1. Sycamore Cove Beach

    1. Sycamore Cove Beach

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    Malibu, CA

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    Sycamore Cove Beach

    4.0 (36 reviews)

    Sycamore Cove Beach Photos

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    One of the beach access points from the campground.
    Tanis L.

    A friend and I adventured to the Sycamore Canyon Beach one evening in July 2018 to watch the sunset. We were staying at the Sycamore Canyon Campground inland a little bit and followed the signage/trail to the beach. It is a short walk 5-20 minutes depending on the path you take, if you know where you are going, and if you get distracted along the way. The beach is sandy with rocks bordering the ends of the sandy stretch like book ends. Waves gently rolled in while we watched the sun set. More people arrived the closer to sunset it got. I decided to roll up the bottoms of my jeans and put my feet in the water. Going down to the edge of the water was a little steep, so a side shuffle may be a good option if you don't want to faceplant. It was windy on the beach, which was nice when returning to the campground to be all wind blown.

    Michelangelo S.

    It's Malibu! And It's A Beach! What More Do You Need?!? https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sycamore-canyon-beach-malibu?select=A35UQsgiBrf37O38iJSqoA&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w SITREP This past weekend I enjoyed trekking down from Sacramento to meet up at Point Mugu - and all points along - to celebrate the ocean, and the energy that comes with my friend Violet's birthday. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sycamore-canyon-beach-malibu?select=-ZFO4iAXgJcrJXYqYlYong&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w THE SETUP It takes some patience to find the spot you want to set up at: * This go-around we were fighting to find parking spaces since the local Kiwanis Club decided to do their yearly lunch event IN the middle of the Eastward parking lot; * Beach spots were at a premium, but our illustrious hosts scored a great set up around a fire pit with three adjacent picnic tables; https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sycamore-canyon-beach-malibu?select=D__n1edzTFCw2NHrsHt0JQ&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w * The neighboring grouping of table - taken over by a surly bunch of seagulls - was a cacophny of different noises, but they were manageable and easy to please with chips and other crumbs. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sycamore-canyon-beach-malibu?select=okoN9mcKREZFmDXSWqnHCw&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w DAY-LONG FUN! Starting out the in the middle of the afternoon (2pm), the sun was beating down and it was warm - canopies and hats were good to have. The wind kicked up around 5pm, so be prudent and cover the food so that randoms sprays of water and/or sand didn't get inside the dishes! We got the Barbecue going, and it was perfect hamburger cooking weather. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sycamore-canyon-beach-malibu?select=3qV9cx1zQSCJMBzkKzI6uw&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w At twilight, things were calm, placid, relaxing, as the stars came out, and the evening sky shone clear with it's beauty! But it was COOOL. Bring warm clothes for sure. We got the skewers out and made s'mores! https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/sycamore-canyon-beach-malibu?select=R7j5uUfONTho1zyaeW3ffA&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w PARKING As mentioned above, parking is onsite, it's $12 for an allday pass until sunset. You can squeak another hour beyond relatively easily, but then after TWO hours, the ranger patrols come around and threaten tickets if you don't leave immediately, so beware! THE LOWDOWN A beautiful beach for some well-deserved birthday fun!

    Lauren K.

    This is one of my favorite beaches in Ventura County. It's a great beach for families and groups. The day fee is $12 or closer to sunset, $3 hourly parking. There are open fire pits and plenty of benches. During Friday nights, some folks gather for religious services. I enjoy the underpass at the edge. It's so cozy and adds something to the experience. This combined by the soft, corse sand and the sunset to create a memorable experience. During sunset you can see Malibu Rock in the distance as the window sweeps mists on your face.

    Elizabeth R.

    Everything was nice except the forest rangers. That's why I'm only giving 3 stars. I wish they had a separate star scale for rude people lol. They are super rude. The have favoritism on the vehicles that can enter when the lot is full. My family and I waited over an hour on the side of the road waiting for a spot. One of rangers approached us and said we had to go across the street and he would signal us when something came available but he would not guarantee the car behind me would enter first when all the cars on the side of the road were clearly all waiting for the same. Another 30 minutes passes and another forest rangers approached us and sad if we wanted to enter we would have to drive up the road do a I turn and wait on the lane to turn left in order to let us in. I told him that the cars before us didn't have to do that. He continued to say he was at lunch and if I wanted to enter I would have to do as I mentioned before.

    Cheri N.

