Why you should NEVER surf Malibu

I break down why you should resist the urge to surf Malibu with examples of the pure chaos that exist there.
Find me on instagram: @iambradjacobson
Find me on Tik Tok: @iambradjacobson
Thanks for watching! I'm Brad Jacobson and I'll sea ya on the sand.

[@pfhamilton]

LA traffic meets the ocean

[@user-ym8xn9kk9d]

🤣🤣🤣 This is the best description I’ve ever heard

[@glenj.taylor2938]

​@@user-ym8xn9kk9d I couldn't agree more. 😄

[@FredyArg]

How much do you want to bet, the same people causing this jam, are the same ones who cause jams in traffic? Lol

[@MartinAston00]

Love when people claim LA traffic to be so bad. It’s really not, some of the best freeway engineering in the Country. Places like Dallas, Bay Area, and Atlanta are wayyy worse. Also seem to be worse drivers as well.

[@striderranger7384]

“This is the city, Los Angeles, California”. Dragnet. World population 1960, 3 billion. World population November 2022, 8 billion.

[@davidpeck596]

I surfed Malibu one time. It was 1996 or so. I live in San Diego and my kids lived in LA with their mom. So I came up on a Saturday to see them and take them to the beach. They were 9 and 11. There was a small but consistent south swell, I paddled out and had an uneventful hour or so of sitting on my board and not getting any waves due to not being local and not wanting to challenge any of the other 1000 or so surfers out that day. So I moved outside and finally, a good size wave came my way. I looked around and no one was paddling so I grabbed it. As I rode the wave I was amazed that I had it all to myself, it felt like divine intervention. That was one of the longest waves of my life, not the best wave ever, but it was mine. After that I was done for the day, I surfed Malibu.

[@bulgn]

So you don’t live with your kids and when you do you hangout by yourself in the water. Father of the year material. No wonder you split up

[@unkoiboi]

no one cares haole

[@SexiSeahawk69]

@@bulgnyou don’t even know this guy. Looks like you had daddy issues? I’m asking. Either way that’s some crap you would only ever say on the internet where you can cower behind the keyboard. Big man right there!

[@amir4r803]

I had a similar experience; the locals would go on the first and second waves of the set. Us tourists would snag the third and fourth waves. It awesome to watch the locals connect the section from First Point to the Inside. Met Michael Doyle during that session.

[@davidpeck596]

Awesome....Dick@@bulgn

[@NONSTOPSURFF]

As a novice, I'm incredibly surprised by the lack of awareness and disregard for other people on the wave. The first board I bought was a Wavestorm and it came with actual surf etiquette instructions outlining how to respect the lineup and not drop in. I've been surfing for almost a year now and am still surprised at how crazy Malibu is. We all make mistakes but seeing them look directly at a surfer and still decide to drop in baffles me.

[@vickryan]

That behavior is called asshole-ism. Same people who won't let you in, when you're trying to do a lane change on the roadway.

[@rhidiandavies1991]

Lol they're not making mistakes, this isn't an accident, it's a culture that's developed there over decades of overcrowding. It's what most of our spots will look like in another 50 years when there are no empty waves left

[@NONSTOPSURFF]

@@rhidiandavies1991 yea brah that’s what I said lmao

[@patrickbutler87]

respect

[@danielblack5196]

This is Los Angeles.

[@webinarprofessor]

I'm now 76 years old, and started surfing Malibu in 1963. As I watched this video, I thought to myself "back then some of these clowns would have received a beat-down on the beach - by a few of the local all-time greats". Thank you Brad for posting this video. Rich Muller

[@smelltheglove2038]

Localism is a good thing. I don’t care how many Johnny come-latelys cry about it.

[@collinmc90]

That's all I could think of while watching this. When I was a kid if you were snaking people like this it was immediately out of the water and onto the sand lol.

[@mikesrandomvideos]

yea now the California nonsense laws protect stupid people .

[@apointonacurve]

Violence solves everything. Noted.

[@squarecracker]

@@apointonacurve This but without irony. Every strong word is backed by the implied threat of violence or it's worth nothing. Really, what are you gonna do about it?

[@Trempi.]

Dude on the blue boards gotta go. First almost took that woman’s leg out then did the same thing to the guy who pushed him away. Even after being confronted does the exact same thing. These are the people who get others hurt in the water.

[@latentsea]

Time to bust out the caveman clubs and go fun battle zone

[@jiblet-on2bs]

yeah he's the definition of kook. I can't believe how many beginners think they can go out there and clog the lineup....lol

[@dreammaker9642]

Someone needs to cut his leash lmao… he can learn how to surf on his swim back to shore 🎉

[@BeachLookingGuy]

if he started splashing at me during an argument after he cut me off i would have started throwing hands.

[@joeldukes303]

They all have to go. Choosing to go out in this gridlock is deserving of a drowning.

[@cruisinwithcoop]

I've been surfing 1st, 2nd and 3rd point Malibu consistently for my entire life and I can attest that getting waves out there is difficult. Over the years I've learned how to find the right waves and how to get a good amount of those waves to myself. It takes a lot of patience to find the right wave, to take off in the right place and negotiate the crowd on your way to the beach. We have had a number of days like this video in recent past where we get a good swell and everyone comes to Malibu. The problem with that is that your taking a world class wave and having kooks paddle out thinking they own the place. There are also a handful of "bad apples" out in the lineup that are always out there on good days and they give zero fux about everyone else. So it's forsure a melting pot of issues. However the wave is incredible and the beach itself means a lot to me so I'll be out there fighting for waves for forever.

