“Just a small town girl. Livin’ in a lonely world.” – Journey
Over a decade ago, I met this amazing man who showed me the wonders of photography and drove me to Malibu’s 20+ miles of scenic beauty. I was never the same again. Somehow Malibu wasn’t just another pretty beach in Southern California. It ended up being my sanctuary everytime I lost my way or needed to clear my head.
I decided to drive there before the year ended. I love that it’s less crowded in December. However, I figured I’d drop by Paramount Ranch, get in a little hike before heading to the beach and reminisce about Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman which was filmed there in the 90s. If you are ever in the area, this place is a must see. They filmed a lot of tv shows and movies here from an episode of the X-Files (i’m a major fan), Westworld, American Sniper and many more.
Paramount Ranch has several and relatively easy hiking paths. This side trip before heading to Malibu is definitely worth it and highly recommended if you’re in the area.
Malibu has a couple of amazing beaches. El Matador is one of my favorites. I absolutely love the big rocks surrounding it and making a steep descent down the stairs is somewhat a trek especially if you’re lugging beach gears. Pack lightly. This is also a place where lots of photo shoots happen so it’s not exactly secluded but if you go on a weekday you might get lucky and have it all to yourself.
Point Dume Beach is a haven for hikers, rock climbers and surfers. It’s a mix of everything and with the ocean as a view how could I possibly resist? Unfortunately, it does get crowded because it’s absolutely breathtaking. Don’t go on the weekends or just brave the cold and head there early. The sunsets are amazing and lots of wildlife too!
Zuma Beach is my favorite beach in Malibu. It’s not as scenic as the other two listed above but if I want to spend an entire day at the beach this is where I always end up. You have the option to park on the side of the road and it’s completely free. You don’t have to descend down a steep staircase in order to get to the beach. It’s flat and very accessible for people of all ages. Even if it gets crowded, the beach is big enough that you’d still enjoy your privacy whether sunbathing, surfing, swimming, or just playing on the sand.
There are a lot of beaches to explore in Malibu and if you get hungry after a day at the beach you should try Neptune’s Net, Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market, Duke’s Malibu and many others.
Tips for this trip
Disclosure: Please be aware I get commissions for purchases made through
links in this post at no additional cost to you. Please read Affiliate Disclosure and Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
- Paramount Ranch is a relatively easy hike but please be aware that there are rattlesnakes in the area. Make sure you bring water for your hike.
- El Matador and Point Dume aren’t easily accessible because you do have to descend down a steep set of stairs. Pack lightly if you decide to go.
- Zuma Beach is the best place for spending the day at the beach. I recommend this beach gear below saves you the hassle of carrying all your stuff. You could read my full review at https://nothingbutgears.com/beach-cart-the-wonders-of-big-wheels
Mac Sports Heavy Duty Collapsible Folding All Terrain Utility Beach Wagon Cart, Blue/White
Looks absolutely beautiful. I haven’t made it there (yet) but will add it to the list. The places you have seen and shared on your blog are spectacular! Thank you for following my blog. I’m in love with nature too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You would love it! Thank you again for your kind words. We are both nature lovers 😊
LikeLike
I need to go to Paramount Ranch and make all my Westworld dreams come true!!!! ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, you definitely should
go especially if you’re a fan you’ll love it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow! Gorgeous photos! Looks amazing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love Malibu it’s so scenic! Thank you 😊
LikeLike
I’m just awestruck and also envious at how much you travel. All that kept aside, I’m loving your blog. Just wondering when will I get to fulfil my dream like you
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awww thanks! Honestly, a lot of my trips are day trips – I really can’t afford to stay in luxurious hotels or resorts. Some of the hikes are a few hours or less from where I live. I camp when I can (and sometimes you are allowed to camp free). I also bring food with me – for my hikes or when I go to state or national parks. Saves me money. I really hope you get to fulfill your dreams to travel and that you’d blog about it so I’ll be able to read about it as well 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m imagining everything you just wrote..and I’m getting even more eager. But still thanks for such a considerate reply ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome…life is tough enough as it is…we have to encourage each other to follow our dreams 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
I don’t know why but I feel happy reading travel blogs and talking to considerate strangers. Thanks though!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope my 3 year old daughter grows up to be a wandering Traveller like yourself. I’ve only read a couple of your posts and already hooked. Kudos to being such a free soul
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow. That is a huge compliment. Thank you for your kind words. I’m sure your daughter will be awesome no matter what – I had a great Dad…he always told me that home is where your heart is…and it’s true. I’ve left home a long time ago but what he taught me will always be in my heart.
LikeLike
Beautiful picture. Thank you for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome! Glad you liked it 😊
LikeLike
Paramount Ranch. Who knew. Well next time I’m in So. Cal…
LikeLiked by 2 people
Definitely. I’m sure you’d like it 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
wow, an amazing blog post to read, I especially loved looking at the photos!! I’ve just written about something similar!! you might like it, maybe check it out! https://tailoredbymtaylor.wordpress.com/2018/03/25/america-road-trip-2017/
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi Megan! Thanks. Glad you liked it. I’ll check out your blog 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fabulous 👌👌
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you 😊
LikeLike
great road trip.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the reblog 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Gorgeous photographs! I’d love to go visit, it looks spellbinding.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You really should visit. Malibu is so pretty 😊 Thanks!
LikeLike
Reblogged this on insiderLAS.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Malibu..
I can’t talk about my time at USC without mentioning Malibu which has a mystique that I cannot totally put into words. My first time there was with my Chi Phi Big Bro, Al. Al’s Porsche had the top down as we breezed along the 405 Freeway on a golden Southern California afternoon. We soon found ourselves hugging the winding curves of Pacific Coast Highway as we made our way to the Promised Land of Malibu. On our left lay vast sandy beaches dotted with surfers, and beach bunnies. On our right the steep hills of Malibu beckoned you to pay attention. I remember witnessing large houses that cantilevered off of these steep brown mounds of dirt. And what sticks in my memory most is the golden honey light that bathed all who were fortunate to be here.
