Sandstone Peak

Mountain peak · Ventura County

Sandstone Peak

Mountain peak · Ventura County

California 91361

Highlights

Summit Sandstone Peak for a stunning sunrise hike in the Santa Monica Mountains, where sweeping ocean views and greenery await adventurers.

California 91361 Get directions

@goop

"COVID-19 update: Open for socially distant hiking although restrooms may be closed. Anyone who's done a lot of hiking in the LA area will tell you that Sandstone Peak is one of, if not the, most beautiful hikes within driving distance of the city. It's a bit of a schlep to get there, as it's on the very edge of Malibu—the turnoff is the just after Neptune's Net, and you'll drive 15 minutes up Yerba Buena Road until you get to the trailhead—but more than worth it. The hike itself is about six miles round-trip, and the entire way is filled with sweeping views of Westlake Lake and Sherwood Lake on one side and the ocean on the other, plus a section where you can see rock climbers scrambling up the Echo Cliffs. This is a really good place to come the day after a rainstorm, when the smog clears and you can see the snow on the peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains across the valley. COVID-19 disclaimer: We are working hard to keep our listings as up to date as possible (deliveries, outdoor dining, etc.), but given the evolving nature of local COVID-19 restrictions, we recommend double-checking the information in this guide with any business you plan on visiting. Also, please note that we have not vetted any businesses listed within our guides for their compliance with applicable safety regulations."

The Malibu Guide

View Postcard for Sandstone Peak

Love Feels Best

Google

Such a beautiful drive and also a beautiful hike! I feel so lucky to be able to visit places like this. Please leave no trace of your visit like trash or vandalism on natural features. As far as difficulty reaching the peak which contains a plaque or Steele and a compartment that contains a book and a pen for notes or what not, it’s rather difficult if you have sore knees but doable.

Greg Murray

Google

One of my favorite hikes in the Malibu area. I would highly recommend hitting up this spot early in the morning (arriving to the trailhead at 4am-5am depending on the time of year) to experience sunrise above the clouds. Having a group of friends rolling out is always better and will help make the early morning a little more bearable (😄). This hike especially in the morning isn't really crowded and is a pretty obvious trail. There are a couple different starting points but the closest one is only about 30/40mins hiking from the peak. Because you're going to a peak, plan on those 30/40mins to be all uphill of course. To make the most of it, plan a little time to recharge and relax afterward with a smoothie from SunLife Organics or coffee from Blue Bottle down in Malibu off PCH. One of the best ways to start your day or weekend!

Brittney Gustin

Google

Amazing hike with stellar views. There is a nice 6 mile loop. I would recommend going up to sandstone peak first and doing the loop clockwise. This will allow you to get the steepest part done first and will save your knees on the downhill. Everything is green and lush now after all the rain.

Albert Lok

Google

Great views following a really nice hike up! Moderately challenging hike, be prepared for a few hours of sweating, and be careful not to step off the edge of a cliff! The views are pretty spectacular the whole way up here although the end can feel anti-climatic with the little area to rest and take in the 360 degree view.

F James

Google

Some of the best hiking in the Western section of the Santa Monica Mountains. Connecting to The Backbone Trail. Views of the ocean can be had all around. This area is also called Boney Mountain, it's a very peaceful place, not a lot of overhead aircraft, if any. You can approach the top for two trailheads, the first from Mishe - lower trail and Circle X Ranch upper parking further down. Restrooms available at Circle X.

Marlin J Gustafson Jr

Google

Absolutely an amazing hike..easier..almost mid level..the drive was almost as wonderful as the view

Monica Gabriela

Google

Not too crowded, which is great. A bit of scrambling at the top. Nice hike!

Paul South

Google

One if the best trails in all of Southern California. The views of the Pacific Ocean blends with the sky to the point where you can’t tell where one starts and the other ends. The ships looked like they were floating in air out there.