Only the Best Beaches in Malibu

While it is widely known that the California coastline is overflowing with beautiful beaches, the 21-mile sandy stretch that graces the shores of Malibu is truly a picturesque paradise of beachfront cliffs, star-studded homes, and spectacular waves.

• Zuma Beach: The most popular of Malibu’s sandy treasures, Zuma attracts sunbathers, swimmers, and body boarders en masse to its two miles of wide, clean ocean frontage. Although it can get quite crowded in the summer as locals try to escape the heat of L.A., the numerous amenities such as snack bars, playgrounds, and volleyball courts make it the perfect place for families.


• Malibu Beach: Also known as Malibu Lagoon State Beach and Surfriders Beach, this 22-acre lagoon beach boasts the best waves around L.A. and some of the world’s finest surfing. Even if you aren’t an experienced rider, simply settle into the sand and watch the show or head over to Malibu Pier for the excellent saltwater fishing.


• Point Dume State Beach: While simply walking down to the beach will afford you breathtaking views of the entire Santa Monica Bay, the north Malibu Coast, and distant Catalina Island, the beauty of this beach is really down by the water. Excellent swimming, surfing, fishing, and scuba diving are waiting for you during the warm weather months, while the beautiful California gray whales make an appearance from December-March.

Since these beaches are often jam-packed during the summer, it can be difficult to find a little privacy outside of your Malibu rental. However, heading to smaller, less popular options such as Westward Beach or Carbon Beach, which nestles against several movie stars’ homes, is a great way to discover Malibu’s spectacular waterfront in a more peaceful and serene setting.