El Matador Beach is located off the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), just north of Zuma Beach. El Matador beach is somewhat off the beaten track, but the journey is worth the effort it takes to get to this beach. The sandstone cliffs with white sandy beaches below offer a pristine setting and a relaxing atmosphere. The short but steep hike down to the beach and the limited parking keeps the beach population to a minimum, creating a perfect get away from the busy LA crowds. Make sure to bring good walking shoes to get down to the beach safely.

This beach is hidden amongst some of Malibu’s most eccentric and pricey homes. Keep an eye out for celebrities as you cruise the coast, because this beach is an ideal place for those who want to bask in the sun or take a dip in the ocean, while keeping a low profile.

Because of the rocky coastline, at low tide this can be a fun beach to explore tide pools and caves along the coast. Mostly people come to El Matador to lie out and relax. The crystal clear waters are great for swimming and bodysurfing during the summer months but be careful of the rocky bottom.

The best time to enjoy this beach is during the summer months. The water is warmer, the wildflowers are in bloom and the weather conditions are more favorable. There are several picnic tables on the bluff with incredible views and a good distance from each other, providing a private and quiet beach picnic.

There is an eighty space dirt parking lot, which is open from 8 am to Sunset. It costs $4.00 a day during the summer months. There is a meter box for an all day pass. There is also limited free parking on the PCH.

NO alcohol/glass containers
NO camping
NO dogs
NO vehicles on the beach
NO fires
Bathrooms available (they are portables)