Af: Aishah Roberts
Malibu has achieved mythological status among Californian beach towns. Just a short drive away from
Los Angeles. It stretches more than 30 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway, and the weather is
Mediterranean. Malibu was settled by the Chumash Indians, who gave the area its name today. The Native American tribe called it 'Humilawo' – translated to 'the surf sounds loudly' – with the "Hu" sound being silent. Over time Milawo became Malibu, as we know it today – or as it’s sometimes called, "the 'Bu." After the
construction of the PCH Highway in 1929, Malibu became a destination for Hollywood stars.
While it may sound exclusive, there is plenty of magic for visitors to access. If Malibu has one thing in
spades it’s natural beauty, and nowhere is that more evident than beaches. With candyfloss skies, azur
colored oceans, and the soothing sound of the waves, the beauty of this coastal city is that you can enjoy
different experiences each day. Considered to have some of the most perfect waves in the world, Malibu’s Surfrider Beach, just off the Malibu Pier, was named the first World Surfing Reserve; nearby Zuma Beach is a sun magnet for locals. The beach is famous for being an ideal place to ride waves, but if that’s not your thing you can always walk along the pier, and grab a bite at Malibu Farm, the organic café and restaurant that sits on the pier. Or browse the fresh fish, and try one of the famed ahi tuna burgers at Malibu Seafood, opposite Dan Blocker Beach.
El Matador State beach is favored among those who like to explore the caves and rock formations that
have become trademark features, but be prepared to walk down a 150-bluff. Leo Carrillo is a 1.5 mile
beach with tide pools and caves. For a truly laid back experience where you can just lay in the sand and
take a dip in the ocean, Zuma beach is a local favorite. And year round, Point Dume, at Malibu’s north
end, provides an ideal perch for spotting grey whales and dolphins. Paradise Cove is one of the most
famous beaches in Malibu because it’s private and you’re allowed to bring alcohol (just no hard liquor),
though it’s notorious for it’s pricey parking fees . But If you’re up for the novelty of it, and budget
accordingly you get to enjoy a private beach experience. To spend the night like an insider, get a room at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn, a former motel located on the so-called Billionaire’s Beach, which was given its original makeover by Hollywood mogul David Geffen. The perfect aesthetics stretch beyond the beach, too. The Getty Villa—the original home of the Getty Museum, which opened in 1974—focuses on Ancient Greek and Roman Art (admission is free, but you need to make a reservation). Tough as it is to drag yourself away from the ocean, head inland a short distance and you can also walk through hills and canyons, filled with spring wildflowers and even waterfalls, on trails in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
With more than 50 wineries, Malibu is one of America’s greatest wine destinations. The best way to
experience Malibu wine is to take one of the expert guided tours. For a cool guided experience, take one of
the two-hour Malibu Wine Hikes on the rolling terrain of Saddlerock Ranch vineyard; walks include stops
to see Chumash cave drawings, a beautiful 3 course lunch, and wine tasting. Another top pick is
Rosenthal, the Malibu Estate. This gorgeous 250-acre property is handily located on the Pacific Coast
Highway. Not only will you feel like a VIP with year-round wine tasting available, the sprawling vineyard
is set 1400 feet up into the hidden hills of Malibu. Expect the best wines, the best food, and the very best
views. Unforgettable sunsets, and strolls a long stretches of beach with your sweetheart are a must. Snuggle
down with a blanket as you watch the sun meet the ocean. And even if you’re travelling solo or with
friends, a Malibu visit is not to be missed.