Point Dume Nature Preserve has one of the best views across the Southern California coast. You can see the Malibu coast to Santa Monica on a clear day.
The preserve is 32 acres and has several fenced trails, one leading to the summit of Point Dume and the other to the beach below. Stay on the path. This is a protected area. Keep a close watch on children. There are many steep drops to the ocean below.
There is a viewing platform along the boardwalk below the summit where you can sit and enjoy the million-dollar view. The summit trail branches off to another trail which leads you down a steep set of stairs to Dume Cove.
At the end of Point Dume, there is a smaller secluded beach (Pirates Cove.) This is where the final scenes from the original Planet of the Apes movie were filmed.
If you decide to hike down to the beach, remember the climb back up is steep. The beach is usually quiet during the summer due to its remote location. There are some tide pools near the stairway to explore, or you can take a walk along the beach and enjoy the spectacular views.
The drive along PCH from Santa Monica takes you past movie star beachfront homes and through the world-famous Malibu Beach. On your journey, expect to see exotic cars and huge mansions overlooking the beach.
The trip to the preserve is almost as enjoyable as the destination. Bring along a camera. There is a new photo opportunity at every turn of the road.
Point Dume is at the northernmost point of Santa Monica Bay, about 18 miles along Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Monica.
Getting to Point Dume
From Santa Monica, follow Pacific Coast Highway 18-miles west to Westward Beach Road. Turn toward the ocean, and go past the gate (pay the parking fee) to the very end of the road. A trail leads you to the Point Dume Preserve.
Parking Point Dume Nature Preserve
A smaller free parking area is on the bluff along Cliffside Drive. There are only about 15 parking spots, so it’s a matter of luck if you get one unless you go early in the day.
All the streets have no parking, and you will get a ticket if you park on the road. Multi-million dollar estates surround the reserve, and the locals do not want visitors parking in front of their homes. California has preserved the best location for all of us to enjoy, even if the parking is limited.
Directions to Point Dume
Directions: From Santa Monica, follow Pacific Coast Highway 18-miles west to Westward Beach Road. Turn toward the ocean, then past the fee collection station to the very end of the road.
From the 101-Freeway, exit at Kanan Road, follow it south 12 miles to Pacific Coast Highway, then turn right. Westward Beach Road is on the rise at the foot of the hill.
If you find parking on Cliffside make Sure that you park within the white line or you WILL get ticketed!
Yes they really like to hand out the tickets.Local residents would rather there was no parking at all.