8 reasons to buy your second home in Malibu

From the stunning rocky coastline to gorgeous weather to the possibility of a run-in with your favorite celebrity, time spent in the exclusive enclave of Malibu is tempting for many reasons.With 27 beachfront miles on the west side of the famed Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH, as the locals call it) and spectacular rolling hillsides to the east, Malibu offers both a relaxed, beachy vibe and an air of elegance and sophistication.If Southern California is calling and you’re considering purchasing in the Golden State, put on your sunglasses, pack some SPF 30 and discover eight reasons why Malibu might just be the perfect place to buy your second home.

1. There’s a neighborhood and a home for everyone

While Malibu is known for its incredible waterfront mansions, there are actually a variety of neighborhoods and property types to satisfy every buyer, from contemporary single-family houses to sleek condos to sprawling ranches.Where you choose to buy in Malibu comes down to your interests and budget, more than anything. Are you looking for oceanfront luxury? Try Malibu Colony or coveted Carbon Beach — also known as Billionaire’s Beach. Equestrians will feel right at home in Malibu Canyon or Winding Way, the latter of which is entwined with a network of riding trails. Looking for solitude? Malibu’s canyon neighborhoods — Trancas Canyon, Bonsall Canyon, Ramirez Canyon and Latigo Canyon — offer lush natural habitats, plenty of wildlife and room to roam.

2. That SoCal sunshine can’t be beat

It’s no surprise that sunshine abounds in the ‘Bu (yes, that’s the town’s nickname). Malibu boasts an idyllic 281 days of sun per year. The combination of warm weather and gentle, cooling ocean breezes give Malibu a Mediterranean climate that’ll make you feel like you’re on a permanent vacation.

3. The views speak for themselves

We could wax poetic about Malibu’s views all day — the sweeping ocean vistas from Solstice Canyon, the rocky outcropping of Point Dume, and the sprawling sands at Zuma Beach. But there’s really nothing like taking in these views in person … especially if you can do it from the balcony of your second home.

4. You’ll love soaking up the surf culture

When conditions are just right, surfers flock to Malibu’s world-famous surfing breaks, like they have for a century. And whether you’re a surfer yourself or just like the laid-back surf town vibe, you’ll love learning about the ‘Bu’s storied surf history. The beach now known as Surfrider was once a private estate, which means that enterprising surfers in the 1920s and 1930s had to sneak across the property to access the legendary point breaks. By the early 1960s, Malibu was the center of California’s surf culture — and that laid-back, sand-between-the-toes lifestyle remains part of the city’s unique charm.

5. Endless activities await

While staring at the surf and basking in the sun are worthwhile ways to spend any day in Malibu, the town’s 16,000 residents are an active bunch, as reflected in the myriad festivals, events and entertainment options.Spend a sunny Sunday morning at the Malibu Farmers Market, where you’ll find farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, organic treats, artisan wares and fresh flowers. On one of Malibu’s rare rainy days, plan a visit to the historic Getty Villa, home to a collection of over 40,000 Greek, Roman and Etruscan antiquities. When evening falls, hit up the Malibu Playhouse or the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Malibu’s Pepperdine University. Whenever your friends and family want an excuse to visit (not that they need one!), suggest they come during one of Malibu’s wonderful annual events, including the Malibu Film Festival, the Malibu Arts Festival and the Malibu Triathlon, which is held every September.

6. Delicious dining is ready to tempt you

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual al fresco lunch, beachside fine dining or farm-to-table fare, Malibu has it all. Here are a few must-try’s: Snag a reservation for sushi at famed chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s eponymous Malibu outpost, indulge in classic fish and chips from Malibu Seafood or brush up on your Malibu history at Neptune’s Net.

7. The outdoors are calling

Warm weather and plenty of unspoiled natural areas make Malibu the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hikers can choose from the many miles of hiking trails that weave through the Santa Monica Mountains or treat themselves to incredible views from coastal hikes.Watersports opportunities abound, so you can spend every weekend trying something new. Charter a fishing boat, rent a kayak or take a private surf lesson from one of the many surf shops that dot the coastline. Oh, and speaking of the coastline, keep your eyes peeled between early December and May and you may see a gray whale or two — their migration route runs right past Malibu’s beaches.

8. Malibu’s wine country is on the rise

While many parts of California are already world famous for their wine production, Malibu is relatively new on the scene — it became a recognized American Viticulture Area in 2013. Wine lovers will find Malibu’s burgeoning wine scene to be friendly, flavorful and bursting with beautiful views — the winding road leading to the mountaintop estate of Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards is a true must-see.

Discover your Malibu oasis

If laid-back luxury is calling, Pacaso offers picture-perfect second homes in Malibu. As a co-owner, you’ll get all the perks of owning a second home without all the hassle. We’ll handle the maintenance and property management tasks, so you can just show up and go straight into vacation mode. The beach is waiting! View Pacaso listings to get started.