Despite the challenges faced during the Palisades Fire, Malibu remains resilient. With the PCH closure, many do not know that now, more than ever, is the perfect time to visit Malibu. Malibu often sees an overwhelming number of visitors from all over the world crowd its most popular shopping centers and beaches. However, with the road closures, Malibu is seeing lower foot traffic, less crowded beaches, and an absence of tourists across the whole town. This is a rare opportunity to experience Malibu like never before—enjoy its most iconic destinations with a level of intimacy, privacy, and exclusive access that’s usually impossible during peak season.
Access: How to Get to Malibu Right Now
While sections of the PCH remain under construction, there are still several alternate and convenient access routes to Malibu:
- Eastern Malibu Access: Malibu Canyon Road connects directly from the 101 Freeway and shoots out almost directly into the Malibu Cross Creek Shopping Center. Here you can access some of Malibu’s most famous locations such as Surfrider Beach, the Malibu Pier, Malibu Civic Center, and Cross Creek Shopping Center.
- Central/Western Malibu Access: Kanan Dume Road gives you easy access to the Point Dume Shopping Center, Paradise Cove Beach and Restaurant, and most of Western Malibu as well (Zuma Beach, Trancas Shopping Center, and Broad Beach).
The City of Malibu and its business community are emphasizing that the town is still standing strong and ready to welcome guests. Mayor Doug Stewart reminded visitors, “Malibu is not destroyed. Our retail and restaurants are open for everyone.”
Businesses to Visit: Support Local While Enjoying Exclusivity
This is a list of local small businesses that not only provide excellent services and products but also offer the chance to explore Malibu's character while crowds are down:
Eastern Malibu:
- Vibae: Designed in Malibu and handmade in Portugal, this one-of-a-kind, family-owned shoe store offers eco-friendly, ergonomic footwear that blends comfort and style—perfect for your next beach outing.
- Broad Street Oyster Co: A laid-back Malibu favorite known for its sustainably sourced seafood, signature lobster rolls, and coastal charm, all served with a commitment to quality and local suppliers.
- John's Garden: A Malibu staple since 1975, serving fresh, health-conscious fare in the Country Mart. Business has dropped by over 50% since the fire, making community support more crucial than ever. Owner Boyan Kinov has continued operating despite declining foot traffic and insurance disputes, hoping to preserve what has become a foundational piece of Malibu culture.
- Malibu Shaman: A beloved local shop offering handcrafted jewelry, fine crystals, incense, and spiritual books, serving as a hub for personal growth and community connection.
- Malibu Farm: Located on the Malibu Pier, this breezy, farm-to-table restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced dishes in a stunning oceanfront setting that captures the relaxed, healthy spirit of Malibu living.
- Surfing Cowboys: Blending surf culture with rugged Americana, this shop offers curated casual wear, designer denim, and bold accessories that capture the free-spirited essence of the California coast.
Western Malibu:
- Lily’s Malibu: A beloved Latin eatery founded by Salvadoran immigrant Lily in 1999, bringing authentic, high-quality Spanish flavors to the Malibu coast with fresh, protein-rich dishes.
- Le Cafe de la Plage: Blending French-inspired cuisine with California coastal charm, offering fresh coffee, pastries, and ocean views that make it a go-to spot for locals and laid-back luxury seekers.
- Malibu Brewing Co: The city’s only local brewery, serving up refreshing craft beers in a relaxed coastal setting that’s perfect for a post-beach pint.
- Drill Surf and Skate: Western Malibu’s go-to shop for top-tier beach and surf gear, offering everything from boards to wetsuits while serving as a hub for local surf culture.
- Nati Boutique: Founded by Israeli-born Anat “Nati” Winston and now a beloved staple in Malibu’s Trancas Market, offering cozy, affordable fashion updated weekly.
Beaches to Visit While There’s Still No Crowds
These popular Malibu beaches are normally bustling with tourists—but right now, they’re wide open and waiting for you:
- Zuma Beach: Malibu’s largest and most iconic beach, offering year-round sand, a classic beach vibe, and both paid and free parking options for easy access.
- Westward Beach: Offers a wide sandy shoreline, excellent body surfing, romantic oceanfront dining at The Sunset Restaurant, and convenient roadside parking.
- Surfrider Beach: The quintessential Malibu beach known for its iconic surf culture, scenic views, and convenient access to dining, shopping, and four different parking options.
- Paradise Cove: A scenic, family-friendly beach with soft sand, rentable cabanas, stunning bluff views, and easy access to the popular Paradise Cove Café.
- Broad Beach: A quieter, scenic stretch perfect for long walks and views of Malibu’s luxury homes, with street parking and discreet access points between beachfront properties.
Be a Part of Malibu’s Comeback
Your visit to Malibu right now does more than provide you with an unforgettable, crowd-free experience—it helps fuel the community's recovery. By dining at local restaurants, shopping at boutiques, and soaking in the natural beauty of the coastline, you support the livelihoods of residents and breathe life back into Malibu's vibrant coastal culture.
In fact, the City of Malibu has taken direct action to bolster local business, purchasing meals for around 100 city workers from rotating restaurants every day. Local residents and visitors alike are stepping up with gestures of support—from buying extra meals to offering words of encouragement.
There may never be another time like this to experience Malibu so freely. With summer crowds just around the corner, this spring is your chance to see a different side of the city—peaceful, raw, and real. Come for the beauty, stay for the community, and be part of the Malibu story.