Attractions and Places To See around Calabasas - Top 20

The Calabasas area, nestled near the Santa Monica Mountains, offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can explore extensive trail systems for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For example, you can find various MTB Trails around Calabasas, including routes like the Juan Bautista de Anza Park – Millennium Trail loop. There are also many options for Cycling around Calabasas and Road Cycling Routes around Calabasas, such as the Malibu Creek State Park – Wild Walnut Park loop. Beyond trails, you can enjoy serene lakes, beaches, and viewpoints.

For breathtaking vistas, head to Parker Mesa Overlook in Topanga State Park, which offers sweeping views of Santa Monica Bay and the Pacific Ocean, extending from Palos Verdes to Malibu. Another excellent spot is the West Mandeville Fire Road, providing panoramic views of the city, mountains, and adjacent canyons.

Yes, several beautiful water features are accessible. Century Lake is a serene spot with lush wetlands and groves, known for its natural recovery after wildfires and its historical connection to early 20th-century film sets. You can also visit the Malibu Creek Rock Pools, a popular spot for swimming and picnicking within Malibu Creek State Park. Additionally, Malibu Lagoon State Beach offers a unique tidal wetland ecosystem where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean, perfect for bird watching.

Calabasas is rich in history. The Leonis Adobe Museum, built in 1844, is one of California's most significant historical landmarks, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life with period-furnished interiors and gardens. Adjacent to it is the Plummer House, the oldest surviving wood-frame building in the San Fernando Valley. Another notable landmark is King Gillette Ranch, an expansive estate designed by Wallace Neff, featuring Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and hiking trails. You can also explore Old Town Calabasas, known for its charming blend of historic and contemporary architecture and the iconic Calabasas General Store.

Absolutely. Many natural parks offer family-friendly experiences. Malibu Lagoon State Beach is excellent for families with picnic tables and nature trails. Juan Bautista de Anza Park features multiple playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Gates Canyon Park includes Brandon's Village, a universally accessible playground designed for children of all abilities. The Leonis Adobe Museum also hosts educational programs and events suitable for families.

The area boasts several expansive natural parks. Malibu Creek State Park, just a short drive from Calabasas, spans over 8,000 acres with diverse landscapes, oak woodlands, and dramatic rock formations, offering hiking, fishing, and bird watching. Topanga State Park, one of the largest parks within a city in the United States, provides extensive trails with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains. Other options include Wild Walnut Park with walking paths and picnic benches, and Calabasas Creekside Park with maintained gardens and historic replicas.

Calabasas offers unique cultural experiences. The Malibu Hindu Temple, located on the outskirts, is a unique architectural landmark built in traditional South Indian style, functioning as both a place of worship and a cultural center. The Leonis Adobe Museum also serves as a cultural hub, hosting educational programs and seasonal events. Annually, the Calabasas Film Festival celebrates filmmaking, and the weekly Calabasas Farmers Market offers local produce and artisanal goods.

For those seeking a challenge, the Calabasas Stairs offer a demanding outdoor workout spot. Within the nearby state parks, trails like the Parker Mesa Overlook involve a steep ascent rewarded with panoramic views. Many routes in Malibu Creek State Park and Topanga State Park can be quite challenging, especially longer loops or those with significant elevation gains. For example, the Eagle's Rock View – The Hub loop from Louisville High School is a difficult MTB route.

For easier walks, the perimeter of Calabasas Lake offers a peaceful 2-mile stroll. Wild Walnut Park provides natural walking paths and picnic benches in a rustic setting. Within Malibu Creek State Park, the trail to Century Lake is mostly flat and easy for about 1.5 miles from the parking area, making it suitable for a relaxed family outing.

The Commons at Calabasas is a modern architectural marvel and a central hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Designed with Mediterranean and California Mission styles, it features high-end boutiques, diverse restaurants, a movie theater, and beautifully landscaped courtyards. Its European-inspired bridge, with cobblestone pathways and wrought iron railings, is particularly picturesque.

The Calabasas area generally enjoys a mild climate, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round. However, for hiking, it's advisable to visit during the cooler months from fall to spring to avoid the dangerous midday heat, especially on trails with little shade like the West Mandeville Fire Road. Early mornings are also recommended during warmer periods. Always bring plenty of water and sun protection.