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Malibu: Barbie’s Bikini Paradise
Posted by Alison Gardiner on June 19, 2012The Location: Malibu
Malibu is a gorgeous L.A.-area beach town that runs from Topanga Canyon to the Pacific Ocean. It has 21 miles of pristine beaches (the “27 miles” you’ll see on town signs is a bit outdated, having been designed before 1991 zoning changes), and a quintessential Southern California beach attitude that makes you want to stay forever.
While it may not be apparent to first-time visitors, there’s a war being waged between beachgoers, city officials and beachfront property owners about how and where exactly the public can access the beach. So, it’s important to know a few things before heading out in your MINX bikini to soak up the sun.
First, the beaches are public from the sea to the “mean high tide line.” Don’t worry, though, you won’t need to bring a cartographer with you - that simply means the wet/hard sand. The dry/soft sand is the property of whatever megastar lives behind it. Stick to this general rule, and you’ll be fine.
The next thing you need to know is that even if you see security guards or “No Access” signs, chances are you can go on the beach anyway. As was said above, it’s a war and these access points are merely the smaller battles. But stick to our insider tips on where to go, and you’ll be fine!
The Scene: Day
Zuma Beach is the most popular Malibu beach area, with lots to do - from surfing to volleyball to kite flying to lunchtime chow-downs at the Zuma Beach Café. Make sure to wear your best MINX bikini if you want to attract a cute surfer during one of the many surfing contests held here all year ‘round. As with most of Los Angeles, you’ll recognize parts of this beach - a lot of Baywatch and the final scene in Planet of the Apes were filmed here!
If the surf is acting up and you don’t want to lose the top to your MINX bikini, then head to Malibu Lagoon Beach. Although it’s popular with surfers, the waters are calmer and the vibe is 100 percent SoCal. More into stargazing? Head to Broad Beach, where you’re most likely to see the neighborhood’s celebrity residents frolicking on the sand.
If you’re worried about the public/private property problem, then Lechuza Beach is for you - it’s a fully state-run beach, which means you can park your towel on the dry sand guilt-free.
The Scene: Night
Nightlife in Malibu isn’t nearly as intense as in other parts of Los Angeles; it’s more Gidget than Melrose Place. But lest you think there’s not a scene, it should be noted that these spots are frequented by locals - and the locals are A-list all the way.
You’ll be humming a Beach Boys tune at the Malibu Pier Club, a bar with high-end snacks and an old-school surfing motif. This is the perfect place to come right after a day on the beach, maybe on your way to another spot for dinner or partying.
What other spot, you ask? The definitive answer is Moonshadows - Blue Lounge. It may look like a beach shack from its entrance on Pacific Coast Highway, but once you’re through its doors you’ll find a star-studded scene with a beachy, sexy vibe at the laid-back outdoor bar. And rare for Malibu, it’s got a great DJ and is open until 1:30 a.m. on weekends.
Other Top Spots
On Zuma Beach in North Malibu, take lessons from Zuma Surf & Swim Training - they’ll supply you with a wetsuit and board, and show you how to master the mighty Pacific waves. And if you want to get off the beach for a while, head to Park Place Stable for an exhilarating tour of the canyons on horseback.
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