A cove with sea stacks and arches on the edge of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, reached by a steep path and stairs; no lifeguards.
El Matador State Beach is a small, scenic cove at 32215 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, about 35 miles (56 km) west of downtown Los Angeles. It forms part of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, along with La Piedra and El Pescador. The beach is known for its dramatic sea stacks, rock arches and sea caves, set against steep bluffs, which make it one of the most photographed spots on the Malibu coast. The sand is soft and pale in the cove, with rocks and tide pools near the water line, and the water is usually a clear blue-green. The beach is a narrow, enclosed cove, partly sheltered by the headlands but still exposed to Pacific swell, so waves and rocks make swimming less relaxed than at the sandy county beaches. There are no lifeguards, which is why many visitors come to explore, sunbathe and photograph rather than swim. The mood is quiet and scenic, popular with couples, photographers and wedding or portrait shoots, and it can feel crowded at sunset. Access is by a steep dirt path and a staircase down from the bluff, so it takes several minutes on foot and involves some effort on the return climb. Amenities are modest: restrooms and picnic tables are near the parking area at the top. Parking is a small paid lot on Pacific Coast Highway, and it fills early on clear days, with limited roadside parking nearby. There is no public transit connection, so visitors arrive by car or rideshare. Food and water are not sold on site, so bringing supplies is necessary. Low tide opens up the arches and tide-pool areas for exploring, and visitors should watch the tide carefully, as incoming water can cut off sections of the beach. The sunsets here are among the most popular on the coast.
| Distance | About 35 miles (56 km) west of downtown LA |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Car or rideshare only; small paid lot on PCH |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Best season | May-October; low tide for exploring the arches |
| Address | 32215 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 |
Amenities
- Restrooms
- Staircase to beach
- Picnic tables
Good to know
- Best for
- photographers, couples, beachcombers, sunbathers
Location
32215 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
34.0388, -118.8745 View on map
Highlights
- Sea stacks and rock arches along the shoreline
- Sea caves and tide pools exposed at low tide
- Sunset photography against the bluffs
- Quiet cove setting within Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach
- Staircase and path down from the bluff
Tips for visiting
- Arrive early or on a weekday; the small paid lot fills quickly.
- Plan around low tide to explore the arches and tide pools.
- Watch the incoming tide so sections of beach are not cut off.
- Bring water and food; none is sold on site.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the steep path and stairs, and expect a climb back up.
When to visit
May to October brings the best weather, and low tide is best for exploring the arches. Weekday mornings are quietest; sunset is the busiest time.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Are there lifeguards at El Matador State Beach?
No lifeguards are on duty. Visitors should be cautious in the water, as rocks and swell make swimming less safe than at staffed beaches.
How hard is it to reach the sand?
A steep dirt path and a staircase lead from the bluff to the cove. It is manageable for most visitors but involves a climb back up.
Where do visitors park?
A small paid lot on Pacific Coast Highway serves the beach. It fills early on clear days, and roadside parking is limited.
When is the best time to see the sea arches?
Low tide gives the best access to the arches and tide pools. Sunset is the most popular time for photography.