Swimming holes by town
Swimming Holes in Malibu, California
5 natural swimming holes
Swimming around Malibu, CA means options — 5 natural swimming holes make our directory for this corner of California. Expect a spread: 4 ocean coves, and 1 waterfall. Plan around May-October — that's the best season named in most local listings. Geographically, they're a Los Angeles County story. El Matador State Beach anchors the local list, and Leo Carrillo State Beach rounds out the highlights.
Swimming holes in Malibu
- El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach is Malibu's most photographed cove, with sea stacks, arches, and pocket beaches at the base of steep bluffs.
- Leo Carrillo State Beach
Leo Carrillo State Beach stretches along the Malibu coast with sea caves, tidepools, and a protected cove for swimming.
- Paradise Cove
Paradise Cove is Malibu's classic sheltered swimming cove, with calm water, a sandy beach, and the famous pier restaurant overhead.
- Point Dume Cove
Point Dume's cove on the Malibu headland offers protected swimming and snorkeling around kelp beds and rocky reefs.
- Solstice Canyon Falls
Solstice Canyon's waterfall drops through a shaded Malibu canyon once home to a stone ranch house, now ruins along the trail.
Frequently asked questions
How many swimming holes are in Malibu, CA?
Our directory lists 5 natural swimming holes in and around Malibu, California, across Los Angeles County. New spots are added as they're verified.
What kinds of swimming holes are in Malibu?
The 5 listings cover 4 ocean coves, 1 waterfall. See each listing for details on access and conditions.
Which swimming hole near Malibu should I try first?
El Matador State Beach is a well-documented local listing. El Matador State Beach is Malibu's most photographed cove, with sea stacks, arches, and pocket beaches at the base of steep bluffs. Full details, maps, and safety notes are on its page.
When is the best time to swim near Malibu?
Local listings most often name May-October as the best season. Spring runoff can make rivers and creeks dangerously high — check local conditions before you go.