Point Dume State Beach

Beach · Malibu

Point Dume State Beach

Beach · Malibu

3

6800 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265

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Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null
Point Dume State Beach by null

Highlights

Rugged coastline, rock climbing, hiking, and ocean wildlife viewing  

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6800 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265 Get directions

parks.ca.gov

Information

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6800 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265 Get directions

+1 310 457 8143
parks.ca.gov

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Last updated

Oct 26, 2025

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Mexico Has the Most Blue Flag Beaches in North America

"Counted among the only two Blue Flag beaches in the U.S., this shoreline meets the Blue Flag standard—a "voluntary award for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats" requiring a "series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria." The designation entails public-facing obligations such as displaying water quality, maintaining cleanliness and trash receptacles, providing "an adequate number of toilet or restroom facilities," offering environmental education, and ensuring "free access must be granted to the public." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/mexico-has-most-blue-flag-beaches-in-north-america-11690193
View Postcard for Point Dume State Beach
@cntraveler

22 Best Beaches in Los Angeles, From Venice to White Point | Condé Nast Traveler

"Perched at the end of Malibu on a dramatic cliff that drops to a crescent-shaped beach, Point Dume features crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and scuba (sea lions sometimes swim nearby) and is also famous as a great spot to learn rock climbing, offering something for many different kinds of visitors." - Maxwell Williams

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/13-best-beaches-in-los-angeles
View Postcard for Point Dume State Beach
@jonknobel

The Classic, the refuge, a return to our youth. Gotta find someone with an easy-to-carry shade structure tho because the steps are shitty.

BenInTown: Beach
View Postcard for Point Dume State Beach

Rodney

Google
this is the best beach in SoCal. I'm from Los Angeles, and this is by far my favorite beach. It secluded with perfect sand, and the most amazing views. highly recommend!

Alejandro P

Google
I had such an amazing time at Point Dume! The location is absolutely stunning, with beautiful, clean water that’s perfect for a refreshing swim or just relaxing on the shore. It’s a fantastic spot for families too—our kids had a blast! While parking can be a bit challenging, if you arrive early enough, there’s public parking available that makes it manageable. What I loved most is how peaceful it felt compared to the busier beaches in LA. We saw an Orca happily swimming in the water. It’s the perfect escape if you’re looking for a more tranquil beach day. Highly recommend this spot, 100%!

Jesus Is Lord Las Vegas

Google
Another one of my happy places. Probably my favorite beach in all of California. It is so quiet, so beautiful, so peaceful, with great surf, & an excellent hike to the top of Point Dume where you'll get to see dolphins & whales out in the ocean. You'll have to pay for parking to get on the beach but it's well worth it. This section of Zuma Beach beats the other two sections by far, with those sections being Westward Beach and Zuma Main Beach. You must come check it out.

Kris Evens

Google
Point Dume State Beach in Malibu is an amazing place to unwind. The beach is quiet, with pristine sand and clear waters. The view from the cliffs is stunning, and the area feels more secluded compared to other Malibu beaches. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or just a peaceful walk by the ocean. It’s less crowded, so you get a more relaxed, nature-filled experience. I love coming here to escape the crowds and spend a day surrounded by natural beauty

Steve Johnston

Google
You will have to pay $15 for parking if you plan on hiking up to Point Dume, which is a bit much. Plan on spending time on the beach to make it worth your while. Lots of wannabe influencers walking around taking selfies. Sunset is the best time to visit.

Karen Arias

Google
Our favorite beach! ☀️ The kids and mom always have so much fun here! The parking is right on the beach. It’s a small beach so there’s usually not too many people. We try to go during the week. The walk close to the water is not very far and that’s my favorite part. I usually like to go in the afternoon because my favorite time is watching the sunset! 😍

Andrew H.

Google
Absolutely beautiful beach! The water is a beautiful blue and the waves are huge at times and a lot of fun to watch. A good chance you’ll see dolphins while here. We decided to visit this as the wrap up to our California vacation and it was perfect. Free street parking is available but can be very tricky to find. Despite all the cars the beach didn’t feel overly crowded and there was plenty of room to spread out. Excellent beach!

Christine Dumasis

Google
This beach is simply beautiful. Its not as crowded and parking is usually easy especially if you arrive before 10am. But honestly, it is an Awesome Beach!! It looked clean, lifeguard on Duty and it’s very accessible from parking area. Its not a beach for swimming due to big waves but u can definitely walk along the shoreline. Then you have a hiking area and even climbing, weekdays parking is $8.00, weekends its $15.00
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Jamie W.

