County Line Beach
A classic Southern California surf spot with rocky points, sea caves, and stunning ocean views, perfect for surfers and explorers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal conditions, fewer crowds
County Line Beach
Best Time
Ideal conditions, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A classic Southern California surf spot with rocky points, sea caves, and stunning ocean views, perfect for surfers and explorers.
"Awesome stretch of oceanfront beach! A rare spot at the ocean surf where parking is free, surfing is good and the views are unobstructed."
🌊 Check Tide Charts First
Low tide is essential for exploring sea caves and rocky areas.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Street parking fills quickly; consider Neptune's Net for options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rocky Point Break
Western end of the beach
Experience year-round hard rights, a surfer's paradise with entertaining waves.
Secluded Sea Caves
Accessible at low tide
Explore hidden grottoes and caverns for an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Unobstructed Ocean Views
Along the bluffs
Enjoy spectacular, panoramic views of the Pacific, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide Times are Crucial
Parking Can Be Tricky
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Check Tide Charts First
Low tide is essential for exploring sea caves and rocky areas.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Street parking fills quickly; consider Neptune's Net for options. +1
🏄♂️ Surfing Hotspot
Known for consistent right-hand breaks, popular with local surfers. +1
🍽️ Neptune's Net Nearby
Grab a bite at this iconic seafood spot across PCH. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Check Tide Charts First
Low tide is essential for exploring sea caves and rocky areas.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Street parking fills quickly; consider Neptune's Net for options. +1
🏄♂️ Surfing Hotspot
Known for consistent right-hand breaks, popular with local surfers. +1
🍽️ Neptune's Net Nearby
Grab a bite at this iconic seafood spot across PCH. +1
🥾 Bluff Views
Spectacular vistas await from the bluffs overlooking the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise County Line Beach for its relaxing atmosphere, good waves for surfing, and beautiful, unobstructed ocean views, especially at sunset. The convenience of Neptune's Net across the street and the opportunity to explore sea caves at low tide are also highlights. Some find parking challenging and note that the beach can get crowded with surfers.
"Nice clean beach, not overcrowded so it was very relaxing and tranquil, good waves so there was entertaining surfing to watch and enjoy, enjoyed my time there."
Ali Alibhai
"West facing rocky point break. year round hard rights. Firmly placed within my Southern California top spots. And when procuring rations becomes necessary, Neptune's Net is cooking lunch daily right across PCH."
Solbrains TenThousand
"Awesome stretch of oceanfront beach! A rare spot at the ocean surf where parking is free, surfing is good and the views are unobstructed.
There’s lots of sand beach to find space to layout on within view of our parked vehicles.
Early surfers get the choicest spots, while latecomers may need to start back across from the Neptune’s Net restaurant to park and then walk boards over to a desired location. Summertime may be very crowded, tho with lifeguards in attendance. Fall thru autumn visits here have been ideal, even at mid-day!
While I didn’t notice a lifeguard stationed here, I did see a roving patrol to help oversee the safety during the offseason.
The restrooms are substituted with port-o-potty’s, with additional options available across the highway back at Neptune’s Net while going to get prepared food.
I’d urge caution when parking alongside either side of Pacific Coast Highway, leaving enough space to step out of the driver’s side from fast moving traffic. Also being mindful both ways if when crossing the highway."
Jim Kara
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
County Line Beach is located on the western edge of Malibu, often considered part of Ventura County. The most common way to access it is by driving along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Look for signs indicating County Line Beach. Parking is available along PCH, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. +1
Public transportation options to County Line Beach are limited. While bus routes may run along PCH, they can be infrequent and time-consuming. Driving is generally the most convenient method.
The best strategy is to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak season, to secure street parking along PCH. Be mindful of traffic and ensure you leave adequate space when exiting your vehicle. +1
County Line Beach is a bit unique as it's the most westerly community in Malibu but is technically an unincorporated part of Ventura County, known as Solromar. It utilizes a Malibu zip code.
Restrooms at County Line Beach are typically port-o-potties. More substantial facilities can be found across PCH at Neptune's Net.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
County Line Beach is a public beach, and there is no entrance fee to access the sand. Parking along PCH is also generally free, though it can be competitive.
As a public beach, County Line Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, parking areas may have specific hours. It's always a good idea to check local regulations if you plan to stay late.
No, tickets are not required for County Line Beach as it is a public access beach. Simply arrive and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Lifeguards are typically present during peak seasons and busy times. However, during the offseason or at less crowded times, you might not see a stationed lifeguard, though roving patrols may be present.
While the beach itself is generally open, access might be limited by parking availability and local ordinances regarding nighttime access. It's best to visit during daylight hours.
