When it comes to its name, Malibu Beach apparently suffers from an identity crisis -- is it Surfrider Beach, Malibu Lagoon or Malibu State Park? All we know for sure is that this Los Angeles beach sure does have the important things straight: good surf, natural beauty, and activities to entertain visitors with varied interests.
Located north of Santa Monica Beach off of Pacific Coast Highway in the city of Malibu, this beach is one the most legendary surfing destinations in all of California. The recently renovated Malibu Pier, just south of Malibu Lagoon, is a go-to spot for food, fishing and surf watching. You can witness the waves of Malibu Beach as they roll in; they are rumored to carry surfers as far as 300 feet.
In addition to its stellar surfing reputation, the area boasts a nature museum, an ecological preserve and a National Historic Site.
The Malibu Lagoon Museum provides a complete history of the beach and its surrounding inhabitants, past and present. Exhibits about the wildlife that once thrived in the area are detailed and enthralling; some of the animals featured now reside in the Malibu Lagoon preserve, which is itself accessible from Cross Creek Road off the Pacific Coast Highway. The museum also details the lives of the Chumash American Indians who originated from the area, and then follows the phenomenon of surfing to the modern day. Tours of the Malibu Lagoon preserve can be scheduled seasonally: see the website below for details.
Adjacent to the Malibu Lagoon preserve and museum is the Adamson House, a National Historic Site and a place of interest for art history buffs. Built in 1929, the house features a unique collection of Malibu Tiles, which were originally produced at the Malibu Potteries in the early 20th century. Its gorgeous seaside location and beautifully maintained grounds have made the Adamson House a popular locale for weddings.
Malibu Beach may be confused about how to categorize itself – state park or preserve, lagoon or beach – but no visitor has trouble identifying it as a great place to learn, play, and of course, catch some waves.
Beach Information
- Location:
- Malibu Colony Road, Los Angeles CA
- Resources:
- Malibu Surfrider: www.watchthewater.org
- LA County Department of Public Health, Water Quality: www.lapublichealth.org
- LA County of Beaches & Harbors: www.beaches.co.la.ca.us
- A Wheelchair Riders Guide to LA Beaches: www.coastalconservancy.ca.gov
- Adamson House Website: www.adamsonhouse.org
