Point Dume State Beach is my play hooky from work and relax beach. It is laid back and low key, a nice change from it’s neighbor Zuma County Beach. Point Dume is mostly families, couples, and people looking for some peace an quiet. The beach is long enough for people to give each other plenty of space.

Most of Point Dume is flat expanses of beach, overlooked by multi-million dollar mansions. However, at the southern end the cliffs reach the ocean. Here there is a gradual ascending trail leading to an ancient coastal bluff sand dune. From the viewing platform at the top you can see An incredible view of Malibu, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Mountains, and on clear days Catalina Island.

Be sure to look up from your book every now and then. I’ve had great wildlife viewings from Point Dume. Usually dolphins, but on my last trip in late March 2006 I saw a whale making it’s way north. It was a great sight as beyond the traditional tail and back views, this one actually poked it’s head out of the water a few times and raised its dorsal fin.

Point Dume has lifeguards during daylight hours, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, free and pay parking. The beach gets pretty windy in the afternoon so bring something warm.

From Santa Monica go North on PCH for 18 miles and turn right unto Westward Beach Road. From the 101 Freeway, exit at Kanan Road, go south for 12 miles, right on PCH, and right on Westward Beach Road. If you see Zuma Beach you went too far.