Westward Beach
Malibu, CA
The quieter approach to Point Dume, with a long stretch of sand backed by sandstone cliffs before the trail climbs up to the headland's whale watching overlook. Locals park here specifically to avoid the beach club scene at Zuma just up the road.
Locals park here specifically to avoid the beach club scene at Zuma, and the trail up to the Point Dume overlook makes it a two for one stop.
How we score beachesThe lot connects directly to the Point Dume trail, so it's worth combining the beach with the short climb up for the overlook.
Dogs are not permitted on the sand at this Malibu state beach.
Whale watching season from the Point Dume overlook runs roughly December through April, when gray whales migrate along the coast. Water and air both follow the wider Southern California pattern, cool through the June gloom and warmest in September.
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.