Westward Beach
California, United States
Westward Beach is a wide sandy beach in Malibu, California, located on the southernmost portion of Zuma County Beach. The County of Los Angeles operates it through the Department of Beaches and Harbors.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Westward Beach
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Westward Beach?
Westward Beach sits at the southern end of Zuma County Beach in Malibu, California, facing the Pacific Ocean with a southerly exposure that catches sunlight throughout the day. This wide sandy stretch earned Blue Flag certification in 2023, recognizing its water quality, environmental management, and accessibility standards. The beach borders two Marine Protected Areas—Point Dume State Marine Conservation Area and Point Dume State Marine Reserve—making it a significant location for marine wildlife observation. Adjacent to Zuma Lagoon, the area supports diverse birdlife including great blue herons, ruddy ducks, and black-crowned night herons. A living shoreline project completed in 2021 restored over three acres of sandy beach and dune habitat, demonstrating the county's commitment to coastal preservation. Operated by the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, Westward Beach offers free admission and staffed lifeguard service, drawing both Malibu residents and visitors seeking swimming, body surfing, and whale watching opportunities along this stretch of the Southern California coast.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in California, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in United States certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Visitor Feedback
What Visitors Say About Westward Beach
What visitors appreciate
- hiking|rock climbing|dolphins|seals|whale watching|clean restrooms|ocean|disabled access|gorgeous cliffs|seagulls
- Well-staffed with lifeguards during season
Points to consider
- Can be busy during July and August peak season
- Limited parking near the beach
- Facilities may be reduced outside peak months
Based on aggregated public visitor feedback. Themes are synthesised from multiple sources — not individual quotes. Zeach does not reproduce individual reviews.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Westward Beach faces S toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June, September. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Feb | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Mar | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| May | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Jun | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Jul | 23°C | 20°C | High |
| Aug | 24°C | 21°C | High |
| Sep | 24°C | 21°C | Med |
| Oct | 21°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Dec | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
The best time to visit Westward Beach is May, June, September. Air temperatures peak around 23.4°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 20.4°C in July.
How crowded does Westward Beach get?Who actually visits Westward Beach on a typical day? The crowd here differs from the scene at Santa Monica or Venice, drawing fewer tourists and more committed beach enthusiasts willing to make the 18-mile drive from central Los Angeles.
Malibu residents treat Westward Beach as their local escape, arriving early on summer mornings to claim space before the day-trippers arrive. Families with children appreciate the lifeguard presence and the wide sandy area that allows kids to run without constantly dodging other beachgoers. The free admission means no financial barrier to regular visits.
Surfers congregate near the better breaks, their boards lined up on the sand between sessions. The slightly cooler water temperatures don't deter the wetsuit-clad locals who know these waves intimately. Body surfers populate the shorebreak, while windsurfers and kitesurfers set up further down the beach where they have room to launch.
August brings peak season, when water temperatures reach their warmest at 21.1°C and air temperatures average 24.1°C. This single-month prime swimming season—both starting and ending in August—reflects the cooler Pacific conditions that define this stretch of coast. Visitors seeking warm-water swimming may find the temperatures challenging outside this window.
Wildlife watchers form their own contingent, binoculars trained on the lagoon or scanning the horizon for whale spouts. The presence of Marine Protected Areas attracts snorkelers interested in healthier underwater ecosystems.
Clean restrooms and disabled access make the beach practical for extended visits. The crowd remains manageable compared to beaches closer to Los Angeles, though parking fills on summer weekends.
Is Westward Beach open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-05 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Westward Beach
Is Westward Beach safe to swim?Westward Beach is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Westward Beach?Peak water temperature at Westward Beach reaches around <span class="inline-stat">20.4°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 14.7°C.
What is the beach like at Westward Beach?What makes Westward Beach different from other Los Angeles area beaches? The answer lies in its unique position at the base of Point Dume, where dramatic cliffs frame a wide sandy expanse that stretches toward the horizon. The beach faces south, capturing consistent sunlight and offering views across Santa Monica Bay.
The sand here is the main attraction—broad and well-maintained, it provides ample space for beachgoers even during busy summer weekends. Water temperatures run cooler than other Los Angeles beaches, ranging from 11.6°C in December to 21.1°C in August. This cooler water comes from the Point Dume headland's influence on local currents, bringing nutrient-rich waters that support the adjacent Marine Protected Areas.
