Nicholas Canyon County Beach in Malibu, CA

Nicholas Canyon County Beach in Malibu, California (known as Zeros by local surfers) is a beach that can appeal to a wide array of interests and activities. It is known best as a beach suitable for surfing, but is also a very popular SCUBA diving site and a nice family picnic spot.

Parking is on a bluff overlooking the beach. It is plentiful, and the cost varies from $2-$6. Nicholas Canyon Beach offers restrooms and outdoor showers, convenient for rinsing sand off after a long day on the beach. Access to the beach is by a long ramp or a set of stairs near the lifeguard tower. The best surfing can be found to the left, right in front of or just right of the lifeguard tower.

SCUBA divers frequent this site as well, though access is somewhat difficult, as it involves a substantial walk down the ramp to the water. The reef, about a 200 yard swim out, is characterized by rocks and many stands of kelp. Here, divers can find myriad marine animals, and lobster hunting is plentiful early in the season. Nicholas Canyon Beach is also a good beach for family outings, and there are some picnic tables and benches located in various places around the beach.

It's location is between two popular beaches run by California Parks, El Pescador State Beach (part of Robert H. Meyer State Beach) and Leo Carrillo State Park, and the fact that the beach is practically hidden as you drive by on Pacific Coast Highway make Nicholas Canyon County Beach a well-kept secret -- even to many locals -- and the perfect secluded weekend getaway!

Nicholas Canyon County Beach in Malibu, CA

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