LA ♥ // El Matador Beach.

Just in time for summer, I want to share a rather famous yet off-the-beaten-path beach in LA called El Matador. You guys, it's stunning! It's actually in Malibu below a high bluff and has a smattering of picturesque giant rocks with sea caves. Whether you are looking down along the coastline from atop the cliff or splashing through the water down on the beach, it's a stunner. In my photo world, many people jokingly refer to this as Photo Beach because there's always a shoot going on there. And once you go there, you'll notice how often it's in magazine spreads and movies. Unfortunately the beauty comes with a price -- the porta-potties in the parking lot are stinky and the trek down the cliff to the beach is a doozy when you come back up. But it's worth it. It's a great place to take a book or a picnic ... and super romantic no matter what time of day you go.  The adventurous types can climb the rocks and explore the caves. And sometimes you have to be really adventurous because certain parts of the beach can trap you in high tide!

To get there, drive past Zuma Beach going north on the 101 (aka PCH). After  you see signs for Broad Beach, keep your eyes peeled for the brown signs at the top of a hill. The parking lot at the top is rather small and make sure you have cash to pay at the self-pay machine. If you don't want to make the hike down, even a sunset from the top is worth your while.

Find more of the things I love about LA here.

{Photos by me}.