Top 9 Lakes around Westlake Village
Best lakes around Westlake Village are situated in a region known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The area features several bodies of water, including man-made lakes and natural rock pools, set amidst the Santa Monica Mountains. These lakes offer diverse experiences, from serene waters for non-motorized activities to scenic viewpoints and trails. The landscape provides a blend of developed lakeside communities and natural open spaces.
Best lakes around Westlake Village
- The most popular lakes is Century Lake,…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Century Lake
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Malibu Creek Rock Pools
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Lake Sherwood Drive
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Westlake Lake
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Los Padres Open Space
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Tips from the Community
This is one of the prettiest sections of bikeable roadway near Thousand Oaks, with gorgeous Lake Sherwood just off the road to the south. If you head west on West Potrero Road you can connect into a large loop of roughly 20 miles, doubling back toward Thousand Oaks before returning to the lake.
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Los Padres Open Space is located near the southern end of Moorpark Road. Spanning across 187 acres, this beautiful area features chaparral-covered hillsides, captivating oak woodlands, and a stunning stand of coast live oaks. Accessible via the Los Padres Trail (mostly single track)on the west side of Los Padres Drive, this area is frequented by deer, rabbits, California quail, California thrashers, and many other birds and animals. The oak woodlands are an excellent place to observe migrating birds, such as warblers and vireos, in the spring and fall.
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Westlake Lake is a stunning lake privately maintained for the residents of Westlake Village. However, there are many ways to enjoy its beauty. Popular activities include running, cycling, and walking around the lake via Triunfo Canyon and other adjacent streets. On the lake's southwest side, several lakefront restaurants offer indoor/outdoor dining. Alternatively, you can stroll around, enjoying the sweeping views and serenity.
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Westlake Lake is a stunning lake privately maintained for the residents of Westlake Village. However, there are many ways to enjoy its beauty. Popular activities include running, cycling, and walking around the lake via Triunfo Canyon and other adjacent streets. On the lake's southwest side, several lakefront restaurants offer indoor/outdoor dining. Alternatively, you can stroll around, enjoying the sweeping views and serenity.
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Los Padres Open Space is located near the southern end of Moorpark Road. Spanning across 187 acres, this beautiful area features chaparral-covered hillsides, captivating oak woodlands, and a stunning stand of coast live oaks. Accessible via the Los Padres Trail (mostly single track)on the west side of Los Padres Drive, this area is frequented by deer, rabbits, California quail, California thrashers, and many other birds and animals. The oak woodlands are an excellent place to observe migrating birds, such as warblers and vireos, in the spring and fall.
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If you are looking for a scenic and refreshing trail run in the Santa Monica Mountains, you should check out the Rock Pool at Malibu Creek State Park. This 2-mile out-and-back trail follows the creek through oak and sycamore woodlands, offering views of volcanic rock gorges and pools. The Rock Pool is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and even cliff-jumping, if you are feeling adventurous. You can also extend your run by exploring other trails in the park, such as the Grassland Trail or the M*A*S*H site. Just make sure to bring enough water, sunscreen, and trash bags, as the park can get hot and crowded in the summer. And don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of nature and the history of this park, which has been used as a filming location for many movies and TV shows.
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Century Lake is a beautiful and serene destination for trail runners who want to enjoy the scenery and history of Malibu Creek State Park. The lake was created by a dam built by the Crags Country Club in 1903, and later became part of the 20th Century Fox Ranch, where many movies and TV shows were filmed, including Planet of the Apes and MASH. The trail to the lake is about 1.5 miles from the parking area, and is mostly flat and easy, except for a rocky creek crossing. You can relax by the lake and admire the views of the Santa Monica Mountains, or explore the nearby helipad and MASH set. This is a fun and historic run that will make you feel like you are in a different century.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features and landscapes can I find around Westlake Village lakes?
The lakes around Westlake Village offer diverse natural beauty. You can find lush wetlands and groves, especially around Century Lake, which showcases natural recovery after wildfires. Other areas feature oak and sycamore woodlands, volcanic rock gorges, and serene waters surrounded by chaparral-covered hillsides and majestic oak woodlands, such as in the Los Padres Open Space.
Are there any lakes with historical significance in the Westlake Village area?
Yes, Century Lake is notable for its history as part of the 20th Century Fox Ranch, where many movies and TV shows, including Planet of the Apes and MASH, were filmed. Additionally, Lake Sherwood, located just outside Westlake Village, was named after its use as a filming location for the 1922 silent film "Robin Hood" and became a retreat for Hollywood stars.
What water activities are available at the lakes around Westlake Village?
At Westlake Lake, non-motorized activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular, though primarily for residents with permits. Lake Sherwood, a private body-contact lake, allows swimming, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, and boating for residents. For visitors, the Malibu Creek Rock Pools are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, especially in warmer weather.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Westlake Village?
Yes, there are many hiking opportunities. The trail to Century Lake is mostly flat and easy, about 1.5 miles from the parking area. The Malibu Creek Rock Pools are reached via a scenic 2-mile out-and-back trail through woodlands. The surrounding Santa Monica Mountains near Lake Sherwood also offer scenic hiking trails with panoramic views. For more options, explore the MTB Trails around Westlake Village guide, which includes trails suitable for hiking.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in Westlake Village?
Absolutely. Westlake Lake offers opportunities for cycling around its perimeter via Triunfo Canyon and adjacent streets. The Lake Sherwood Drive is considered one of the prettiest sections of bikeable roadway in the area. You can find detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Westlake Village and Cycling around Westlake Village guides.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in the Westlake Village area?
Yes, Westlake Lake is considered family-friendly, offering opportunities for walking and cycling with lakefront dining. Century Lake is also family-friendly, with an easy trail suitable for all ages. The Malibu Creek Rock Pools are a popular spot for family picnics and swimming, though it can get crowded.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Westlake Village?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Summer is ideal for water activities like swimming at the Malibu Creek Rock Pools, though it can get hot and crowded. Winter provides cooler weather for outdoor pursuits, and the area hosts community events like the Westlake Village Holiday Boat Parade.
Can I spot wildlife near the lakes?
Yes, the lakes and surrounding open spaces are home to diverse wildlife. Westlake Lake and its wetlands support various bird species like great blue herons, egrets, and ducks, as well as turtles and squirrels. In the Los Padres Open Space, you might see deer, rabbits, California quail, California thrashers, and various migrating birds in spring and fall.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, particularly around Westlake Lake. The Landing on the southwest side of the lake features lakefront restaurants like Boccacio's, Zin Bistro Americana, and The Landing Grill and Sushi Bar, offering indoor/outdoor dining with sweeping views. Lake Sherwood also has exclusive dining options at the Sherwood Country Club for its members.
Are the lakes around Westlake Village dog-friendly?
While specific lake access for dogs can vary due to private ownership, the Los Padres Open Space, which features chaparral-covered hillsides and oak woodlands, is noted as dog-friendly, offering trails where you can enjoy nature with your pet.
Are there any wheelchair accessible paths around the lakes?
While specific wheelchair accessible paths directly around the private lakes are not explicitly detailed, many parks and trails surrounding Westlake Lake offer opportunities for walking and jogging on paved surfaces, which may include accessible sections. It's recommended to check specific park information for detailed accessibility features.
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