Malibu
A Saturday drive along the PCH, or Pacific Coast Highway, will inevitably lead the inner surfer or coastline junkie in you to the scenic mountains of Malibu. A celebrity hangout and homestead, Malibu is known for its captivating views and its two main beaches. It also gets recognition for the Malibu Creek State Park and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area that adorn its landscape. Visitors to this Southern California city are always at a premium.
When talking surfing in Southern California, the first name off many people's lips is Malibu, particularly Surfrider Beach that sits on its shores. All manner of water equipment can be rented here. Whether you are a surf, kayak, or scuba enthusiast, whatever you need to dive right into your chosen sport can be found right on the beach for a reasonable price. Possibly more popular than Surfrider is Zuma located a short distance away where it is said that the surf is a little wilder and the beach seems to attract many more people on average. The riptides are fierce and the locals rule the roost as it were. Further down the shoreline are more, less traveled beach areas where you can go if seeking to get away from the throngs of people at the more populated spots.
There is no shortage of fine homes, fine food, or decent hotels. Choosing where to go depends on your familiarity with the terrain and willingness to explore. World famous for the unique style of pottery that originated there, exhibits and museums highlighting Malibu's contribution to this art form are open to the public year round.
Explore Malibu: Attractions | Restaurants
History of Malibu
Malibu, CA is a beautiful stretch of Southern California land that is called home to many of Hollywood's biggest and hottest stars. The actual first residents though to the Malibu area were the Native American Chumash Indians.
The actual first legal claim to land in Malibu was made in 1802 by a Spanish settler named Jose Bartoleme Tapia. In 1929 the Roosevelt Highway (now Pacific Coast Highway) was opened to through traffic between Santa Monica and Oxnard. This ushered in a new era of travel and people getting a chance to explore Malibu and its rich and captivating beauty.
The first lots that were sold to build homes were leased to movie celebrities along a strand of beach called the Malibu Colony. Today beautiful homes dot the Ocean side and Malibu has turned into a thriving small town community with a population of close to 13,000 residents and is a paradise in Los Angeles.
Make sure when visiting Malibu to stop by the Malibu Pier. The pier is a historic landmark was reopened in 2004 after heavy renovations. The restored pier now features a restaurant, casual café, a surf and beach equipment rental shop, and a bait and tackle shop. There are sport fishing and whale watching boats available to tourists and locals as well.
