10/30/2026
Earlier this month, I boarded a Boeing 737 wide-body to Los Angeles to tend to a bit of business, see a client requiring a grip of new made-to-measure clothing, and serendipitously catch my eldest son on tour playing a show at The Troubadour with his shoegaze band Softly.
I like Malibu. Sitting right on the beach, it would afford me some peace and quiet while simultaneously furnishing a “live” white noise experience at night.
I pack light when I travel domestically. Never anything more than my red North Face duffel, always carry-on. I often wear the same outfit repeatedly. I simply do not care and have no shame about this. This F.E. Castleberry seersucker plaid button down shirt and Adidas satin track shorts is one such uniform.
Malibu Beach Inn hosts me for my somewhat brief getaway. The soft light, the view of Carbon Beach, and lapping waves are ideal companions for my self-imposed seaside solitude.
I take my meals at Carbon Beach Club during the day. Given the time of year, I practically have my run of the place.
The ocean-front terrace suspends a canopy of blue and white striped umbrellas against a sun drenched sky.
Lunch on Carbon Beach Club’s terrace is heavenly...exquisite even. Pellegrino for the table. Shrimp cocktail to start. Little gem Caesar. Peach and stone fruit salad. The seasonal menu features the freshest locally sourced ingredients from One Gun Ranch and nearby farmers’ markets—admittedly I went a little overboard.
I make it a point to try the lobster roll at joints by the sea. Executive Chef Josh Balague’s does not disappoint. Chilled maine lobster tossed in drawn butter aioli, shaved fennel, fresh chives, served on a buttery brioche roll.
The view from my third floor room look out over the beach club and Carbon Beach.
The staff has Perrier-Jouët ch*****ne on ice waiting for me when I arrive to my room. A handwritten note accompanies the gesture, naturally.
I’ll take this glass on the terrace…
House backgammon sets in acrylic…smart. Very smart.
The hallways are open air, designed to breathe.
Beh and I meet up for dinner at Dan Tana’s before Harry’s show at The Troubadour next door. Dan Tana’s is a tradition, an institution, a r
