“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
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- 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
Another memory to share about Malibu. When I went to college in Los Angeles, my good friend’s older brother had an amazing house on the hilly cliffs overlooking the ocean. He also had a tennis court built that literally hung over the steep cliffs of the hills of Malibu. Of course, it had a 10 foot fence surrounding the tennis court! If an errantly hit ball went over the fence, it was lost forever. I enjoy your blog, and the many reader comments 🙏🙏
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The view probably compensates for the tons of lost tennis balls 😊 Sounds like a beautiful house. I love looking at the houses on the hill from Zuma beach and imagining that I own one of them. And yes – I love reading everyone’s comments and responding. It gives me a sort of connection to my readers. Thanks for sharing 😊
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Ah yes, thank you. The house was amazing with panoramic views. Also, they had a telescope that could be used to peek at neighbors hot tubs. Think of the movie “10” in the late 70’s with Bo Derek. Thanks again for sharing beautiful things, and allowing others to connect.
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Panoramic views. Wow! I could imagine havig a glass of wine with that view every night. Not that I need a good view to drink wine 😂 Thanks for your comments😊
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🙏🙏
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Great stuff on Malibu. In the late 70’s and throughout the 80’s, I spent a bunch of time there. Malibu is truly special. One early evening, while in college (USC), my fraternity brother and I ran through the dunes at Zuma. The sunset that evening was a red and orange fireball! And though I was 20 years old at the time, I felt like a boy at camp! It was one moment of many. Thank you. Howard
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I love Zuma. It’s the beach that I visit often because it’s not too crowded and there are tons of parking. The sunsets are always amazing there. I’m glad you had an amazing time there as well 😊
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Thank you for your appreciation of my share.🙏
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I like reading about other people’s experiences in the places I’ve been to – it’s great that we all have fond memories of Malibu ❤️
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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.
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You would love it! Thank you again for your kind words. We are both nature lovers 😊
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I need to go to Paramount Ranch and make all my Westworld dreams come true!!!! ❤️
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Yes, you definitely should
go especially if you’re a fan you’ll love it!
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Wow! Gorgeous photos! Looks amazing!
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I love Malibu it’s so scenic! Thank you 😊
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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
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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 😊
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I’m imagining everything you just wrote..and I’m getting even more eager. But still thanks for such a considerate reply ❤
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You’re welcome…life is tough enough as it is…we have to encourage each other to follow our dreams 😊
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I don’t know why but I feel happy reading travel blogs and talking to considerate strangers. Thanks though!!
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😊
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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
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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.
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Beautiful picture. Thank you for sharing.
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You’re welcome! Glad you liked it 😊
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Paramount Ranch. Who knew. Well next time I’m in So. Cal…
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Definitely. I’m sure you’d like it 😊
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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/
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Hi Megan! Thanks. Glad you liked it. I’ll check out your blog 😊
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Fabulous 👌👌
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Thank you 😊
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great road trip.
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Thank you!
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Thanks for the reblog 😊
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Gorgeous photographs! I’d love to go visit, it looks spellbinding.
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You really should visit. Malibu is so pretty 😊 Thanks!
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Reblogged this on insiderLAS.
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Thank you! 😊
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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.”
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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! 😊
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Wow. What a fast and beautiful reply! Yes. It’s a magical and more crowded place I hear.
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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.
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Thank you! It’s a lot more crowded now than it was before but it’s still worth the drive! 😊
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This really opened my desire to visit Malibu and California itself! Thank you!
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You really should! It’s an awesome place 😊
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i once spent a few years up the coast in ventura, ca and know what you mean about getting away and sanctuary.
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Ventura has lots of awesome beaches and hiking spots as well. I try to go when I can….😊
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Zuma beach just looks like the place to be. I mean I’m a beach person and I could literally be there for hoursssss!
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Right? I feel the same way. I love the ocean and the feel of the sand on your feet….😊
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i know reside in vancouver, washington which has sancuaries but not like those in southern cal.
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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.
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Ever been to Circle X? Great hikes
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Yes! But it’s been a while since I last hiked there. So many hiking trails so little time 😊
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Wonderful photos! Thank you for sharing!
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Thank you for reading 😊 Truly appreciated!
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You are more than welcome! 🙂
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Great post!
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Thank you! 😊
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Gorgeous photos! Loved this read.
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Hi, Emily! Thank you 😊
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Fabulous photos, what a lovely place
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Malibu is truly amazing 😊
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It looks it fabulous
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Was this man from South Detriot by any chance (I love Journey)? Happy new year, lovely work. 🙂
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No, he’s from LA 😊 Happy New Year and I’m glad you liked it!
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Enjoyed this! Thanks for the info. I have put Malibu on my list of places to visit this year.
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Thank you! I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I did (and still do!) 😊
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Reblogged this on davidbruceblog #2.
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Thanks for the reblog 😊
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Beautiful photos, Bel.
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Glad you liked it!
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Wow amazing pictures😀
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Thank you 😊
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Beautiful photographs, a Hannah
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Thank you 😊
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Wonderful pictures, thank you for sharing along with the beaches of interest! Btw, X-files is back tomorrow!!
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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…😊
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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!!😊
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Lol I even gave a standing ovation with fellow x-files fan at the movie house when they showed the first movie 😊
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Beautiful, stunning pictures!
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Thank you 😊
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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. 🙂
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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! 🤗
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Wow! Such a beautiful place!
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Thank you 😊
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Wish you a very Happy New Year.
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Happy New Year! 😊
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Welcome.
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Great pictures!!
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Thank you ❤️
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Beautiful 😍
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Thank you!
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Great pictures! I especially like the first beach shot with the long shadows
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Thank you! 😊
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I’ve never been to Malibu, but these photos are beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
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Thank you! I’m glad you liked it. Malibu is pretty special for me…😊
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Be still my heart– its Malibu! Beautiful coastal pics with that special golden California light. Thank you for sharing this!
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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….😊
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I love your beach pics, especially the bird!
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Thank you! That one was my favorite picture too 😊❤️
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looks amazing
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It truly is! Thank you 😊
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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!! 🙂
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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?
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Sorry, no I don’t have instagram. That’s on FB 🙂
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Lol! I don’t have FB yet but I’ll add your email address to my contact list. We’ll keep in touch there!
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Sounds good 🙂
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Viva la Malibu! This looks like a wonderful place to explore and recharge. Thanks for sharing it Bel. And Happy New Year!
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Thanks Brad! Figured I had to get my Malibu fix before the year ends…😊 Have an awesome New Year!!
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I’m glad you got your fix! 🙂
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Good
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