El Matador State Beach
Malibu, CA
El Matador State Beach is the most photographed of Malibu's trio of blufftop state beaches, genuine sea stacks and rock arches making it a favorite for photographers and anyone chasing a dramatic sunset. Stairs down from the parking area lead to a narrower stretch of sand than its neighbors, part of what makes the rock formations feel so close.
The genuine sea stacks and rock arches make it one of the most photogenic beaches in Malibu, popular enough at sunset that good spots take some effort to claim.
How we score beachesArrive well before sunset if photos are the goal, this is genuinely one of the most popular sunset spots in Malibu and the good vantage points fill up.
A day use fee applies; the exact amount is best confirmed at the entrance.
Stairs and a path lead from blufftop parking down to the beach.
California State Parks does not allow dogs at Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, which includes El Matador.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of the Malibu coast.
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