Marina Del Rey, California, offers superb access to a variety of mountain biking experiences just a short ride from the coast. While the immediate Marina Del Rey area is predominantly a waterfront urban setting with paved paths and gentle bike lanes, the real adventure lies in the nearby hills and trails of the Santa Monica Mountains and surrounding open spaces.

The best mountain biking near Marina Del Rey, California, happens primarily within a 15- to 30-minute drive east and north, with popular trailheads at places like Malibu Creek State Park, Topanga State Park, and Will Rogers State Historic Park. These locations serve up rugged singletrack, rolling hill climbs, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean that challenge riders of all levels.

Malibu Creek State Park stands out with nearly 8 miles of multi-use trails that invite riders to engage with terrain that shifts from smooth fire roads to winding dirt paths. The dry chaparral and coastal sage scrub here dare you to navigate their twists beneath open sunny skies, with challenging elevation gains hitting 300–600 feet on many segments.

Topanga State Park offers a denser, woodier environment where narrow paths snake around oaks and sycamores, their branches like watchful sentinels over every turn. The terrain is more technical with rocky sections and steep climbs demanding concentration and bike control.

Closer to the coast, Backbone Trail stretches over 67 miles but can be tackled in sections for varied experience. This trail pushes the adventurous soul with hills that roll fiercely themselves, rewarding with panoramic glimpses of Marina Del Rey below and the vast ocean horizon.

When planning your ride, ensure hydration and timing to avoid intense midday sun. Mornings offer cooler, calmer winds and clearer sky views, ideal for both performance and photography opportunities.

For those seeking easy access combined with rugged wilderness, these nearby spots represent the best mountain biking near Marina Del Rey, California, blending coastal breezes with demanding trails. After exploring these, be sure to check out other outdoor adventures in Marina Del Rey, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or shoreline walking, all easily found on our website’s adventure listings.