[@juliotorres3618]

Don't forget that the etiquette at kiddies and 3rd is A LOT better than at 1st.

[@jeffpestano1296]

Malibu is disgusting. The people are disgusting g. The water is disgusting. What does that make you? ;)

[@Steve-wh2gd]

Brad,this isn't just a Surfer thing it's society. Lack of moral's and respect towards each other.

[@BradJacobson]

Great point!

[@ErgoCogita]

Not really. There’s more negative interaction today because there’s more people. Don’t confuse quantity with quality.

[@goldenroux612]

The locals only mentality in OB regulated this behavior back in the day. RIP surf punks and OB rats. Next thing you know they will put a cell phone holder on boards, a definite win for poseurs.

[@dc5763]

All biden supporters

[@ADM-wt9cn]

@@goldenroux612 that mentaility also goes to far though.. beating up newbies on the water aint cool. you learn your lesson sure... but throwing hands is wild

[@notmychannelname42]

I don't even surf, but I feel like I'm learning the most important parts of it first. Seems like this is the kind of stuff that people would teach first before you even step into the water.

[@JonLouis-hc7kj]

Agreed, that’s a good way to put it

[@LongTimeITWorker]

I grew up in the south bay and have been surfing since the 1960's and have seen plenty of crowds. But this video is probably the most depressing thing I have ever seen in my life. Please continue making these. Perhaps a few people will learn from these.

[@dinomak69]

The whole state is ruined from these rich tekkie types from the east coast. Everything is gentrified for them. I grew up surfing San Francisco to Santa Cruz area , and it's looks just like this vid in our lineups. F'n kooks.

[@Mike-dx9lh]

Yeah, been slowly getting worse for years. Got a hell of a lot worse during covid though. Tons of new adult "surfers"

[@corail53]

@@Mike-dx9lh It's called a sport reaching mass popularity. This happens in every sport. There are videos from the early days of breaks being overly crowded as well and then there was that time when violence towards other surfers was the norm. Malibu has always had issues.

[@DARTHKNOWS76]

@@Mike-dx9lh dude i know right like there are more than just 1 spot you just have to wake up earlier to get to them .

[@BillyGoodmen]

Wow haven't been back in 30years big change in traffic

[@user-eg7nj1is7l]

PLEASE KEEP MAKING THESE! I think it's vital for the sport and especially for education in the area that people are made aware of this chaos. I haven't surfed bu in 3 years bc it's gotten so terrible exacerbated and amplified from greenies during covid who never learned properly. I have had about 6 boards ruined in 2020 alone to make me quite that spot permanently.

[@wuzhattenin]

Yea I feel like clueless beginners have been worse than ever since covid. And I used to be able to call people out rightfully so, but I’ve just stopped doing it altogether because most of these quarantine surfers act like I’m the asshole for letting them know they’re putting other people in danger.

[@123richo123]

The bigger question is who rolls up to a spot, sees 150 surfers already on it, and still paddles out?!? There are always less crowded options - with Malibu that would be every other option.

[@agangofkooks4913]

They’re all npcs. I was literally surfing at a good spot in Malibu this morning by myself, meanwhile there are a million people at first point.

[@andywoods7935]

@@agangofkooks4913I call it the lemming effect. Instead of looking to avoid crowds as I do, most people see a crowd and think that’s where they should be

[@dreammaker9642]

Wait until you surf in Hawaii my guy 😂 you’d be lucky if there’s only 30 heads in there… only spots that are crazy dangerous will sometimes only have 3-4 ballzy crazies… those are the fun ones… lot of these crowds have no clue what they are doing tho so in some spots it’s easy to get away from them and get some waves… It’s short lived tho cause almost every time I’ll end up with 5 people following me cause they see I’m catching waves… then I just play with them and frantically paddle out as if I saw something out back when really I didn’t and just want to waste their energy 😂

[@dreammaker9642]

@@agangofkooks4913trick is to get good enough to surf spots no one wants to surf… has price tho, I got plenty of smoke doing that

[@dwad3ify]

@@andywoods7935conformity is a helluva drug!

[@Swimmer47]

Nothing has changed since 1965 when I was surfing Malibu with a 9’6” Weber. This is actually an average number from 11 am on. Better to be in the line up in the early morning. Very early. You might get parking too. Still, I love it. Have since I was 16. And will continue to,go. Actually, things have improved since you don’t have MICKEY DORA coming down from the “point”, who used, to push folks off their boards, despite the rocks that are only two feet below the surface. Also, boards have leashes. We didn’t have leashes. You fall off, you have to step gingerly over the rocks and hope your board washed up on the beach is not covered with new, penetrated “dings”. AND, we didn’t have full wetsuits. You see someone wearing a full wetsuit you’d laugh your ass off. We may have worn neoprene vests, but a full outfit? Didn’t exist. It’s worse down south. You might try Rincon near Santa Barbara but it’s a mess too. Further north, ya gotta worry about nine foot juvenile White Sharks, a new concern. Ah, surfing…gotta love it.

[@webinarprofessor]

Trackrider, you put a huge smile on my face! Started surfing Malibu in 63. Had a 9'2" Hobie with wood stringers that I loved to death. Would never have gotten in front of Mickey, as he would have teed my board just to be an ass and make a point. Don't get on a wave with me! Lance retzel wasn't much better. My favorite surfer was Phil Edwards. He was so smooth and elegant! Did you ever serve Killer Dana? My buddies and I would drive down there when the south swell was breaking and find that it wasn't so crowded. It didn't close-out until 10-12', depending on the tides. Those were the days. Thanks again for posting. Rich, 76YO

[@rykcan-4411]

this is gold. if more people saw this maybe surf etiquette would improve. the concept of this video might even be compelling enough to build a web series around it.

[@corail53]

People see this everyday on the break - etiquette is a joke of a concept, surfers are inherently selfish and it has caused violence in the past.

[@jimbobbillybob]

nah. A sucker is born every minute

[@TaylorShockey]

I'd watch it. Sounds like a legit good idea.

[@abytc2023]

Etiquette isn't the issue. The cutting off is retaliatory-against the ppl hogging waves and not sharing.

[@xisotopex]

@@abytc2023 the real issue is people thinking they "deserve" waves even though they lack the skill, havent put in the time and think they can drop in in front of surfers that are far more skilled than them.

[@lukeserio95]

I can feel a trend coming on with these videos. Please don’t stop making them! People will eventually catch on and surf etiquette will hopefully start to improve across the board!! Great watch.

[@matthewfors114]

across the board LOL

[@dicksanders8206]

Surf eqiquette won't improve because if you're not aggressive, you will get nothing.

[@amir5678100]

Brad this is gold, can we get more videos like this?

[@BradJacobson]

Yep, I'll produce more soon. Thanks.

[@TheGratty]

Unfortunately, yes.

[@ElCanero7]

The man with the blue board dropped two times creating a very dangerous situation....he should be forced out the spot everytime he comes surfing.

[@afonsomendes92]

ikr he's even debating with the first girl lol what a douche

[@randyc750]

From an old school retired skateboarder, this was a great education on surf-etiquette. Thank you.

[@Antmanmoto]

Malibu used to be such a localized spot back in the 80's 90's. If you surfed there you had better hope you dont drop in or even turn for a wave somebody is already on. This looks like the tourists and kooks have fully taken over. Half of them shouldnt even be in the water!

[@invention-city]

It wasn't like Topanga. I started surfing Malibu in 1994 as a beginner. If you were polite and respectful, you were treated decently. There was a shift at Third around 9-10am when top level surfers arrived and it stopped being quite as friendly. But the long board guys and gals at First were always cool... so long as you showed respect.

[@robbrooks693]

The foam boards have lowered the barrier for entry into surfing and IMO, added to the problems out there. Back in the day, we had to worry about navigating around the spongers...now they just go to Costco and pick up a board for $99. I also see way more chicks in the lineup than I ever saw 30 years ago.

[@t0masibrudoctor534]

Can confirm this phenomenon is occurring all over Sydney Australia too. The best waves are in the quiet coastal towns with a dozen surfers on one break and heaps of quiet spots everywhere else.

[@SoniaHamiltonSnowfrog]

The Pass in Byron is like this too, I avoid it like the plague. Better to find the smaller messier waves with few/no other surfers.

[@nichobee]

I've noticed a few guys from high school recently taking up surfing, when 10 years ago they would never have taken it up. I think the sport/recreation is starting to outgrow its billabong and ripcurl surfie subculture and draw in more participants

[@kaeolandon-lane3429]

Come to Tassie. A dozen surfers is busier than it gets on Australia Day

[@TheSydguy30]

It's mostly from tourists in Sydney. The locals know what is right and wrong.

[@BourneIdentity45]

i feel like it's becoming the case with a lot of things all over the world like these sometimes its better to gatekeep spots than spread the word because of the amount of people end up coming and ruining it for the people actually from the areas

[@delphinoulysseswilliams7357]

PLEASE PLEASE MAKE MORE OF THESE! LOVED IT FROM START TO END! THANK YOU!

[@BradJacobson]

I will! Thanks

[@Easy_Reef]

I surfed one time in my life, in huntington beach a bit further south. The spot was crowded but not as bad as this. As a new surfer, I thought to myself : "This is pure chaos". It seemed like everyone got on the wave when they wanted to and there was no ''rule'' or "priority" to follow. I feel like to an experienced surfer, the "Code of Conduct" is clear but for someone like me who just rented a wetsuit and a surfboard, I didn't understand what I did right or wrong in regards to that.

[@reddiver7293]

You position yourself as close to the sweet spot as your skill and ability to fight allow you to.

[@proconsumersafety]

This video is an excellent example of why there is basic surf etiquette. This video can be great to show those at rental shops and surf camps. The problem is not only in Malibu, I see it all over California. Looking at the types of likely rental or tourist cheaper foam boards in the water in this video, it is likely these people need to learn surf etiquette. Just like making sure you know how to swim before going surfing. It can save your life and others. I surf this but I also have another surf spot where I can get my own waves. But not often in Malibu, except in early fall, in evenings after sunset is great. But then I should not say this. But that is also the time not for beginners or tourists or those with boards from rentals. I also see surf camps and board rental companies where these are the surfers at risk that have no idea. These companies need to talk about surf etiquette. Thank you for showing in such great detail the results of drop-ins, etc. The following is a great resource on surf etiquette as well [kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnTEmoSPi6qoqpY].

[@laurat1129]

Funny, I have your suggested etiquette vid already in my very long surf playlist. Once a kook in SoCal 20 yrs ago, now a 51 y.o. kook in NE. Joined a women's group last year, then took private and got to know a few ppl in a couple different communities. One of the first things I asked my instructor was to give me the 411 on etiquette, the lineup, the local area, then surfing and waves. Also, we have to contend w/recent stormy weather, respect limited parking and summer surf hours, watch Surfline, etc. It's still nowhere near as crowded or territorial here, though, and other more experienced veteran sufers seem mostly open to questions as well. At my age, I'm looking for a fun but peaceful and safe vibe out there in whatever time I have left in this life. The 'Bu now looks like a buncha egos, Fight Club, and who needs that?

[@crunchers9]

We need to have a $50 surcharge on those rental boards, to pay for surf police!

[@Gubuyguy]

This video should be mandatory watching for anyone surfing in crowded areas. I know I've learned a lot from this video.

[@invention-city]

Malibu First Point has been a disaster since before I started surfing nearly 30 years ago. But 2nd and especially 3rd, have far better surfers and far smaller crowds. And the view up the canyon from 2nd at sunrise is one of the best views in Southern California. If you're lucky, just before sunrise, on a mid-sized day, even a barely passable surfer (like me), can connect from 2nd to 1st with a wave all to yourself.

[@mscar7609]

I grew up surfing San Clemente Pier/T-Street. I took off on a wave that had a left and a right. I thought I would go right and the guy to my left would go left. We both went right, while looking at each other face to face the other guy with both arms shoved me off the wave. I was pissed, I looked back at the guy to tell him off while I saw him do the biggest 360 aerial I've ever seen. I didn't say anything lol

[@richardewels6280]

A big thanks to all involved for a thoroughly entertaining spectacle. Wouldn't surf there in a thousand years but enjoyed watching it the way I like a good horror movie.

[@BradJacobson]

🤣🤣🤣

[@jennsurfbruja]

omg ... first off, THANK YOU for making this video and THANK YOU for pointing out with such clarity not just the errors, but what to do to correct them! I can't tell you how many times I've preached exactly what you are saying (and also shamelessly in my own local lineups because I've had several above encounters unfortunately) ... I've said this before, but have been met with some resistance but this is EXACTLY WHY WE NEED TO STOP COACHING BEGINNER SURFERS TO WAIT ON THE SHOULDER ON A POINT BREAK! This is why learning board control and surfing fundamentals needs to come before popup lessons and cut backs. Most of the hazardous surfers featured above likely think that their surfing is "fine" and they are not an issue. I will most certainly be sharing this video ALL over the internet! Animo, Jenn

[@lukehunter3902]

Please keep making these type of videos and calling these kooks out!!! They ruin a beautiful wave!!!

[@music4lifesux]

I was laughing the entire time. Thank you for making this. I like to think that one day we can move away from scarcity mentality and localism and actually share this beautiful activity we all love, but this is NOT the way to do it.

[@bobbyg4100]

Great video analysis. Love the Arrows To point out the absolute selfishness of California surfers. No culture or consideration. I watched a friend of mine that was a shoulder hopper get put in a headlock and face punched out in Newport Beach and I didn’t do anything about it. My selfish, rude and inconsiderate surfing friend deserved every punch he got. I warned him for years. Great coverage Brad. God Bless 🙏🏼

[@fungus_am0nguz644]

I had a friend that his nickname was the octopus, since he had the bad habit of dropping in on everyone, like tentacles, did it just because. He was a pretty good surfer. One time, he picks me up to go to a spot and the waves were on that day and it wasnt really crowded, not yet at least. Anyways, he does it again, drops in and he gets pummeled on the water and on the sand...funny thing, it was by me, i kicked his ass that morning, bad. Since he picked me up, he left me there and i had to catch a ride home with another friend. After that beat down, we werent friends anymore for a long time, now we are amicable but never like before. So i understand why you didnt backed your friend that time.

[@KhadirBek]

@@fungus_am0nguz644 you literally just admitted to assault and battery, you diva. Check your petty righteousness, you don't get to be violent, because "don't drop in" isn't actually the law of the land. Use your words, dude. Cus your friend out or help people understand why what they're doing is dangerous, no need to commit a felony.

[@fungus_am0nguz644]

@@KhadirBek assault and battery? Felony? lol jesus dude what kind a bitch ass made thing are u? It was just a scrap (some punches to the face) between two men that were once good friends. sometimes u gotta check your friends even your family members, sometimes words will do sometimes they dont. Not only that, u werent even there the gillizion times i got into fights and tussles and shouting contest w other people bc of this mfer. U thought the nickname was joking?? octopus, He was (not anymore....at least not like before)a habitually line stepper drop in s.o.b., so punches were thrown, a nod afterwards, end of story. .....assault and battery to a friend? gtfoh

[@matthewpatten1068]

This is a great depiction of where our society is today and dichotomy of elders vs noobs I grew up in SM in the mid 70s/80s. Did a lot of body and boogie boarding, some surfing. Never considered going to Malibu out of a manner of respect. I always felt you had to earn your way in and pay your dues. Work your way to the special stuff and earn it. Been gone from CA for 30 years. People where I live often ask me about going to Ca on vacation and they want to try surfing. I tell them to get a foamy and go to Venice. I think half the people in this video shouldn’t be there to begin with On a separate note, visited 8 years ago with my kids. Went to the tide pools but couldn’t find any starfish. I asked a lifeguard and he said tourists take them and there are no more

[@dripnshoot]

some people just don't belong in the water. smh

[@adamosgood]

I leaned to surf at Malibu of all places. Was pretty chaotic. One day I was sick of fighting to catch a wave. We had a really good swell that day and it was a big crowd. I paddled way further out than the lineup. I just sat out there for over an hour and then finally a huge set came in, the set of the day, I was in the perfect spot and everyone was scrambling just to not get wiped out. I caught the wave, had a beautiful long ride all to myself. I’ll never forget that wave.

[@DJbradee]

That sound’s epic!

[@masterofnone1481]

I feel like in situations like this everyone knows it’s a free-for-all, and that’s what makes it fun

[@andrewsouza3909]

The last time that I surfed Malibu, I did this snap as a beginner was paddling over the wave, and my tail slammed him in the foot. I looked, and he was on the beach limping back to the parking lot. I should have went in to check on him (*I didn't mean to do it, and my tail slid out of the water and nailed him,) but I had too much ego, I guess? I should have offered to pay his doctor bill, and made friends and took him out. That was nearly 30 years ago. I still feel bad. Us surfers should be watching out for each other. Aloha.

[@ylana4444]

That’s trauma…traumatizing to him and to you! We all beat ourselves up over mistakes we’ve made in life and can literally keep beating ourselves up years later! My therapist says forgive yourself, you were in a different space or time, things may have been going on in your life. Be compassionate with yourself and know we all make mistakes for whatever reason. By the sound of your last statement….you’re a good person. It doesn’t help to foster that guilt inside. It just doesn’t do anyone any good. Forgive yourself and express your kindness now in your next surf session!

[@vickryan]

You're a good man. I can see that in you. Accidents happen.

[@andrewsouza3909]

@@ylana4444 👍😎🍵

[@andrewsouza3909]

@@vickryan 🌴😎🤙

[@dylanrobertson5010]

Grew up surfing Malibu. Learning to navigate crowds was part of the fun.

[@Jim-fe2xz]

We went to Malibu in 63 but rode the soup (white water now) trying to learn. I knew a girl whose parents had a house at Latigo which we loved even less crowded. I have to say the only time I see any kind of courtesy or even situational awareness is on days that aren't that good and hardly anyone out! We used to go to Mondos & hear leaders of surf classes say "Just take off - they'll get out of your way or miss you"! I've even had people at Doheny wading out right in front of me as I spin and take off then fuss at me for coming close to them. Of course the waves there aren't usually as big so somewhat less dangerous. I used to say and still do think surfers are cool but everyone sure seems pretty dense these days! Agreed! Doesn't look fun to me at Malibu but I bet when conditions aren't that good it could be.....

[@ylana4444]

I once surfed Malibu at one foot , no one out and actually had a blast!

[@paulcombes3782]

Brad , this is essential viewing for surf schools in my opinion . Excellent job mate .

[@purasurfa]

This is a great PSA with very kind narration! Some need enlightenment. New genre...maybe? Different spots...Lowers? Let some advanced level surfers narrate so the point really sinks in! The more comical the better! No pros though because they're binded by contractual obligations. Thanks, Brad!

[@premkrishnan7721]

Fantastic analysis. You clearly know what you're talking about, and that... utter carnage. So many people who need to stop thinking about themselves and share the waves. Thank you for posting this.

[@ScottBallard]

Thank you for making these many points. I haven't always lived in Santa Cruz, but, this sort of thing has caused me to surf less and less at spots that should be super mellow and fun.

[@danielmoffett7635]

A tribute to Slick who shaped my first board in Lahaina for 75$. Slick was one awesome man...

[@danielmoffett7635]

My biggest regret. Bringing Esther to Maui. Nathan Moffett born on front St.Still won't talk to me? I made alot of bad decisions. Giving life to Nathan wasn't one of them.Hey Bob Mason did you enjoy my wife.

[@danielmoffett7635]

Finally I had my problem's big one's 😮. Esther I forgive you. You lied , you never went to Lahainaluna.That was the deal.FINISH YOUR EDUCATION.SORRYFOR CRAIG, HIS BROTHER jenks, Johnny etc.etc.........

[@jeffreej33]

​@@danielmoffett7635 WTF?

[@robertyoung2135]

I surfed Malibu from early 60’s until 12 years ago when I moved to Utah. Your video is one of the reasons I quit surfing. Topanga is the same. When I joined the MSA ( Malibu Surfing Association) the crowd was a little respectful of us and we of them. The LAPD had the police Olympics and in the mid 80’s, for five years, I coached our surf team and completed to prepare for the police competition. It was great fun. MSA had an invitational and I have a restaurant place mat signed by Donald Takiyama, Hobby, Dewey, Carson, Zuma Jay. Love the memories you brought back. Bob Young

[@glenj.taylor2938]

Outstanding video Brad! I had the absolute pleasure of surfing Malibu back in 2007 and the local attitude was ever present. I got a few to myself and they were absolute dreamers! With this video alone showing what it's like now, I wouldn't paddle out there unless I was getting paid and had a license to kill.🤣😂🤣

[@BradJacobson]

Thanks!

[@brianharder7714]

I quit surfing (you're welcome) years ago after I left CA. Got back on the board a few times in Maui and then in Bali. Had a great time. But in general, I simply don't miss it because of stuff like this. Such a cool sport with a very aggressive and negative element depending upon where you are.

[@PeterReefman]

Yeah same. Well, very different circumstances, but same thoughts on surfing now. Can get a decent rush from skateboarding, snowboarding, MTB and motocross - where crowds and "home wave" shit just don't exist.

[@davidwerner3022]

I surfed there for years and was able to get around a lot of people and get many all the way down but over the decades it just isn't worth it. I am a beach break rat now, no more madness for me.

[@tomphillips3162]

I started surfing with my brother in 1978, mostly in Northern California. Even on the weekends we would often be the only surfers out. It wasn't a popular sport at the time, the 60's crowd was gone, the surfboard and wetsuit technology was developed making it the best era of surfing. As the years went by we saw it slowly get more and more people getting into the sport. Then that movie Blue Crush came out popularizing the sport, mass surf camps were set up, especially the female surfing population increased and the crowds have been around since then.

[@NoExperienceRequired]

When I first started surfing years ago, I was so excited for a camping & surfing trip in Malibu. Came out and saw it was way too crowded, waited and waited and it only got worse. Decided not to surf that day because even then I knew better. I did surf the next day and it wasn’t as bad as the first but still way too crowded! Never came back

[@typarkertv]

Love the video and your perspective. This echoes the sentiments I have whenever I surf there. Folks should have to watch this video before being allowed to surf anywhere north of Santa Monica 😂

[@niclowe2604]

I visited Malibu about 3 years ago, visiting from Australia where etiquette still exists (at least at our beach). I paddled out on the second day took off on my first wave of the day. I was in great position and got immediately dropped in on by 2 guys, the second one in front of me saw the guy in front of him and bailed throwing his board in the air (no leg rope). As the fin was about to hit me in the forehead I put my hand up (just in time). It almost took my thumb off. A trip to instacare and 30 stitches later. I'm a massage therapist and so there goes my income for several months. I saw him the next day on the beach and he shrugged and said "just a scratch" me with my hand bandaged and on pain meds. It's the most beautiful wave but you take your life in your hands literally. The instacare doc said she had seen horrendous injuries from Malibu. The incredible thing was that it was early and not many surfers in the water yet what the???

[@Hugo4104]

You should never get mad while surfing this wave. If you’re there, you should know what you’re getting yourself into.

[@dalefrank3713]

I used to surf mailbu between 10pm - 3am. the wave is so perfect you barely need to see it, usually theyd be about 5 of us out all catching awesome waves one after another. this was in 2007 so I'm sure there's a grip of people doing it in now.

[@sneakerset]

The primary issue has been the lack of a water safety patrol. The MSA should be policing their hometurf better. Guys like Bam Bam used to be available - courteous to newbies while keeping them at bay and out of the contest zone. Thanks for sharing the carnage,Brad.

[@BeachLookingGuy]

the primary issue is people are morons without a single clue about what's happening around them. situational awareness of surroundings is nonexistent. if you think people have time to be sitting out there coaching morons on how to use their eyes you are sadly mistaken.

[@mullboll33]

Who the fuck is Bam Bam

[@jstaschman420]

@@BeachLookingGuy Probably because they are learning how to surf.

[@BeachLookingGuy]

@@jstaschman420 learning how to surf wont change the lack of common sense

[@jstaschman420]

​@@BeachLookingGuy Its called experience just like anything else. You weren't born knowing how to surf and maybe you were lucky enough to have someone to surf with to show you the ways. But like in any sport the rules will be broken.

[@qanonbrasil5255]

I’m from New Jersey and Malibu was by far the worst wave I’ve surfed in California. Because all the waves I surfed other 3 or 4 surfers came in front, an absurd Crowd. When I returned home it was a feeling of tremendous relief, being able to surf well and without Crowd. I did a good surf in trestles and Huntington beach, but LA? You can forget it!

[@nathane7865]

I have never surfed in my life but I’m getting ready to start surfing soon in my life and man even without all the research I’ve done I just would never want to get in the way of anyone on purpose. That’s just how I think with everything don’t be in the way don’t get in peoples ways it’s just the way life is. The fact that I’m seeing so many people who actually go out there and do that is crazy and I’ve never touched a board in my life and it’s just common sense 😂.

[@TheGratty]

Right on dude. Real surfers recognize beginners who are respectful. Self awareness goes a loooong way.

[@ryangonzales8891]

From all the old surf videos to current ones of Malibu, it’s never changed as far as crowds go. I seen it in person once, it’s a awesome wave no matter what size. I did not have my surfboard with me at the time, I was just hanging out with my ex, just exploring the area and surrounding areas. But when I seen it live and this video, it makes me cringe because its a matter of survival out there. I told myself then, as much as like to surf this wave, I get freaked out with the crowd, and just stick to my local spots I like to surf.

[@ChromeDrone.]

I do wonder whether or not some of those drop-ins were intentional or acts of aggression (rather than pure unawareness). Especially with some of the beginners in these clips, I wonder how many were initially following etiquette but being cut off or shown aggression by the other surfers, and got "taught" to be jerks and drop-in if they were going to get a turn that day.

[@PepperDeVillle]

That's how driving is for me. I try to be nice but people are so rude, I kind of have to be rude as well if I want to get anywhere.

[@hermosafieldsforever4782]

I love the old dudes sitting further out waiting for an outsider, they know.

