Big Rock

 

Big Rock is nestled on a flat mesa above the sandy shores of the Pacific Ocean at the eastern end of Malibu, approximately five miles from Santa Monica. Named for the distinctive rock just off its coast, Big Rock boasts sweeping views of the Santa Monica Bay and the Palos Verdes Peninsula by day, and the glittering city lights known as Queen’s Necklace by night. This verdant oasis is a highly desirable lush pocket of Malibu close to the action of Santa Monica. It’s surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns, mature trees, native shrubs, and wildlife. 

 

The charming 1950s- and 1960s-style ranch homes nestled between the trees and gardens of Big Rock are reminiscent of old Malibu. Many are perched atop bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean with spectacular views, sans the steep price tags that come with larger estates throughout Malibu.

 

Big Rock’s history dates back to 1936 when William Randolph Hearst, the newspaper publisher who built Hearst Communications, bought most of the land in the area. Today, residents of Big Rock take full advantage of the proximity to the ocean and the views.

 

 

Big Rock is highly desirable among those seeking proximity to world-class amenities. Its prime location offers the best of both worlds—proximity to Los Angeles and Santa Monica with Malibu’s low-key luxe vibe and stunning views.

 

Big Rock residents value the privacy, serenity, and natural beauty afforded by the lack of commercial development in this hidden enclave. However, they’re not far from the upscale shops and restaurants of Malibu Cross Creek, as well as the unique boutiques of the Malibu Lumber Yard. Locals also enjoy close proximity to the world-class shops and amenities of Santa Monica’s bustling downtown and 3rd Street Promenade. 3rd Street is a shopper’s haven, boasting three open-air, pedestrian-friendly blocks chock-full of everything from fresh farmers’ market produce to high-end fashion brands. Food connoisseurs can rejoice in the plethora of restaurants and bars along every corner, and the location is perfect for people watching, as crowds of street performers, tourists, locals, diners, and moviegoers pass by.

 

Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Big Rock for its proximity to scenic parks and hiking trails, such as Topanga State Park. Located in the cliffs and canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park features 36 miles of trails through open grassland, live oaks, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. It is considered the world’s largest wildland within the boundaries of a major city and is popular among hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.

 

Tuna Canyon Park parallels more than two miles of the Pacific Ocean and provides dramatic, 360-degree views of the San Gabriel Mountains to Santa Monica Bay. Tuna Canyon Park links over 18,000 acres of contiguous protected open space from Topanga State Park to Las Flores Canyon. Deep canyons and ridges support a rich mosaic of coastal Southern California plant communities including sycamore riparian woodland, coastal sage scrub, and native grasslands. Tuna Creek, one of the most pristine aquatic habitats in the Santa Monica Mountains, courses through the eastern end of the property to the ocean.

 

The reefs of Big Rock Beach are known for diving, and its rocky shores make for excellent shore fishing, diving, and kayaking. 

 

The nearby Getty Villa Museum, housed in a re-created Roman country home, features ancient Greek and Roman art and tranquil gardens.

 

Stroll along the historic Malibu Pier for sweeping views of the coast, dolphin sightings, restaurants, and shopping.

 

Big Rock is home to a number of excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include: