The Ribbon We Missed: A Love Letter to PCH, Santa Monica to Malibu
Oh, Pacific Coast Highway. How we’ve missed you! For about 5 months, the familiar ribbon of asphalt that winds along our cherished coastline, connecting Santa Monica to Malibu, was largely inaccessible. The recent Palisades Fire, with its devastating sweep through our canyons, followed by the inevitable mudslides, left this vital artery choked and impassable. It was a stark reminder of just how essential this stretch of State Route 1 (SR 1) is to our daily lives, our commutes, and our very sense of community.
SR 1, at a staggering 656 miles, it is the longest State Route road in California. But for residents, it isn't just a road; it's a lifeline that hugs almost the entirety of California's stunning coast. For those of us who call this corner of Los Angeles County home, it's that 21-mile stretch from Santa Monica, through the winding curves of Pacific Palisades, and into the heart of Malibu that truly holds our hearts.
A Legacy Forged in Dreams and Determination
It’s easy to take PCH for granted now, but its very existence is a testament to vision and grit. The dream of a coastal highway, connecting isolated communities and unveiling California’s breathtaking beauty, began to take shape in the 1910s and 20s. Construction truly kicked into gear in the 1930s, offering much-needed jobs during the Great Depression.
But building through Malibu? That was a different story entirely. For centuries, this land was home to the Chumash people, who knew it as "Humaliwo," meaning "the surf sounds loudly." Later, it became the vast 17,000-acre Rindge Ranch, fiercely guarded by May Rindge after her husband’s death. May Rindge was a formidable opponent, battling tirelessly in court, even attempting to have Malibu declared a forest preserve, all to prevent public access. She fought the construction of the Roosevelt Highway (as PCH was initially known) tooth and nail for decades.
Yet, despite her impassioned efforts, the State ultimately prevailed. In 1929, construction of the Roosevelt Highway through Malibu began, marking the end of the Rindge family's exclusive control and opening this secluded enclave to the wider world. It was a turning point, transforming Malibu from a private domain into the more accessible, iconic coastal community we know today. The completion of PCH spurred development, leading to the creation of the Malibu Colony and its gradual evolution into a beloved destination for residents and visitors alike.
Our Shared Memories on the Open Road
Today, PCH remains both a crucial transportation route and a legendary scenic drive, offering unparalleled views of the Pacific coastline. It's more than just asphalt and white lines; it's a symbol of California's laid-back lifestyle, a pathway to sun-drenched beaches and endless ocean vistas.
And for those of us who’ve traversed it countless times, it's also a repository of cherished memories, punctuated by the familiar landmarks we will miss deeply . How many times have we smiled at the ever-changing, wonderfully witty sea-puns on the sign for The Reel Inn? Or anticipated the fragrant aromas wafting from Cholada Thai Beach House? The romantic glow of Moonshadows has graced countless evenings, and the easygoing vibe of Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio has beckoned us to unwind. And who could forget the quirky charm of the Malibu Feed Bin, a little piece of rustic history nestled among the coastal glamour?
These weren’t just businesses; they were milestones along our personal journeys, woven into the fabric of our lives on this beautiful stretch of coast. With PCH gradually reopening, we'll once again embrace its curves and celebrate its enduring presence, a testament to resilience, history, and the simple joy of a drive along the Pacific.