[@Barrrt]

Honestly I've been a long time beginner and there was new information for me in here. Of course I would never paddle into this madhouse nor would I be obnoxious enough to get into peoples way like that, but seeing the consequence of not following etiquette from this perspective really teaches me why it's there in the first place. Not just for establishing who gets to ride the wave, but for safety and avoiding total clusterf*cks.

[@sw4841]

That’s why I gave up on surfing decades ago It was always a giant mess out There was not fun waiting around.

[@rjhoover5543]

Been surfing Malibu since the 60s off and on and have been out with Dora in the water. It has always been crowded but I think since the pandemic we have an abundance of kooks out in the water who have not been schooled by the earlier generations like we were back in the old days. These pandemic kooks are sadly lacking in smarts and the desire not to remain a kook as everyone gets a trophy nowadays. My generation didn't want to remain as a kook so we got good and the rest fell away and were forgotten or ignored as kooks should be.

[@vickryan]

Makes sense to me. :)

[@xbioman7882]

I stopped surfing Malibu in 1972. Guy took off in front of me. His board had a huge ding in the nose with glass sticking out. Of course he falls right in front of me, his board spins around and hits me just below my right knee. It stripped the skin off my shin to the bone. Took a skin graph to heal it. Out of the water for 3 months.

[@RodneyHaltom]

too many kooks in the water!

[@mrsteveinsandiego]

I did. Paddled to the point, surfed to the pier, got out, went home to carlsbad. Considered it a fun achievement. Yrs n yrs ago....😁😉

[@michaeltoomey60]

kook central

[@bradmanners3278]

Started surfing at 14 years old on a 9'6" Velzy Jacobs noserider and was the only guy out w/o a wetsuit- didnt matter to me, i was lovin' it!! Being a full blown kook, i got in the way a few times and got hollered at, and learned ho stay outta the way- but by the srcond time i "shoulder-hopped" somebody, and got hollered at thats all it took for me to just hold back and watch for awhile and learn how things worked in the world of waves. What i saw was, the deepest guy taking off had full wave rights- others further doen the line, on the shoulder would pull out if the deeper guy got and made his take-off. - but, if the deeper guy pearled or got sucked up n over the falls, or had no chance to make the wave- then it was open to THE NEXT DEEPEST GUY, and that was the rule. It was simple, it was wise and, it was practical- hey if i couldnt make the wave- if i couldnt make the take-off the i had no right to bitch about somebody else further down the line taking off- thatd be pure stupid!! And that oretty much was the unwritten rule for my 26 or so years of surfing...

[@beauxjames1419]

Growing up in Malibu I can tell you, fights break out on the water all the time! Topanga was a locals only break in the 80’s/90’s. Surf riders (Malibu state beach) was open but way over crowded, Zuma to county line could get rough depending on the swell. It was a scene.

[@zf4hp24]

Grew up on Point Dume. We were pretty tolerant of outsiders just as long as you practiced good "etiquette" and took your turn. We knew we had it good.

[@Chance-ry1hq]

This is my all time favorite surfing video.

[@VoltaDoMar]

I'm a kayaker, not a surfer, but I found this video horrifying and fascinating

[@latezgeauxbraindumb8956]

Thank you for taking the time to share this absolutely hilarious video. Born in LA and growing up from Manhattan to Laguna, riding waves from Manhattan to Del Mar, I chose not to attempt Malibu back in the the late 90’s because I saw this, yet on a less crowded scale. This video is more entertaining than watching any movie because it’s real and full of clueless clowns at an unorganized circus. Please share more like this. Next time, I’m making popcorn before watching these fools

[@jonathanalea]

I grew up in Agoura surfing Malibu… you can avoid these crowds if you go at the crack of dawn, you go during the work week, and you surf in winter. 🤙🏼

[@cheesy-p1j]

They are huddled together for comfort. The water is cold and they need to warm each other.

[@kea1234]

I've never surfed but I enjoyed this breakdown.

[@WilliamBay]

I got a chance to surf Malibu once about 10 years ago. It was in the middle of the week on a waist to chest high day. Still kooks everywhere. My strategy was to just wait for all the kooks to try for the first wave of each set, and slide into position for the second wave. If anyone was on a wave, I would only drop in if they had an unmakeable section. Got 3 decent waves in 90 minutes and I checked Malibu off the list.

[@barrybraun9539]

I surfed Malibu in the 80s when people observed surf educate locals always had priority. They would give you a hoot to warn you they're coming. You did not drop in on a local that could equal a fight or a damaged board back then.

[@Angiebanagie]

Malibu “locals only”. I surfed here in the early 2000s. I accidentally took off in front of a guy I didn’t see. He fell onto me as he past and nailed me in the thigh. Hurt like hell for a week

[@venchergaming]

1 year later and i still think the main issue is these people keep paddling out knowing its this crazy. its like being at Ocean Beach during a swell and everyone and their mom trying to shoot the pier at the same time.

[@TheGreatestJediOfAllTime]

I’ve been to malibu tons. Its fine. Just don’t go during summer. Go during spring before or after spring break. Theres plenty of times when it’s basically a ghost town.

[@Sailingthroughlife]

I'm 72 years old and have been surfing since I was 12 years old. I have always been aware of the insanity of Malibu when good waves are breaking. I have just made a blanket decision to not surf Malibu. I grew up surfing in San Diego but I roamed up and down the coast and up into Northern Calif my whole life. There is no break like Malibu, where there is an awesome desirable wave with an insane number of people at all skill levels competing. The lack of surfing etiquette by the less experienced makes Malibu not worth the effort.

