Escondido Beach: An Exclusive Getaway in Malibu, California

Overview of Escondido Beach

Escondido Beach, a hidden gem in Malibu, California, has captured attention as the well-hidden beach is poised to gain popularity. Although it has been shrouded in exclusivity, its secrets may soon be unveiled.

Legal Battles for Public Access

This beach has been embroiled in legal disputes for decades, primarily due to its inaccessibility to the public, which contravenes local regulations. According to The Guardian, access to Escondido Beach was curtailed in the 1980s as wealthy homeowners sought to protect their privacy. However, recent developments indicate that change is on the horizon.

On June 7, the California Coastal Commission cited two property owners for failing to ensure public access to the beach area adjacent to their homes. Escondido Beach, positioned alongside the Pacific Coast Highway and Escondido Beach Road, is now in the spotlight for restoration of public access.

Interestingly, the name ‘Escondido’ translates to ‘hidden’ in Spanish, reflecting its past as a challenging destination for the public. Nevertheless, this beach is located in a bustling section of central Malibu, in close proximity to notable sites like Paradise Cove and Escondido Falls, and boasts views of Point Dume.

Malibu Properties and Population

After contesting the violations for over thirty years, the affected property owners have now agreed to pay penalties and facilitate the remodeling of the public access paths.

Malibu, often hailed as a retreat for the affluent, is commonly referred to as “Billionaire’s Beach” due to its high-profile residents and luxurious properties. With a population of just over 10,000, the city presents a stark average property price of $5.5 million, as stated by Realtor.com.

Historically, the properties central to this public access development were owned by a former Paramount Pictures executive and the founder of Bally Total Fitness, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.

Future Plans for Public Access

While there is currently no set timeline for the establishment of public access, visitors to Malibu can still benefit from over 27 miles of available public beaches. Furthermore, a comprehensive guide provided by the California Coastal Commission maps out various beaches and the amenities offered at each location.