Best Beach in Thousand Oaks

"The reward for climbing down the steep steps to this scenic beach is a magical landscape of rocky outcrops and awesome sunsets — if you pick your moment, that is. At other times, it can be busy with everyone from wedding groups to Instagrammers in search of the perfect backdrop. Once you see it, however, you’ll recognize it."

"If you are fond of vivid rock formations, then a trip to the El Matador State beach is a must while you are in Malibu. It lies close to the Point Dume State Beaches. The beach is notable for its “pocket beaches”."

"Head down the path from the bluff and you’ll discover the beautiful tranquility of Malibu Lagoon State Beach where the creek meets the ocean. This wetland area is home to hundreds of species of migratory birds and just a great place to have a stroll. Take a moment, too, to look into the Malibu Lagoon Museum at Adamson House to learn more about the history of the town, and enjoy some of the best views over the beach."

"Malibu Lagoon State Beach (23200 Pacific Coast Highway) is located on the lagoon formed by Malibu Creek before flowing into the ocean. There is a parking lot at the intersection of the Pacific Coast Highway and Cross Creek Road. There are dirt trails that are ideal for hiking and bird-watching opportunities."

"Malibu Lagoon State beach starts where Malibu creek meets the ocean – the lagoon is formed when the creek pools up. During winter, the beach parts to allow tidal streams to form. This disconnects Surfrider beach from the lagoon beach."

"Stretching three and half miles, the Santa Monica State Beach lines the coast, dividing the city from the shore. Following the edge of the Pacific Coast Highway, the Santa Monica Beach lies on either side of the famous Santa Monica Pier and provides an array of recreational and entertainment opportunities for beach goers. On the beach, manned lifeguard stations, playgrounds, picnic areas, bike rentals, water sport rentals, and wooden pathways facilitate easygoing and safe entertainment for visitors."

"The south part of Santa Monica State Beach is located south of the Santa Monica Pier and north of Venice Beach. On the other side of the pier you’ll find […]"

"At Point Dume State Beach, it's easy to forget that you're just a few miles from the busy LA metro area. That's because you will be gawking at the scenic headlands, rocky coves, and offshore rock formations all while enjoying more than a mile of sandy beach at the foot of the high cliffs. On a clear day, you might catch a glimpse of Catalina Island or the Channel Islands just across Santa Monica Bay."

"This is a beautiful one-mile stretch of sand reached by a hiking trail from the bluff and dunes. The big draws here are the views, whether it’s looking across Santa Monica Bay from the clifftop or spotting whales (in winter) and dolphins close to the shore. Film buffs will recognize Point Dume State Beach as the setting for the final scene in the original Planet of the Apes."

"Westward Beach is three miles long with wide stretches of sand. It’s one of the best places to surf in LA. This beach is by far one of the largest and most admired beaches in LA."

"Formerly known as Corral State Beach, Dan Blocker County Beach is a long narrow beach with a few cottages for rent behind it. Pretty secluded, the place is one of the favorite beaches in Malibu for surfing and stand-up paddle boarding."

"Interestingly, it was previously owned by the stars of the Bonanza TV series. The beach is great for kayaking, scuba diving, swimming, and walking. In 2014, the county of LA completed numerous renovations to the area."

"Leo Carrillo State Park is one of Malibu's most family-friendly beaches, located in western Malibu and accessible via the Pacific Coast Highway. The beach park is split into northern and southern sections, which are divided by the rocky Sequit Point, home to ample tide pools and caves which may be explored during low tide conditions. Near the beach's northern section, adjacent Staircase Beach is a popular spot for surfers, with hiking trails traversing the nearby state park area."

"As its name suggests, the place offers more than just nice spot to unwind in front of the ocean. This Malibu area includes a few diverse beaches, caves, rock arches, tide pools, hiking trails and over a hundred camp sites. South Beach at Leo Carrillo State Park nestles behind the main park entrance."

"There are many tide pools scattered amongst the shorelines here. Within the tide pools we saw fish, crabs, and even clams. You definitely come across all kinds of wildlife here."

"Big Rock Beach is a narrow rocky beach in Malibu, named in honor of a large offshore rock at the beach that serves as a popular resting spot for migratory and shorebirds. The public beach is accessible via a gate along the Pacific Coast Highway and is operated by Los Angeles County, serving as a popular spot for swimming, scuba diving, birdwatching, and fishing. Visitors can also observe seals sunning along a number of rocks along the beach's shoreline, with ample space for beachwalking and viewing beautiful waterfront homes in the area."

"Big Rock Beach is a narrow rocky beach in Malibu that is under water during higher tides. It is named for the big rock just offshore at the point which […]"

"Second, it’s your only chance to see the beautiful beaches of Malibu. Finally, this drive includes a long stretch on Pacific Coast Highway, which is an awesome experience unto itself. If you want less of a drive, starting your day at the Santa Monica Pier is an option, but then you lose the PCH drive (and the Santa Monica Pier is overrated, in my opinion). On balance, we think the early wake up will be worth it, and strongly recommend El Matador Beach, which we called “Malibu’s Megastar.”"

"I visited both museums on separate trips and while I wouldn’t say the Villa is a must, it’s fun to combine with the beaches of Malibu if you’re in the mood for a beach day and want something else than the open beaches of Santa Monica and Venice. You might even bump into a photo shoot or two!"

"Los Angeles Itinerary Day 1: Venice Beach, Santa Monica and Malibu Kick off your Los Angeles itinerary with some of the highlights of LA’s west side. It was my home turf for a few years so I know it well!. Admittedly, it’s also my favorite part of the city, hands-down."

"Third Street Promenade – Steps away from Tongva Park, you’ll find Santa Monica Place, which is a large shopping mall and one end of 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica’s world-famous alfresco shopping street. Third Street Promenade offers stores that range from giant national chains to independent luxury boutiques, restaurants, and random other stuff. Our interest pretty much lies exclusively in the “random other stuff,” which includes dinosaur topiaries."

"Upon entering the Sonoma Wine Garden, a popular rooftop restaurant in Santa Monica, visitors immediately notice the beauty and atmosphere of the place. A large outdoor patio and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean are just the beginning, though. The restaurant is known for its bottomless mimosas and extensive menu, including a wide range of traditional coastal California dishes made with the freshest local ingredients."

"Santa Monica Place is one of L.A.’s most upscale shopping malls. You will find stores like Swarovski, Tiffany, Michael Kors and Nordstrom at this charming, yet modern outdoor mall. Many people enjoy visiting the Nike flagship location here as well, or having a meal with an amazing view on its upper-level dining deck."