Severe erosion closes Westward Beach Road and Point Dume parking lot

By The Malibu Times · Sun Aug 02 2026

High tides and powerful surf create unstable bluff edges and drop-offs approaching eight feet; no reopening date announced

Westward Beach Road beyond the pay gate and the Point Dume Beach parking lot are closed until further notice after additional erosion caused by high tides and powerful surf created hazardous conditions along the Malibu coastline, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors.

County officials said there is currently no estimated reopening date as the Department of Beaches and Harbors and Los Angeles County Public Works assess the extent of the damage and determine what repairs will be necessary before the roadway and parking area can safely reopen.

Visitors are being urged to take posted closures and safety warnings seriously and not cross safety cones, caution tape orother barriers surrounding affected areas.

Of particular concern is the condition of the bluff edge, which officials said has become unstable due to erosion. Drop-offs are approaching eight feet in some locations, creating a significant risk of serious injury for anyone entering closed areas or getting too close to the eroded edge.

The erosion has also affected facilities at Point Dume Beach. Restrooms 1, 2 and 3 remain closed after erosion damaged the water line and water meter serving the facilities. Temporary chemical toilets and hand-washing stations have been deployed nearby for visitors.

The latest damage follows a period of hazardous beach conditions along the Malibu coastline, where elevated tides and strong surf have contributed to shoreline erosion and other coastal hazards.

While portions of the beach area remain accessible, visitors are advised to use additional caution around cliffs, bluffs and areas showing signs of erosion. All posted closures and barriers should be obeyed.

Los Angeles County officials will continue evaluating conditions and determining the repairs necessary to safely reopen Westward Beach Road, the Point Dume Beach parking lot and affected facilities.

There is currently no timeline for reopening. Additional updates will be provided as the assessment and repair process continues.

For current information regarding Point Dume Beach conditions and closures, visit the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors Point Dume Beach webpage.