Malibu Beach Lesser Known Vacation Ideas

Malibu is often seen only from Pacific Coast Highway as people drive by wondering; is this all there is? Many locals feel that Malibu is for locals, stars or the very wealthy. But there is a lot to do here for any visitor whether you are coming from Los Angeles or the East Coast.

It is easy to miss the great beaches, restaurants and activities if you don't know what you are looking for. Here you can see what there really is to do once in Malibu Beach so you can experience it the way it should be. We will explore some of the secrets of Malibu Beach that you may be pleasantly surprised to find.

Malibu Beach first brings seeing stars to mind. And we are not thinking about visiting the local observatory to see stars. The Malibu Country Mart makes an excellent shopping experience for a day trip. You can find many more gems here than the designer clothing. You can star gaze, have a massage, get your car washed and fit some shopping in there, too.

Check out Toy Crazy while you are here. You will find educational toys, classic toys and specialy toys. Planet Blue essentials offers candles and bath and body products that make unique beauty gifts. You can also get acupuncture, a massage or take your kids to an outdoor play area.

Those looking for a day at the beach have a variety of places to go. Malibu has a series of beaches to visit and each has its own personality. Malibu Lagoon State Beach used to be called Surfrider beach. Here is where the beach movies were made and the surf songs originated from. It is right next to the famous Malibu Pier.

Next on our list and up the Highway a little distance is Zuma Beach. This is definitely one of the most active and exciting beaches in California. There are many activites like beach volleyball, swimming and surfing. Come early to claim the best spot and enjoy your entire day here.

Point Dume State Beach is another favorite. Here you can experience the wild Malibu. Many come here to hike and explore as well as enjoy the less crowded beach area. You don't have to stay on shore, though; check out the fishing and scuba diving expeditions. During December through March you can find a perfect area here to watch California Gray whales as they migrate.

If you are looking for more privacy, Paradise Cove might be the place for you. Their restaurant has excellent food, beer, wine and mixed cocktails. If you don't want to eat here, then there is a fee to park, but worth it for the intimate beach experience. this is a place where people dine in their swimsuits and locals drink Coronas by the ocean. The food is excellent and the drinks are strong, to ensure guests want to come again.

While here, dine at the classic restaurants like Gladstones or Duke's Malibu. Find dining with an amazing view is the atmosphere in many of these establishments. Neptunes is a popular local hangout with outdoor seating, right across from the ocean. Here you can get shrimp, lobster, clams or burgers in a more relaxed setting.

While you are visiting Malibu, you can learn something new. Malibu Surf Camps offers groups, children and families the opportunity to learn how to surf. Or check out the latest sport, Stand-Up Paddleboarding. You can take a lesson on the beach and go out just a short time later. Many people enjoy this sport and you can make it as exciting or as relaxing as you desire.

A scenic drive down PCH (Pacific Coast hwy) is an adventure in itself. From this coastline drive, you might see dolphins playing in the water, parasailers above you, or surfers in the water. You will see the ocean in all its glory at one of the many view points along the way.

As you can see, Malibu Beach can be many things. You can shop, surf, parasail, kayak, hike and even camp here. Why not make Malibu Beach your next vacation holiday?


Check out great Malibu Beach hotels at Malibu Beach California!