🎫 🏄♂️ Onsite Experience
County Line Beach is popular for surfing, especially its consistent right-hand breaks. You can also enjoy sunbathing on the sandy areas, exploring the rocky points and sea caves at low tide, and watching the surfers. The bluffs offer great viewpoints for sunsets.
Yes, County Line Beach is renowned for its surf. It features a west-facing rocky point break that provides consistent, hard right-hand waves year-round, making it a favorite among local surfers. +1
Absolutely! At low tide, you can explore the sea caves and grottoes that dot the rocky areas of County Line Beach. It's a unique adventure that many visitors enjoy.
County Line Beach offers a mix of sandy areas perfect for laying out towels and beach umbrellas, as well as rocky sections, particularly at the point break. The sand can be a bit stony in places.
It can get crowded, especially during summer and on weekends, with local surfers often catching the best waves. However, it's often described as less overcrowded than other Malibu beaches, offering a more relaxing experience. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the iconic Neptune's Net seafood restaurant is located directly across Pacific Coast Highway from County Line Beach. It's a popular spot for post-surf meals and casual dining.
Neptune's Net is famous for its fresh seafood, including fish and chips, clam chowder, and various seafood platters. They also offer burgers and other casual fare.
Picnics are welcome at County Line Beach. Many visitors bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy on the sand. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
While Neptune's Net is across the street, it offers a classic biker bar and seafood shack vibe. For more upscale dining with ocean views in Malibu, you might need to drive further into Malibu, such as to Moonshadows Malibu. +1
For romantic dining with ocean views in Malibu, consider places like Moonshadows Malibu, known for its ambiance and sunset views.
📸 📸 Photography
The rocky point break, the sea caves (especially at low tide), and the expansive ocean views from the bluffs are prime photo opportunities. Sunsets here are particularly stunning.
Absolutely! County Line Beach faces west, making it an ideal location for capturing beautiful California sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the relevant county/state park services regarding drone operation policies before flying.
Surfing photography is very popular due to the consistent waves. Landscape photography, especially during golden hour and sunset, is also a big draw.
The unique combination of surf breaks, rocky formations, and the possibility of exploring sea caves offers distinctive photographic subjects not found on every sandy beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural environment offers plenty of exploration. Kids might enjoy watching the surfers, building sandcastles, or carefully exploring the tide pools and rocky areas during low tide (with supervision). The nearby Neptune's Net offers a casual dining option that can accommodate families.
🏄♂️ Surfers
Be prepared for potentially crowded conditions, especially on weekends. A spring suit is often recommended for comfort in the water. Checking the county line surf report before you go will help you time your visit for the best swell and conditions.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Even if you're not surfing, the spectacular ocean views and the chance to explore the rocky coastline at low tide offer a memorable experience. Parking can be a challenge, so factor in some extra time for finding a spot. It's a classic Southern California coastal experience that shouldn't be missed on a PCH drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at County Line Beach
While the point break is a prime spot, the beach also offers sandy sections that can provide different wave conditions. However, be aware that the surf can get crowded, especially during peak times, with skilled local surfers often dominating the takeoff zones. If you're a beginner, it might be wise to observe first or seek out less crowded spots, though leftovers are usually available for everyone.
For those interested in the county line surf report, checking local surf forecasts is recommended. This will give you up-to-date information on wave height, swell direction, and wind conditions, helping you plan your surf session effectively. The keywords 'county line surf report' and 'county line surfing' are highly relevant for anyone planning a surf trip here.
Exploring the Coastal Features
These natural formations create a more rugged and dynamic coastal landscape compared to a purely sandy beach. Visitors can carefully navigate these areas, taking in the unique formations and the sounds of the ocean echoing within the caves. It's important to always check the tide charts before venturing into these areas, as high tide can make them inaccessible and potentially dangerous.
The bluffs overlooking the beach also provide a different perspective. These elevated viewpoints offer spectacular, unobstructed ocean views, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the vastness of the Pacific. The combination of surfable waves, accessible caves, and scenic bluffs makes County Line Beach a multifaceted destination for various interests.
The Unique Location of County Line
This location places it strategically between the bustling coastal communities of Los Angeles County and the more relaxed vibe of Ventura County. It's a gateway, as one Instagram Reel notes, between these two distinct regions of Southern California.
This blend of influences can be felt in the atmosphere, offering a slightly different experience than beaches further into Malibu proper. The proximity to iconic spots like Neptune's Net further solidifies its reputation as a classic Southern California beach destination. It's a place where the surf culture meets the open road of the Pacific Coast Highway, attracting a diverse crowd of surfers, beachgoers, and road-trippers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit