malibu beaches

Malibu, a Southern California gem, is celebrated for its celebrity inhabitants and stunning coastline. Its beaches are a harmonious blend of golden sands, azure waters, and dramatic cliffs, revealing a narrative of tranquility and adventure. Expect a variety of experiences, from breathtaking sunsets to dolphin spectacles. Surfing stories and seaside memories are imprinted into its sands. Unique beaches like the majestic El Matador State Beach and tranquil Zuma Beach form its 21-mile coastline, each offering a distinct charm. In Malibu, the sea's rhythm and coastal whispers relay a tale of serene beauty. Every grain of sand here holds a captivating story.

COUNTY LINE BEACH & STAIRCASE BEACH

Immortalized by The Beach Boys in their 1963 hit “Surfin’ USA,” County Line is a surfer’s paradise, revered for its captivating peaks and point break. The beach is a hub for a diverse range of water sports enthusiasts, including standup paddleboarders, divers, kite surfers, and windsurfers. Situated west of Yerba Buena Road on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), facilities are minimal, with portable restrooms and limited parking available. Nearby, Staircase Beach, a Leo Carrillo pocket beach alongside County Line, also offers limited parking at 40000 PCH and has no amenities. While dogs on leashes are welcomed on Staircase Beach, they are not permitted on County Line Beach. Experience the thrill of Californian surfing culture, and embrace the natural beauty at these cherished Malibu destinations.

Surfrider Beach

Malibu’s iconic right point-break wave has been a surfer’s paradise for decades. Overlooking Malibu Pier, it has served as the backdrop for numerous surf films in the 1950s and '60s and remains a favorite haunt of surf legends like Miki Dora and Gidget. This hallowed site, where contemporary California surf culture was born, was christened Surfrider and declared the first-ever World Surfing Reserve in 2010. With its three-point breaks, the beach accommodates both longboarders and shortboarders. Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours, and restroom facilities are available. Surfrider is part of Malibu Lagoon State Beach, a bird sanctuary that attracts birdwatchers with up to 200 species during spring and fall migrations. Experience the birthplace of surf culture and connect with nature.

El Pescador Beach

El Pescador, the third pocket beach within Robert H. Meyer Memorial Beach, is a serene sandy cove framed by rocky areas and dotted with tide pools. With a similar layout to El Matador and La Piedra, El Pescador provides paid parking and restrooms open from 8 a.m. to sunset, but it offers the shortest stroll to the sand. The beach isn’t a hot spot for surfers, yet its gentle waves create a safe and enjoyable environment for children. Perfect for tide pooling, beach strolling, birdwatching, and sunbathing, El Pescador is a delightful spot for leisurely exploration. Walk along the shoreline to El Matador or La Piedra, or simply delve into the beauty of the rock formations. Though it can get busy on weekends, this relatively small beach typically offers a tranquil retreat on weekdays.

Sycamore Cove Beach

Sycamore Cove Beach and adjacent Point Mugu State Park, with over 70 miles of surrounding trails, offer endless adventures within their grassy valleys, rugged hills, and the 15,000-acre Boney Mountains State Wilderness Area. The park welcomes year-round campers, hikers, and beachgoers seeking to explore the abundant local flora and fauna. Visitors can learn more at the Sycamore Canyon Nature Center, watch for monarch butterflies and seabirds, spot dolphins and seals, and discover the vibrant life in tide pools. Facilities include picnic tables perfect for enjoying a seaside meal, and a lifeguard is on duty during the day. Leashed dogs are welcome. Keep in mind that Sycamore Cove Beach can get busy on weekends, so it’s recommended to arrive early for a good spot. Parking lots and restrooms are available from 8 a.m. to sunset. Delve into nature’s bounty and unwind amidst the stunning coastal landscape.

El Matador State Beach

El Matador State Beach beckons sunbathers and adventurers alike with its intriguing caves and dramatic cliffs. Defined by unique rock formations, this tucked-away treasure is part of the wider Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, a trove of hidden coastal gems. Even from the parking lot, visitors are greeted with stunning ocean vistas that already justify their trip. To uncover this breathtaking location, simply watch out for the signage off Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). A modest lot, open from 8 a.m. to sunset, offers parking at a fee of $8. Please note, there isn’t a lifeguard tower at this beach. Come prepared for a short yet invigorating hike down the bluff to the sandy beach below — a small endeavor for the immense reward that El Matador offers in return.

La Piedra Beach

Nestled between El Matador and El Pescador, La Piedra Beach offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking to explore tide pools and sunbathe away from bustling crowds. Although there are no lifeguards on duty, hikers are likely to encounter a variety of wildlife, from seabirds and harbor seals to an array of sea creatures inhabiting the tide pools. A stone’s throw from El Matador, reaching the beach involves navigating down the bluffs, so a certain level of physical readiness is advised. The parking lot operates from 8 a.m. to sunset, providing easy access to visitors. Experience the tranquil beauty and nature’s wonder at La Piedra Beach. A visit here promises a chance to disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with the rhythm of the ocean.

Nicholas Canyon Beach

Situated a mile-and-a-half southwest of Leo Carrillo and four miles from the Ventura and Los Angeles county line, Nicholas Canyon Beach is a hidden treasure off Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This secluded spot is a favorite among divers, swimmers, surfers, and hikers seeking a peaceful experience. Known as “Point Zero” among local surfers, it boasts one of Los Angeles County’s few perfect left point breaks. The beach features restrooms, stair access, and lifeguards for visitor safety. History enthusiasts can delve into the local past by visiting the Wishtoyo Foundation’s Native American Village, which offers guided tours and presentations showcasing Chumash culture. The park entrance may be easily overlooked, so watch out for the sign. Paid parking is available from sunrise to sunset. Uncover the tranquil charm of Nicholas Canyon Beach and immerse yourself in its rich cultural history and natural beauty.

Leo Carrillo State Beach

Leo Carrillo State Beach, named after actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo (1880-1961), is a haven for explorers, featuring coastal caves, rock formations, tide pools, and offshore reefs. Carillo played a crucial role in acquiring this diverse parkland situated between Malibu Lagoon and Point Mugu. This beach is a hotspot for surfers, divers, snorkelers, windsurfers, and kite surfers, offering diverse aquatic experiences. Convenient facilities, such as public restrooms and showers, are available at the campground opposite the beach, which also allows for backcountry hiking. Dogs are permitted on leashes in designated areas. Parking is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. at a cost of $12 daily or $3 hourly, located across the street. Explore, unwind, and embrace the coastal splendor of Leo Carrillo State Beach.

Corral Canyon Beach

Nestled near Solstice Canyon and Dan Blocker Beach, Corral Canyon Beach promises a host of recreational opportunities, from surfing, snorkeling, and fishing, to swimming, tide pooling, sunbathing, beach walking, and scuba diving amidst the parallel rock reef. The beach boasts amenities such as a lifeguard in summer, toilets, picnic tables, and a campground. Corral Canyon Park, situated across the street, is part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, featuring a 2.5-mile-long hiking trail loop and a pedestrian underpass leading to the beach. Additional parking and picnic tables are available at the far west end of the beach, although beach access may be challenging from this point. Please note that dogs are not permitted on the beach. This sandy stretch is set between the Latigo Shores neighborhood and the north end of Malibu Road, invites visitors to experience the wonders of coastal living.

Zuma Beach

Renowned for its vast expanse, Zuma Beach has been a Southern California hotspot for decades. Spanning four miles of sandy terrain, it provides ample space for family fun, boogie boarding, and sand sculpting, but swimmers should be wary of its strong waves and riptides. Serving as the hub for the Junior Lifeguard program and Pepperdine University’s Sand Volleyball, Zuma appeals to athletic beachgoers. Its proximity to Westward Beach offers a scenic walk, while the Nautica Malibu Triathlon attracts triathletes every September. Near Parking Lot One, you’ll find 10 public volleyball courts and spacious areas for frisbee or football. A long boardwalk invites runners for a beachside sprint. Fully equipped with lifeguards, public restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and snack bars, Zuma ensures a comfortable visit. Off PCH, abundant parking is available for a fee. Beat the crowds by arriving early to secure the prime beach spot.

Paradise Cove

The secluded driveway of Paradise Cove leads to a large private parking lot for the use of the visitors to the beach and patrons of Paradise Cove Beach Cafe. Paradise Cove is a stunning public beach situated in front of a privately-owned facility bearing the same name. The beach boasts a picturesque setting, with surfboards adorning the property and a restaurant that exudes a laid-back, California vibe. Visitors can enjoy a wide sandy beach, complete with lifeguards, well-maintained amenities, and a private pier. Chaise lounge chairs and private palapas can be rented, providing an exclusive beachside experience. The beach’s beauty has not gone unnoticed, as it has served as a backdrop for beach scenes in numerous Hollywood movies.

Westward Beach

For a rejuvenating day of beachside relaxation or an extended seaside stroll, Westward Beach, with its three-mile stretch, is a delightful choice. Situated south of Zuma and encircling half of Point Dume, this beach features deep blue waters and expansive sands that play host to sea lions, dolphins, and seals. Its wide expanse is ideal for outdoor games like soccer or football. Uniquely positioned away from Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), Westward Beach provides a lifeguard service and facilities, including picnic tables and restrooms. The powerful waves and tides demand caution; thus, it’s recommended only for experienced swimmers. Parking is available at the end of Westward Road for a fee. From the lot, a hike to the Point Dume Natural Preserve trail makes for an excellent adventure. Westward is a haven for leisure and exploration.