On another enchanted evening, a few months later, I double dated with my roommate, Bob and two sorority girls. We plopped our firm bodies down on the sand and staked our claim, as the sunset arrived to escort us into early evening. We all sat on the sand and talked. And talked. And at some point each couple started kissing. All the while, the soft roar of the Pacific Ocean was in the background.
Nearby, a bunch of teenage groups were scattered out amidst the fine white sand, and several of them lit small ‘camp’ fires that dotted the landscape. It was almost scripted—I thought The Beach Boys would pop out behind a lifeguard tower and start playing “Surfin’ U.S.A.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lol! I love the description and the memories you shared. It sure was a memorable time. I remember my first date in Malibu as well – I had to be carried over the rocky parts because I wasn’t expecting a beach date and that’s when I fell in love with the magic of Malibu. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow. What a fast and beautiful reply! Yes. It’s a magical and more crowded place I hear.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post on the nuances and magic of Malibu. I spent a bunch of time there in the late 70’s when I attended college at USC.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! It’s a lot more crowded now than it was before but it’s still worth the drive! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
This really opened my desire to visit Malibu and California itself! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You really should! It’s an awesome place 😊
LikeLike
i once spent a few years up the coast in ventura, ca and know what you mean about getting away and sanctuary.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ventura has lots of awesome beaches and hiking spots as well. I try to go when I can….😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Zuma beach just looks like the place to be. I mean I’m a beach person and I could literally be there for hoursssss!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Right? I feel the same way. I love the ocean and the feel of the sand on your feet….😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
i know reside in vancouver, washington which has sancuaries but not like those in southern cal.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Southern California has a lot of amazing places…I have to agree. I still have so much to explore. I’m sure there are lots of great sceneries where you live now.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ever been to Circle X? Great hikes
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! But it’s been a while since I last hiked there. So many hiking trails so little time 😊
LikeLike
Wonderful photos! Thank you for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for reading 😊 Truly appreciated!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are more than welcome! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! 😊
LikeLike
Gorgeous photos! Loved this read.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi, Emily! Thank you 😊
LikeLike
Fabulous photos, what a lovely place
LikeLiked by 1 person
Malibu is truly amazing 😊
LikeLike
It looks it fabulous
LikeLiked by 1 person
Was this man from South Detriot by any chance (I love Journey)? Happy new year, lovely work. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
No, he’s from LA 😊 Happy New Year and I’m glad you liked it!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Enjoyed this! Thanks for the info. I have put Malibu on my list of places to visit this year.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I did (and still do!) 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on davidbruceblog #2.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the reblog 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful photos, Bel.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glad you liked it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow amazing pictures😀
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful photographs, a Hannah
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you 😊
LikeLike
Wonderful pictures, thank you for sharing along with the beaches of interest! Btw, X-files is back tomorrow!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi Terese! Yay a fellow x-files fan! I can’t wait…thanks for the reminder. I just hope it isn’t the final season like they mentioned…😊
LikeLiked by 3 people
I have the same hope! We waited all of 2017, it would indeed be a huge let down if it were the final season. Happy watching!!😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Lol I even gave a standing ovation with fellow x-files fan at the movie house when they showed the first movie 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Beautiful, stunning pictures!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
So pretty, Bel. I love the cliffs and the rocks in the surf. I feel like I recognize some of the scenery in Paramount Ranch – Westword, maybe. Lovely to see a post from you. Happy travels in 2018. Wishing you a wonderful new year. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Diana! Belated Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 😊 Yes, there are so many shows and movies filmed in Paramount Ranch that’s why it’s so familiar..😊 I am a sucker for Western films…😊 I hope you have an amazing 2018 – more success to you! 🤗
LikeLiked by 3 people
Wow! Such a beautiful place!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wish you a very Happy New Year.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Happy New Year! 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Welcome.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great pictures!!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful 😍
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great pictures! I especially like the first beach shot with the long shadows
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve never been to Malibu, but these photos are beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you! I’m glad you liked it. Malibu is pretty special for me…😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Be still my heart– its Malibu! Beautiful coastal pics with that special golden California light. Thank you for sharing this!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Spectacular huh? Malibu always has that effect on me no matter how many times I’ve been there 😊 Thank you for taking time to read this….😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love your beach pics, especially the bird!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! That one was my favorite picture too 😊❤️
LikeLiked by 2 people
looks amazing
LikeLiked by 2 people
It truly is! Thank you 😊
LikeLiked by 3 people
Hey!! I haven’t talked to you in foreverrr!!! Is that church the same church in Westworld?? If not, what in Malibu is in Westworld? I’m a massive massive fan! Also trying to connect with true friends on here outside of lame comments, add me @pharaohmaktuk if you want to be in contact out of here or e-mail @ vuichs91zz@yahoo.com whateverz clever!! 🙂
LikeLiked by 4 people
Yes, I think this is the same church from Westworld – Paramount Ranch is before Malibu…a side trip I took on the way. You should definitely visit it. Where do I add you? Is that on instagram?
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sorry, no I don’t have instagram. That’s on FB 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Lol! I don’t have FB yet but I’ll add your email address to my contact list. We’ll keep in touch there!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sounds good 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Viva la Malibu! This looks like a wonderful place to explore and recharge. Thanks for sharing it Bel. And Happy New Year!
LikeLiked by 4 people
Thanks Brad! Figured I had to get my Malibu fix before the year ends…😊 Have an awesome New Year!!
LikeLiked by 5 people
I’m glad you got your fix! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Good
LikeLiked by 1 person