El Pescador State Beach
Malibu, CA
One of a trio of small bluff top beaches west of central Malibu, reached by a steep staircase that thins out the crowd before you even see the sand. Locals favor it for the tide pools and for staying quieter than the beaches closer to the pier.
The staircase down has a lot of steps, so plan accordingly if you're carrying much gear.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.