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 Reporter |
Summary: This is one of the nicest hikes in Southern California. It starts out along Westward beach, where you can watch rock climbers traversing the volcanic outcroppings. A paved trail takes you to the top of the point, where you have a stunning view of the channel Islands, and a perfect spot for sighting whales. The trail then drops down into lovely Dume Cove and travels next to the water for a mile or so until you reach Paradise Cove pier. Check the tide tables before you go, as hiking is easiest at low tide. Think ahead and make reservations at the restaurant at Paradise Cove for a mid-hike lunch or dinner. Highly recommended. Trailhead: From the Pacific Coast Highway, about 25 miles upcoast from Santa Monica and just down coast from Zuma Beach County Park, turn oceanward on Westward Beach Road and follow it to its end at a (fee) parking lot. (Lat:34.00328 Lon:-118.80902) Trail Guides for Point Dume: Afoot & Afield In Los Angeles by Jerry Schad (Wilderness Press) Hike Los Angeles Volume 1 by Dennis Gagnon (Western Tanager Press) California Hiking by Tom Stienstra & Ann Marie Brown (Foghorn Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers Ranger Contact: Santa Monica Mtn Recreation Area, 818-597-9192 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Jim Zuber, who has posted 104 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 5 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by chl on 6/26/2007 This didn't feel as much like a hike than it did as a stroll on the beach. Free parking was easy to find on a weekday. We had to turn back because the tide was coming in. I agree with checking the tide charts before you hike. It seemed like a tidepool graveyard with all of the sea urchins and sea stars washing ashore. 
Reviewed by Teresa on 6/14/2007 I already submitted my review below. However I was watching a movie called Love Don't Cost A Thing. The beach scene was shot at Point Dume! It was awesome!!!
Reviewed by Bridget on 5/7/2007 on a clear day, you will enjoy beautiful views and can see all the way across the cove to the pacific palisades on the other side. i will definitely return to this beautiful area for more relaxed fun and exploration.
Reviewed by LAHikers on 4/10/2007 We love to do family/friends picnic/hiking at this place. Everyone finds something interesting to do. On the other side of the hill, it is pretty quiet place to read or relax. One of my all time favorite hikes. 
Reviewed by Kyle on 2/25/2007 This hike, though not too difficult, was very entertaining. First, the trailhead was easy to find. Sure, you could pay a few bucks to park in the state park's parking lot; but, we found a whole street of free parking leading into the park. The extra walking won't hurt you. The trail starts out well maintained; but the dirt is quite soft so your shoes may get a bit dusty. Once you hit the beach, you may wish to have flip flops for the sand. The restaurant at Paradise Cove was a nice treat after our 1.5 hour walk -- definitely make a reservation beforehand, especially if the sun is out. If you go around February/March, keep your eyes open for Gray Whales. We saw one.
Reviewed by Teresa on 11/21/2006 This hike is beautiful. It is great for kids and families. Great excercise. The ocean extends as far as the eye can see and the tide pools are awesome, we found lots of starfish! After we hiked we sat on the beach had a pinic and my daughter played with her boogie board. I don't want to say much because I don't want to spoil the suprises but this place is BEAUTIFUL! I say a good pair of water shoes, bottle of water, and sunscreen is all you need. Parking cost only $6.00 for the whole day.
Reviewed by DolphinDreame on 9/6/2006 I love it! Point Dume is the beach I grow up with. We'd stay until it got dark. Then my dad would drive the car up and my mom and the kids would go on the hike. Most times we'd see dolphins. I recemend going on a Friday afternoon.
Reviewed by Tony on 7/3/2006 Excellent hike, the majority of which is on the beach. Definitely check the tide tables because it can be tough navigating the rocks and waves when the water is high. Wearing sandals is probably a good bet and bringing some beach gear is too, if you want to just hang out for a while and soak in the view. You really should make reservations at the Paradise Cove cafe - it is insanely busy. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Los Angeles County Hiking, Los Angeles County Trails, Los Angeles County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||