[@rockylocey4984]

i would hate surfing if i had to deal with this. I'll never complain about my lineup again

[@reddiver7293]

I had the privilege of talking story with the late surfing legend, Buzzy Trent. Amazing stories! And brother was so humble. He spoke about surfing Malibu in the late 40s/early 50s. No crowds. Commuting from home to beach and back, Buzzy and friends would bury their surfboards before leaving and uncover next morning. He said when they got hungry, they would dive for (back then) plentiful abalone and kelp and roast over a fire on the beach. Buzzy was a really cool guy. I used to swim laps at Ala Moana with him. And sometimes cycle together on Kalanianaole Highway. Anyway, sounds like Buzzy's Malibu days were Heaven on Earth.

[@dicksanders8206]

Because of the crowds we moved down to Topanga. And we would heat canned Chef Boy R Dee spaghetti over a fire. Waves not as good as Malibu but you could get one to yourself. We were young.

[@reddiver7293]

@@dicksanders8206 Sounds like lots of fun, bradda dicksanders.

[@maximilinho]

this made me laugh really hard, great camera work, even better commentary

[@Miami7]

OMG I surfed back in the 70s and 80s and things were way different than this. I don't know if it's lack of critical thinking skills or what. So in the old days we would all be lined up and whoever yelled, "right!" or "left!" first got the wave and the rest stayed back. This was in the days before leashes, so no one was dumb enough to paddle out directly into the lineup.

[@nybe]

SoCal native here... there was a glorious time in the early 80s through the beginning of the internet when charlie didn't surf. I quit surfing years ago when we all got out numbered by the kook:local ratio. Now it's kooks 100:1 all the way down.

[@deanster300]

If you're a really good surfer, and don't mind sharing waves or being in the perfect spot of the wave, Malibu can be a fun place

[@Nando01-68]

You definitely convinced me 😂😂!! Thank you for your great and professional commentary... that was really helpful!

[@johns818]

I learned to surf at Malibu as a kid but as soon as i got my driver's license Zuma tower 9, St Nicholas Canyon and County line were my go to spots.

[@BlazingShackles]

Surfed there once in the 80's. Caught a couple and drove all the way back to San Gabriel Valley. That place is just plain Kookalicious.

[@jamesbalster2662]

I used to surf malibu a lot 40 years or so ago, even back in the days the only time it was good is when outer point was breaking big. if you took off on an outside set it broke in a way that made it hard for anyone inside to drop in on you. With that said it's been off my list for many years and now that i am nearing 70 i just do not have the energy anymore.

[@zawa322]

"We've got 983 ppl paddling in" I'm dying of laughter

[@TheWilliamHoganExperience]

I surfed Malibu (1st point) a few times many years ago - or tried. It was always too crowded. I quickly figured out that my best chance to catch a wave at malibu was at 3rd point, because it's usually closed out, and the takeoff point shifts around similar to a beach break. The waves are also a little bigger thier. Forget about first an second points at Malibu unless you like severe surfing injuries and hassles from kooks and locals alike. Go where the others aren't, wait outside for a set (20 minutes or more sometimes) and never take off on the first wave of the set. Drop in, make your bottom-turn, and get hammered as the wave closes out on you. Lather, rinse, repeat. Then, decide Malibu ain't worth the trouble, pack up your woody, and head to County Line or Sunset. They're crowded too, but take-off points shift around so everyone gets a shot at catching a wave now then. Surfing in LA sucks folks.

[@DARTHKNOWS76]

i feel south bay is better you got El Segundo which is good for beginners from the looks of all the long boards and soft tops in the video they would of had a better day there or all the way down to rat beach and the avenues that is where i learned to surf in the 90's never had a problem in the south bay. for the most part if your a novice you can def. find a wave with not a lot of ppl it's just doing recon and research.

[@FirstHolyGrandsonofHeaven926]

This is the funniest surfing video I have ever seen in my life. LOL 😂

[@fh2234]

Why is there no like coast guard that makes sure people follow the surfing rules. They apparently dont even know them. The local government should have the competence to have such a guard (that could also directly be a life saver).

[@Overclockthis]

IT's wild how all surfers sound like surfers hahaha. Love your videos.

[@BradJacobson]

Thanks for watching!

[@TheCaliking03]

There is absolutely no respect for anyone who is already up and riding the wave. People just snake everyone and anyone without any regard for others safety. Some of these people have no business being in the water the way they conduct themselves.

[@juliosaenz4538]

This makes me so anxious. Been to Malibu once. Never again.

[@theguy8802]

In my years of surfing, my friends and I always went for the least crowded spots before paddling out. The fight isn't worth. THIS BEACH IS FULL OF KOOKS!

[@ColbyMorrin]

I would never set myself up for this kinda frustration. That’s nuts

[@brianhall887]

Great information Brad. Thank you for sharing!

[@walkman123456789]

Golfing is very similar to surfing in this respect. A limited number of courses being used by an increasing amount of participants -- many of whom do not respect the game. Kooks all over the golf course blaring music, getting drunk holding up play, yelling. kooks have ruined more than surfing..sadly.

[@Ahriman-w3t]

Kookfest! What a great compilation of party waves! Keeping it real California, Malibu forever! WOOT! WOOT!