Malibu City Information
Just saying the word “Malibu” probably brings on all sorts of images in your head, pictures of the beach and the Pacific Ocean, the amazing houses and estates along the bluffs overlooking the scene, and more. If that’s what you’re thinking about, it’s certainly no mistake, as that is exactly what Malibu is known for, and what it looks like. From its super exclusive residential communities for rich and famous, to its vast miles of beaches which attract surfers from around the world, Malibu is a place all to its own.
History of Malibu
The history of Malibu dates back hundreds and hundreds of years, when it was the Chumash tribe of Native Americans who called it home. The name Malibu comes from their name for the locale, Humaliwo, which means, “the surf sounds loudly”. This soon became Malibu, as the “hu” syllable was not emphasized in pronunciation. Next came Spanish explorers, as far back as the mid 1500s, and missions, and Malibu was a part of the Rancho Topanga Malibu Sequit 13,000 acre land grant in 1802.
The entire ranch was privately owned by Fredereick Hastings Rindge and Rhoda May Rindge, who fought all development of roads and transportation in the area, until finally the Pacific Coast Highway was built in 1929. From there, it wasn’t long before the exclusive Malibu Colony community began to be developed, and more residential communities and businesses began popping up as well.
The area continued to be developed over the decades, walking a fine line between exclusive getaway community and burgeoning residential and suburban area. That line is still walked today, as a mix of very wealthy residents and typical family households call Malibu home. Finally, in 1991 Malibu was incorporated as a city. Before this took place, the area had 27 miles of coastline, and there are still signs up boasting of the 27 miles of beaches and coast. However, the size of Malibu was reduced and today there is about 21 miles of coastline.
Malibu Demographics and Geography
Malibu has over 100 square miles of area, which technically makes it one of the largest single city areas anywhere in the United States! However, that can be misleading. Over 80 square miles of that is water and ocean space, leaving a bit less than 20 square miles of land. Being right on the shore, the elevation is basically right at sea level, and there are 21 miles of pristine Pacific coastline which has become the world renowned appeal of the city of Malibu.
According to the most recent census, there are about 12,500 year-round residents of Malibu, and over 5,000 households. It’s a predominately Caucasian area, with over 91% of residents being white, and then 8% being Asian. Of course, it’s also a very wealthy community, and the median household income is over $102,000.
Malibu Real Estate
Malibu real estate is certainly in high demand, and it has become even more so as prices have dropped with recent economic struggles felt both nationally and globally. It’s a luxurious mix, with hundreds of homes valued at more than $2.5 million being for sale. At the same time though, there are also more affordable finds in different neighborhoods and for smaller households too.
Any talk of Malibu real estate of course has to touch upon Malibu Colony. The famous Colony dates back the better part of a century, and is an extremely private, exclusive and wealthy gated neighborhood. The multi-million dollar homes offer astonishing coastline views and beach access, and it has long been a celebrity haven and enclave, whether for full-time living or beach house vacationing. If you’re looking to purchase real estate within Malibu Colony, well, you’ve certainly made it!
Beaches and Surfing in Malibu
More than anything else, Malibu is famous for its amazing beaches and coast. There is a huge range of beaches to choose from, with as mentioned, over 20 miles of coastline within the city. Included in the mix are places like Carbon Beach, Escondido Beach, Surfrider Beach, Paradise Cove, Pirate’s Cove, Westward Beach, Zuma Beach, Point Dume, Big Dume, Nicholas Canyon Beach and many others. Beaches in Malibu are all public unless otherwise designated as such. For example, Paradise Cove is one of the rare beaches which tries to limit access by charging entrance fees.
The surfing in Malibu is also well known, in fact it’s fairly renowned across the globe. It’s a great place for surfers of all experience levels to catch some waves, although clearly some areas are more difficult, or more crowded, than others. The Malibu Surfing Association has been around since 1962, and is one of the oldest surf clubs in the country.
Malibu Economy
The Malibu economy features a mix of tourism-based businesses, local establishments and larger companies who have headquarters in the city. A few of the bigger companies include HRL Laboratories and Jakks Pacific, while a few leading nonprofit organizations in the area include the Surfrider Foundation and Heal the Bay.
Malibu is certainly no stranger to the entertainment industries either. While many famous celebrities and wealthy entertainment executives call Malibu home, many also film their movies, videos and television shows on Malibu’s sprawling beaches, mountain bluffs, and restaurants and shops.
Shopping and Dining in Malibu
There is certainly no shortage of shopping and dining destinations in and around Malibu. For a mix of both, one of the most popular locales is the Malibu Country Mart, with several dozen different retailers, as well as eateries and more. In this one location, you’ll find everything from high end, luxurious boutiques, to larger chain stores and popular brands, local food vendors and on down the line. Another well known, but smaller, destination is the Malibu Colony Plaza, where a who’s who of celebrities and well-to-dos get their shopping done.
Some of the best eats can be found at tiny, local community-driven establishments, but there is a range of restaurants from casual and family friendly to top of the line, upper-scale restaurants and experiences. For a casual choice, Duke’s with its amazing beach location and views is a great choice, as is the Paradise Cove beach cafe. Fine dining choices are highlighted by places such as Geoffrey’s, with a fantastic selection of fresh seafood and a diverse menu and Moonshadows, which is also well known for its amazing array of fresh seafood dishes, as well as a delicious brunch selection.
Malibu Schools
The schooling system is well known to be high end and very carefully managed in Malibu. There are several different elementary schools, and the Malibu High School houses both middle and high school grades. The schools are a part of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, and they all have a great reputation.
Of course, there are also many private schools in the area which is not surprising considering the status of many of the families living in the community. Private schools include Our Lady of Malibu, Colin McEwen High School, New Roads, St. Aidan’s and Calmont. Pepperdine University used to be in the area of Malibu, however when the city was incorporated the campus was left off its actual land area.
Malibu attracts everyone from surfers looking to catch some sun and some great waves, to wealthy families and celebrities looking for an amazing location for their new home, and literally everyone in between. It’s an idyllic sort of community, and its 21 miles of coastline and beautiful beaches are still at the heart of it all.
