Point Dume could be the most beautiful stretch of coastline in Southern California. A long bluff starts at the northern end of the Santa Monica Bay and ends far in the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views of Palos Verdes Peninsula and Santa Catalina Island. It can be reached by Pacific Coast Highway right by about 20 min. ride north-west of Malibu. Point Dume Natural Area is a bucket list destination for California which offers unsurpassable natural beauty. Point Dume hike promises delightful vistas all year round. The best time to visit Malibu is often considered from June to September, as these are the warmest months. While December to April is the season of gray whale watching at Point Dume.
Point Dume was named in 1793 after Padre Francisco Dumetz of Mission San Buenaventura. It became known to locals as Point Zuma or Duma. In the 1930s it was used to catch whales by the California Whaling Company. Now Point Dume is a national preserve with expansive beaches, a beautiful coastal road, and scenic cliffs.
The 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) Point Dume Hiking trail starts from the bottom parking lot. It leads to the beautiful vistas and a park at the end of the trail. Another beautiful spot—the cliffs on the south side of the beach with the small little deck on the side of the hill, which is especially popular at sunset.
Point Dume Beach has a rock-climbing trail and is considered to be one of the best places in Southern California for scuba divers. The area was featured In Iron Man movie as a site for Tony Starks house. The Planet of the Apes series were also filmed here.
Practical info
What is the best time of year to visit Point Dume?
The warmest months, from June to September, are ideal for visiting Point Dume and Malibu. But if whale watching is your thing, then the best months are from December to April when the gray whales migrate. Point Dume is a year-round destination for nature lovers. It offers scenic views that will take your breath away. Show more
How do you get to Point Dume from Malibu?
To get to Point Dume from Malibu, head northwest on Pacific Coast Highway. The 20-minute ride will take you to 7103 Westward Beach Road, Malibu, CA 90265, which is the address of Point Dume Natural Area. From there, you can take the 0.5-mile trail to the park or head directly to the beach. Visiting Point Dume is easy; experiencing it is unforgettable. Show more
What activities are popular at Point Dume besides hiking?
Scuba diving is a must-try if you're visiting Point Dume. With its clear waters and aquatic life, it's a popular spot for divers. Point Dume Beach has a challenging trail for rock climbing enthusiasts. Nevertheless, nature lovers would enjoy Point Dume's stunning coastal views and breathtaking vistas found around the area. Show more
How long is the hike to the park at the end of Point Dume trail?
It takes 20-30 minutes with slow or fast pace to complete the 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) long hike to the park that is located at the end of the Point Dume Trail. The trail is accommodating for all ages and presents visitors stunning sights of the ocean and Santa Monica Mountains. Hiking through the natural surroundings is perfect for a physical activity and an opportunity to be close with nature. Show more
Which movies were filmed at Point Dume besides Iron Man?
Aside from Iron Man, Point Dume served as the movie set for several Hollywood movies like The Big Lebowski, Planet of the Apes, Baywatch, and The Usual Suspects. Hollywood recognizes Point Dume's striking cliffs and seascapes, making it a preferred filming location for movies and TV series. You could come across a movie or television show being filmed while on a visit, adding extra excitement. Show more