For surfers, Westward Beach delivers reliable breaks suitable for various skill levels. The southerly exposure means the beach picks up swells from multiple directions, though conditions vary with tide and season. Body surfing remains popular here, with waves that form properly for catching rides without a board. Windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts also frequent this stretch, taking advantage of the consistent coastal winds that develop during afternoon hours.
Snorkeling opportunities exist along the rocky areas near Point Dume, where the State Marine Reserve protects underwater habitats. The Marine Protected Areas mean fish populations are healthier here than in unprotected waters, though regulations restrict what activities are permitted within these zones.
Whale watching has become a signature activity at Westward Beach. Gray whales migrate past this coastline between December and April, and their spouts are often visible from shore. Dolphins appear year-round, sometimes surfing the waves alongside human visitors. Seals occasionally haul out on nearby rocks, adding to the wildlife viewing possibilities.
The 2021 living shoreline project represents a modern approach to coastal management. By restoring 3.26 acres of sandy beach and dune habitat near Zuma Lagoon, this initiative reinforced the shoreline against erosion while creating natural environments for fish, plants, and wildlife. The project demonstrates how beaches can be protected through habitat restoration rather than solely through hard infrastructure like seawalls.
Zuma Lagoon, immediately adjacent to the beach, functions as a coastal wetland supporting bird populations. Great blue herons stalk the shallows, ruddy ducks paddle across open water, and black-crowned night herons roost in vegetation along the edges. Birdwatchers find this lagoon area productive, particularly during migration seasons when additional species pass through.
Facilities reflect the beach's County of Los Angeles management. Information boards provide orientation and safety details. Lifeguards staff the beach, offering supervision and emergency response capability. The sandy beach itself extends broadly, without the rocky interruptions that characterize some California coastlines.
Accessibility has been addressed thoughtfully. Beach wheelchairs are available free of charge at the nearby Zuma Beach Lifeguard Headquarters, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis during daylight hours. Vehicles with disabled person placards or license plates may park directly in front of the restroom building within the Blue Flag certified area, providing close access to the sand.
The dramatic cliffs of Point Dume provide a backdrop that distinguishes this beach visually. These geological formations create the headland that shelters the beach and offer hiking opportunities above the shoreline. The combination of accessible beach, protected marine areas, restored habitat, and cliff scenery creates an experience that justifies the drive along Pacific Coast Highway.
Does Westward Beach have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Westward Beach meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season.
Westward Beach sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
While You're Here
Beyond Westward Beach
Point Dume rises immediately adjacent to Westward Beach, offering hiking trails that climb to cliff-top viewpoints overlooking the Pacific. The headland provides perspectives on the coastline stretching in both directions and serves as an excellent whale watching platform during migration season. Rock climbing opportunities exist along the cliff faces, attracting climbers familiar with the local routes.
Point Dume rises immediately adjacent to Westward Beach, offering hiking trails that climb to cliff-top viewpoints overlooking the Pacific. The headland provides perspectives on the coastline stretching in both directions and serves as an excellent whale watching platform during migration season. Rock climbing opportunities exist along the cliff faces, attracting climbers familiar with the local routes.
The Marine Protected Areas offshore—Point Dume State Marine Conservation Area and State Marine Reserve—attract divers and snorkelers interested in exploring healthier underwater ecosystems. Regulations govern what activities are permitted within these zones, so verify current rules before planning water activities.
The Marine Protected Areas offshore—Point Dume State Marine Conservation Area and State Marine Reserve—attract divers and snorkelers interested in exploring healthier underwater ecosystems. Regulations govern what activities are permitted within these zones, so verify current rules before planning water activities.
Zuma Lagoon's birdwatching potential extends the nature-focused activities beyond the beach itself. The restored dune habitat from the 2021 living shoreline project demonstrates coastal conservation in action.
Zuma Lagoon's birdwatching potential extends the nature-focused activities beyond the beach itself. The restored dune habitat from the 2021 living shoreline project demonstrates coastal conservation in action.
