Saturday, June 8, 2013

Malibu's Best Beaches

Summer is approaching. It's time to get out the sunscreen, towels, and hit the beach. Malibu is renowned for its great beaches and waves. Whether you live here, or are on vacation, spending time sunning, swimming or surfing, or doing any other ocean-side activity, Malibu is the one of the top spots in Southern California to play during summertime.
Although every Malibu beach has its own distinctive qualities, we are going to discuss some of its best. They are selected according to their popularity among visitors, as well as for the different kinds of facilities and activities that are available. These may include restrooms, volleyball and water activities and, most importantly, on-duty lifeguards who can help avoid any serious accidents.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach (AKA Surfrider Beach)
Officially its name changed from Surfrider Beach to Malibu Lagoon State Beach, but anyone who knows Malibu calls it by its original moniker. The beach is a mixture of sand and stone, and is known for its great surf break and as the backdrop to many classic surf flicks, such as "Gidget" and "Beach Blanket Bingo." Abutting Malibu Lagoon and the historic Adamson House, it's a great spot to catch the sunset before heading off to dinner or drinks across the street at The Malibu Inn. For a break from the sun, visit the Malibu Lagoon Museum, which offers artifacts and rare photographs from "The Malibu" era of Frederick Hastings Rindge, who, along with wife May Rindge, was the pioneers of Malibu in the mid-1800s. Facilities include restrooms and showers.
23200 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265; More info: (818) 880-0363
Dan Blocker Beach
Located between Puerco Canyon and Corral Canyon on the Pacific Coast Highway, Dan Blocker Beach (also known as Corral Beach) is a great place to surf, hang out and enjoy the sun. Named after actor Dan Blocker of "Bonanza" fame, it was also once owned by the late Michael Landon. Quiet and secluded, it's a nice spot for couples. Free parking is available on the street.
26000 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265; More info: (310) 305-9546
 
Point Dume State Beach
Point Dume offers fantastic swimming, surfing, scuba diving and fishing (certain fishing restrictions may be in place, so call ahead to find out the rules). Located at the end of Westward Beach Road, parking is widely available (get there early). From the cul-de-sac a trail winds its way up to the Point Dume Preserve headlands and cliffs, where you will find a wonderful view of the Santa Monica Bay, Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu's north coast, as well as Catalina Island. Annual California gray whale migrations can be seen from the headlands December through mid-April.
Westward Beach Rd., Malibu, CA 90265; (310) 457-8143
Zuma Beach
Nearby to Point Dume (their beaches are connected), Zuma is great spot for families and large groups. Surfing, swimming, fishing, diving and volleyball courts offer plenty to keep everyone busy. There are concession stands for snacks, and, for those who live nearby or are staying for the summer, there are several operations that offer surf camp for children and teens. Zuma Beach consistently ranks among the cleanest of Malibu beaches. There's plenty of parking at $10, as well as free highway parking. Restrooms and showers are available.
30000 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265

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