Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Clouds between the mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains offer easy access to surprisingly wild places. Experience the famous beaches of Malibu or explore more than 500 miles of trails. The park abounds with historical and cultural sites, from old movie ranches to Native American centers. What will you and your family discover?
Map showing location of park.
Lyle July 2024
Jody Lyle selected as superintendent of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
SAN FRANCISCO – The National Park Service (NPS) has selected Jody Lyle as the new permanent superintendent of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) beginning July 28, 2024. 
Woman posing in front of flag
42 New American citizens sworn in at naturalization ceremony at Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
THOUSAND OAKS, Calif.— On Thursday morning, 42 immigrants became United States citizens during a ceremony hosted by Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA), a unit of the National Park Service, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Trail view with yellow flowers in the foreground that lead to green mountains against a blue sky.
Photo by NPS
Sunbeams reaching from glowing sun over the ocean.
Photo by NPS
Mountain silhouettes at sunrise.
Photo by NPS
Wispy cloud covered sky over chaparral covered mountains.
Photo by NPS
People riding horses into the sunset on a mountain trail.
Photo by NPS
Rocks emerging from ocean.
Photo by NPS
Two individuals sitting atop a rocky outcrop while watching the sun set.
Photo by NPS
Milky way shines in night sky over a mountain and oak tree.
Photo by NPS