We were recommended by a local to check the beach out and so glad that we listened to her. Yes, as most mentioned the parking lot is tight but if you wait long enough (5-15 mins) you will get a spot. Be prepared to descend lots of stairs to get to the beach (wear safe/comfy) shoes. There are incredibly beautiful, arch rocks, and small caves, running up the north side of the beach As beautiful it is as it is, watch out for some of the big waves that come in as you may step on some of the rocks. This is a popular beach for photo shoots and likely you will be amused by some of the "models" posing in various costumes. read more

See all

Really beautiful secluded beach. Prime parking. Nice area for photos. There is a huge steep stairs so make sure you are able to walk down. But it's a perfect place to relax with not many people. read more

See all

Parking was a nightmare - waited a while and then no spots so had to drive a long time to find a turnaround spot and then park on the side of the road about a 10 min walk away. Granted this was a Saturday afternoon so a pretty popular time. They do have port-a-pottys and I saw maybe one picnic table near the top. Lots of stairs to get down to the beach but the views are spectacular! Would make sure you don't go during high tide because there's not a lot of beach between the ocean and the rocks. read more

See all

So be warned that parking is limited and also expensive, even if you want a quick little stop. We went super early on a week day so there was no one else there. Also the porta potty had no toilet paper. So not sure what the parking fees are upkeeping. Anyway, the beach itself is really pretty. The walk down is a little touch with stand on a steep slope so you have to be careful. But it's worth it for the views. It's a very romantic spot. read more

See all

Wow gorgeous beach and definitely worth the walk....wear sneakers because there is a walk to get down to the beach but it's all worth it

This is a beautiful beach especially if you come on a day the weather is great like I did yesterday. My wife and I came here to take our maternity pictures before our baby girl is born due since our photographer recommended this spot. We arrived early before 10am and the forecast was cloudy with some low tides so perfect weather. You'll have to pay for parking but it's not too bad on the price, you can scan the QR code or pay at the paying station if you don't feel safe. You have the options per hour which max at 3 hours or pay for the day pass. They also have potter potty here but I wouldn't recommend it. The walk down to the beach isn't bad, it's just like a mini hike but it's worth it once you get down there. The scenery and just how everything is was very beautiful. The rock formation and great weather just made everything perfect. We saw one guy setting up to propose there and had a nice setup so just be aware that other people might be doing something too. I would recommend this beach spot for anyone looking to take pictures or just do something romantic here. read more

See all

El Matador Beach is truly one of the most beautiful spots along the California coast, and it never fails to impress. Walking along the sandy beach, surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs and sea caves, feels like stepping into a postcard. The ocean views are breathtaking, the sound of the waves is calming, and there are so many little hidden nooks to explore. It is also an amazing location for a photo shoot if you have a permit, with the cliffs, natural arches, and golden sunsets providing endless opportunities for beautiful shots. The only reasons I gave it three stars are practical. Parking is expensive, which can be frustrating when all you want to do is enjoy the natural beauty. If you want to do professional photography, you also need a paid permit, which adds to the cost. On top of that, there are lots of stairs to get down to the beach, so it can be challenging for anyone with mobility issues or small children. Despite these drawbacks, I keep coming back because the scenery here is truly unmatched. Whether it's strolling along the sand, exploring the rock formations, or just sitting and enjoying the view, El Matador Beach captures the essence of California's coastline. It's a stunning, iconic location that I would recommend visiting at least once, just be prepared for the stairs and parking fees. read more

El Matador State Beach - Sign with rules and hours - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

El Matador was a really cool beach to visit. I loved the big rocks poking out of the ocean. The parking lot is way too small so be prepared to wait. It felt like a lot of people were coming and going, which eventually opened up a parking stall. read more

See all

Parking is a little tough, but if you're willing to wait people filter in and out quickly. The lot was full when we pulled in, but someone left within 5 minutes. This location does require a day pass. There are port a potty facilities at the top of the stairs, but that's it. Speaking of stairs, going down is easy, but coming up could be difficult. These stairs are somewhat steep. I would not recommend anyone with knee issues or flip flops to visit this beach. If you just want to see the rocks from above, there is a scenic view point level with the parking lot. If you choose to go down the stairs, the beach is compact and potentially dangerous at high tide due to the rock formations and caves. Just pay attention to the closed signs at the parking lot! read more

This is their perfect place to watch a sunset. It is romantic, beautiful, and so fun! Parking is paid the parking lot is small so get there early and be prepared to do lots of circles. You have to be able to walk a sloped trail and go down a few flights of stairs in order to access beach. Same goes for getting back to your car. read more

El Matador State Beach - Sunset - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

Beautiful beach views. Different from your average beach due to the huge rocks. Worth a visit! Note that there's a small parking lot that was full on a Saturday afternoon when I visited. We did grab a spot after waiting a few minutes though. It seemed like people were in and out and most cars going in were able to grab a spot with a few min wait. read more

El Matador is located in the Point Dume area of Malibu toward Ventura! There is a small parking lot, you must pay to park. There is a life guard stand but no one on duty when I visited. Great spot to take videos and a few pics up high from the tourist. It wasn't crowded during the week hours. Wow, paradise on earth is an understatement! This beach is indeed the picture postcard of a California beach that all are looking for! It was drop dead gorgeous in my opinion. I hiked down the hill slowly, and the beauty didn't stop. I saw humming birds enjoying all the flowers. There are other sea animals you will encounter once you reach the beach of course. This beach is ideal for all, just keep in mind its downward and then a climb back up a steep hill. I truly enjoyed my time spent at El Matador. This is on my list of beaches to return too soon!! @glampedlife read more

See all

A popular photography spot! Not necessarily the best for lounging on the beach, but you can get some beautiful photos with the large rocks in this area. It can be filled with seaweed, as the case in my most recent trip, so just be wary if you make the drive up. Small parking lot for self-pay, but you may be able to find some street parking along PCH. read more

See all

Discovered this beach through my engagement shoot photographer who suggested it. This location is amazing! It's a beautiful hidden gem. The views from the parking along are amazing. It's not the type of beach where you can camp out all day since it's in a cove that can become completely submerged in water depending on what time of the day you come. Make sure you check for high and low tide while planning your trip. There's a bit of a steep walk going up and down to the actual beach. It may not be safe for elderly that are not too stable and younger children. Once you get to the beach it's amazing. There are several areas to take pictures featuring caves and huge boulders. There are some picnic tables and porta-potties near the cliff by the parking lot. Nice place to go for scenic photos or romantic walk on the beach dates. read more

I came here on Christmas Day with my boyfriend to watch the sunset. I've always wanted to visit El Matador - when I got engaged in 2016, I actually planned to get married on this beach (fast forward to now and thank hell I didn't, but still.) And I can finally attest to the fact that it is just as breathtaking in person as it is in photos, especially as the sun is setting. The only two reasons I deduct a star from the experience are 1) the stairs, which are steep and scary and if you haven't worked out in a while, you're going to want to take it slow. 2), if you're trying to uber here (or back from here), good luck. It's on the PCH but further out than some other Malibu spots like Moonshadows, Carbon Beach Club et al; we planned poorly and didn't drive, then had to call a car back to LA for ~$300. Gorgeous, though. Definitely one of those places that reminds you why you're paying so much again to live in Southern California. read more

