Malibu Attractions

Pepperdine University. Pepperdine boasts the best ocean views of any college campus in the United States and is consistently ranked by the Princeton Review as having the most beautiful campus in the United States. The University now also consistently ranks in the Top 40 academic programs in the United States. Pepperdine ascends up from Pacific Coast Highway on a huge piece of land, and the Pacific ocean feels part of this uniquely beautiful campus. Of particular note are the Heroes Garden on the Drescher Graduate Campus, the Weisman Museum of Art, and Stauffer Chapel.

For movie fans, the Malibu Film Festival is a must go to celebrity spring time event. For surfers you must check out the regional classic point break at the Malibu Lagoon. Contests are held throughout the year and surfers are crowding for the best waves at other times. Even if you don't surf it is worth checking out.

Head to famous Zuma or Westward Beach for a great day at the beach.

For a great coast view, head to Highlands Park. From PCH heading North, turn left on Heathercliff and left on Dume Drive. Take Dume drive as far as you can and turn right at the end of the road. There is a park on the cliff with a few trails where the locals like to jog. Follow a trail or two to the tip of the point. You'll know when you get there. There will be a bench and a wooden sort of deck in the middle of the trail. From here you can see all of the coast out to Palos Verdes, watch surfers below, and listen to the sounds of sea lions and dolphins.

A Guide For Visiting Southern California Beaches

Famous around the world for their white sand, tubular surfing, and Hollywood glamour, Southern California beaches offer a little something for everyone. However, before you visit, it is vital to decide which beach will suit your vacation needs, what you should bring with you, and what you need to know before visiting to ensure worry free California vacations.

Three Southern California Beaches You Shouldn't Miss

Malibu Beach is a famous seaside hot spot and one of the Southern California beaches you shouldn't miss if you're into huge waves and surfing. The abundant aquatic life also makes Malibu Beach a great destination for those looking for a close up encounter with nature.

If you're traveling with children, you should check out Santa Monica Beach. The calmer waters allow for swimming and there are plenty of places to do a little shopping. Children usually love the multitude of games and the Ferris wheel on the pier. You and your family will enjoy the artsy surroundings of this favorite California vacations destination.

Your California vacations just won't be complete if you don't visit Marina del Rey. Boasting one of the largest manmade harbors in the world, Marina del Rey can hold up to 5,300 ships at a time. Nestled in the Los Angeles city limits you will find beaches, shops, restaurants, and hotels in Marina del Rey that are sure to add excitement to your California vacations.

Before You Visit Southern California

Find out the rules and laws that apply to you. For example, smokers need to know where they can and can't smoke. Some beaches do not allow smoking on the beach and specially designate parking lots and other "smoking areas."

In addition, decide which beach best meets your needs before leaving on California vacations. Most families enjoy the beaches with a child-friendly relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively, young couples without children usually enjoy the beaches offering volleyball, surfing, and other beach activities.

Lastly, find out what attractions are near the beach you choose. If you're excited to see the Adamson House, a historical landmark built in 1930 that emphasizes the luxury of Malibu, then Malibu Lagoon State Beach is the right beach for you.

Things To Pack For Beach Vacations

Don't forget to throw your swimsuit in your suitcase if you plan to swim during your visit to Southern California beaches. While you're at the beach, your skin will be happy if you pack a high SPF sunscreen so you can enjoy your vacation without the pain and fever that accompany a sunburn.

Pack a beach bag with other items you'll need for the beach like bottled water so you don't get dehydrated, individually wrapped snacks to satisfy hunger, towels, a beach blanket, toys for the kids, and anything else you think you might need. If you want to have lunch on the beach instead of just snacks, wrap your food so it doesn't get sandy and make sure you bring a beach blanket so you can spread out easily.

Southern California beaches offer unique restaurants, exciting activities, cultural events, and more. If you take the time to plan your visit to Southern California beaches, you'll enjoy the quirky nature of the West coast and your upcoming California vacations.

Jon Buschlen is a travel enthusiast who writes for Visit Marina, the online home of the Marina del Rey Convention & Visitors Bureau. Visit Marina offers travelers the most detailed information for California vacations and Southern California beaches.