9 Things to be Thankful for When You Live in Malibu

Malibu is a piece of California paradise. We’ve got stunning canyon trails, golden beaches, and phenomenal views of the Pacific. Needless to say, when you live or work in Malibu, there’s no shortage of things to be grateful for. Here are just 9:

1. The Sunset off El Matador State Beach is Straight Out of a Dream

Any given 6 o’clock in Malibu, you can descend a set of wooden stairs to a stretch of sand, pass a few otherworldly rock formations, situate yourself at the mouth of a cave, and behold a jaw-dropping orange-pink display over the water.

2. There Are A Ton of Superb Dining Options With an Ocean View

Whether it’s Swedish pancakes at trendy Malibu Farm, Yellowtail Sashimi at upscale Nobu, or a heavenly breakfast burrito to-go from Lily’s Cafe, the local food scene leaves nothing to be desired. And you barely have to take your eyes off the Pacific to enjoy it.

3. Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District is One of the Best in CA

SMMUSD ranks in the top 10% of Calfornia school districts, with Malibu High School at #68 in the state (of 2,199). Shark-obssessed elementary schoolers can even get a head start on their marine biology careers at Point Dume Marine Science School.

4. There’s a Waterfall Down the Road That You Can Hike to in One Hour

There are endless trails to explore right here in Malibu. A family-friendly hike to Solstice Canyon’s estate ruins and waterfall, a strenuous, three hour trek to a sea-view cliff…the list goes on. When you’ve got a landscape like this for a backdrop, who needs the gym?

5. Your Dog Can Run Free on a Grassy Field Overlooking the Sea

Trancas Canyon Dog Park is dog heaven; and the view isn’t exactly an eyesore for those of us on two legs either. If you prefer sand over turf for your dog’s stomping ground, there’s Leo Carrillo State Beach, Point Mugu State Park, or the Zuma Canyon Loop Trail.

6. The Community is Dedicated to Environmental Sustainability

Armed with a ban on plastic bags and the incredible efforts of organizations like Sea Save Foundation, Surfrider Foundation and the California Wildlife Center, Malibu officials and residents are united in their commitment to maintaining a healthy coastline.

7. You Can Skip the Chains— Easy Access to Local, Organic Produce

Shopping for veggies at the Malibu Farmers Market every Sunday makes you feel part of a close-knit community. Plus, you’re supporting both local agriculture and the Cornucopia Foundation’s education program. The rest of the week, you’ve got Vintage Grocers.

8. You’re In the Midst of Some of the Best Wine California Has to Offer

Malibu is a designated “Viticulture Area” with a growing wine scene that rivals the best of them. Forget Napa— from Malibu Family Wines to Rosenthal Estate, our neighborhood vineyards are busy spilling premium wine from grapes grown on our own coastal soil.

9. There are Events and Activities to Attend Right in the Neighborhood

The local arts scene has something for everyone: Malibu Arts Festival, Malibu Film Festival, movie screenings in the park…I could go on. Thanks to the Cultural Arts Commission and the city’s vibrant population, the arts are alive and well in Malibu.

Thanks Malibu!