Paradise Cove Beach

The Paradise Cove & Point Dume loop offers a dynamic coastal hiking experience, blending sandy beaches with dramatic bluff trails. You'll traverse diverse terrain, from the soft sands of Westward Beach to the elevated boardwalks of the Point Dume bluffs, where vibrant coreopsis plants bloom in spring. This moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) route, with its 261 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, provides continuous panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, remember that there's a parking fee, and hiking the beach sections is best done at low tide; water shoes can be helpful. The trailhead is easily accessible from the Pacific Coast Highway. For a truly special experience, consider visiting between December and March, as the Point Dume Overlook becomes an excellent spot for whale watching.

Beyond the stunning vistas, the area is rich in natural features. You might spot seals in the rookeries below the cliffs, and during low tide, tide pools and isolated beaches like Dume Cove Beach become accessible for exploration. Point Dume is also a popular filming location, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to its already iconic natural beauty.