Discover the Best Surf Spots in Malibu: Insider Guide for Beginners to Pros
- Anthony Petro
- 20 hours ago
- 4 min read
Malibu’s 21-mile coastline hides some of the most iconic—and underrated—surf breaks in the world. From the gentle rollers at Zuma Beach to the peeling point breaks at Surfrider, every wave tells a story. At Always Summer Surf School, we’ve surfed them all, and we’re sharing the ultimate Malibu surf spots guide to help you find your perfect wave—whether you’re a first-timer or chasing barrels.
Why Malibu Waves Are World-Class
Malibu sits at the sweet spot of Southern California geography. The Santa Monica Mountains funnel southwest swells straight into the coast, while offshore kelp beds smooth out chop. The result? Long, predictable waves that work for every skill level.
Swell windows: South (summer), West/Northwest (winter)
Average water temp: 58–68°F
Best season: Year-round, but summer = smaller, cleaner; winter = bigger, hollower
Unlike crowded Huntington or unpredictable Big Sur, Malibu offers variety without chaos. That’s why pros like Kelly Slater and locals alike call it home.
Iconic Zuma Beach: The Beginner’s Paradise
Location: West end of Malibu, 27001 Pacific Coast Hwy Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate Wave Type: Long, slow-rolling beach break
Zuma is Malibu’s crown jewel for new surfers. Wide sandy bottom, consistent 1–3 ft waves, and lifeguard towers every 200 yards make it ultra-safe.
Why Zuma Rules for First-Timers
Waves break far from shore → more time to pop up
No rocks or reef → wipeouts are soft
Parking: $12/day or free on PCH (arrive early)
Always Summer Pro Tip: We teach at Tower 10—our private permitted zone. No crowds, just you and perfect learner waves.
Best Conditions at Zuma
Sunset Point: The Secret Local Spot
Location: Near Point Dume, accessed via Westward Beach Rd Skill Level: Intermediate Wave Type: Fast, peeling lefts and rights
Tucked behind billion-dollar homes, Sunset Point is where locals go to escape tourists. The wave jacks up over a cobble reef, offering 100–200 yard rides on good days.
How to Surf Sunset Without Getting Yelled At
Respect the lineup — wait your turn
Paddle wide — don’t drop in on locals
Bring a 7’0+ board — waves are punchy
Always Summer Groups: We run advanced clinics here for students ready past whitewater.
Surfrider Beach: The Heart of Malibu Surf Culture
Location: Malibu Lagoon State Beach, 23200 PCH Skill Level: Intermediate to Pro Wave Type: World-famous longboarding point break
This is the wave from surf movies. Three points (First, Second, Third) fire in sequence on big south swells.
Surfrider Breakdown
Warning: Crowded. Locals enforce etiquette. Not for beginners.
Point Dume: The Advanced Powerhouse
Location: End of Westward Beach, cliff base Skill Level: Advanced Wave Type: Heavy, hollow reef/point
When winter northwest swells hit 6–10 ft, Point Dume turns into Malibu’s Pipeline. Fast, barreling rights over shallow reef.
Safety Notes
Sharp reef — wear booties
Strong currents — know rip escape routes
Big wave experience required
Always Summer Advanced Camp: 3-day intensive here for Level 4+ students.
Hidden Gems Most Tourists Miss
1. Leo Carrillo State Beach (25 miles north)
Tide pools + cobble point
Great for intermediate longboarders
Camping onsite = dawn patrol heaven
2. County Line (Malibu/Ventura border)
Classic A-frame peak
Works on south + west swells
Less crowded than Surfrider
3. Topanga Beach (south of Malibu)
Punchy beach break
Locals-only vibe
Best at low tide
Comparing Malibu Spots to Nearby LA Beaches
Verdict: Malibu wins for quality + variety. Venice/El Porto are backups on flat days.
Best Times to Surf: Tides, Swell, Wind (Malibu Forecast Guide)
Use this cheat sheet daily:
Ideal Conditions
Tide: Mid-rising (deeper water = slower waves)
Wind: Light offshore (NW 5–10 mph)
Swell: 2–4 ft @ 14–18 seconds
Time: 1 hour before/after sunrise (least wind + crowds)
Apps We Use:
Surfline (live cams)
MagicSeaweed (3-hourly forecasts)
Windy (micro-wind patterns)
Eco-Tips: Protect Malibu’s Waves While You Surf
The ocean gives—we give back.
Use reef-safe sunscreen (raw elements, stream2sea)
Pick up 3 pieces of trash per session
Avoid wax on sand — scrape boards clean
Support Surfrider Foundation (we donate 1% of profits)
Always Summer Green Initiative: Free biodegradable wax with every 5-lesson pack.
Pair Your Spot with Always Summer Lessons
All gear, photos, and rash guards included.
Book Your Malibu Surf Adventure Today
Ready to surf the waves you’ve seen in movies? Don’t guess—let Always Summer show you the real Malibu.
Limited Spots This Week:
Private lessons: 6 slots left
Group sessions: 12 spots
Book Now → Use code MALIBUSPOTS for 15% off
Or call (424) 365-3118 — open 7 AM–7 PM.
See you at sunrise. 🏄♂️
Always Summer Surf School | Zuma Beach, Malibu | Est. 2015
Related Reads:
Beginner Surf Lessons in Malibu Guide
Surf Safety & Etiquette in Malibu
Private vs Group Lessons
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