Our City Expert's Tips

The Adamson House sits on a bluff overlooking a particularly scenic stretch of coast. Walk to the edge of the grounds for a view of Malibu Lagoon State Beach. A section of it known as Surfrider Beach is one of the most famous surf spots in California. The lagoon itself is hugely popular with birders.

History Buff
While at the Adamson House also check out the exhibits at the adjacent Malibu Lagoon Museum, which tell the fascinating story of how Malibu came to be, including the Indian origin of the name itself.

Family Time
Many children grew up in this house. The bedroom of Merritt Jr. still has his pajamas laid out on his bed. Looking at them it's hard to imagine that he grew to be 6'4" by the time he was 14 years old! In fact, he grew so fast that his family had to build him his own little cabin away from the main house.

Outside the house, look for the tiled dog bath where the kids had to take the family's numerous dogs to bathe them. It's on the side of the house facing the Pacific Coast Hwy, near the service entrance. There's also a whelping shed where mama dogs could give birth and then stay until the pups were ready for their "coming out" party. There were plenty of animals raised on the grounds, including poultry and rabbits.

Artsy
One of the most impressive sections of the house is the entryway, with its floor decorated with a Persian-style "rug" made entirely out of hand-painted tile. It's a terrific trompe l'oeil.

Tips From Other Travelers