Top 8 Lakes around Calabasas
Best lakes around Calabasas, California, are situated within the Santa Monica Mountains, offering diverse landscapes and water features. The region includes both man-made lakes and natural water bodies, providing various recreational opportunities. These areas are known for their natural beauty and serve as significant natural landmarks. The lakes and surrounding parks offer opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and enjoying the natural environment.
Best lakes around Calabasas
- The most popular lakes is Century Lake, a lake that was created by a dam built in 1903. It is an easy hiking destination, offering a serene spot for picnics and enjoying the natural environment.
- Another must-see spot is Malibu Lagoon State Beach, a beach and lagoon. Visitors can find wetlands and a lagoon formed by Malibu Creek, which are excellent for bird watching and studying a unique tidal wetland ecosystem.
- Visitors also love Malibu Creek Rock Pools, a lake highlight. This natural swimming hole is formed by Malibu Creek and is a popular spot for cooling off and exploring volcanic rock gorges and scenic pools.
- Calabasas is known for man-made lakes, private reservoirs, and natural swimming holes. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil settings to popular recreational spots.
- The lakes around Calabasas are appreciated by the komoot community, with 25 upvotes and 23 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Century Lake
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Malibu Lagoon State Beach
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Malibu Creek Rock Pools
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Westlake Lake
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Malibou Lake
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Tips from the Community
Tucked in the Santa Monica Mountains near Agoura Hills, Malibou Lake is a private reservoir surrounded by rustic homes and hillsides dotted with oak trees. Created in 1922, the Medea and Triunfo creeks feed the reservoir, which sits adjacent to Malibu Creek State Park. The lake has a long history as a Hollywood filming location, most notably Frankenstein (1931)—the iconic scene of the monster and a little girl.
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While bike paths through Malibu are 'here now" and suddenly gone and you're in traffic, there are few places as pleasant to visit by bicycle as Malibu. Be sure to bike up Malibu Road, but if you're adventurous and in good shape, take the bottom of Mulholland rd (from far north of Malibu) up to the valley side of the canyon. You can then reward yourself with a long downhill ride on curvy Decker. (You'll be on your breaks for miles). This is a great town to lunch, coffee or just watch the waves.
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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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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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wonderful cooling. It gets crowded in the afternoon
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The Malibu Lagoon is where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean. At the Malibu Lagoon day use area, visitors will find picnic tables and nature trails, excellent for bird watching and the study of a unique tidal wetland ecosystem. Malibu's historic Surfrider Beach was one of the first places where modern surfing culture developed. The adjacent Malibu Lagoon Museum allows visitors to walk through the history of the area from the regional capital of the Chumash tribe, to the early Californio ranchos and later, the American gentleman’s ranches, to the birth of the surfing era. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=835
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Idyllic lake community. Unfortunately the private homeowners association prohibits access to the lake, even to people living in the area ...
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Calabasas offer public access for recreation?
For extensive public access, Malibu Creek State Park is your best bet. It features Century Lake and Malibu Creek Rock Pools, both accessible for activities like hiking and enjoying nature. Malibu Lagoon State Beach also offers public access to its wetlands and lagoon for bird watching and nature trails. Calabasas Lake and Malibou Lake are primarily private, with limited public access.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Calabasas?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. Century Lake in Malibu Creek State Park is an easy hiking destination perfect for picnics. Malibu Lagoon State Beach offers nature trails and bird watching, which can be engaging for children. While Westlake Lake is private, its surrounding areas are great for family walks and enjoying lake views.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Calabasas?
The area around Calabasas lakes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding, particularly within Malibu Creek State Park. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Rock Pool and Century Lake Trails' or the 'Lower Las Virgenes Canyon Loop' which you can find in the easy hikes around Calabasas guide. Cyclists can explore routes like the 'Malibu Creek State Park – Wild Walnut Park loop' from the road cycling guide.
Where can I go swimming near Calabasas lakes?
The most popular spot for swimming is the Malibu Creek Rock Pools. This natural swimming hole, formed by Malibu Creek, is a refreshing place to cool off, though visitors should be cautious about cliff jumping due to varying water depths. The water is quite fresh, offering a nice experience.
Are there any historic or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the area has a rich history. Malibu Creek State Park is famous as a filming location for *M*A*S*H* and *Planet of the Apes*. Century Lake was created by a dam built in 1903 and was part of the 20th Century Fox Ranch. Malibu Lagoon State Beach features the Malibu Lagoon Museum, detailing the area's history from the Chumash tribe to the surfing era. Malibou Lake also has a history as a Hollywood filming location, notably for *Frankenstein* (1931).
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are home to abundant wildlife. Calabasas Lake is known for various birds and ducks. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, with its wetlands and lagoon, is excellent for bird watching. The lush wetlands and groves around Century Lake also provide opportunities to observe natural recovery and wildlife.
Is there parking available at the public lakes?
Yes, parking is generally available at public access points. For Malibu Creek State Park, parking fees apply. Malibu Lagoon State Beach also has designated parking areas. For private lakes like Calabasas Lake, parking is typically for residents or during special community events.
Are dogs allowed on trails near the lakes?
In Malibu Creek State Park, dogs are generally not permitted on dirt roads or hiking trails. It's always best to check specific park regulations before bringing your dog to ensure compliance and a pleasant visit for everyone.
What are the best trails for hiking near the lakes?
Many excellent trails are available. The hike to Century Lake is an easy 1.5-mile trail from the main parking area in Malibu Creek State Park. The Malibu Creek Rock Pools are accessible via an easy 2.4-mile round-trip trail. For more options, explore the 'Rock Pool and Century Lake Trails' or 'Lower Las Virgenes Canyon Loop' in the easy hikes around Calabasas guide.
Can I find places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, there are dining options. On the southwest side of Westlake Lake, you'll find several lakefront restaurants offering indoor and outdoor dining. While other lakes are more natural, nearby towns and communities offer various cafes and restaurants.
What makes Malibu Creek State Park a popular destination?
Malibu Creek State Park is known as the 'Crown Jewel' of the Santa Monica Mountains due to its diverse landscapes, 15 miles of streamside trails, and extensive outdoor activities. It's also famous as a filming location for many movies and TV shows. Visitors appreciate its opportunities for hiking, fishing, bird watching, and enjoying natural water features like Century Lake and Malibu Creek Rock Pools.
Is Calabasas Lake accessible to the public?
Calabasas Lake is a private, man-made lake owned by the Calabasas Park Homeowners Association. While it offers a serene environment, access for activities like boating and fishing is generally restricted to association members. However, residents of Calabasas Park have full access, and the lake occasionally hosts public community events.
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