Malibu Creek State ParkSwimming Hole

It's a proposition that is a little more country than us cityfolk are used to... but the idea of jumping off of rocks into a hidden swimming hole does tickle some unfulfilled childhood fantasies. In Malibu Creek State Park, surrounded by nature and volcanic rock, lies a swimming hole where you can bring along a picnic or play Tom Sawyer and take a dip. After huffing and puffing and sweating on a hike, what more could you want than to jump into some cool water? During the summer, the water is the perfect temperature, a welcome alternative to the ice cold Pacific.

Recommendations:

The area is family friendly and can fill up on weekends. During the week, there are fewer people, which is ideal if you want to avoid crowds.

If you are going to jump off the rocks, know that the water is not that deep and can be very dangerous.

Also, the rocks are mossy so water shoes would be best to keep from slipping, although they aren't necessary.

Ask a ranger at the parking lot how to get to the swimming hole. The path is flat but a little more than a mile.