    We had a very nice time on this beach about 3 years ago and came back to celebrate a birthday just yesterday. We like that this beach is great for BBQing. They have picnic benches and BBQs scattered along this small stretch of beach. Parking is limited and costs $12. If you are going here on a weekend and plan to use a picnic table and BBQ, arrive when they open at 8am or get in line and wait earlier. It gets full fast. By 8:45am on a Saturday, people claimed almost every picnic table. The parking lot was full by 10am and the park rangers turned away all cars trying to enter the lot for most of the remainder of the day despite the lot having a handful of available spaces as people left. People coming for our party were told that the Rangers won't open the parking lot although spaces opened up around noon. As for the condition of the beach itself, we set up next to lifeguard tower 6 and there are porta-potties nearby. The "sand" in that area was more like dirt. It was very fine, brown and dusty. There were tons of rocks, pebbles, sharp black pieces, sticks, trash, etc in the sand/dirt making it very uncomfortable to be barefoot or in sandals. Our feet were filthy from the dust rather than just sandy like at normal beaches. The wind was blowing making the water rough, surf was brutal and rip tides are common. The dirt/sand turns into rocks just under the surf so if you dare go into the water, be prepared. Bare feet and legs will get cut up if the waves knock you down. We liked walking along the beach where the sand was more normal and it was clean. There were two lifeguards on duty just for tower 6 and they were actively watching the beach. Thankfully they were trying to keep people safe and watching the rip tides. All in all, this isn't a beach that is the cleanest or the best for getting wet, but if you get there early and can claim a table and BBQ, then enjoy a nice lunch here. We've seen dolphins out in the water. Please don't feed the birds or leave your trash and leave the place better when you leave. Three years ago this place seemed much nicer. We don't plan on returning anytime soon if at all.

    Porta potties
    April C.

    Restrooms are available (porta potties) No showers from what I saw but there was a valve for water(cleaned my feet from the sand there) Parking is available but you need to pay I came during a Thursday it was 9$ for sunrise to sunset They have a kiosk so if you don't have cash you can pay with card There were are lifeguards on duty but they leave around 6(at least when I was there) There are fire pits if you want to bbq or just keep warm Plenty of picnic tables to use There weren't many people which was nice If you plan on coming here don't forget your lighter or forks because the drive to the closest place is far

    Christopher H.

    Beautiful beach between Malibu and Oxnard. The rock, sand wall, and miles of tranquil, and secluded coastline exists here with plenty parking. The waters are a bit rough near the rocks so surfing wouldn't be recommended.

    Ruchi V.

    I think this place might also be called sycamore cove? Anyway- love this place! What's different about is that there is so much more to do than just sit in the sand and go in the water. The sand is pretty clean and not a lot of seaweed floating around-- much cleaner than santa monica. Its hidden and not a lot of people know about it because it always seems to be pretty empty-- I almost didn't want to write the review to keep it all to myself! If you want to walk down along the coast in wet sand you can, but you can also go climbing on the huge rocks and get a really good view of the water going in and out between them. Parking isn't too bad either. You can either park in the lot adjacent to the beach (its gated) but it closes at sundown. If you're planning on being there a little bit longer there is a strip that has parking right on PCH right before you hit the big rocks. If you find parking up there, do be ready to go down a somewhat steep hill. As long as you're paying attention and there's light out you will be fine.

    Thel L.

    Point Mugu State Park - Sycamore State Beach This is a nice beach that's fairly clean. Tried my hand at surf fishing today, I caught a nice size BSP at my first attempt, but the waves were big - making their way up past the shoreline - add to that the winds which didn't help, making surf fishing a bit tough. $12 Day Use Fee

    Amy W.

    This place is more 3-3.5 stars depending on what you're looking for. If you're trying to find a picnic place and have older kids/adults- you should check out this place. Beautiful scenery, pretty cozy beach, plenty of picnic tables and parking (parking is $3/hr or $12/day). If you are more going for a beach day or have small children, I would go further down to Zuma Beach. Here, the waves are pretty rough and there's a lot of trash littered around. I have 2 little ones and I felt I spent more time making sure my little one does not put discarded beer bottle cap in his mouth, or touched a dirty discarded sock nearby. It really is a beautiful place (plenty of instagram worthy photo opportunities there), but not the best place for toddlers and very small children.

    Reyna G.

    Great place to take the family for a picnic, mountain biking across the street, and fun in the sun! I went for bodyboarding and got it, though not the best in the county, if you don't mind getting a little scuffed up or rocks in your fins or walking on small pointy rocks then i would try a different beach for water fun. Though the sunset was beautiful!

    Rocks

    Very lovely spot and parking super close to the beach. Haven't been om a weekend but Mondays seem pretty empty and chill.

    Morning coffee on the beach

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    Very nice place . Sometimes it gets busy , so be prepared to get there early .

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    Sycamore Cove Beach Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Sycamore Cove Beach

    Do you need to make advance reservation for parking? (day visit)

    No, you don't. I've never had a problem with parking. You can park in the beach lot or across PCH at the campground lot.

    Are alcoholic beverages allowed?

    I heard yes so I don't know. I'm on the same page dude 😆, we'll find out though

    Does anyone knows if is open right now due to Corona virus?

    Yup

    Is there a time the beach closes to using the BBQs and tables?

    Our group of 20 were at POINT MAGU in Sycamore Canyon. ONLY timeframe need to be worried about is making sure you're stuff is packed & ready to leave an hour after Sundown because the Rangers are strict about locking the gate, and they start… 

    Can you stay here overnight?

    There is a campsite across the highway for night use. No camping is allowed in day use area.

    Does anyone know if I can have dogs here off leash?

    No. All dogs must be on a leash.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Yea

    Can you bring and drink beer here?

    Yes you can

    View All 12 Questions

    Review Highlights - Sycamore Cove Beach

    One word of advise is that the parking pass expires at sunset and the rangers do close/lock up the parking lot.

