Santa Monica to Malibu: A Visual Guide
From Venice Beach’s painted lifeguard towers to Malibu Farm’s never-ending pier, the Los Angeles coast offers a dreamlike cultural tour of West LA
Along the winding coast of Southern California lies an iconic route through every oceanfront haven in West Los Angeles. The Pacific Coast Highway is one that drivers don’t mind getting stuck on, thanks to views panning from San Diego to the Golden State’s northern border. But the trappings of a true LA experience lie in the portion of the PCH from Santa Monica to Malibu.
Travelers driving the coast of Los Angeles can wander into everything from Patrick’s Roadhouse — the bright green Irish shoreside shack that locals love — to El Matador State Beach, which is a rocky hideaway bay perfectly suited to sandy picnics. For the traffic-bound, there are a variety of must-visit hubs along the Los Angeles coast in which to lie out and dine out.
Santa Monica: Patrick’s Roadhouse
Malibu: Malibu Pier
Malibu: Surfrider Beach
Malibu: El Matador State Beach
Read Next
Places to Stay
The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Santa Monica, California
Places to Stay
The Best Hostels in Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Music
The Best Live Music Venues in Santa Monica
History
The History Of Arts Santa Mònica In 1 Minute
See & Do
Where to Eat and Shop on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica
Places to Stay
The Best Hotels to Book in Santa Monica
Sports
The 6 Best Running Routes in Santa Monica
Film & TV
5 Movie Scenes Shot on the Santa Monica Pier
Places to Stay
The Best Hotels Near Santa Monica, California
Places to Stay
The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Santa Monica
Guides & Tips
How To Spend a Day in Santa Monica
Places to Stay
The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Santa Monica, California
Culture Trip Summer Sale
Save up to $1,395 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