Yelp
I remember coming to Point Dume State Beach when I lived in Southern California with some of the lady neighbors. The views of the ocean are spectacular. It does get busy here, so plan accordingly when visiting for the views or to relax and unwind from life, work, or school. The Malibu coastline is beautiful. The breeze is amazing and feels good when it comes off the coast while driving around. This location is great for relaxation, selfies, and enjoying the beautiful weather Malibu has to offer.
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Matt M.

Yelp
We met someone on the stairs who told us there are 193 steps in the staircase leading down to the beach. Not too bad, but we were feeling it a little coming back up! On a Wednesday evening, we managed to snag a coveted 2hr parking spot next to the overlook. The view is gorgeous! There are a few trails in the area, but we just went straight to the beach. There was only one other group there. Other than the thousands of By-the-Wind sailors washed up, the beach was pristine. Waters here are super clear as well, even as the waves hit the shore.
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Lorencia P.

Yelp
Before I decided to come here, I did my research and looked up pictures of this place. It seemed too good to be true and I figured the pictures were heavily edited to emphasize the contrast. BUT when I tell you that it was just as pretty in REAL LIFE!! It was one of the most beautiful sunsets I've seen in recent years. Definitely worth checking out! Parking is a little difficult, but nowhere more than a 15 min walk. Go during sunset time and take lots of pictures! The point was crowded, but you were still able to enjoy the views and sunset. If I lived around Malibu, I would watch the sunset from this point every day.
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Chris W.

Yelp
Parking can be challenging at times and also be careful where you park to avoid getting a ticket! You may have to park down side streets, however, it is so worth the small hike. Stunning views and at different times of the year the beach can change so much depending on tide, weather, etc...
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Nicole R.

Yelp
This is a beautiful and clean beach with some sport climbing and a short hike to an overlook! We saw a few dolphins in the ocean. Lots of proposals and photoshoots were happening here. There is a paid parking lot and porta potties.
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Viviana G.

Yelp
This is my favorite beach! It's so calm and beautiful, the sunset is perfect. The only thing is the waves are little but dangerous but I had many fun moments there!
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Danielle P.

Yelp
Point Dume is a on the coast of Malibu, California in the Pacific Ocean. The point, a long bluff, forms the northern end of the Santa Monica Bay. Zuma Beach lies to its immediate northwest. We lived in California for many years, but clearly I missed quite a bit in tourism. So every two years we head back to Cally for more adventures. First off the road trip to Malibu is so pretty and relaxing, it like a scene from a movie! I was there during the week so no parking issues for us. I definitely can see why people flock here all year round. There is a paid parking lot at all the beaches, so have patience and chill. Lot of trails, stairs and hiking. Check online for a more user friendly area for the disabled. Yes, I highly recommend having a plan and booking your hotels in advance, this is a very popular route. If your military there are a few lodges along the way, we use them to save a few dollars. Do your research and enjoy your benefits. @glampedlife
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Melanie W.

Yelp
Unforgettable stunning views! It's a short walk. Quite a bit of stairs but it's unbelievably beautiful. I love this point for the serene atmosphere, the surfers, the tiny crabs on the rocks, & Its flowers in spring. It's a gem for all in the valley. If your in the area please stop by, the photos do no justice
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Jessica A.

Yelp
Still love this beach.... Come here often to rejuvenate. Saw mama whales with their calves close to shore.once. This is also the location where they shot that final beach scene in Planet of the Apes with Charleton Heston.
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Nicole O.

Yelp
Beautiful beach but broken water fountain and disgustingly full port o potties. We had to leave because we needed water and to use the bathroom which is a shame because it's not easy to get to.
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Stephanie C.

Yelp
This restaurant ambience is so nice! Especially being next to the beach. I came for my friends bachelorette dinner and we all had an amazing time! The service was great. We did valet parking since parking was a little hard to find. High recommend getting their calamari appetizer! So delicious. I also got the mushroom risotto, it was a bit bland but I still enjoyed it.
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Jessica C.

Yelp
Has the best tide pools I have seen here near LA so far! Walked a lot around here. Walked on the beach and saw dolphins swimming nearby!! Crossed the rocks at the bottom to look around. Then hiked up to the cliff. Then hiked up to the highest point and I wondered if it was worth it. Boy, it definitely paid off!! Saw seals lounging around and saw there were tide pools on the other side. And we found so many cool things at the tide pools: sea anemones, starfish, spanish shawl slugs, crabs, and an interesting looking white bird. There are a lot of stairs but it's easier than climbing down rocks or sand. And to end our time there, we witnessed a most beautiful sunset!!!! Definitely coming back here! Oh and the parking meter was broken and thankfully we didn't get a ticket. Bathrooms are pretty clean too and have soap which is always a bonus!
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Michal G.

