Carbon Beach Malibu
Malibu's exclusive 'Billionaire's Beach,' offering public access to stunning shores lined with opulent residences and breathtaking ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Carbon Beach Malibu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Malibu's exclusive 'Billionaire's Beach,' offering public access to stunning shores lined with opulent residences and breathtaking ocean views.
"Possibly my favorite beach in the Los Angeles area. Unbeatable for the sunsets and a lot more quiet than Zuma and Surf Rider."
🌊 Public Access is Key
Remember, Carbon Beach is public! Enjoy the sand and surf, but respect private property.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be scarce. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Billionaire's Beach Views
Along the shoreline
Glimpse the opulent homes of celebrities and tycoons on this exclusive stretch of sand. A true taste of Malibu luxury.
Sunset Spectacles
The entire beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues over the Pacific. A truly magical experience.
Carbon Beach Club Dining
Malibu Beach Inn
Enjoy exquisite dining with ocean views at the Carbon Beach Club, offering a sophisticated culinary experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Public Access on Billionaire's Beach
Tides and Erosion Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌊 Public Access is Key
Remember, Carbon Beach is public! Enjoy the sand and surf, but respect private property.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be scarce. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services.
👟 Wet Sand Alert
Be aware that it's a wet sand beach; tides can reach homes.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Don't miss the incredible sunsets here; they're a major highlight.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌊 Public Access is Key
Remember, Carbon Beach is public! Enjoy the sand and surf, but respect private property.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be scarce. Consider arriving early or using ride-sharing services.
👟 Wet Sand Alert
Be aware that it's a wet sand beach; tides can reach homes.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Don't miss the incredible sunsets here; they're a major highlight.
🍽️ Fine Dining Option
The Carbon Beach Club offers a luxurious dining experience with ocean views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Carbon Beach for its beauty, tranquility, and stunning sunsets, often calling it a hidden gem compared to busier LA beaches. However, some express frustration with increased traffic, parking difficulties, and the impact of recent fires on the area's rebuilding efforts.
"Possibly my favorite beach in the Los Angeles area. Unbeatable for the sunsets and a lot more quiet than Zuma and Surf Rider. Used to get my party on here back in the day, had a good time at Lindsay Lohans 4th of July party so definitely 5 stars for Carbon Beach!"
TheLeakingGenius
"Used to be my favorite spot to go chill... karen bass lets the whole beach burn down and then went to ghana the night before... cant make this stuff up. And now the pch is so over police with DOUBLE fines and 25mph speed limit... good luck driving here now.. they want everyone chased out of malibu locals and tourists"
holden johnston
"Always love going down the Coast Highway from my friend's house that lives in Thousand Oaks but it'll never be the same at least for a while until they rebuild my heart goes out to the people that have lost their homes and the lives that were taken..."
Robert Reynoso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Carbon Beach is located along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Malibu. Parking can be challenging, so arriving early or using ride-sharing is recommended. Some visitors suggest it's easier to reach by car than public transport.
Street parking is available but can be very limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Some beachfront properties may offer limited guest parking, but it's not guaranteed.
While public buses do run along PCH, getting directly to Carbon Beach might require a walk from the nearest stop. It's generally more convenient to drive or use a ride-sharing service.
Access points are available along PCH. Look for public access signs. Be mindful of private driveways and property lines.
Information on specific accessibility features is limited. It's advisable to contact the Malibu Visitor Center or local authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Carbon Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free for everyone.
While beach access is free, parking fees may apply if you find metered street parking or use a paid lot nearby.
As a public beach, Carbon Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, specific access points might have posted hours.
You can book stays at hotels like the Malibu Beach Inn located directly on Carbon Beach, or find vacation rentals such as Airbnbs and VRBOs in the vicinity.
Beaches can be temporarily closed due to weather, safety concerns, or special events. It's always a good idea to check local advisories before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire shoreline offers stunning views, especially during sunset. The unique architecture of the beachfront homes also makes for interesting shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the City of Malibu and FAA guidelines regarding drone operation in coastal areas.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
While general photography is allowed, be respectful of private residences and avoid intrusive photography of residents.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details of the homes. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Carbon Beach Club at the Malibu Beach Inn offers a high-end dining experience with ocean views.
Picnics are generally allowed on public beaches. However, be sure to clean up all trash and follow any posted park rules.
While Carbon Beach itself is more upscale, there are family-friendly restaurants along PCH in Malibu that offer diverse menus.
Directly on the beach, options are limited to the Carbon Beach Club. For casual snacks, you might need to venture slightly further along PCH.
The Carbon Beach Club is a fine-dining establishment, so expect prices to be on the higher end, reflecting the luxury location and cuisine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The stunning ocean views and the chance to see impressive homes can be a fun educational element for kids. 💰 Budget Travelers
Visiting on a weekday and arriving early can help avoid peak crowds and potentially make parking easier. 💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 The tranquil atmosphere and stunning ocean vistas create a perfect backdrop for couples. Consider a reservation at the Carbon Beach Club for a special dinner with breathtaking views. Staying at the Malibu Beach Inn offers a luxurious beachfront experience, perfect for a romantic getaway. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Carbon Beach's 'Billionaire' Status
+2 The allure of this beach lies not only in its pristine sands but also in the exclusivity and privacy it offers, with properties commanding astronomical prices, often ranging from $10 million to over $100 million. Despite the opulent private residences, it's crucial to remember that Carbon Beach is a public beach. California law ensures public access to the shoreline, even in front of private homes.
The unique characteristic of Carbon Beach is its 'wet sand' nature, meaning the tide can reach the foundations of the beachfront homes.
Navigating Malibu's Coastline and Access
While the drive itself is an experience, parking directly at Carbon Beach can be a significant challenge. Street parking is extremely limited and often fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends. Access to the beach is available through various public access points along PCH. Look for signs indicating public entry.
It's important to be aware of private driveways and property lines to ensure you are using designated public access routes. Some reviews mention that the PCH has seen increased police presence and speed limit reductions, which can affect travel times. For those looking for a more convenient and luxurious experience, staying at the Malibu Beach Inn, located directly on Carbon Beach, offers direct access and amenities.
Alternatively, vacation rentals like Airbnbs and VRBOs are available in the vicinity, providing a home-away-from-home experience with proximity to the beach. 
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