Point Dume Natural Preserve — Attraction in Malibu

I recently visited Point Dume Natural Preserve in Malibu and it was simply spectacular!

From the well-marked parking area atop Cliffside Drive, I embarked on the short but scenic 0.8–1 mile loop up to the promontory. The ascent is gentle with about 100 ft of elevation gain, and the boardwalk trail leads to a viewing platform with sweeping 360‑degree vistas across Zuma Beach, Santa Monica Bay, and even Catalina Island on a clear day.

The coastline views are breathtaking—and on my visit I spotted dolphins surfacing and sea lions perched on rocks below. In spring, migrating whales pass by close enough to see from the lookout, and wildflowers like coreopsis and poppies add seasonal color to the trail.

There’s also a steep staircase descending to Dume Cove and tide pools—where I observed starfish, urchins, and colorful marine life at low tide. Be cautious on the narrow, rusty stairs, but the payoff is worth it for the secluded beach spot

Parking is limited—there are just about 8–10 spaces on Cliffside Drive, and they fill up fast. If those are full, I parked in the larger paid lot at Westward Beach Road and walked up (about 0.5 mile)—worth the effort to access this peaceful preserve.

Pros:

Gorgeous ocean and bluff views Easy, well-maintained trail and boardwalk Excellent whale and wildlife spotting opportunities No entry fee

Cons:

Very limited parking at the bluff Beach stairs are steep and not ideal for small children or mobility-impaired visitors.

Tips:

Visit in spring for wildflowers and whale watching Bring water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. Arrive early for better chances at bluff parking—otherwise use the Westward Beach lot and hike in Stay on the designated paths—off‑trail hiking is prohibited Overall, Point Dume Natural Preserve offers a tranquil coastal escape with stunning nature and panoramic views. Perfect for a short hike, wildlife sightings, or just a peaceful moment above the Pacific. Highly...

This place is absolutely unreal. I have never in my life been to an area with such beautiful scenery and life, from the flowing fields of flowers, to the bright blue coastal waters, my experience here was incredible. I spent almost an hour hear just looking at the nature around me, and exploring the multiple trails that were offered. There are many areas to take some amazing pictures, and when I went there were absolutely no crowds, which made it even better, and the natural wildlife in the area was flourishing. There were many birds, lizards, and many different kinds of plants that were thriving in the area, and it was so interesting to see the contrast between the rocky areas closer to the beach and the lush green areas closer inland. I would highly recommend this whether you go on your own, with friends, or with family, because the multiple trails that have different lengths offer a unique experience for whoever...

sooo lovely and magical, the poppies were all in bloom. we waited in our car for a parallel parking spot at ‘top’, but parking is $10 down at the beach side of trail. waited about 20 minutes for a space to open up, but i thought it was worth the wait.

the trail is pretty rocky and sometimes felt hard to maneuver with my poor shoe choice! wear shoes with grip on them for the sandy trails, and you’ll be fine! we were able to spot seals playing, and upon access to the beach below - gifted with a dolphin sighting!

lots of great flora and fauna, tiny lizards if you slow down and look for them…a great intermediate trail — you will get sweaty, not much shade to speak of so cover up...