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Promontory and beach · Malibu, California
Point Dume
Rock promontory at the northern end of Santa Monica Bay, with short trails to Pacific viewpoints, Westward Beach at the base of the cliffs, and one of Malibu’s most popular spots for whale watching during the migration season.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Point Dume
Point Dume is the promontory that closes Santa Monica Bay to the north, in Malibu. The northwest tip is the Point Dume Nature Preserve, a protected area with about 1.6 km of trails that rise to two viewpoints. From the top you can see the Malibu coastline, Zuma Beach just to the north, and on clear days the Palos Verdes Peninsula and Santa Catalina Island.
At the base of the cliffs is Westward Beach, a wide, light-sand beach often used for film, television and commercial shoots. The cliffs and the coves below the promontory also attract climbers and people who like to explore tide pools at low tide.
The viewpoints are one of Malibu’s places for whale watching. Gray whales pass during the annual migration, and between February and spring mothers with calves often appear; sightings depend on the season and sea conditions.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 3 hours.
Best time
From December to April, during the gray whale migration season; in the morning, before the fog and afternoon winds.
How to get there
About 10 km west of downtown Malibu, via the Pacific Coast Highway. Parking next to the preserve is very small; check alerts, because road access to the lower parking via Westward Beach Road is closed.
Tip
Check access conditions before you go: Westward Beach Road is closed and does not allow car access to the lower parking. Spaces next to the preserve at the top are few.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Point Dume
Can you see whales at Point Dume?
Yes, during the gray whale migration season, generally from December to April; sightings depend on conditions.
Where to park to visit Point Dume?
The parking at the top is very small; the alternative is to park at Westward Beach and hike up the trail.
What is Westward Beach?
The beach at the base of the Point Dume cliffs, wide and frequently used in filming.