El Matador State Beach

About this spot

A small cove below the bluffs, with sea stacks, rock arches and caves standing in the water. The sun sets out over the Pacific beyond the rocks, which turn into silhouettes against the sky. The blufftop parking lot is open 8am to sunset, so you'll need to leave as the sun goes down. It is small and fills quickly; the day fee is around $10. A steep path and stairs lead down the bluff, so wear proper shoes; the beach isn't wheelchair accessible. There are portable toilets at the top and nothing for sale, so bring food and water. Dogs are not allowed.