Exploring El Matador Beach, Malibu, CA
I’ve lived in California for 14 years. Since the TKR surgery in September, this was the first time I knew that I would be able to take on the steps of El Matador Beach in Malibu, California.
We left early drove through the marine layer in the Malibu Canyon Pass and were lucky enough to find parking. I had been warned about the steps, but forgot how many existed. If we would have planned better, I would have tried to head there for low-tide.
Worth a visit if you are in the area. (there is some free parking along the PCH if you do not want to pay)
Spotted along the southern coast of California, just off the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) or HWY 1 north of Zuma Beach in Malibu, lies a small 150-Foot bluff that overlooks El Matador Beach which is a part of the Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach Park. It provides stunning cliffside views, sweeping sunset panoramas and a moderate decent to the beach.
Located between Leo Carrillo and Point Dume State Beaches, Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach is made up of a number of cove or cliff-foot strands known as "pocket beaches" along the west end of the city of Malibu.
Signs along the Pacific Coast Highway with the names of the beaches: El Pescador, La Piedra and El Matador can be hard to locate. Each of these three small beaches are a jewel unto themselves. These beaches can be crowded during the peak summer season, however during the off season, they offer a perfect opportunity to experience sunsets and solitude at its finest.
Information
32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
(Located between Leo Carrillo and Point Dume State Beaches)
P: (818) 878-0866
Parking
Available at the bluff top with paths leading down to the beach. Also some parking along PCH.
Hours
Varies by Season, see park website for details.
Details
Limited Paid Parking - Kiosk (debit/credit)
Bathroom/Port-a-Potty at Trailhead
Picnic Benches on Bluff
Hours: Varies by Season
Steep walk down to the beach, multiple steps
Handicap Accessible
No. Non-Paved Parking lot.
Activities
Sunbathing, Exploration, Birdwatching, Snorkliing, Swimming, Walking, Caves & Photography
Pet Policy
No dogs are allowed on the beach.
