|
|
|
|
THINGS
TO DO IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA |
|
|
|
Malibu Beach Day Trip
|
|
By Matthew Martz
|
|
If you are looking to spend a day soaking up
the essence of California, then it’s time for a
trip to Malibu. The 21-mile strip of oceanfront properties
is an affluent beachfront city in western Los Angeles
County that offers some of the world’s most spectacular
beaches and views.
With the Santa Monica mountains to its back, Malibu is
home to countless movie and sports stars, including Wayne
Gretzky, Mel Gibson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Halle Barry, and
just about every other high profile celebrity who has
set up a home nearby.
Several shopping centers are close to the Malibu Civic
Center. The center is well known for being frequented
by paparazzi with many of the pictures you see in tabloids
being taken in and around the area.
However, if you’re not bedazzled by the rich and
famous, Malibu is bursting with a myriad of breathtaking
beaches that trump the glitz and glamour of the Hollywood
elite.
Pacific Coast Highway has been the subject of many songs,
and is large part of the California experience.
The highway runs the whole length of California and as
it passes through Malibu, you are literally yards from
some of the most scenic beaches in the world that attracts
the minions of surfers and sun worshipers that come from
all over to enjoy them. |
|
|
Mailbu Beach Pier |
Surfrider
Beach is a popular spot for surfers looking for the ultimate
ride. Driving down PCH you could easily miss it, what with
the whole Malibu Pier and the Adamson House distracting
you from her crystal waters and warm sandy beach.
There are plenty of activities for those that want to stay
on land too.
The California State Parkland creates Malibu’s backdrop,
and provides trails for horseback riding, hiking, running,
and mountain-biking options.
Malibu
Creek Park with beautiful running streams, old oak and
sycamore groves is a short drive from the beach.
The views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the sweeping
curve of the Santa Monica Bay are breathtaking. On a clear
day, one can see Catalina Island in the distance, another
popular spot. Access to the mountains is through the Backbone
Trail System , and entry points are scattered throughout
the canyons. One only needs to pick a spot to park, and
start walking.
The Malibu Bluffs Recreation Area makes up the community
park, a 10-acre area with baseball diamonds and soccer fields
directly across from Pepperdine University and Malibu Canyon
Road. The 100-foot bluffs rise above Amarillo Beach and
Puerco Beach. Five public stairways lead down to the shoreline
from the base of the bluffs.
Malibu is host to many popular events throughout the year:
The Malibu International Film Festival is held every year
to highlight new films and filmmakers from around the globe
and other popular events pepper the calendar annually. |
|
|
Surfrider Beach Malibu |
After a relaxing, or a
revitalizing day at the beach, visitors can embark on a
palatable journey throughout the culinary arts. Sidewalk
bistros, fusion favorites, and family dining spots dot the
area, and are sure to provide a unique dining experience
suited for every taste
.
Tra
Di Noi’ on Cross Creek Drive offers European and
Italian dishes. A meal for two will run about $100. Nobu
Malibu is just minutes from the beach, and provides
an upscale but cozy and casual atmosphere. The main dining
room has an enclosed patio, and they do require reservations
that can be made up to one month in advance.
A local classic, Geoffrey's
Malibu, is known for their amazing food and equally
amazing view. The restaurant is right on the beach at 27400
Pacific Coast Hwy. There’s plenty of seafood on the
menu, but unique offerings like brie can be had, as well
as succulent filet mignon.
When staying in the area, the Malibu
Beach Inn is a high end retreat with beautifully designed
rooms that feature a fireplace, a balcony overlooking the
Pacific, and a "maxi-bar" stocked with no less
than seven full bottles of different varieties of California
wines. Casa Malibu is a good spot for a family and more
reasonably priced; they still offer a view and nice accommodations.
Finally, Surfrider Beach Club is a nice spot to lay your
head at a very reasonable price.
Getting to Malibu is an easy hour’s drive from anywhere
in the San Fernando Valley or Los Angeles. Expect an hour
drive from Orange County with traffic. Next time you are
looking for a weekend getaway, explore Malibu. Article
by Matthew Martz |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Adamson
House is a mini
Hearst Castle on Surfrider Beach in Malibu. Guided
tours. |
|
Point
Dume One of the most picturesque places
in Southern California. Spectacular
views. |
|
Cornell
Winery Taste
local wines grown in Santa Monica Mountain vineyards. |
|
|
|