Ideal for sunbathing, hiking and swimming, this is the picture-perfect family beach location.

Located just north of the Malibu pier, this scenic 22-acre retreat is also a bird sanctuary and protected wetlands. Hiking trails and picnic areas, as well as an on-site lifeguard (who is technically posted at neighboring Surfrider Beach), bird-watching and easily accessible toilets render this a terrific beach for all ages: It's popular with families both touristy and hipster-y. To escape screaming rugrats, just look for the arrow flags that say "surfers" and "swimming." Head toward the surfer side. (The bonus is watching hotties change from wetsuits to swimsuits.) Surfrider Beach is next door, and the Malibu Country Mart with restaurants, shopping and frequent celeb sightings lies just across PCH.