Late August and September are the Best Kept Secrets of Southern California’s Beach Life

Why Late August, September and October are Southern California’s Best Kept Secrets for a Perfect Beach Getaway

By: Brad Greiner, CEO of Open Air Homes and OpenAiRE Brokerage
August 13, 2024

There’s something magical about summer at the beach in Southern California. The crowds pick up, the energy shifts, and the coastline comes alive with the spirit of sun, sand, and surf. For those of us who have had the pleasure of calling Venice Beach home, like I did for eight unforgettable years, this time of year is what makes coastal living so special.

But here’s a little secret I’ve discovered after all those summers in Venice: the best time to experience the SoCal beach life isn’t in June or July, but in late August, September, and sometimes even into early October. It’s during these late summer days, when the hustle and bustle starts to fade, that the true beauty of the beach comes to life.

Malibu Bluffs in Malibu

Why Late Summer is the Best Time to Visit the Beach

As August winds down, something changes along the coast. The tourists begin to thin out, the traffic eases, and suddenly, parking becomes a breeze. The beaches, which were once packed with families and sunbathers, open up, offering large stretches of sand almost entirely to yourself. The nights are warm, the days are long, and the Second summer sets in—making September arguably the best month to be in Malibu or Venice.

There’s a local vibe that takes over during this time. It’s as if the community quietly reclaims its beaches, savoring the last warm nights before the fall chill sets in. The air is filled with the salty scent of the ocean, the sunsets are more vivid, and there’s a calm that descends, making late summer the perfect time to unwind by the sea.

Breathe Malibu

Our Favorite Late Summer Activities in Malibu and Venice

Whether you’re staying with us in Malibu or Venice, there’s no shortage of things to do during these golden late summer days. Here are some of our top recommendations to make the most of your time at the beach:

Charming Walk Street Hideaway in Venice Beach

Malibu

1. Breakfast at Lilly’s Malibu
   • Start your day with one of the best breakfast burritos in town at Lilly’s Malibu. It’s a local favorite, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a celebrity or two enjoying the laid-back vibe.
2. Erewhon and a Secret Hike
   • Head over to the Erewhon in Pacific Palisades to stock up on healthy snacks, then venture out on a secret hike that offers stunning views and a peaceful escape from the city. Ask us, and we’ll gladly share the details of this hidden gem.
3. Dinner at Nobu
   • No trip to Malibu is complete without dining at Nobu. Enjoy world-class sushi with an unbeatable view of the Pacific Ocean. The experience is unforgettable, especially during a warm September evening.
4. Malibu Wine Tours
   • Spend an afternoon exploring Malibu’s wine country. The Malibu Wine Tours are a great way to taste local wines, enjoy the scenery, and unwind.
5. Shopping at Malibu Village and Coffee at Alfred
   • After a day of exploring, treat yourself to some retail therapy at Malibu Village. And don’t forget to grab an iced latte from Alfred Coffee—a perfect way to end your day.

Sun-Drenched Spanish Manor in Mar Vista

Venice Beach

1. Morning Coffee at Intelligentsia or Blue Bottle
   • The competition for the best cold brew is fierce on Abbot Kinney. Start your Venice adventure with a caffeine fix from Intelligentsia or Blue Bottle. Both spots offer top-notch coffee that will fuel your day of exploring.
     • If we HAD to choose between the two, the top cold brew goes to Intelligentsia in our humble opinion.
2. Cruising Abbot Kinney
   • Stroll up and down Abbot Kinney Boulevard, known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and eateries. It’s a quintessential Venice experience that’s best enjoyed during the quieter late summer months.
3. Dinner at Ospi
   • When it comes to dining in Venice, Ospi is a standout. While Felix is also a popular choice, we find Ospi’s modern Italian cuisine to be a cut above. Try it out, and you might just agree.
4. The Most Important Burrito of the Day (Breakfast)
   • Venice is home to some of the best breakfast burritos around. We recommend trying the one at Groundworks at their Rose location—it’s our personal favorite, but we’re hap

Surfside Sanctuary in Venice Beach

Embrace the Late Summer Secret

Late summer in Southern California is a time of peaceful reflection, warm nights, and uncrowded beaches. It’s a hidden secret that only the locals truly understand, and it’s one of the best times to experience the magic of Malibu and Venice. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment on the sand or exploring the vibrant local scene, you’ll find that this is the season when the beach truly shines.

So if you’re planning a visit, consider timing it for September or October. Let the crowds thin out, the parking ease up, and the local charm take over. At Open Air Homes, we’re here to make sure your late summer beach getaway is nothing short of perfect.