Point Dume State Beach is perched above the glittering Pacific on the western edge of Malibu. This breathtaking location features dramatic sandstone bluffs that greet sweeping sandy beaches. This coastal park is at the end of Westward Beach Road. It showcases iconic views and powerful surf. You can also see seasonal marine wildlife just 30 miles west of Los Angeles.
What Makes Point Dume State Beach Unique
Point Dume stands out for its towering volcanic-era promontory. It offers panoramic views of Catalina Island, Santa Monica Bay, and the Santa Monica Mountains. The adjacent protected preserve safeguards rare coastal bluff scrub and ancient sand dunes. The headland was once home to WWII military history and sacred Chumash land. It now offers wildlife viewing and tidepools. A boardwalk leads to a clifftop overlook. This overlook is ideal for whale spotting during December through mid‑April gray whale migration.
Top Activities & Amenities
Beach Access & Swimming
Access the sandy shoreline via Westward Beach Road or the bluff parking lot. The crystal-clear water is excellent for swimming, but beware of cold currents and sneaker waves—lifeguards patrol the beach seasonally.
Surfing & Fishing
Surf breaks off Dume Reef and Big Dume Beach attract surfers year-round. Anglers enjoy shore and rock fishing—catching bass and perch—though a license is required. The marine protected area ensures vibrant marine life near kelp forests.
Hiking Trails & Scenic Views
The easy-to-moderate Cove Trail leads to cliff-top overlooks with breathtaking views of sea lions, dolphins, whales and migrating gray whales. The Point Dume Natural Preserve trail ascends to a boardwalk and viewing platform atop ancient sand dunes. It is a top spot for photographers to capture sunrise and sunset.
Picnic Areas & Restrooms
Picnic tables and shaded benches are located near the bluff parking. Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available near Westward Beach—the preserve lacks facilities, so plan accordingly.
Whale & Wildlife Viewing
December–April offer excellent gray whale migration viewing along cliff edges. Year-round marine life includes sea lions, dolphins and seabirds. Tidepools at the base of the cliffs reveal urchins, crabs, garibaldi and other denizens during low tide.
Parking & Accessibility
Free 2-hour parking lot at the bluff overlooks and paid lots down at Westward Beach ($8 weekdays, $15 weekends). A few ADA spaces are at the headland. Trails within the preserve are mostly natural but generally walkable with caution; some bluff-edge areas are fenced.
Visitor Tips
- Parking: Arrive early on weekends—the lots fill fast. Uphill park offers 2-hour free zones, trailhead below is paid.
- Fees: Paid parking on Westward Beach Road; preserve bluff parking is free for short stays.
- Pets: No dogs on trails or beach—only allowed on paved areas in the bluff parking.
- Safety: Beware of rip currents, sneaker waves and cliffs; swim only in lifeguarded zones.
- Whale Season: Mid‑Dec through mid‑Apr—bring binoculars and layers for cliffside viewing.
- Protect Tidepools: Stay off fragile organisms; allow marine life to thrive undisturbed.
- Rock Climbing: Beginner top-rope climbing available—use established anchors and check tide schedules.
- No Drones: Drone use is banned to protect wildlife and preserve the park’s atmosphere.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit at low tide in spring for hidden stair access to Big Dume Beach. Fewer crowds mean peaceful ocean swims. Experience sublime sunset reflections. In late winter, hike the Cove Trail at sunrise. You can catch whales breaching at dawn. Enjoy the calm before Malibu’s daily bustle begins. For a secret coastal bonus, explore Pirates Cove at low tide—it’s tucked beneath the cliffs and offers quiet tidepools amid orange sandstone walls.