Malibu is derived from Hu-ma-li-wo, a Chumash word that roughly translates to “where the surf sounds loudly.”

Pictured below is El Matador Beach, situated at the western bounds of the city of Malibu, tucked behind 150 ft high cliffs. El Matador is a relatively small pocket beach that is best explored during low tide. On calm sunny days, as one descends down the cliff-hugging trail, the sea is clear with emerald undertones; it’s hard to believe a place like this exists here in Los Angeles—but it does. El Matador’s seascape is even more dramatic when the smaller rocks can be observed peeking above the water surface. When low tide coincides with the setting sun, the experience can be quite magical.

Read my blog post on the psychological effects of viewing forms, textures, and patterns of tidal landscapes here.