Spending Time at El Matador State Beach in California
El Matador State Beach is one of Los Angeles’ best kept secrets that I have to reveal. This is a very unique beach away from tourists. While most people are flocking to Santa Monica Beach and Venice, locals are running to Malibu.
El Matador isn’t that big and is surrounded by beautiful rock formations. It is very picturesque. I have seen a few photo shoots taking place while I was lounging on the beach. It is also very secluded. Many people don’t even know about this beach, which is why it is a little gem.
If you have trouble walking or are handicap this beach is going to be hard to get to. You have to walk down a rocky dirt path and then take a lot of stairs down to the beach. Personally I don’t like stairs and walking back up them is no fun.
There is a parking lot that costs $8. If you are lucky you may catch someone leaving who will give you their parking pass. If you need to use the bathroom there are a couple of porta-potties next to the parking pay station right before you head down to the beach.
There are no lifeguards and as I said before rocks so it is important to be careful. Another thing to be mindful of is not to go during high tide. The beach isn’t that big and as the high tide comes in there isn’t much beach, but a lot of water. It is a great place to relax and take in the views. You can bring some lunch and have a picnic, just be mindful to take everything with you when you go.
A little cave at El Matador Beach ©2014 Holly Dayz 
©2014 Holly Dayz
There are also some pretty cool caves and people will put up tents around them to block the sun while they lay around in them. I am a little nervous to go all the way inside one. There are also little peekaboo holes in the rock formations in the ocean. They fill up with water when the tide comes in.
So next time you’re in Los Angeles or the Malibu area check out this amazing beach! It is well worth the drive.
Have you ever been to El Matador State Beach?
Michellette "MimiCutLips" Green
Wow it sounds fascinating while also like a secret society. I love a fun excursion but a hit of danger. lol The view looks beautiful for sure.
Holly Dayz
It is a beautiful place. I love it! It is a bit of a secret haha..not so much any more I guess.
Janelle McLeod (@IAmLadyJays)
Oh WOW! What an AMAZING spot!! Will you visit this part of the beach more often now? Because you mentioned that El Matador State Beach access is kind of off in a different spot.
Holly Dayz
It is very beautiful. I have gone several times and taken people there. I love it. It is off a bit, but it is worth it.
BeFree Project (@BeFreeProject)
Your photos of the beach are beautiful! I love the beach however where I live they are nothing like the beach you visited. I’ll be hopeful that one day I can visit this hidden treasure. 🙂
Holly Dayz
Thank you. If you ever get the chance this is a place you will enjoy. It is beautiful.
T. Espi (@TheStyleMedic)
I’m gonna have to add this to my list of places to go if I should ever venture to the left coast again LOL. I love a good beach.
Holly Dayz
Yea, put it on your list. It is a beautiful place.
Rattles and Heels (@RattlesandHeels)
Adding this beach to my things to do in LA list. I’m all about traveling off the beaten path and this perfectly fits the bill. Thanks so much for sharing.
Holly Dayz
Very welcome. It is a beautiful place to visit, I am glad it is going on your list!