See all

This beach is my comfort place. I remember always making the drive out here after finals to get away from everything and just relax. Absolutely gorgeous. It does take some effort to make your way here. It's pretty far down PCH and deep into Malibu. The parking is absolutely horrendous. There is a small lot, but it fills up insanely fast (I've never been able to find a spot here), so everyone resorts to parking along PCH (very difficult to find and a little scary to walk along). It's also a bit of a trek to get down to the beach. It's a little hilly and there are two flights of stairs. With all that being said, the destination is absolutely worth it. Beautiful rock formations, lots of shade, and just the most gorgeous views. Honestly, feels like you're witnessing those stock photos in catalogs of California in real time. There are some more cons... It's a really popular place for photoshoots. There's always a wedding/engagement or a paternity shoot going on. I've never dealt with this before, but on my most recent visit I noticed that there was an insane amount of seaweed everywhere. I know all beaches have seaweed, but I've never seen this much in my life! My nose also caught a whiff of some green if ya know what I mean... At the end of the day, I think the views and vibes outweigh all the cons and struggles. It's a sight you don't want to miss! read more

See all

My Happy Place is the Beach Always, but this beach is really unique with big boulder rocks and a cave!. Beautiful views for days! Only downside or plus depending on the person is that There is a slight hike to get down to water which i underestimated when i brought my mom who has a bad hip. The hike down plus 2 stair cases is not for people with mobility issues (just want you to know what to expect). Otherwise it's a perfect sunny day place to relax and unwind, read a book, have a photoshoot, you name it! read more

El Matador State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

One of my most favorite beaches in Southern California. Only 50 mins away from my house so when I don't feel like driving far I come here. Had a lovely, relaxing time here with my family to recharge and get ready for the week ahead. Beautiful views from every angle. Love it here read more

El Matador State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

This beach is my happy place. Love the rock formations, the caves, worth the effort of the many steps one has to climb down and then up to get there and back. It is so picturesque, words cannot even describe the beauty here. The currents are strong so use caution if going into the surf. Parking lot is limited so may consider arriving early, especially if going on a weekend. Bring your license plate number along with your credit card to the kiosk in the parking lot when you arrive to pay for your spot. Also, porta potties are in the parking lot, no bathrooms on the beach level. Probably the most important tip I can give you...remember your sunscreen and have a fabulous time! read more

See all

Great visual stop. Would recommend a picnic if you are so organized. Definitely pay for parking!!! We jumped out for 15 mins and came back to a $71 ticket. My fault. read more

One of my favorite beaches in LA. Every chance I get, every guest that comes to visit me from out of town, every time I want to get away...... This place is where I go. It's getting a little crowded now with photographers even on a weekday but the beach is big enough for you to hide in your own little corner. People don't really swim out here it's more for reflection, meditation, and great photo sessions lol! They are aggressive with giving out parking tickets so make sure you are paid up! I just put for all day because it's better than getting a ticket and who know how long I want to stay. Note: The location may not be ideal for people that can't do a little hike down to the beach because it's a little intense. read more

See all

El Matador State Beach is just so stunning and beautiful. It's one of my favorite California beaches. They have this beautiful caves and arches in the rocks. It's like a natural amusement park for me. Some of caves are connected, kids can play the hide and seek game. It's good for photographers to shot the gorgeous sunset and modeling photos here. I see so many pro photographers with their tripod and reflector hunting for their stunning work here. The parking lot has limited parking spaces, $3/ hour and $10/day. If the lots is full, people usually park at along Pacific Coast Highway. There is a stareway to get the beach. read more

See all

This is a great beach to visit for taking pics and playing around the rock formations - they're beautiful natural formations and you can get up close and even walk through and under! The beach is lovely and has tons of cool rock formations and natural arches to play around. I was there right around low tide and there were lots of exposed rocks with mussels and anemones clinging to them! Not too many actual tide pools though. It's pretty crowded - probably the most crowded beach I went to this day so I didn't stay long. But it was still a good time! The "hike" wasn't what I'd really call a hike - more like one small incline, a short trail to and in between some stairs, and 2 sets of stairs for a total of about 80 stairs so not bad at all - the first set has 44 and the next 36 or something like that. They weren't steep at all, but some were in a very bad state of disrepair so be careful. Once you get to the bottom of the stairs, there a ledge of sand you have to kind of jump down - it's a lot shorter of a jump the further to the left you go. Then you're on the beach! Parking is definitely an issue here. The lot was small and completely packed with cars continuing to pour in, driving around and around waiting for spots, only to end up driving out and parking on the street. The lot is a pay-to -park and there are little machines to the side but I'm not sure how much it is. I parked out on the street which seemed to have plenty (and is free!) and it's an easy, paved walk to the trailhead - just be careful of the traffic on PCH. They also had many port-a-potties that were in ok shape. There are some picnic tables right next to them which was kinda yuck imo - I definitely wouldn't wanna eat right next to the potties. But there are a few more off to the right of the trailhead if you walk a little further past the parking lot. Overall I'm glad I came to at least see the cool rock formations but I probably won't be back - there are so many other beached around that are way less crowded and offer similar views, tide pools and the like. read more

El Matador State Beach - Rock formations - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

Very under-stated beach in the area, but at least it keeps the crowd to a minimum :) Parking is available but can be limited depending on how busy it is on that day. We came in lunchtime on a Monday and there were only 3 other groups apart from us. Decent walk to actual shore and generally peaceful since most people who come here are doing quick photo shoots. Porta-potty available by the parking and if you come in the morning its actually pretty clean. read more

El Matador State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

El Matador State Beach is a place that you'll definitely want to check out if you're in Malibu. You'll be able to see it while you're driving on Pacific Coast Highway, and this place is magnificent with its views. You have to go down a set of stairs to see the fancy views, but you'll still be able to see a beautiful view of the beach from the top. Great place to take photos and it's a healing view for sure. We climbed down the stairs, and the beach here has a lot of rocks and caves that really give Malibu a new different feeling. You can walk on the beach and just feel so happy and it's definitely a place for the Gram. The currents here are pretty strong so I don't really see anyone swimming on the beach (though we did come in January), but this is definitely a beach in Malibu that you want to stop by. You won't regret and I think this is the top 2 beach to visit in the Malibu area! read more

See all

This beach was so fun to go to. Walking up to it, it feels like a little find. The sand was nice and granular and soft too. We made Sandcastle's and had a great time. There are people there that are taking photos because it is such a popular place, but everyone was super respectful of when you wanted to take photos as well. You can bring a blanket and perch up with a picnic, there are definitely enough spots for that. depending on what time you go in the year, obviously, if you go in the summer, you may not find a spot to perch down on that may feel secluded enough for you and your friends to have a picnic. Overall, we had a great time, talking to people that were visiting from all over and we had a great time enjoying the beach itself. read more

El Matador State Beach - Beachfront - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

Really cool spot! Went on a Monday afternoon and it was relaxing and super chill for the most part. Until all the photography got kind of ridiculous... There was a couple of people who were there for a professional shoot and it just got odd after a while especially when they started shooting and had no regard for the people ACTUALLY living their lives and enjoying the beach. I mean cmon I get it shoot the picture and model but let's be a bit more courteous of people tanning/hanging out at the beach. Lifeguards were super friendly and chill Overall a really gorgeous spot to check out if you haven't gone (: Anyways here's a compilation of birds that we spotted while we were there lol read more

See all

Absolutely beautiful location for pictures. Very relaxing location. You can sit on the cliffs and enjoy the breeze or go down to the beach. A must visit when in the area. read more

See all

Visited in a whim after work on a Friday evening. Entry to the parking lot was guarded by a park ranger and seemed closed by 7:45 so I parked on pch and walked about 5 mins to the driveway down to the parking lot. Brought a lobster roll from Broad Street Oyster Co. and walked down to the top of the stairwell to catch the hazy sunset from afar (it was too late and cold to walk all the way down). I was surprised to find so many people walking up from the bottom during the COVID-19 crisis but I guess we all need to leave the house right? Picnic tables are cute but currently taped up but overall the operations are open. read more

