Few things say American beach life better than David Hasselhoff running down the beach in his red swimsuit in Malibu. Although days of Baywatch may be long gone, the beautiful California beach homes that formed its backdrop are only getting better. From ultra-modern in Santa Monica to Cape Cod charm in Malibu, these dreamy places have an irresistible allure.

1. New England Beach House, Malibu 

East coast style is alive and well in the west at New England Beach House. Like its name implies, this home is straight out of a design magazine that you might find on a coffee table in Cape Cod. From the white wood-paneled exterior with blue shutters to the beautiful french doors that line the entire oceanfront terrace, the look is simple and chic. The salty Pacific Coast air pairs perfectly with this sort of low-key elegance. Simple decorative accents like seashells – right from the backyard! – and navy and white patterned upholstery make the perfect finishing touches. Find out more

2. Blu Santa Monica, Santa Monica 

At Blu Santa Monica, you’re spoiled for choice: you might be nestled right against one of the world’s most beautiful urban beaches, but you also have a rooftop terrace to take in the view from above. And though you’re in the heart of L.A. you’ll be tempted to stay in come evening and enjoy the home’s many delights – wine cellar? media room? If you do venture out, the endless activities of Santa Monica are literally at your doorstep. Here, modern design meets beach house bliss and urban excitement… and the benefits are yours to revel in. Find out more

3. Captured in Paradise, Malibu 

Worlds collide at this stylish Malibu beach house. Mexican haçienda style mixes with elegant Balinese touches for an unique, inviting look. Warm orange and yellow hues paint the walls, while vaulted wood ceilings elevate the sense of airiness provided by stunning panoramic windows. Step outside to the sun-drenched terrace and stretch out on the pillowy daybeds with your favorite magazine. Somewhere in between Mexico and Bali lies this Malibu paradise.
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4. Corral Canyon Beach, Malibu 

When you imagine driving along the PCH and the dream homes you see along the way, you probably picture a place like Corral Canyon Beach. Floor-to-ceiling windows promise uninterrupted beach views, and the wraparound terrace beckons you from morning coffee through to moonlight drinks. Sleek modernity dominates the home decor with just a hint of opulence, but as you’d expect from the Malibu beach home of your dreams it’s the ocean view that takes center stage.
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5. Villa Delfine, Malibu 

On the golden sands of quiet La Tuna beach awaits Villa Delfine. The home’s interiors nod to ultra-cool Los Angeles life with metallic accents, unique fabrics and opulent, gilded furniture (and a home theatre, of course), making Delfine not quite your typical beach house. But the sky-high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors along the back reveal uninterrupted views of the ocean and golden sands say this is Malibu loud and clear.