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Point Dume State Beach: Malibu's Coastal Crown Jewel

Discover Malibu's iconic Point Dume State Beach: panoramic ocean views, abundant wildlife, and thrilling outdoor activities await on this historic and breathtaking California coastline.

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Point Dume State Beach, a promontory on Malibu's coast, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Bay, and Catalina Island. Named by George Vancouver in 1793, this historical landmark boasts dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, scuba diving, and whale watching during migration season. The area features hiking trails leading to an ancient coastal bluff sand dune, providing panoramic vistas. With its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Point Dume is a must-visit destination for those seeking a quintessential California beach experience. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season, so plan accordingly to fully enjoy this coastal paradise. Remember to stay on marked trails to protect the delicate ecosystem and respect the local wildlife, including seals and sea lions.

A brief summary to Point Dume State Beach

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Bring binoculars for whale watching (December to April) and spotting seals and dolphins.
  • Check the tide charts before visiting to explore the tide pools at their best during low tide.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails and exploring the rocky areas.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach or at one of the scenic viewpoints.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) in Malibu, turn onto Westward Beach Road. Follow Westward Beach Road to its end. There is a paid parking lot at the end of the road, providing access to Point Dume State Beach and the Natural Preserve. Parking fees vary, but typically range from $3 to $15 depending on the day and time of year. Limited free street parking is available along Westward Beach Road, but these spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Alternatively, free 2-hour parking is sometimes available on Cliffside Drive, but availability is very limited.

  • Public Transport

    The Metro Bus line 534 stops at Cliffside Drive/Dume Canyon Road, a short walk to Point Dume. From the bus stop, walk west on Cliffside Drive towards the ocean. Turn left onto Fernhill Drive, then left again onto Grasswood Avenue. Walk to the end of Grasswood Avenue to access the Point Dume Natural Preserve. A single ride on the Metro Bus costs $1.75. This option involves some walking and is best suited for those comfortable with a slightly longer approach.

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Discover more about Point Dume State Beach

Point Dume State Beach, a dramatic promontory extending into the Pacific Ocean, marks the northern end of Santa Monica Bay and offers an unforgettable experience of the Malibu coastline. Named in 1793 by George Vancouver in honor of Padre Francisco Dumetz, the point has served as a crucial landmark for navigators for centuries. Its history stretches back far earlier, however, as the Chumash people, skilled mariners themselves, used the area as a sacred site and lookout point, calling it 'Sumo,' meaning 'abundance'. Today, Point Dume State Beach encompasses 63 acres of headlands, cliffs, rocky coves, and accessible beaches. The area is renowned for its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and recreational activities. The promontory itself is composed of volcanic rock, making it more resistant to erosion than the surrounding sedimentary formations. This unique geology creates a dramatic landscape of rugged cliffs and hidden tide pools teeming with marine life. Visitors can explore the Point Dume Natural Preserve, a 34-acre area atop the promontory, via scenic trails that wind through grasslands and coastal bluff scrub. These trails lead to panoramic viewpoints offering vistas of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Santa Catalina Island, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. During the spring, the headlands burst into color with blooming wildflowers, including the endemic giant coreopsis. The waters surrounding Point Dume are part of a Marine Protected Area, reflecting the area's rich biodiversity. From December to April, the point becomes a prime location for whale watching as California gray whales migrate along the coast. Seals, sea lions, and dolphins are also frequently spotted in the surf, offering incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Tide pools along the shore provide habitat for a variety of marine creatures, including crabs, urchins, mussels, and small fish. Point Dume's beaches offer a range of activities, including swimming, surfing, and scuba diving. A stairway on the east side of the bluff provides access to a more secluded beach with excellent tide-pooling opportunities. Westward Beach, located adjacent to Point Dume, offers a vast stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and beachcombing. The area has also served as a popular filming location, adding to its allure. Most famously, the dramatic final scene of the original 1968 film *Planet of the Apes* was filmed at Pirate's Cove, a secluded beach accessible from Westward Beach during low tide. While enjoying Point Dume's natural beauty, it's important to be mindful of the environment. Staying on marked trails helps protect the delicate coastal ecosystem, and visitors are encouraged to observe wildlife from a safe distance. Dogs are not allowed on the trails or beach areas to protect the native flora and fauna. Point Dume's history also includes a period during World War II when the U.S. Army used the site as an anti-aircraft artillery training area. The top of the headlands was reportedly flattened after the war for potential commercial development, but in 1979, the State of California acquired Point Dume and has been gradually restoring it to its pristine state. Whether you're seeking breathtaking views, opportunities for outdoor recreation, or a chance to connect with nature, Point Dume State Beach offers a quintessential California experience. Its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse wildlife makes it a destination that will leave a lasting impression. Point Dume is more than just a scenic spot; it's a place where history, nature, and recreation converge. From its ancient Chumash roots to its role as a navigational landmark and its appearances in popular culture, Point Dume embodies the spirit of the California coast. A visit to Point Dume is an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and fragility of this unique coastal environment.

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