How to Plan a Proposal or Photoshoot at El Matador State Beach

Malibu • California

Stephanie Ip Photography

Posted on October 3, 2025

El Matador State Beach in Malibu is one of the most breathtaking spots in Southern California for a proposal or engagement photoshoot. With its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and golden sunset light, it’s a dream location for couples — but it does come with a few important things to know before planning your session.

In this blog, I’ll share both the behind-the-scenes story of Alexa & Eric’s surprise proposal and practical tips to make your own shoot smooth and stress-free.

The Surprise Proposal Story: Alexa & Eric

Eric and Alexa’s story made this shoot extra memorable. The couple lives out of state but was visiting family in California. Alexa thought Eric wasn’t arriving until the next day, but little did she know, he had a big surprise planned.

With the help of her parents (hiding nearby!) and her sister (who brought her out for a “girls’ hangout”), Alexa was completely caught off guard when Eric appeared on the beach.

The weather forecast had us worried — a storm was approaching Southern California, and rain was predicted. We had backup plans B, C, and D ready to go, but thankfully the storm held off. The skies stayed overcast, which actually created soft, even light that was perfect for photos.

The tide was high that afternoon, which meant limited beach space and some crashing waves. Alexa and Eric ended up soaked from the hips down — but instead of stressing, they laughed and embraced the moment. Those playful, candid images are some of my favorites from the session.

Tips for Planning a Photoshoot at El Matador Beach

If you’re considering this stunning Malibu location, here are some important things to keep in mind:

✅ Weekday Sessions are Best

El Matador is popular with both tourists and photographers. To avoid crowds, plan your shoot on a weekday whenever possible.

✅ Photography Permits are Required

El Matador is a state beach, and park rangers actively check for permits. If you’re using modifiers, tripods, light stands, or other professional equipment, you must secure a photography permit. Without it, rangers can stop your session or refuse entry.

✅ Parking is Limited

The official parking lot is small and fills quickly, especially at sunset. Street parking along the PCH is an option, but watch out — parking enforcement is strict.

✅ Watch the Tide Charts

At high tide, much of the beach disappears, leaving limited space for photos. You’ll also need to be prepared to get your feet (or more) wet, depending on wave activity. Checking tide schedules in advance is key.

✅ Weather Can Change Quickly

Even if forecasts look clear, coastal storms can shift conditions quickly. Always have a backup plan in case of rain, wind, or extreme tides.

Why Choose El Matador State Beach for Your Proposal or Engagement Photos

El Matador State Beach is one of the most iconic photo locations in Malibu — and for good reason. With its dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and breathtaking ocean views, it creates a naturally cinematic backdrop for any proposal or engagement session.

Here are a few reasons couples love El Matador:

Romantic Scenery: From golden sunsets to rugged rock formations, every angle feels timeless.
Adventure & Intimacy: The beach feels tucked away, giving couples a sense of privacy even with its popularity.
Versatile Backdrops: You’ll find sandy coves, rocky arches, and sweeping cliffs all within a short walk — perfect for capturing a mix of candid and posed moments.
Close to Malibu Landmarks: After your proposal, you can celebrate with dinner at one of Malibu’s world-famous oceanfront restaurants.

As a photographer, we’ve guided many couples through planning their El Matador State Beach proposal, and our number one advice is to come prepared. With limited parking, tide changes, and permit requirements, having a photographer who knows the area can make the difference between a stressful day and a seamless, joy-filled experience.

If you’re dreaming of a Malibu proposal with unforgettable photos, El Matador is a location that truly delivers.

Final Thoughts

El Matador State Beach is an unforgettable backdrop for proposals, engagements, or couple portraits — but it requires a bit more planning than your average beach. From permits and tides to parking and weather, being prepared makes all the difference.

And as Alexa & Eric’s proposal showed us, even when conditions aren’t perfect, embracing the unexpected often leads to the most beautiful memories.