The Poor 20-Something's Guide To 9 Days Of Cheap Summer Fun In L.A.

Explore the beauty (and beauties) of Malibu

Summer? California? You don't have to be Rorschach to know that just about everybody is thinking about going to the beach, and that means crowds. Head up to Malibu but skip the ever-packed and family-dominated Zuma and Leo Carrillo beaches and discover some of the more tucked away spots like Lechuza or Broad Beach, where the terrain is rugged and the water is pristine. While up in the 'Bu (but please don't call it that) make sure to pop over to Solstice Canyon-free parking!-for a moderately challenging hike up some leafy and supremely gorgeous trails. Stop for a break and some drum circle-ing at the ruins of the Roberts Ranch House, a mid-century modern house designed by architect Paul Williams that burned down in 1982. Before driving home to the City O' Smog, grab a quesadilla at Howdy's or a taco from one of the many trucks on PCH that cater to the crusty surf bum set. Solstice Canyon: 3998 Solstice Canyon Road, Malibu, CA 90265 Howdy's: 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu, CA 90265 [via]