El Matador State Beach - Right side from the top - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

See all

This place is unreal. The views are so good, we tool a bunch of photos! I higly reccomend visiting it. Paid parking has bathrooms. read more

El Matador State Beach - beach malibu - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

Beautiful beach near Malibu that has a rock eroded to look like a kneeling elephant. Came here on a late afternoon and was lucky enough to watch a sunset right on the beach. Saw a few wedding couples, three teenager girls, two pregnant women, and a bikini clad model all chose this place for their Youtube clips so this must be a local favorite as well. read more

See all

El Matador is the signature beach of Malibu. This beach is classic and a popular destination for photographers for its rocky arches. Here is what you should know when visiting. Access: In order to access this beach, you need to descend two flights of stairs and hike a small strip of rocky, uneven terrain. Its not a huge effort but still more effort than average to get to a beach. Cleanliness: Despite the crisp photographs, the beach is not clean. There are thousands and thousands of flies on this beach. Every step you take on the sand, a gross swarm of flies fly away. I would not lie down or sunbathe on this beach. Amenities: There are porta-potties available use. Photography Tips: * Be prepared to get wet. The rock arches came to form from water and water is constantly seeping in and out of the arches. Its probably not possible to take close up photos with the arches without at least planning to get your ankles wet. After you get wet, be aware the beach does not have amenities to clean you up either. * Be aware there is a "high" and "low" tide. Parts of the beach become more difficult to access during high tide. * The beach requires a photography permit for professional and student photographers. Parking: There is a dirt parking lot available. Parking lot opens at 8am (so after sunrise) to sunset. Parking was $3/hr when I visited on a Friday morning. There is free parking on the Pacific Coast Highway but note there is no nearby parking to the side of El Matador beach so you would have to park across the highway with cars going 60 MPH. I did not have issues with finding parking; but, I showed up on a summer Friday at 8am. Verdict: This is an amazingly, beautiful beach for photos if you come at non-peak hours. I'm not sure how easy it is to park or take good photos at normal hours considering this beach is super popular. As a beach for relaxing or normal beach activities, I recommend against it. The beach fly problem is too much to endure for that. read more

El Matador State Beach - Rock arches. - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

El Matador Beach is one of the hidden gems of Malibu. It is known for its beautiful rock formations and stunning ocean backdrops. Tourists, Photographers, YouTubers and inspiring Instagram models all flock here to take pictures at the beach. If you take a look at the pictures, you can see why. It is one of most beautiful beaches in Southern California. Walking down to the beach takes some effort. You need to walk down a small hill and go down two sets of stairs to get the beach but it's all worth it once you get there. read more

See all

Beautiful beach. This isn't a lay out your towel and sunbathe beach. This is picturesque and will make beautiful backdrop for photo shoots and a great place to wonder through the landscape. There's big rocks scattered throughout the coastline you can climb some and even walk through some that have cut outs. It's so beautiful. I took my out of town friends here to watch the sunset. Location: it's very accessible. You go up the PCH and turn right into the parking lot. Must pay for parking. I went right before sundown and it was $3. It's a machine and you put the ticket on your dashboard after paying. The parking lot is small. We waited just a few minutes for parking but mind you it was sunset. If you go during the day expect a longer wait. There's a little bit of a trail and then you take stairs down to the beach. Be careful and hold the railing! Saw multiple people slip and fall on the stairs. read more

See all

Such a gem. Probably my favorite beach in all of California. Imagine smooth, clean sand with a variety of rocks that invite you to explore. You'll probably have to park on a busy street, then climb down a fairly long staircase to get to this beach, but it is so worth it!! There are so many places for you to socially distance here if you walk a bit past the staircase. What is probably the most remarkable is that if you look on the big rocks, you can see crabs and sea stars. They are gorgeous! Will definitely come back here. read more

