Hugging the Pacific coast north of Los Angeles, the ultra-exclusive hamlet of Malibu is the protected haunt of movie stars and others wealthy enough to afford a home on its private beach. The scenic Pacific Coast Highway runs right through its heart as it heads north along California’s beautiful shores. Malibu makes a great getaway from the smog and heat of Los Angeles, and with over 20 miles of coastline and parklands open to the public, even regular folk can enjoy the magic of the ‘bu.
Malibu is a one street town, but that just adds to its legendary mystique. The Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, is the only way to get from one end of the ‘bu to the other. The town itself is a wonderful collage of green spaces, public parks, beaches, and upscale shopping spots. Despite its fame from the television show Baywatch, few locals actually hang out at Malibu Pier, but surfing is a major pastime at Malibu Lagoon.
Get your shopping kicks at the outdoor Malibu Country Mart, where you may bump into a local celebrity browsing the expensive shops, or over at the Malibu Colony Plaza which caters more to the general population. Pepperdine University, which boasts some of the best ocean views of any US college, is also just north of Malibu, but most visitors come here simply to escape LA and walk along the beach rather than swat. There’s plenty of outdoor recreation to choose from in Malibu, but not a whole lot more unless you’re lucky enough to know someone who lives here.
Highlights
Malibu Lagoon State Park: check out the surfing at this classic point break which is always crowded with surfers looking for the perfect wave.
Zuma and Westward beaches: these two famous stretches of sand are the ideal spots to hang out, take a chilly swim or get in some top-notch people watching.
Highlands Park: if you’ve got a car, drive up to this amazing cliff top park where you can take a walk or just sit on the bluff and watch the surfers, sea lions and dolphins far below.
Paradise Cove: this private beach is the only beach in southern California where you can openly drink alcohol and have a picnic, which can either be bought from the on-site restaurant or brought with you.
Malibu Creek State Park: another of Malibu’s excellent parks offers plenty of hiking, biking, and lovely scenery.
Surfrider Beach: check out what was once the surfing capital of the world back in the 1950s and ‘60s.
Pirate’s Cove: is a top viewing point for spotting seals and grey whales on the move in winter.