Once known as Surfrider Beach because of its ideal surfing conditions, Malibu Lagoon State Beach (parks.ca.gov) is an eight-mile trip from most points in Calabasas. Surfers waiting for the perfect wave dot the waters along this beach, as families with children play in the shallower waters and on land. The Malibu Pier is found here, offering food, deep sea fishing tours, beach equipment rentals and a surf museum. Follow Las Virgenes Road from Calabasas or the 101 Freeway and drive west through Malibu Canyon until you reach the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). The entrance is about 1.5 miles east of where Malibu Canyon and PCH meet. You can pay to park or park for free along PCH.
One of the largest and most populated beaches in Los Angeles County, Zuma Beach (beaches.lacounty.gov) provides swimming, surfing, diving, fishing and beach volleyball opportunities along with swings and playground equipment for children. Restrooms and showers are available, and food is found at concession stands along the beach. Lifeguards patrol the public beach during the day. You'll pay to park in one of several lots close to the beach. If you don't wish to drive, you can take the Beach Bus during the week, which goes round trip from Calabasas to Zuma in the summer. The City of Calabasas website (cityofcalabasas.com) maintains a schedule.
Will Rogers State Beach (parks.ca.gov) is a bit further from Calabasas, but still an easy drive. This beach has been the filming location for many popular television shows and movies set in California. This beach has almost two miles of shoreline where you can swim, dive and walk the provided path. Volleyball nets, gymnastics equipment and a bike path tempt beach-goers looking for a good workout. Lifeguards are on duty. From Calabasas, take PCH to the Temescal Canyon Road intersection. You can pay to park in the beach lot or park for free along PCH.
For a more secluded beach experience near Calabasas, try Topanga State Beach (lamountains.com). The beach, which is on PCH in Malibu, is smaller and less crowded than some of Malibu's more popular beaches. There are smooth rocks along the water line, and you have to go down wooden steps to get from the road to the beach. People visit Topanga State Beach for kayaking, swimming, surfing and fishing. You will find a picnic area and a place to store your catamaran. Follow Topanga Canyon from Calabasas (also called Route 27). Once you get to PCH, you will be at the beach.