Transport
Getting to Westward Beach
How do I get to Westward Beach by car?Westward Beach is approximately 12.24 km from Malibu. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Westward Beach?The nearest airport is Point Mugu Nas (Naval Base Ventura Co) Airport (NTD) (NTD), approximately 30.1 km away. Point Mugu Naval Air Station (NTD) sits 30.1 kilometers from Westward Beach but serves military rather than commercial traffic. For practical purposes, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) functions as the primary arrival point for visitors flying to this area. From LAX, the drive to Westward Beach follows Pacific Coast Highway northwest through Santa Monica and along the Malibu coastline—expect 45 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic conditions, which can be substantial during rush hours and summer weekends. Car rental facilities at LAX provide the most flexible option for reaching the beach and exploring the surrounding coast. Ride-share services operate throughout the Los Angeles area but become expensive for the distance involved. Some visitors prefer flying into Burbank or Long Beach airports, though these don't significantly reduce travel time to Malibu.
Can I get to Westward Beach by public transport?Bus 534 serves Westward Beach, stopping at Cliffside/Dume near the beach access point. This route connects to the broader Los Angeles public transit network, making car-free visits possible though time-consuming. From Santa Monica, bus connections run along Pacific Coast Highway to the Malibu beaches. Check current schedules, as coastal route frequencies vary by season and day of week.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-05 – 30-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 34.0131°N, 118.8194°W |
| Official Website | www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=623 |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — United States |
Frequently Asked Questions
Westward Beach FAQ
Is Westward Beach worth visiting?
Westward Beach earns its reputation as a Malibu favorite through its combination of wide sandy expanse, wildlife viewing opportunities, and dramatic Point Dume backdrop. The 2023 Blue Flag certification confirms water quality and environmental management standards. Whale watching during migration season, dolphins visible year-round, and adjacent Marine Protected Areas supporting healthier marine ecosystems distinguish this location. The cooler water temperatures may surprise visitors expecting warmer Southern California conditions, but surfers, body surfers, and windsurfers appreciate the consistent conditions. Free admission and lifeguard presence add practical value.
How do I get to Westward Beach?
From Santa Monica, follow Pacific Coast Highway 18 miles west to Westward Beach Road, then turn toward the ocean. From the 101 Freeway, exit at Kanan Road and follow it south 12 miles to Pacific Coast Highway, turn right, and Westward Beach Road appears over the rise at the foot of the hill. Public transit reaches the beach via Bus 534, stopping at Cliffside/Dume. Parking is available, with designated accessible spaces near the restroom building for vehicles displaying disabled person placards or license plates. Beach wheelchairs are available free at Zuma Beach Lifeguard Headquarters nearby.
Best time of year to visit Westward Beach?
August offers peak conditions with water temperatures reaching 21.1°C—the warmest of the year—and air temperatures averaging 24.1°C. The official swimming season runs during August, reflecting the cooler Pacific waters that characterize this coastline. Water temperatures drop to 11.6°C in December and remain below 15°C from November through March. Summer months bring the best swimming conditions, though surfers and wetsuit-equipped visitors enjoy the beach year-round. Whale watching peaks from December through April during gray whale migration. Wildlife and birdwatching at the adjacent lagoon remain productive throughout the year.
What facilities are there at Westward Beach?
Westward Beach provides information boards, lifeguard services, and restroom facilities. Admission is free. Beach wheelchairs are available at the nearby Zuma Beach Lifeguard Headquarters on a first-come, first-served basis during daylight hours at no charge. Accessible parking spaces are located in front of the restroom building within the Blue Flag area for vehicles with disabled person placards or plates. The beach is sandy throughout, managed by the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors. Clean restrooms serve visitors, and the broad sandy area accommodates various beach activities including surfing, body surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
Is Westward Beach suitable for families?
Westward Beach works well for families, with several features supporting visits with children. Lifeguards provide supervision and emergency response throughout operating hours. The wide sandy beach offers space for children to play without crowding. Free admission removes cost barriers for family outings. Accessible beach wheelchairs available nearby accommodate family members with mobility needs. The August swimming season provides warmest water temperatures around 21°C, though the Pacific remains cooler here than at some beaches. Wildlife viewing—dolphins, seals, and seabirds at the lagoon—engages children interested in nature. The sandy beach type suits building sandcastles and general beach play.
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