The Hidden Beaches of Malibu California

Malibu has a long history of beach access disputes, big and small, between wealthy home owners and the public. Luckily the California Coastal Commission has been fighting for public access over the years. Many battles have been won here and others have been lost or at least haven’t been fully fulfilled.

The Coastal Commission has made it clear that all beaches in the state are public land below the mean high water level. This is good news for all of us, especially in Malibu because most of this region has a narrow shoreline that is all wet at high tide. In other words, in most locations below these multi-million dollar homes the beaches are entirely public!

There are many world-class well-known beaches along the 23-mile long Malibu shoreline in western Los Angeles County. Some of the names include Topanga, Surfrider, Malibu Lagoon, Point Dume, Zuma, El Matador, and Leo Carrillo State Park. Each of these beaches are famous for different reasons be it reliable surfing, bird-watching, endless volleyball courts, or just scenic photography.

Other beaches in Malibu are not household names even for LA area locals. These are the “Hidden Beaches of Malibu” (see the list below). Most are blocked from view from the coastal drive along Pacific Coast Highway and tucked below tightly-packed tall beachfront homes. We want people to know these beaches exist and that they should be enjoyed alongside the more popular spots.

A few words of caution are needed before you head out to these sometimes controversial beaches. Some still have signs put up by locals to discourage using the public access easements. Ignore the signs that say “Right to Pass by Permission and Subject to Control of Owner” as these are bogus (and cheap on Amazon). Instead, look for the brown Beach Access and Coastal Access signs put up by the State Coastal Commission.

Be careful where you park so you don’t block any driveways or give yourself any other reason for a parking citation. When on the beaches, stay back from the homes to give them some privacy.

Note that several of these beaches still don’t have direct access so you have to walk on the sand from another beach to get there. Read each of our beach descriptions carefully to learn where to park and how to find the nearest accessway. Also check a tide chart before you go to avoid getting there at the highest tide of the day.

Below is a list of the Hidden Beaches of Malibu (listed south to north). If you want to see all of the beaches Malibu has to offer, just visit our Malibu Beaches page.