Last December I spent a day in Malibu. But it’s so sunny you’d never guess it was wintertime, so let’s just pretend this is a summer trip, okay? Because Malibu is a GREAT place to spend a July day.
I split my time between Point Dume in the morning followed by Getty Villa in the afternoon. Can you believe I’ve lived in LA for 7.5 years and this is the first time I’ve been to either of these distinguished locations?
Views like this make me wonder why I haven’t visited sooner.
And here’s the view up the other side of the beach:
That water…!
Oh, the randomness of coastal California architecture:
I pull out my fisheye lens to snap this shot. The beach below is right at the center of Point Dume and somewhat difficult to access, as it looks like you have to climb over rocks on the north side of the beach (I only scout it out from above so I can’t verify this). Since the beach is somewhat remote, not many people are there, even on this holiday week.
California, I love you for many reasons, but your beaches are especially high on the list.
I’m wearing a scarf appropriate for December, but it’s more for the photo op. It’s really hot out here.
These stairs access the beach on the south side of Point Dume.
After about two hours of walking in the sand and snapping photos, I zip down the PCH to check out the Getty Villa. It’s free to enter, but you mush have a pre-reserved timed ticket. I think I got mine on-line that morning, but you’ll have your pick of time slots if you book it at least a few days in advance. Also parking is pricey so carpool if possible.
After grabbing a bite to eat at the cafe, I wander around the museum.
There’s a exhibit on The Last Days of Pompeii. I remember researching reports on Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in middle school. While in Italy during college we only had time to explore Pompeii OR the isle of Capri, and my friends and I selected the latter. So Pompeii is still on my bucket list…
This pool gives Hearst Castle a run for its money.
I take off just as the sun begins to set over the Pacific.
If you find yourself in Malibu any day of the year, this pair of activities — Point Dume and the Getty Villa — will not disappoint.
Wow, you got some great shots (both at the beach and in the museum!) Makes me want to go back to the villa! Do you miss LA? Or is the rest of the world pulling you further and further away? =)
I miss LA much more than I thought I would. One thing I didn’t anticipate is identifying with LA as “home” whenever anyone asks where I’m from (a question I get multiple times a day). But to me, LA is home. And the part I miss the most is the people, and all the rituals / traditions I have with those people, like walking Toluca Lake. As much as I love where I am right now (shout out to Hervey Bay, Australia!), LA is home!