Chimps Ahoy is a compact yet incisive sport climb tucked within the rugged contours of Malibu Creek State Park. The route immediately grabs your attention with a steep, demanding start that propels you upwards, testing your precision and finger strength before easing onto a broad ledge that offers a brief moment to reset. From here, a small roof challenges your upper-body control and footwork, requiring a focused effort to power through. After overcoming this key obstacle, the route transforms into an enjoyable 5.6 cruise that allows climbers to savor the natural flow of the rock and scenery.

Located on a steep face within the Santa Monica Mountains, Chimps Ahoy demands respect for its initial intensity but rewards with a gratifying sequence of moves. The route’s 80-foot length means it’s approachable for a morning or afternoon session, providing enough time to engage fully with each section without overwhelming endurance. Protection is straightforward – a series of closely spaced bolts leading to two chains secure the climb, creating a safe and reassuring line as you ascend. Expect solid rock quality typical of Malibu Creek, with a textured surface that shuffles easily under smudges of chalk.

Beyond the climb’s physical demands, the setting is a draw on its own. The Stumbling Blocks sector sits within the heart of Malibu Creek State Park, where sun-dappled trails and the distant sounds of wind moving through chaparral shrubs accompany the ascent. Access to the wall is a short approach through dry, rocky terrain with intermittent shade from coastal oaks.

Chimps Ahoy suits climbers ready to face a powerful start and enjoy a playful finish. With a moderate rating of 5.10a, it bridges the gap between confident beginner and intermediate sport climbers looking for a route that blends challenge with flow. The relatively low star rating may suggest it lacks the polished perfection of more famous climbs nearby, but it offers an unpretentious chance to sharpen skills in a scenic, less crowded environment.

When planning your session, be sure to bring well-grippy shoes for the early steep moves and enough quickdraws—six is sufficient for this single-pitch. Timing your climb around midday ensures the wall is warmed, making the holds less slick and the rock more responsive. The small roof section is a worthy crux that demands solid technique, so take your time watching foot placements and prioritizing balance over speed.

This route is ideal for those seeking a concise but well-rounded climb where individual moves matter as much as endurance. Chimps Ahoy invites you to encounter the rock’s natural challenges directly, offering a satisfying progression from the pumpy start to the easier, confident finish poised above Malibu Creek’s natural beauty.