The easternmost of the Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beaches, El Matador is Malibu's most photographed stretch of coast, famous for its towering sea stacks, wave-carved arches, and hidden sea caves. A steep stairway and trail lead down the bluff to a narrow strand that all but disappears at high tide, so it rewards a low-tide visit. Parking is a small clifftop lot that fills early, especially at sunset when photographers and couples crowd the rocks. Swimming is rough and unguarded; most visitors come for the scenery, tidepools, and golden-hour light rather than the water.
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