Driving down a winding road through the mountains, we pop out of the Malibu hills to witness a 180-degree view of the coastline, aka the picturesque idea of paradise, laid right before of our eyes. Nestled between some shopping plazas and gated beach front homes, was Malibu Lagoon State Beach, also known as Surfrider Beach.  As we walked down the lagoons dirt path through the spiraling pathways that were flanked with wildflowers popping out on both sides, we decide to enjoy one of the many scenic outlooks that were provided in the lagoon area. With the restoration efforts that have been taking place in the watershed, came the return of several species that created a little biodiverse haven full of various bird species and fishes that haven’t been seen in this location in decades, including snowy plovers, steel head trout, and goby’s.

I noticed that not only was there a lot diversity among the type of species found in the lagoon, but also a large diversity in people that came to enjoy this beach in their own unique way. We walked pass several people decked out with camera lens that were larger than my neck, snapping what seemed like a million clicks per minute of the birds, as they sat on egg shaped seats or camouflaged in the caged bird blinds to avoid disturbing the wildlife. There were clusters of guys lugging their surfboards straight down the path towards the beach to enjoy the surprisingly clear water and roaring waves.

Alongside, there were families with children running and screaming towards the beach in excitement to play in the sand and stick their feet in the water. There were multiple plaques along the trail where many could learn about the wildlife and restoration work that has taken place. There were also benches and wooden lounge chairs filled with people taking a nap or just posting up to take in the scenery.

As I continued to walk through the pathway, there were tiles that lined the end of the path that led to a spiraled path that was half sunken under the waterline, which seemed a bit odd at first. The tiles were labeled with different feet measurements that signaled how high the tide was and tuned the experiencer into the natural cycles and environment with showing how high the water levels reached during different times of the year as they walked down the pathway. Visiting this beach for the first time, made me think of the how protecting and preserving these these kinds of areas can in turn create a multitude of additional benefits to everyone through its natural beauty, resourceful ecosystem, and multitude of recreational activities generated.