Tess

My husband and I are in LA this week for a conference (his) and have a free afternoon tomorrow. We'd like to drive up the Pacific Coast Highway towards Malibu tomorrow afternoon--walk on the beach, have a snack at a place on the ocean--maybe check out a tidepool or two. I've been doing some quick research today and have seen good things about Point Dume State Beach--someone mentioned that seeing a gray whale is not out of the question this time of year from Point Dume. Is any of this info. out of line?

Can anyone give me some ideas on how to best spend our one free afternoon in Malibu? I'll post a trip report when we get home--we're at the Hollywood Renaissance smack dab in the middle of Hollywood--what a hoot. We can see the Hollywood sign from our room, which is kind of nifty. It's 85 degrees out and I just got back from the pool--definitely could get used to this!

rjw_lgb_ca

The last time I went whale-watching (a cruise out of Marina del Rey-- almost 20 years ago), it was January and we did see whales. But then again, I've sat in my office in Santa Monica and seen pods of porpoises swimming up and down the coast, maybe 50 yards offshore. I think you might see some bigger whales migrating-- it's hot for us, but the water's still pretty darn cold.

I'm sure you might see a star or two shopping at a market up near the Malibu Colony (Gelson's? Whole Foods? Something like that)-- lots of people say they do-- but I have no idea myself, being a trashy Long Beach Boy myself (and PROUD OF IT too!). It's so beautiful up there, you'll love it, but I confess it's been years since I've been up there. But I'll top this for you anyway. The weather should be ideal tomorrow-- a bit cooler than today. Hey, at least you missed the Apocalyptic Floods of last week!

Tess

rjw, thanks for your tips. Hey, nothing wrong with being a Long Beach boy--my husband and I spent a wonderful afternoon in L.B. two years ago. Toured the Queen Mary, wandered along the waterfront shops, ate at a fun Mexican restaurant and spent a too short-time in the best used book store I've ever had the pleasure to visit!

And yes, I hate myself for admitting that I'd LOVE to see a star or two while we're here. Chanced upon Stone Cold Steve Austin today at the Hollywood Roosevelt (I have teens and know a few wrestlers' names) but that's been it. Will have to talk DH into popping into Whole Foods tomorrow

Surfergirl

Well, you picked perfect weather after our torrential rain! Waves are pretty good too. Point Dume is a great place to hang out. You might also consider Malibu Lagoon State Beach, which has nice sand, and also has an estuary and wetlands too. You get a lot of birds and marine life here, starfish, and mild waves.

I have always loved Paradise Cove, but parking is expensive, but it's one of those magical places in a little cove.

Go down to Zuma or Surfrider's Beach to watch the surfing.

rjw_lgb_ca

Topping for Tess.... Any Westsiders who know which food market it is up in Malibu where (everyone says) one can see stars shopping for green onions and Absolut and TP...? You see, Tess, depending on the market, you might be able to grab some lunch there or bottled water, then linger for a couple of minutes and see celebs. Just a thought.