    Mentioned in 7 reviews

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    Point Dume State Beach

    Point Dume State Beach

    4.7
    (336 reviews)
    12.7 mi

    We've all heard of PTSD…read more... You know, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. But have you heard of PDSB?? (I'll break this one down in a bit) Well, if you've read any of my other reviews of the picturesque beaches in Southern California, your PTSD of "here we go again, another review about white sandy beaches, moderate temp. waters and picture perfect sunsets" by Lance L. just might kick in. But bear with me, because this review, you're definitely not gonna want to skip. So what is PDSB you ask? Well Point Dume State Beach of course! Yes, one of Malibu's finest & for good reason too! Sure, when everyone thinks about beaches in Malibu... For those with families, It's usually Zuma Beach, but that's where EVERYBODY goes and because of this, it's ALWAYS packed! And of course, there's where all the surfers go.... Surfrider Beach, hence the name! But Surfrider is for hangin' 10 and you just might get a big stare down by the locals. But Point Dume State Beach or PDSB as I know you will now refer to it is about to be your new favorite. Here's why: A pay lot which sounds like it sucks to have to pay just to go to the beach, but the minimal cost ($6-$15 depending the season) is worth it. The lot is literally parallel to the beach and once you park, you are right on the sand! In addition, Point Dume State Beach, although smaller than Zuma is pretty decent because it's not as well known about so you will definitely find a place to plant that umbrella and set up your beach towel to watch the kids play, throw a football around or work on your tan lines. As far as Safety, Not only is lifeguard towers right on the sand, but a lifeguard headquarters office is also onsite, so if something goes south, help is very nearby. Point Dume State Beach does have fairly maintained, public restrooms that's are serviced regularly by the beaches and harbors maintenance team as well as a few porta-potties onsite for use. The beaches themselves are clean and do not have a lot of trash, debris or tar like some of the beaches that I've been to up North on the Ventura County Side (Oxnard & Ventura beaches). And the best part, some of the best sunsets you can catch on this part of the coastline. Besides the actual beach, you can actually hike from the beach side itself up the Point Dume hiking trail to get an even better view or jump off the cliff if you dare. But.... Please, Please, Just make sure you are a solid swimmer if you are a real swimmer thrill seeker as the water near the cliff is rocky and the currents are very unforgiving. There are always calls for service where Lifeguards, Firefighters and the Sheriff's department are on scene performing rescues, but unfortunately, sometimes are unsuccessful and people have tragically drowned. So maybe leave the Olympic style diving into the Big Blue to the pros. And now that you probably have actual PTSD from me telling you how you could actually die if you aren't careful.... Maybe just shake it off and get some PDSB instead and enjoy the Best of Malibu from the safety of your seat right on the sand! "Life's a Beach, Enjoy it!"

    I went on the weekend. Based off these reviews, I thought that it would be extremely packed but…read moreit's not like the other beaches in Malibu. It is mainly locals here, which is amazing because it is so clean. If you have to other beaches in California or LA, you will be amazed by how there is no trash at the beach. There is free street parking, but I decided to pay for parking at the end of the lot. It is $8, no ins and outs. Lots of parking at this lot, but they do close at 8:30pm. I want to come back again because this place is just too beautiful.

    Photos
    Overlooking the beach
    Overlooking the beach
    Well to PDSB!!! Malibu!!!
    Well to PDSB!!! Malibu!!!
    Point Dume

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    Point Dume
    Malibu Lagoon State Beach

    Malibu Lagoon State Beach

    4.3
    (108 reviews)
    19.2 mi

    Malibu Lagoon State Beach Park turned out to be exactly what I needed today. I came with my two…read moregirls, and from the moment we pulled into the parking lot, the day just felt easy. Parking is $3 an hour or $12 for the day, and the park is open 7am until sundown. After parking, it's about a seven‑minute walk along a peaceful path before the beach opens up in front of you. Most of the shoreline is protected wetlands, which actually makes the whole place feel calm and untouched. Even with the protected areas, there's still plenty of sandy space to set up a chair, stretch your legs, and settle in with a good book. My girls had a blast searching for seashells and honestly, they found some pretty amazing ones. The kind you don't expect to see unless you're on vacation somewhere far away. The waves were the highlight for me. They crash with this deep, steady rhythm that almost talks to you. When I closed my eyes, it felt like they were saying: relax, slow down, enjoy. And I did. The sun felt warm on my skin, and the breeze was just enough to keep everything comfortable. It's one of those places that reminds you how good it feels to pause for a moment and just be present with your kids, the ocean, and the day.

    You'll be doing a little hike to get to the beach, and it's a very well kept one, although the…read morerestrooms are porta potties. There's lots of rocks, but several areas with rock free sand.

    Photos
    Surfers Having a good time
    Surfers Having a good time
    Catching some waves
    Catching some waves
    At Sebi's birthday at #MalibuLagoonBeach! #DebutDanceDistrict @BryantCabrera

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    At Sebi's birthday at #MalibuLagoonBeach! #DebutDanceDistrict @BryantCabrera

    Sycamore Cove Beach - beaches - Updated July 2026

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