Famed surfer John McCarthy once said, “Surfing is the most blissful experience you can have on this planet, a taste of heaven.”

In a town as rich in surfing history as Malibu, it’s hard to disagree. Consistent swell and idyllic, white-sand beaches have attracted surfers to our shores for decades, and a laidback SoCal ambiance has set the stage for Hollywood classics such as Gidget and Point Break.

While surfing takes the spotlight, the picturesque seas and steady conditions also make Malibu a first choice for many other watersports. The glassy water is ideal for activities like paddleboarding or kayaking, not to mention stand-up paddleboard yoga.

Better yet, with exquisite beaches framed by the Santa Monica Mountains and hidden coves not far from Malibu Beach Inn, water enthusiasts never have to lose sight of some of the best scenery in all of Southern California.

Here are some of our recommendations for your next stay at Malibu Beach Inn:

Surfing

Lines stacked to the horizon are what many surfers picture when they think of Malibu, and reality rarely disappoints. Our 21 miles of beaches are home to many famous breaks including Big Dume, Little Dume, Zuma Beach, and Surfrider Beach, along with smaller breaks perfect for beginners. The best swell tends to be in the summer and the fall, but surfers will find favorable conditions in Malibu year-round.

Our dedicated reception team at Malibu Beach Inn can arrange surf lessons with a local instructor or assist you in renting a surfboard.

Paddleboarding

While Malibu is known for consistent waves, there are gentle seas to be found beyond the breakers and close to shore that are ideal for paddleboarding. Malibu Pier, right next to Malibu Beach Inn, is a fitting place to begin your excursion. As you paddle, you may see schools of fish, dolphins, and other marine life just below the surface.

Then take a leisurely morning or afternoon to explore Malibu’s stunning coastline, visiting popular destinations such as Surfrider Beach, Sunset Beach, Malibu Lagoon, or Leo Carillo State Park—where you will find a protected cove as well as a sea cave that you can explore on foot. You will also want to look for iconic sights like the historic Adamson house along the way.

For an experience focused on fitness, contact our reception team to arrange a paddleboard yoga class or paddleboard fitness class—both favorite activities for Malibu locals.

Kayaking

For families with young children, there is no better way to explore Malibu than by kayak. You can opt for a single or tandem kayak as you explore the kelp beds of Dan Blocker Beach, catch waves at Zuma Beach, or visit popular locales like Malibu Pier and Sunset Beach. There is also much to explore for more advanced kayakers—like the beautiful, 8-mile stretch of coastline from Leo Carillo State Park to Point Mugu—and anglers who wish to try kayak fishing for halibut, sea bass, and other local fish.

Our reception team can assist you in renting a kayak or signing up for a day of kayak fishing. (Experienced anglers and new fishermen are welcome with a valid fishing license.)

Sportfishing

With more than 30 varieties of gamefish offshore, Southern California is a wonderful departure point for anglers. Halibut, sea bass, yellowtail, red snapper, and tuna can all be found in the waters near Malibu, and fishing excursions can be booked by the half or full day.

Keep in mind that there are town fishing restrictions, so we recommend planning your excursion with a sportfishing boat. Most nearby vessels depart from Marina Del Rey in the south, and our reception team can arrange an excursion for you.