The headland is a volcanic promontory formed by igneous rock that resisted the erosion that shaped the surrounding coastline.
The cliffs serve as a popular nesting site for the California brown pelican.
The site was a filming location for the final beach sequence in the 1968 film Planet of the Apes.
During winter and spring months, the bluff serves as a prime lookout for spotting migrating gray whales offshore.
The beach is home to diverse tide pool ecosystems featuring sea anemones, crabs, and sea stars exposed during low tide.
The sandstone cliffs have undergone significant erosion, necessitating caution near the bluff edges.
Point Dume State Beach is a prominent headland located at the northern end of Santa Monica Bay in Malibu. The area features a dramatic 200-foot-high bluff that provides an elevated vantage point overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The shoreline consists of rocky coves, tide pools, and a sandy beach accessible via a staircase from the blufftop parking area. Geological formations include volcanic cliffs that rise steeply from the coastline. The beach serves as a natural transition point between the urbanized coastline of Santa Monica and the rugged terrain of the Santa Monica Mountains. It is a recognized site for whale watching, particularly during the migration seasons of the California gray whale. The beach is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
The summit of the Point Dume bluff looking south toward the Santa Monica coastline.
Arrive early to secure parking in the cliff-top lot, as spaces are limited.
Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to hike the trail leading from the bluff down to the beach.
Check tide charts before visiting to ensure access to the rocky intertidal areas.
Attempting to climb the unstable cliff faces, which are prone to rockfall and erosion.
Stay on marked trails to prevent cliff erosion; pack out all trash to protect marine life; dogs are typically prohibited on the sand.