Yelp
Such a beautiful place. It's very nice and peaceful especially if you go super early in the morning. Highly recommend for people who love the beach.
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Tom G.

Yelp
I grew up out here... Always near perfect if not a slice of heaven. Today they were filming a music video with a sizable crew. I enquired but would not reveal any info as to what artist was involved ... Chuckles... Ok.
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Loretta A.

Yelp
Magnificent beach here in Malibu. Clean, and beautiful. There is plenty of paid parking here. A restaurant is near too. Sunset is the name and it's pricey. Not for Malibu though. Lovely area.
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M C.

Yelp
Be sure to check the parking time limits! I ended up getting a ticket the last time I was there.
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Brandon G.

Yelp
Love it here. Great spot to bring friends that have come from out of state. Will continue to come a on the trail here and see the great views! I will drive 1 hr here for sunsets sometimes
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Rosario S. C.

Yelp
This is a must do on your drive around Malibu. Enjoy many amazing and beautiful panoramic views of Malibu and the mansions on the cliff. You can take a set of stairs to walk down to the beach area.
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Angie W.

Yelp
An incredible hike with gorgeous views. The only and major issue is the parking. We drove all the way down to the beach and found parking there after a little drive. We made the half mile trek to the trailhead. On the walk to the trailhead we did pass a rather bi parking lot but it was closed for construction. This was October 2021. The hike is rather moderate, very doable for most people. great views all around. Gorgeous views of the coastline left and right. There is no shade so bring a hat and sunscreen.
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Mauriel D.

Yelp
One of my favorite places in the malibu area and the view is amazing you really can't beat it . The rock area has rock climbing and the beach is big enough for everyone to enjoy and it's still clean. Whenever your in the area . Check it out and enjoy the sun and weather
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Tae Kyung Y.

Yelp
I thought the best place to see views in Malibu was El Matador, but I was obviously wrong when we decided to check out Point Dume. Point Dume is an absolute beauty, and you have to drive up a hill to get there -- you won't be able to see in on Pacific Coast Highway, but if you do decide to make the drive up there, you will not regret it one bit. At the top of the hill, you'll see VERY short trails you can walk to see this magnificent view and you will see how amazing Malibu actually is -- the view of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu beaches are immaculate and really difficult to explain in words. My mom was blown away by the views that we were able to see and it really is one-of-a-kind. You can also walk down the stairs to walk by the beaches, which we didn't opt to do because it is a LOT of stairs. Plenty of photo ops here and it's just an amazing vibe that can't be missed out on. I think this is the best place to see Malibu and see why everyone raves about this peaceful yet luxurious city.
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Thuong T.

Yelp
Great place to go if you want a quick hike, with rewarding reviews, and a beautiful beach to hang out at afterwards! Keep in mind that on the weekends, there is a huuuuuuuuge line to get into the parking lot, and although the parking lot is also huge, it will eventually run out of spaces. The lot got full around 12pm-1pm. So definitely plan on arriving early to snag a spot! Otherwise, there is Zuma beach next door, and they also have their own parking lot within walking distance. It does cost $15 per vehicle to park. It is a very quick 0.5 mile hike up a steep hill. At the top, there is a beautiful and refreshing view. I was surprised to see that they also have hooks installed at the top for people to mountain climb over the sides, which was a first I've seen! Overall, I recommend this spot.
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Chris P.

Yelp
Nice Sandy Beach, not very crowded, Rock climbing and trail paths, with stunning views of the ocean and it's wildlife. Must visit.
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Natalee M.

Yelp
Point Dume State Beach is so beautiful!! We came here to take photos with our film cameras on a Sunday, and it was crazy busy. We had to park near the restaurants and walk about a mile to the Point. The views are honestly breathtaking here. Highly recommend coming at sunset!
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Hui Koon K.

Yelp
If you are looking to hike to the beach and tide pools on the other side of the cliff, the path down is closed off as the stairs has collapsed. The construction for new stairs is on going. The hiking at the preserve is still open with some good views. The beach appears to be open but there were no lifeguards on this Tues afternoon. Pay parking was available as most visitors did not stay long due to closed restrooms.
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Maria T.

