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Malibu Colony Aerial View – 4 Malibu Real Estate

Home » Communities » Malibu Colony – Malibu’s Iconic Gated Beachfront Community

Historic. Private. Prestigious. The most storied oceanfront enclave on the California coast.


Welcome to Malibu Colony

Malibu Colony is one of the world’s most exclusive beachfront communities—famous for its rich Hollywood history, unmatched privacy, and pristine stretch of protected sandy beach. Behind its guarded gates, residents enjoy a rare blend of coastal luxury, community charm, and a uniquely walkable lifestyle just moments from Malibu’s shops, dining, and iconic surf spots.


Life Inside the Gates

Often referred to simply as “The Colony,” this intimate enclave features approximately 120 oceanfront and beach-adjacent homes, each with its own architectural personality—from classic beach cottages to contemporary estates.

The south end of Malibu Colony offers some of Malibu’s best sand and surf, partly protected by the natural reef at Old Joe’s.

Life inside the gates feels calm, private, and residential, yet just outside is everything Malibu is known for—Nobu, the Malibu Country Mart, Malibu Village, the Malibu Pier, Surfrider Beach, and the Malibu Lagoon.

Beach-level view of Malibu Colony homes along the sandy shoreline


A Look Back – Malibu Colony Then & Now

First established in the 1920s, Malibu Colony quickly became a retreat for Hollywood’s Golden Age. Actors, directors, and creatives flocked here for privacy and ocean breezes. Early black-and-white photos show the original guard gate, the wooden boardwalks, and rows of quaint beach cottages that lined the shore long before Malibu experienced modern growth.

Today, the Colony remains a prestigious, tightly held community—but the architecture has evolved into high-end coastal estates while still retaining the neighborhood charm that made it legendary.

Historic photo of the original Malibu Colony guard gate with gatekeeper

 

Current entrance gate to Malibu Colony, the private guard-gated beachfront community in Malibu, California

 

Historic photo of the Marblehead Land Co. office promoting Rancho Malibu Lands and the Motion Picture Colony

 

Historic 1932 aerial photo of Malibu Colony beachfront homes

 

 

Historical black-and-white image of early Malibu Colony residences along the beach

Early beachfront homes in Malibu Colony during its formative years.


Community Features & Lifestyle Highlights

24/7 Guard-Gated Privacy

Highly secure entrance with monitored access to ensure privacy for residents and guests.

Unmatched Walkability

One of Malibu’s rare walkable neighborhoods, with easy access to:

  • Malibu Country Mart

  • Malibu Village

  • Nobu

  • The Pier

  • Surfrider Beach

  • Malibu Lagoon

Sandy Beachfront Living

Homes sit directly on the sand with panoramic ocean views and direct beach access.

Oceanfront deck with lounge chairs overlooking the sandy beach in Malibu Colony

Architectural Variety

Beach cottages, Cape Cod styles, contemporary estates, and custom architectural homes.

Oceanfront luxury home at 23357 Malibu Colony Rd with beachfront deck, lounge seating, and panoramic coastal views.

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Neighborhood Feel

Despite its profile, the Colony maintains a close-knit, friendly neighborhood atmosphere.


Malibu Colony Real Estate Overview

Homes in Malibu Colony are among the most coveted and tightly held properties on the West Coast. Inventory is typically limited and off-market opportunities are common.

You’ll Find:

  • Oceanfront estates on sandy beach

  • Behind-the-gate interior homes with beach access

  • Architectural custom homes

  • Long-term & seasonal luxury rentals

Malibu Colony property values reflect its global desirability, walkability, and historic prestige—offering a rare combination of privacy and proximity.

For homeowners, we also offer full-service Malibu property management tailored to oceanfront and luxury estates.


Work With a Trusted Local Expert

With deep Malibu roots and decades of experience representing oceanfront properties, 4 Malibu Real Estate—led by longtime local and Malibu Colony specialist Andy Lyon—offers unmatched neighborhood insight, market expertise, and strategic guidance. We are proud long-time members of the Malibu Chamber of Commerce.

Looking for on- or off-market Malibu Colony opportunities?


Contact 4 Malibu Real Estate for a confidential consultation.


Malibu Colony FAQs

Is Malibu Colony open to the public?

No. Malibu Colony is a private, guard-gated community.

How many homes are inside the gates?

Approximately 120 properties, including beachfront and interior homes.

Can interior homes access the beach?

Yes. All homes have convenient access to the sandy shoreline.

How is Malibu Colony different from other beachfront neighborhoods?

Its privacy, Hollywood history, and central walkability are unmatched anywhere else in Malibu.

Is Malibu Colony good for full-time or seasonal living?


Both. Many residents enjoy year-round living, while others use their homes seasonally.

Are rentals available?


Yes. Long-term and seasonal rentals are available, though limited and often off-market.

What surf break is near Malibu Colony?

“Old Joe’s,” a reef-protected break that also helps preserve the sandy beach.


Map of Malibu Colony

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