Welcome back to This Week in Malibu! This week we cover the return of two beloved beachfront restaurants, a high-profile real estate rebound, major infrastructure discussions, and community moments that range from controversial to cautionary. Here’s everything you need to know from the last two weeks in Malibu.
Duke’s & Gladstones Rise from the Mud
Two of Malibu’s most iconic restaurants are making a comeback. After months of closure following the Palisades Fire and subsequent mudslides, Gladstones will reopen its beachfront doors on July 4, while Duke’s will begin phased reopenings later this month. Though Duke’s dining room won’t return until September, the Ocean Room and Barefoot Bar will lead the way first. With mud damage now cleared, both restaurants are hiring and preparing for a busy summer season.
Source: FOX 11
Paris Hilton Rebuilds in Billionaire Style
After losing her Malibu home in the Palisades Fire, Paris Hilton has rebounded with the $63 million purchase of a Beverly Park mega-mansion. The 30,500-square-foot estate—formerly owned by Mark Wahlberg—features 12 bedrooms, 20 bathrooms, a skatepark, golf course, and even waterfalls. While grieving the loss of her coastal home, Hilton’s 11:11 Media Impact Team is now helping other wildfire victims get back on their feet.
Source: HOLA! USA
Malibu Considers Historic Sewer Shift
As homeowners along PCH attempt to rebuild after the fire, Malibu is weighing a significant change: replacing century-old septic tanks with a modern sewer system. The city is exploring a $124 million pipeline connection to the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, which could reduce homeowner reconstruction costs and protect coastal ecosystems. Temporary systems may be installed to help residents rebuild while plans move forward.
Source: ABC 7
Senior Prank at Malibu High Sparks Investigation
Just one week before graduation, Malibu High was hit with a costly act of vandalism under the guise of a senior prank. Superglued locks, spray paint, flour, eggs, and even an overturned golf cart disrupted campus operations, rendering 20 classrooms unusable. School officials are calling for accountability and reminding students that tradition does not excuse destruction.
Source: ABC 7
Beachgoers Cautioned Amid Post-Fire Ocean Risks
While Pacific Coast Highway has reopened, experts warn that Malibu’s beaches may still be unsafe after wildfire debris and runoff contaminated nearby waters. Lead paint, fertilizers, and ash from destroyed homes may trigger toxic algae blooms and long-term ecosystem impacts. Marine experts recommend giving fire-affected areas time to recover and choosing cleaner stretches like Zuma or Palos Verdes for now.
Source: Patch
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