See all

This beach is a lovely picture spot. We absolutely loved the way our pictures came out with the beautiful blues of the beach and the rock formations. We took the pictures ourselves and were absolutely stunned by the results. We parked in the small parking lot. Luckily another expecting couple had just finished up with their photo session when we arrived so we were able to get a spot right away. We got here around 10 am and many other cars after us seemed to be scrambling for parking. I'm so glad we were able to luck out with a parking spot when we arrived. read more

El Matador State Beach - Pregnancy announcement picture - Beaches Near Me - Malibu, California

El Matador is breathtaking. I'm a photographer and came here with some clients to do a maternity shoot. The views were great and the rock structures make for amazing shots. I would say this is one of LA's best photo taking spots, but unfortunately everyone else knows about it too haha. Thus, be prepared to be patient if you're coming here to take pictures and do your best to avoid capturing people in the background. And since it seemed like everyone knows about this spot, parking was quite difficult. The lot right off from the stairs that lead down to the beach is small and fills up quickly (also costs money). After that, you're left to street parking which can be a hassle depending on the time of day. We went around sunset and I was able to get a spot a little less than a 10 min walk so it wasn't too bad. After you park, be prepared to take a long, steep, and uneven staircase down off the cliff to the shore. As for the beach itself, it is quite narrow so I wouldn't really recommend it as a place to hangout especially since it's more difficult to stay socially distant. They do require masks, but not everyone was wearing them and models take them off for photos. Every scene was amazing though! The waves hit the rocks/caves and every moment is picturesque. I've read there are also really cool caves you can go in, but they're only open at certain times in the day. Can't wait to go back and explore these! read more

See all

This is an absolutely beautiful beach with picturesque rock formantions. As such, you'll see a lot of people doing photoshoots here. The beach itself is a little small and rocky, but there are some stretches that are pure sand. It's pretty narrow as well. We came around 11 am to noon-ish on a hot Saturday afternoon in May. Since it was the hottest its been in a while, we were expecting a large crowd. But we were able to find parking in the lot after waiting about 10 minutes. It's $10 to park for the day (or $3 per hour otherwise). The parking lot is very small though so it does fill up fast. As for the beach, there were people there but it didn't feel crowded at all. Iti was pretty quiet. Water was absolutely freezing despite it being over 90 degrees. It is a slight hike to get down (rocky and steep). There's a cute picnic table at the top before the stairs as well. read more

See all

Absolutely gorgeous! So many beautiful spots to take pictures. Lots of photographers out there tho so you sometimes have to wait to take pictures at certain spots. Luckily it wasn't too crowded on the day we went, which was Saturday late afternoon. They also have a ton of cool cave like holes in the rocks that the kids really enjoyed. Not sure how safe it is, but there were no warning or danger signs. They have a few benches & tables up on top if you wanted to have a picnic before going down to the beach. The only down side was the limited parking. They have a small parking area but there's a long line for that so come early. Parking is $10 all day from 8am to 7pm, or $3 an hour. For seniors it's $9 all day. They do have a ton of cars parked outside on the street where there's no parking signs everywhere. But we saw a few tickets on some of the cars so we didn't want to risk it. So park outside at your own risk. Seems everybody does it. read more

See all

If you are heading north on highway 1 it's pretty easy to spot as they have an abundance of signs letting you know that you are here. If you are heading south, back towards Santa Monica, it's a little trickier to spot - no signage, so basically you realize as you go zipping by that you are here. Parking was pretty easy when we were here, Monday afternoon in early June. They have meters that you can download an app to pay for a parking space ($3 per hour) ... make sure to have your plate number. The overlook from the parking area is amazing, not much of a view of the beach, but just the ocean. They have steps that lead down to the beach area which is a perfect location for some Pacific Ocean pics. The tide was coming in, so we didn't get to explore the caves like we would have liked to have, but otherwise it was a perfect day. One huge negative, if you have pups, they aren't allowed. Sorry! read more

See all