Private Malibu Waterfall Hike from Los Angeles: 150-foot falls

Pacific Coast drive, canyon descent, waterfall swim: one afternoon from Los Angeles

A private guided hike from Los Angeles to Malibu's tallest waterfall, with hotel pickup and a coastal drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. The tour covers five hours total: a scenic cruise to the trailhead, a 30-minute descent through Escondido Canyon along a stream, and a return journey with time to rest. Pickup from any LA location is included. Bring swimwear for stream crossings.

The experience

You get picked up from your hotel or any Los Angeles location in a private, air-conditioned vehicle and driven north along the Pacific Coast Highway. The route includes a photo stop at the iconic Malibu Sign, then continues into the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, where mansion views and canyon vistas unfold as you approach the trailhead. The drive itself is part of the tour, not just transit to it.

The hike begins at Escondido Canyon and descends for about 30 minutes along a meandering stream toward the 150-foot waterfall. You'll cross the stream multiple times, so waterproof shoes or the willingness to wade are practical necessities. Your guide sets the pace, pauses for photos, and carries trekking poles if you want them. The canyon narrows as you approach the falls, and the sound of water grows louder before you see it.

The total time from pickup to drop-off is around five hours, though it can stretch to five and a half depending on group size. Bug spray, sunscreen, bottled water, and snacks are provided. Your guide also captures candid and posed photos throughout the day. The return hike and drive back to Los Angeles follow the same route, so you'll see the coast again in a different light.

What’s included

• Private transportation from your Los Angeles hotel or location.
• scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway with a photo stop at the Malibu Sign.
• expert guide leading the hike.
• bottled water and snacks.
• bug spray and sunscreen.
• trekking poles on request.
• candid, action and posed photography throughout the day.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to2d before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by California Dream Tour

Is this one for you?Book this if you're staying elsewhere in LA and want a private guide to drive you directly to the trailhead, leaving you fresh to hike rather than navigating yourself.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the actual hike to the waterfall?

The descent to Escondido Falls takes about 30 minutes on foot, following the stream downhill. The return climb takes similar time, and the full hike is part of the five-hour tour duration including transportation.

What should I wear for stream crossings?

Waterproof shoes, sandals you can hike in, or the willingness to go barefoot work best. Bring a change of clothes or a dry bag if you want to stay dry after the hike. Swimwear is practical since you'll be wading through water multiple times.

Is the Malibu Sign stop included in the tour?

Yes, the tour includes a photo stop at the iconic Malibu Sign along the Pacific Coast Highway on the drive north. It's a brief pause to capture photos before continuing to the trailhead.

What happens if I don't want to do the full hike?

The hike to the waterfall is the core of the tour, and the guide leads the group together. If hiking isn't suitable for you, this tour may not be the right fit. Contact the operator before booking to discuss alternatives or modifications.

Can I bring my own water and snacks?

Bottled water and snacks are provided as part of the tour. You're welcome to bring additional items, but the essentials for hydration and energy are covered.