Sunset & Stargazing at El Matador Beach

Headed for north on the Pacific Coast Highway, you will find the El Matador State Beach sign on the right about 5 miles past Point Dume. If you reach Leo Carrillo State Park you're already too far. The off-road parking for El Matador Beach gets full right away, especially during weekends, and the cars stay until after the sunset, so your best bet is to park along PCH.

Head down towards the parking lot and you'll find a trail leading towards the right. Follow the trail until you see stairs, and keep heading down towards the beach.

On your way down to the beach you will already get to see amazing views of the rocks and the ocean. Stop here to take panoramic shots of the area.

When the tide is low, you'll be able to go through arches and caves within the huge rocks. Just be very careful when stepping on the rocks because they are very slippery.

This place is great for just hanging out by the sea to have a picnic and/or to take pictures. It is also so beautiful when the sun sets. And once the sky starts to get dark, the view of the stars is amazing.

When it's time to head back, be sure to light your path. There are sharp rocks on the sand, and you may hurt yourself.