Yelp
This is where it all began!! If you're on the beach, and look up to the cliff at Point Dume, that's where my hubby and I got married almost 30 years ago! We had an intimate ceremony just as the sun set into the horizon. We planned it so the wedding ended just at dusk. It was a beautiful little spot overlooking the crashing waves below. Never one to follow tradition, I wore a black lace gown as I walked down the sandy path to the edge of the fenced in precipice. No need for decorations, God's creation painted a glorious setting! We felt like Heathcliff and Catherine in that famous scene from Wuthering Heights. Unlike the "doom" that fell upon those two star crossed lovers, ours was a happy ending! Years later we revisited our nuptial spot, and recreated some photos! We brought along our daughter and enjoying reminiscing and hiking through the natural sandy dunes, grassy cliffs and along the beach. It's one of my favorite places and one of my fondest memories. A sliver of my heart will always rest at the edge of Point Dume!
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Tara B.

Yelp
This is one of my most favorite places in California, not to be missed if you ask me. Beauty abounds all around when you're here. The best time to be here for maximum impact is early Spring, February or March for the freshness of the Giant Yellow Coreopsis flowers. They are a real eye opening experience. Whether you see them or not, it's still beautiful. Take your headphones off and listen to the sounds of Nature at its best. You just might get a message if you stay open.
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Loretta M.

Yelp
Beautiful beach with affordable parking at 8.00. The beach is well kept and patrolled regularly The drive through the mountains was amazing, definitely take your time to enjoy the scenery.
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Aleah H.

Yelp
A great state park for a quiet afternoon! The beach is clean and not too crowded, and there is plenty of parking (I believe it cost $8 for the day). There is also a little trail with some beautiful views and spots for picnics. Parts of it are sand, and others are board walk. I would recommend for anyone looking for an easy afternoon hike! We also saw SO MANY dolphins which was a fun surprise!
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Troy H.

Yelp
One of my favorites. The views are amazing and the tide pools are just as good. This is a great place to have a nice run, bike or simply enjoy a book read. Enjoy the breeze and the views as it's one of the best.
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Kailee B.

Yelp
This place is beautiful! There's no beach quite like it. I love the beaches and frequent to many different beaches along the west coast and this one is quite breathtaking. From descending from the upper stairs, you already get a beautiful view of the beach and lovely rock formations. There are some natural breaking of the "land" on the way down to make the experience even more interesting and surreal. There are definitely a lot of stairs so be aware if you cannot handle stairs or is afraid of heights. At the beach itself, there are many spots that are beautiful for photography. We saw some professional photographers there when we visited. There are some arches and some rocks that are fun to climb on or go underneath. To me, it's a romantic place for a stroll.
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Diana W.

Yelp
Secret gem for rock climbers, beach goers, and ocean life seekers. Parking meters take credit card. Cliff has around 7 possible routes (4 front side, maybe 3 back side). There is a restroom on the beach. I've been going here for years during only off season times. I'd imagine this place to be even more crowded during warmer weather. I've seen dolphins ever single visit so far. It's amazing! Cliff: It's a nice sector you can hike up for a great view. Climbers need to hike up to drop their rope. Climbs include semi easy beginners to more difficult routes. I've never met a climber that was not nice or welcoming. If you didn't bring a rope, you can always ask to take a turn if you notice the group is taking a break... definitely bring snacks to share if you're using others rope. Pirates Cove Beach: Area for engagement shoot or to discover ocean life within the cove. Atmosphere/Tips: This beach is not for the party bros. It's a chill local type beach setting. I recommend going before 11am or 10am to get a meter parking spot closest to the end cul-de-sac. I believe there is a lifeguard on duty during the summer season. Pets: Website says no dogs allowed on the beach or preserved area. There is a debate where others say yes allowed if on a short leash? Tbd. We didn't want to risk it. Bbq? Not allowed. Alcoholic drinks? Not allowed.
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J E.

Yelp
This is a beautiful park with plenty of trails and amazing views of Santa Monica Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It's easy for those with disabilities to get around as all the trails are flattened and have a nicro-gravel coating. There's plenty of handicap parking and some regular parking as well. Definitely worth visiting when in the area!
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Jeff T.

Yelp
Parking here is really hard, only like 10 spots available. Although, a wonderful view of the ocean. The beach going into the water is not sandy but quite rocky. As for snorkeling, a windy day will cause low visibility and there's a lot of long sea grass when entering
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Jason Z.

Yelp
Came by on a Sunday morning after a short drive from LA. The bad; there are only 6 parking spots that are free next to the Dume; there is paid parking below near the beach but that's a hike as well. So needless to say, parking can be difficult. The hike itself was very fun even though the trails were washed out from what it seems. There is still access to the beachfront via a rope. It's a really nice scene and the environment looks fantastic
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Derek B.

