Malibu Surfrider Beach

Malibu Surfrider Beach is one of the most storied stretches of coastline in the history of surfing — a classic right-hand point break that has shaped California surf culture since the 1950s and was designated the world's first World Surfing Reserve in 2010. Located at the eastern end of Malibu's coastline where Malibu Creek flows into the Pacific at Malibu Lagoon State Beach, the break produces long, peeling right-hand waves off a natural sand and cobblestone point that have attracted surfers from around the world for over seventy years.

The surrounding area tells the story of California beach culture better than almost anywhere else. The historic Adamson House — a stunning 1929 Moorish-Spanish colonial home now a state museum — overlooks the lineup from the lagoon side. The Malibu Pier, built in 1905 and one of the oldest on the Pacific coast, juts out adjacent to the break. Malibu Lagoon, a protected estuary behind the beach, is a rich habitat for shorebirds and is connected to the beach by a walking trail through the state historic park.

The beach itself is relatively narrow compared to the great LA city beaches, but what it lacks in width it more than makes up for in quality. Even on non-surf days the setting is magical — the Santa Monica Mountains descend directly to the sea here, creating a dramatic backdrop of golden hills, and the coves and rocky outcroppings either side of the main beach offer snorkelling and exploration. PCH runs directly alongside the beach, making it one of the most photogenic drives in California — the combination of ocean, mountains, and light is an endless source of inspiration.