Malibu Third Point Surf Guide

Malibu Third Point Surf Guide

To say Malibu is crowded is like saying the Pacific Ocean has a lot of saltwater -- it's a given. With this in mind, the people in the lineup are almost as much fun to watch as the wave is to ride. They are a microcosm of L.A. itself: rebels, punks, cowboys, models, godlike masters, floundering beginners and huddled masses yearning to be free.

Malibu consists of three loosely defined take-offs on a cobblestone point, with the occasional sandbar on the inside. On large swells, the points can connect into a ride over a quarter-mile long. Generally thought of as a summer break, the 'Bu will also take west and even big northwest swells.

The smaller inside break, First Point, is by far the most familiar and the best-shaped wave of the bunch -- a mechanical, mesmerizing wave to watch. Behind all the history and beneath the clutter of boards and bodies, there is still a gem of a wave that folds at the speed of a noseride.

The next spot out, Second Point or Kiddie Bowl, is a much shorter -- though faster -- performance wave. It sometimes closes out with swell or tide changes, but is also a good escape from the crowd if you keep a sly eye out. If you get lucky, you can connect the section into First and spray all the longboarders.

Third Point is the farthest out and serves up the fastest bowly wave in the area -- state-of-the-art speed surfing. Dominated by an aggro shortboard crew, it's a wonderful study in mob mentality: the predators, the prey, the shouting, the inevitable crack of boards slamming together and the onlookers' mischievous snickers. Most regulars, though, hold the opinion that all you need is one to make your day.

LOCAL RESOURCES:
Los Angeles Surfrider | Heal the Bay | Malibu Boardriders | Malibu Surfing Association

*WORLD SURFING RESERVE*

Malibu sits in a protected surf ecosystem — preserving the coastline, culture, and access that keep it working. Here's why this break matters.