Malibu

Malibu is one of the iconic beach areas of Southern California, a beautiful beachfront city between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, with lovely stretches of sand backed by the mountains and surrounded by several state parks. This affluent city has terrific luxury hotels and is home to the Getty Villa, but the beaches are as big a draw as anything else in town.

There are more than twenty miles of coastline in the city of Malibu and many beachfront attractions, including the Malibu Pier, which is famous for its role, so to speak, in the TV series Baywatch. Zuma Beach is one of the prettiest—and cleanest—beaches in Southern California. Located north of the city, it also has plenty of parking, which can be a rarity at California beaches, and is known as a great vantage point to watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.

Surfrider Beach, official known by its newer name of Malibu Lagoon State Park, is also a popular beach, whether you’ve come for some of the best surfing in the LA area or simply to watch the waves, while Westward Beach, at Point Dume State Preserve, is simply a stunning destination, and whether you’ve been there or not, you’ve likely seen it in commercials, TV shows, or popular pictures of beaches in this region.

In addition to these famous destinations, there are also several smaller beaches in and around Malibu that can be perfect if you want to see one of California’s quintessential beach cities without encountering too many crowds. Lechuza Beach, at the end of Broad Beach Road, is a great place to stop for a few hours of peace, while Broad Beach, a mile-long stretch of sand just west of Zuma, is a great choice as well. One of the best things about Malibu is the chance to combine a beach getaway with hiking in the mountains, excellent meals, and some of the best shopping options anywhere on the West Coast. If you’re wondering where to go on a Southern California beach trip, be sure not to miss out on Malibu.