Yelp
What mote could you ask for? This beach has a dramatic coastline with rocky cliffs, awe inspiring bustas, hiking trails, easy parking, bathrooms and a real gem....the Sunset Restaurant / Bar to replenish yourself after a leisurely or busy day at the beach. It has take out and outside patio dining with heaters( no tents) . You will be serenaded by the sounds and sights of the sea. Definitely one of my favorite spontaneous go to spots year round !
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Albert J. C.

Yelp
This was my first time going to Point Dume. The parking costs $8.00 total for the day, and closes at 8:30 pm, they also accept cash. The parking lot is average, not very big, but not too small. In order to arrive at the parking lot and entry, you have to pass by Zuma beach first which is to the right, once the road curves left, you drive all the way down to the entry booth of Point Dume. Once you have paid and entered the parking lot, there are two buildings on each side for restrooms, one at the very beginning and one at the end of the parking lot. They're not the cleanest, and when I arrived a cleaning crew did start working. I went to the end of the beach and settled there. Right over the rocks, is Pirate Cove, unfortunately, I did not go over the rocks since I had shoes on and was slipping on the rocks in my attempt. There are a few hiking trails adjacent with beautiful views of point Dume beach, Pirate Cove, and the ocean. As I was trail walking up the mountain, I noticed rock climbers had put their clips in the mountain. I also got to witness someone getting married right next to me, when I was back at the beach, sitting down in my chair. Lastly, there is a restaurant right in front of Zuma Beach, at the point of entrance of Point Dume incase you get hungry or want a drink. Overall, I recommend Point Dume.
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Cecilia O.

Yelp
I have to admit, tik tok made us do it. Is it worth it? YAS! Would I go again? No. This place is definitely a one time kind of thing. Suggestion: be patient with the parking.
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Carly G.

Yelp
This is such a beautiful place to go hiking. The hikes are very easy, and the views are stunning. You also can see lots of sea lions on the rocks!
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Liliana C.

Yelp
It's so beautiful here and the view is great!! There's not to many people, you can bring snacks but make sure to clean up!
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Joy M.

Yelp
Absolutely stunning!!! Be prepared to walk a little way if you can't find a parking spot. It's absolutely worth every step. Watch for the sea lions
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Anna C.

Yelp
Beautiful beach. Lovely people. Clean blue water. Spotted some dolphins too! Will definitely be back. Daily parking is $8 but some people leaving during the morning are nice enough to give you their parking passes!
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Eddy B.

Yelp
Because location, gives me paradise vibes. The views are stunning!!! Its a must see. They have close parking near the beach as well and public restrooms & showers.
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Paola N.

Yelp
Celebrated the 4th of July on this beach with friends, sandwiches, and views. The trail to get down to the beach is rugged and narrow. You will be walking downwards on a hillside. At the end of the journey when you're almost on the beach, you will be going down steep, old stairs. It was my first time at this beach. I don't know if there's a better way down there, but I believe the answer is "no" unless you are friends with one of the rich families that own houses on the hillside and can use their tram. Once on the beach floor, you have to walk through rocks on rocks, with waves crashing at you, to get to the sand. When you're carrying a bunch of things, it's not too pleasant. Needless to say, getting on this beach took effort!! Once there, we relaxed over lunch and throwing a football. Happy birthday, America.
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David M.

Yelp
Just over a year ago I was down in the area to help a dear friend during her recovery from knee surgery. After a couple of weeks in the house and taking walks around the neighborhood my patient was more that ready for an outing. No being overly familiar with the area to the north I went with her suggestion on a spot where we would not have to navigate too much sand and unstable footing to get to an area where we could take in the ocean breeze and enjoy a picnic lunch. Being it was off season the parking was a complete breeze. I was able to park right adjacent to the beach a mere 5 or six steps to a nice small bluff that was just perfect for our outing. The beach was clean and very well kept. The views were amazing and the weather was perfect. The restrooms were nearby and were also in very nice condition and clean. All in all an absolutely perfect outing to a perfect beach with incredible views. I certainly can not wait for a return visit soon.
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Rex B.

Yelp
Great spot to watch the sunset beware of parking pay attention to signs very active parking enforcement
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Cindy L.

Yelp
Our second year coming and still a top notch hike. Peaceful views of the ocean and vegetation. Trail is easy for the most part. If the day is right, you'll probably have a chance to see the sea lions among rocks!. Parking space is VERY limited so we had to park off the beach (decent pay fee of $8 from 6am-6.30pm on a Sunday) Restrooms are clean and near the trail too. Overall we loved it and would recommend.
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Eduoardo S.

Yelp
Absolutely beautiful and stunning place, must check it out if in malibu! Gorgoues sunsets and sunrises!
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Jad Z.

Yelp
Beautiful place, there's some sea lions that like to chill on the rocks close to the trail