Malibu Lagoon State Beach (Surfrider Beach)

Running for several hundred metres in total, Malibu Lagoon State Beach is looked after by California State Parks. It lies at the heart of Malibu, at the mouth of a lagoon as it connects with the Pacific Ocean. Its sands are ringed by the attractive Santa Monica Mountains.

The stretch of sand that runs from the lagoon to the historic pier is also known as Surfrider Beach, and so it’s no surprise that it is popular with surfers. The right-hand break is considered one of the best surfing spots in southern California, and has been declared a World Surfing Reserve by Save the Waves.

Surfing and swimming zones are kept separate to avoid collisions, while fishing fans can often be found with a rod and reel on the pier, alongside a store selling items of beach kit. The Adamson House and museum are also nearby, and parking can be found at the intersection between the Pacific Coast Highway and Cross Creek Road. It’s worth noting that these parking spaces go quickly, and are normally full by midday, with parking within the state park itself charged by the day.

Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours.

The presence of migratory birds and the nests of snowy plovers means dogs are not allowed on Malibu Lagoon State Beach.