Malibu’s mystery beaches revealed
When beachgoers head to Malibu, they often choose Zuma and Topanga as their destinations. But there are plenty more options for those who aren’t scared off by signs saying “Private Beach” and “Right to Pass by Permission.”
Under California law, the shoreline is generally open to public access. Some of the no-trespassing signs posted by oceanfront homeowners have not been permitted by the state but can deter confused beachgoers anyway. “The public has the right to use all lands seaward of the mean high-tide line,” states the California Coastal Commission -- effectively, the wet parts of the beach. But dry sand areas are also open to the public, if you know how to find them.
Enter the Los Angeles Urban Rangers, an eclectic collective of artists, writers, architects, geographers and urban designers. For the first two weekends in August, the Rangers will lead free Malibu Public Beach Safaris exploring the hidden beaches along the 27-mile coastline here.
“Each safari will visit two or three beaches and will have a number of activities designed to help people find, walk, park, picnic and sunbathe on the Malibu beach,” says Ranger Jenny Price. “Each tour will include a public easement potluck. Other activities, depending on the tour, include trailblazing the public-private boundary, a lateral easement hike, a sign-watching activity and an accessway hunt with prizes.”
The safaris last 3 1/2 hours and cover beaches without lifeguards and restrooms. And though no fires are allowed, “We may sing campfire songs,” Price says.
Space on the safaris is limited, though, and there’s already a wait list. What to do if you don’t slide in? Visit www.laurbanrangers.org and download the guide map, or go to the California Coastal Commission site www.coastal.ca.gov for more maps.
-- Jennifer Kim
Malibu Beach Public Safaris, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 to 5 p.m. Aug. 12 (west Malibu beaches), 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday and 1:30 to 5 p.m. Aug. 11 (east Malibu beaches). Free, but RSVP required at www.laurbanrangers.org
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