Here’s Everything You Need To Know Before Surfing Malibu
One of the most iconic surf breaks in the U.S. and in surfing history. Malibu is a world-renowned Southern California mechanical, and borderline hypnotic, wave. Ever since Malibu was first discovered, it has acted as a Mecca for surfers all across the globe. One of those waves that, on its day, looks like what surfing should be.
Its place in history is undeniable. And for good reason. Swell lines wrapping into Surfrider Beach for as far as the eye can see make for an impressive sight on the right day and right conditions. For the better part of a generation, surfers have become enamoured with the almost mythical qualities of the ‘Bu.
In fact, Malibu is so prominent in surfing folklore that it officially became the first location named as a World Surfing Reserve on October 9th, 2010. This programme actively seeks out significant surf spots, those that are classified as outstanding waves, and wraps them up in protective orders. The aim is to preserve these locations for generations to come. Those protections are also extended to nearby environments, which is particularly important for surf spots, given that elements like estuaries can be used to replace sand on beaches. An important ecological factor in the quality of some beaches and surf spots all over the world.
Like other world-class, incredible waves across the world, Malibu can get incredibly crowded, even on smaller days. Best bet would be to paddle out around first light, but you'll always be contending with a crowd, no matter the time of day. It's a bucket-list experience, if everything lines up. Or if you live here, you already know when it's best to be in the water.
Where Is Malibu?
Surfrider Beach is the name of the spot where the iconic wave breaks. To get there, it's about a 50-minute, 70-kilometer drive from LAX. You will need to head out onto the 405 and join highway 101 before swinging south back to the coast and reaching the city of Malibu, well-known for its celebrity culture and long sandy beaches. In a surf sense, though, if you're heading this way to get in the water, you want to aim for Malibu Lagoon State Beach, aka Surfrider Beach.
Back in 1984, surfers of this brilliant break set up a charity organization called the Surfrider Foundation. This was launched to help preserve the waves of Malibu, and provide protection against development and any other number of threats that can kill a surfing community. These days, the Surfrider Foundation has grown into one of the largest grassroots non-profit organizations estimated to have more than a million supporters. It's now set up to preserve the ocean, waves, and beaches in the US and around the world, with affiliates in key locations to facilitate their environmental mission.
Malibu Wave Breakdown
Some people think of Malibu as one sort of long beach. But that's not true. The reality is, there are three distinct take-offs running down Malibu's cobblestone point. First Point is the inside of this surf zone and can be slightly on the slower side. This makes it ideal for longboarders, as the easy-going entry and slow-down of the wave means there's less grunt in the mix.
Moving on from there is Second Point, which can be more geared towards the performance aspect of surfing. Second Point is a much faster, shorter ride, and can even connect up to First Point on big south swells. First Point is more inside than Second, so you can go from racey take-off, to cruise mode when it all joins up. Then the furthest westerly zone is Third Point, which is sat even further out than the other two. Third Point is even faster than the previous two take-off zones, and more performance-oriented again, versus First and Second Point.
What you're really looking for here is big southerly swells. Big enough that all three of these different points will connect up into one, glorious ride. When they do, the wave can break for half a mile, with multiple sections and nuance through it all. The crowds are going to put a lot of people off, to seek something else nearby. But if you can shrug off being hemmed in on all sides by multiple different people, there's still an absolute delight of a wave under it all.
Also, FYI, Malibu beaches were fenced off and patrolled by guards through the 1900s. Surf pioneers Sam Reid and Tom Blake, one of the most prominent surfers of all time, paddled two miles from the boundary line, into the guarded area, to surf the joint in the 1920s. It's understood that the pair surfed on a relatively calm day on what is now known as Malibu's First Point.
Related: The 7 Best Shark Documentaries Every Surfer Should See
When To Surf Malibu
Fall is the best season for the Californian coastline, and the entire northern hemisphere. Winter's great, and you get the swell size filter out of the Pacific. But everything's a bit warmer in the Fall. Think fun-sized waves right at the start of the South Pacific's southern swell season, and you're set.
Where To Stay
The population of Malibu City is around 11,000. There are plenty of Airbnbs and hotels in the area you can call into. Expect to spend around $400 per night to stay. There are many less expensive options the further you are from the coast and city center, it's up to you what type of visit you'd like.
What To Do in Malibu
Take a walk along the Malibu Pier or around the ancient Rome-inspired Getty Villa. Head westwards around Point Dume, which juts out into the Pacific Ocean, and on to El Matador State Beach, a collection of coves with some of the most dramatic rock formations in the country dotted along the shore. This is a good place to take in the surrounding area.
Related: The 3 Most Dangerous Seas in the World
Here's Everything You Need To Know Before Surfing Malibu first appeared on Surfer on Jun 29, 2025
From New York City to San Francisco, cities across the US had many different names in the past. See the stories behind cities' original names.
Applebee's has brought back its popular All You Can Eat Deal for a limited time. Here's what you can get with the deal.
My grandpa's dementia made conversations unpredictable, but I learned to embrace his reality — and it brought us closer.
These lemony chicken recipes balance rich, savory meat with bright citrus.
Here’s what every woman should know about postpartum hemorrhage, or PPH.
It's nice when your kitchen is stylish as well as functional. Walls, cabinets, and appliances are easy, but you can spruce up your trash can as well.
Pilates is having a huge moment, and for good reason.
We made mistakes when we bought a house in Los Angeles. I wish we did things differently as first-time homebuyers, like having a smaller down payment.
Onions are loaded with flavonoid, those naturally occurring chemicals that are loaded with antioxidants. But one type of onion has more flavonoids than others.
Pepperoni and meat lover's pizzas are overrated. Try some of these exciting, expert-approved pizza topping combinations on your next slice.
Olive Garden is famous for its unlimited salad (delish) but also for its soft, buttery breadsticks. A delight on their own, you can amp them up this way.
If you want to enter your gardening era and start growing some produce yourself, our experts have helped us to decide which veggies are the best for beginners.
Small breweries offer a more unique, authentic experience for beer lovers, and there's a good reason why the seasonal offerings taste different at each one.
Before he founded the Wendy's chain of hamburger joints, this man invented an iconic KFC item that you likely still recognize today. Can you guess what it is?
What to know before you put your flour in the freezer.
This lettuce-less Southwest avocado salad features a plethora of colorful veggies like cucumber, radishes, and corn and a zesty taco seasoning-infused dressing.
Trader Joe's is a haven for weeknight meal prepping, and this one ingredient makes a nutritious, plant-based bowl you'll be having on repeat.
Coffee ice cubes are a popular hack for keeping your java cold without dilution, but there's a creamier fix using the same method.
Keurigs are a lifesaver for many people thanks to their easy usage and fast brew times, but you can also easily water down your brew. Here's what to avoid.
To wash or not to wash? The everlasting and controversial question when it comes to these fun guys.