Welcome to the rugged and unforgettable beauty of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach in Malibu, California. This trio of dramatic pocket beaches is tucked along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. El Matador, La Piedra, and El Pescador invite visitors to explore secluded coves. These coves are framed by towering cliffs. You will also find sculpted sea caves and breathtaking sunsets.
What Makes Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach Unique
This stretch of coastline is more than just a beach—it’s a nature lover’s playground. These beaches are set within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. They offer sculptural sandstone formations. You will find tide pools rich with marine life. There are sweeping ocean vistas that change with the tides. El Matador’s photogenic arches offer a unique view. La Piedra has a kelp-lined reef. El Pescador provides tranquil solitude. Each cove delivers its own sense of discovery.
Top Activities and Amenities
State Park & Beach Access
The state beach consists of three distinct pocket beaches. These are El Matador, La Piedra, and El Pescador. Each one has a bluff-top parking area. There are steep trails or stairs down to the sand. Day-use parking is free for vehicles, though spaces are limited and fill quickly. Walking or biking in is always an option. No online reservations are available; arrive early to claim a spot.
Picnic Areas & Restrooms
Picnic tables overlook the ocean atop the bluffs, perfect for a scenic lunch. Basic restrooms are located near the parking lots. However, beach-level amenities are very limited—bring what you need for a comfortable visit.
Showers & Lifeguards
There are no showers or lifeguard stations at these beaches. Swimming is at your own risk. Ocean conditions can be unpredictable with strong waves and rip currents. Always stay alert and exercise caution.
Fishing, Surfing & Swimming
La Piedra offers opportunities for surfing, diving, and fishing among its reefs. El Pescador is favored by surfers and bodyboarders seeking a quieter cove. While swimming may be tempting, strong surf and undertows make it safest to enjoy from shore.
Sunbathing & Wildlife Viewing
The secluded nature of the beaches means ample sunbathing spots with fewer crowds—especially in off-season months. Tide pools and marine life are easily spotted at low tides, and shorebirds like pelicans are common. Wildflower blooms and coastal plants add seasonal color to the bluffs.
Hiking Trails
Short, rugged hiking paths wind along the bluffs—ideal for scenic walks, wildlife spotting, or whale watching during migration seasons. Trails connect vantage points atop the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Pacific.
Camping, RV & Group Camping
Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach is strictly day-use only. Camping—tent, RV, or group—is not permitted under any circumstances. It’s a place to visit, explore, and leave by sunset.
Fire Rings, Drinking Water, Parking Lot
Open fires are prohibited. Drinking water is not provided, so be sure to bring plenty. Parking is available atop the bluffs—often the only reliable amenity; plan, arrive early, and make room for a hike down to the sand.
Interpretive Exhibits, Visitor Center, Gift Shop, Snack Bar
There are no visitor centers, interpretive displays, gift shops, or snack bars on site. Pack food, drink, and beach supplies in advance to enjoy a seamless day in nature.
Bike Rentals, Kayak Rentals, Stand-up Paddleboard Rentals
Rental services—bikes, kayaks, paddleboards—are not available at the beach itself. Nearby Malibu communities offer rentals, so plan ahead if you’re hoping to paddle or bike before or after your visit.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Day-use parking is free for vehicles, but limited—arrive early or consider biking/walking in.
- There are no fees to hike or walk into the beaches, but bluff-top parking may be charged during peak times.
- Dogs are strictly not allowed on the beach.
- No camping, fires, or open flames permitted.
- No drinking water—bring your own.
- Restrooms are only at the bluff-top—prepare for the climb back up.
- Be cautious of tides and waves; explore sea caves only at low tide.
- Wear sturdy shoes for navigating rocky beach terrain and trail descent.
- Pack out all trash to help preserve the pristine environment.
At dawn, there are no crowds. The golden light at sunset enhances the beauty of El Matador. In particular, it offers that “hidden-gem” feel—even on busy days. Visit between November and March for cooler air, dramatic waves, and chances to catch migrating whales splashing offshore. Don’t miss walking the beach from El Matador to La Piedra at low tide—a secret connection rewarding the adventurous.