El Matador Beach

The 30 mile drive up the coast on PCH is well worth it. If you want to get away from the crowds and the litter take 45 minute drive north of Santa Monica and you'll get to El Matador beach. You won't find the food vendors, the souvenir stores or the random homeless person here. Instead, find cleaner beaches, a beautiful view and smaller crowds.

There is a small sign that leads you to the parking area. For a $5 fee, you can park here all day. There aren't too many spaces (hence no crowd) however, i've never had a problem with parking. Pay the parking fee as it does help the preservation of the California parks and i've heard the ticket for not paying is ridiculously expensive. There is also a short and steep, hike down towards the water and remember, you'll have to walk up this path to get back to the car.

The area south of the parking area is much less crowded than the area north but it's a lot less picturesque. The beach is nestled between the cliffs of Malibu and has rock formations that add to the beauty. Bring a lunch and a drink (you won't be able to buy anything there), a towel (the water seems a lot cleaner), a book (plan on staying a while) and an umbrella (not too much shade here). Also, if you walk up and down the beach, don't be surprised to see a nude person or two as this are is popular for sunbathing au naturel.

El Matador Beach is once of the best kept secrets in the LA area. It was recommended to me by a coworker during my last year in LA. It's very different from the other beaches in the LA area with beautiful cliffs, rocks and sea caves.

It's a little unfriendly for swimmers with all the rock and the undercurrent, but a favorite for bodysurfers. I'm pretty sure there's no lifegaurds either so be careful!

Overall a nice place to relax, be inspired, and dip your toes.