Descanso Gardens is a 150-acre botanical garden with a wide variety of plant species, a lake, and several walking trails. In the morning, take a leisurely walk through the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and Oak Forest. After lunch at the onsite cafe, explore the Lilac Garden, Camellia Forest, and the world-famous Ancient Forest. In the evening, check out the new art installation at the Sturt Haaga Gallery or attend a live music concert at the Descanso's Under the Oaks Theater.
Malibu Creek State Park is a picturesque park with several hiking trails, rock pools, and scenic picnic spots. In the morning, hike the M*A*S*H site trail and see the remains of the famous TV series set. After lunch, take a dip in the Rock Pool or explore the Century Lake trail that leads to the famous Saddle Rock formation. In the evening, have a picnic at the Upper Meadow picnic area and enjoy the stunning sunset views over the Santa Monica Mountains.
If you have time, visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena, which is a 25-minute drive from Descanso Gardens. You can also plan a side trip to Malibu Pier and enjoy the beach views along with some delicious seafood. To maximize your fun, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry sunscreen, and keep yourself hydrated during the hikes.