Zuma Beach, Malibu

Malibu, a city in Southern California, is home to some of the state's most ideal beaches. It features a few different beach habitats and is located about 10 miles north of Santa Monica. Zuma Beach has a long, broad beachfront that stretches for about two miles and encompasses more than 100 acres. This well-known beach features several spaces for amenities and snack bars, as well as lifeguard positions every few hundred yards (lifeguards are on duty year-round during daylight hours). Parking spaces, beach volleyball nets, public bathrooms, and showers are also available.

Paradise Cove in Malibu is a stunning, protected location that has served as a backdrop for several Hollywood productions. This cove-sheltered tiny sandy beach is ideal for families and kids because the waves are gentle there. Although the beach has a thriving social scene as well, the high day-use parking costs tend to deter visitors.

On a lovely outdoor patio with a view of the surf, the beachfront Paradise Cove Beach Cafe provides breakfast, lunch, and supper in addition to drinks. Additionally, the café offers lounger rentals (they can be reserved online in advance). Travelers have the opportunity to spend the night on the secluded "Billionaire's Beach" section of shoreline at the premium Malibu Beach Inn. This four-star hotel provides opulent guest rooms with stunning views of the Pacific, a full-service spa, and an oceanfront restaurant that specializes in seasonal cuisine made with regional products. Zuma Beach is roughly a 20-minute drive from the property.

• Location: 30000 Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu, California
• Activities: Malibu Makos Surf Club, Malibu Wine Hikes, Surfrider Beach