Santa Monica Bay’s Beaches

Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Tel (818) 880-0367. 8am–sunset daily.

The Chumash people built Humaliwo, their largest village, on the shores of this lagoon. By the 16th century, about 1,000 people had their home here, making it one of the most populated Native American villages north of what is now Mexico.

The estuary supports a wide range of marine life and is an important feeding ground for up to 200 species of migratory and native birds. To the east of the lagoon, the 35-acre (14-ha) Surfrider County Beach is devoted to surfers; swimming is prohibited. With its rare point break, Malibu is one of the finest surfing spots in southern California. The area closest to the pier is thought to have the best waves for longboarding in the world. Volleyball courts are also located on the beach.

Malibu Colony

23805 Stuart Ranch Rd, Suite 100
(310-456-5737).

In 1928, to raise money for an ongoing battle to keep Malibu in the family, May Rindge sold this section of shoreline to film stars such as Bing Crosby, Gary Cooper and Barbara Stanwyck. Today, the colony is a private, gated compound, still favored by people working within the entertainment industry. There is no public access to the beach, but stars can often be spotted in the Malibu Colony Plaza, which is located near the entrance.

Marina del Rey

4111 Via Marina
Tel: (310 821-0555).

Covering an area of just 1.3 sq miles (3.4 sq km), approximately half of which is water, Marina del Rey has the world’s largest artificial small-craft harbor. Those attracted to this town tend to be young and single or with families, and enjoy outdoor activities such as skating, cycling, and water sports.
Everything from paddle boats to yachts can be rented, or you can charter boats for deep-sea fishing or a luxury cruise.

Fisherman’s Village, on Fiji Way, resembles a New England fishing town. It has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés, many of which offer beautiful views of the harbor.