Malibu
Malibu is California's most iconic wave—the birthplace of the modern longboard and ground zero for 1960s surf culture that changed the world. Three sections (First Point, Second Point, Third Point) offer different experiences, but First Point is the showcase: long, peeling right-handers that allow nose-riding and trim surfing at its finest. The crowds are legendary, sometimes comically intense, but the wave quality on a clean summer south swell explains why generations of surfers have made this pilgrimage. Surfing history lives here.
Malibu surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (210°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 250°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2m
- Ideal size
- 1.2m - 1.7m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 315° - 45°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.2m
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
10/10
Access: Surfrider Beach parking. Three sections: First, Second, Third Point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Malibu?
The Malibu profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Malibu?
The Malibu profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 315° to 45°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Malibu?
The Malibu scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 250°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 2m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Malibu?
The main season at Malibu is Jun-Sep. A secondary window runs May, Oct. Summer S swells. Flat in winter unless big W wraps in.
How do I get to Malibu?
The spot profile lists LAX as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 40 minutes. Surfrider Beach parking. Three sections: First, Second, Third Point.
What kind of wave is Malibu?
Malibu is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Jun-Sep
Secondary: May, Oct
Summer S swells. Flat in winter unless big W wraps in.
Getting There
👨👩👧👦Family Travel
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Plan a trip around Malibu
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