Malibu Surfrider Beach

Malibu Surfrider Beach, also called Malibu Lagoon State Beach, is situated right on Highway 1, with spectacular mountain views behind it. Here, beside Malibu pier, is a famous surfbreak where Gidget (fictional character from 1950s novel) surfed. The shape of the coastline creates long summertime waves. During September south swells, surfers can ride the waves all the way from the point to the pier. Crowds of surfers come to enjoy the fun.

The beach scene is equally interesting. Older surfers gather to watch the action and reminisce about the good old days. The parking lot buzzes with guys leaving a surf and commenting on their session.
Surfer Alex Knost says, "Surfrider Beach in Malibu is the ideal Southern California spot. A perfect right-hand point full of legends, icons, Hollywood stars, burnouts, hobos, local heroes, enforcers, spoiled brats, druggies, has-beens and shoulda-beens..."
The house you see perfectly situated above the beach is Adamson House, whose gardens-with-a-view are definitely worth a visit.
You can't really walk along the beach to Malibu Lagoon because the tide is usually too high. You can walk along Highway 1, over the bridge that crosses the lagoon, and get some gelato at Malibu Lumber Yard Mall or browse the shops at Malibu Country Mart Mall.
Another beach nearby, with a thin strip of quiet beach in front of mansions, is Carbon Beach.
Quote from Surfer Magazine Special Edition: The 100 Best Waves, p. 50.

Directions

From Highway 1, immediately east of the bridge that crosses Malibu Lagoon, where you see the Adamson House sign, pull into the parking lot. This is the parking lot for Malibu Surfrider Beach and there is a fairly steep fee (around $6-8).
Click "satellite" to see the beach and pier from the air. The red tab is on the parking lot.

Start Navigation

Click on map for interactive view