A coastal wonderland with over 27 miles of scenic beauty along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Malibu is synonymous with the California surf scene. Whether you are actively riding the swelling tide or sipping coffee from the shores as you watch, mornings here are spent among the surf sounds as the sun starts to brilliantly shine over the cobalt sea. A dream for most, but an every day morning in “The Bu.” Malibu Lagoon State Beach is one of the most surfed spots in the area. There is also Zuma beach, which is a haven for surfers and beachcombers alike. It is ranked among the region’s healthiest beaches thanks to its clean waters.
Many residents say Malibu isn’t an area, it’s a lifestyle. It combines a laid-back seaside community feel with some of the most incredible houses in the county. Not surprisingly, many celebrities and entertainment executives make it their home – Johnny Carson famously drove himself in from Malibu to Burbank every morning. The beachfront luxury homes are an architectural wonderland with modern styles by Charles Gwathmey, new classics by Michael Graves, and Italian Renaissance homes by Brion Jeanette. Houses further inland or nestled in the hills offer more seclusion while still enjoying sea air and views. There are small community areas with most amenities you need like coffee shops, small cafes, and surf shops, but fine dining here means great food and spectacular ocean views, with everything from trendy sushi at celebrity hot spot Nobu to mimosas at the legendary Duke’s. There is also Malibu Fish Market, the freshest seafood on the coast and a sunset-watchers paradise away from the tourists. They offer three levels of outdoor seating, all with incredible ocean views. The staff even announces when the friendly dolphins are playing in front of the market.
While most people move to Malibu for one reason – the beaches – it is the best of both worlds with easy access to the ocean as well as the mountains. There are plenty of hiking trails in the wonders of Solstice Canyon and Malibu Creek State Park, as well as a host of other outdoor activities like bird-watching, fishing, or picnicking next to a year round waterfall. High up in the hills is also the Getty Villa, a breathtaking museum designed to resemble an ancient greek villa. It houses a robust collection of antiques and artifacts from Greek and Roman cultures. There is also the annual Malibu Arts Festival, which features fine art exhibits from well-known artists, painters, and sculptors.