek (seen below after the winter rains) that takes you to the Visitor Center (open weekends noon to 4pm). The Rock Pool is the trail on the right (west) before reaching the bridge. Look carefully and you may see the little sign that says "Rock Pool."

Malibu Creek free flowing after some decent winter rainstorms

Well known Rock Wall used by rock climbers seen in the original Planet of the Apes (1968)

You'll walk through a shaded area with picnic benches through to a Rock Wall that is popular with local rock climbers. The video above shows scenes from the movie Planet of the Apes (1968) shot in Malibu Creek State Park. From there, the Rock Pool is a short walk further.

California State Parks, which manages the Park, warns visitors not to jump or dive into the Rock Pool as it is dangerous. But it is certainly fun to explore and is quite a beautiful area.

All told, getting to the Rock Pool is only about 3 miles round trip and worth it. I would put this hike on par with hiking to Paradise Falls in Thousand Oaks' Wildwood Park in terms of ease of access and family enjoyment. Learn more about Malibu Creek State Park at this link.