'Epic' Waves Hit Malibu

Labor Day Weekend 2011 in Malibu will be discussed for many years to come—and not just because of . For several days, a powerful swell that originated in Antarctica's waters stormed the Malibu coast to create what Surfline.com called "epic conditions."

The waves reached a reported eight-feet high, and were maybe even higher, as people crowded the Malibu beaches to experience what may have been a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"That's the biggest I've seen it since the 1960s," veteran surfer John Peck told Malibu Patch. 

The swell arrived on Wednesday and continued to strengthen for several days, with the High Surf Advisory lasting through Sunday night. World champions and regular Joes shared the ocean as they enjoyed the gift from thousands of miles away.

Local businesses benefited from the big event.

"Business was off the hook; by the second day of swell—sold out of [surfboard] leashes," said Mitch Taylor, manager at  in . 

Perhaps not enjoying the event as much were Malibu Colony residents whose decks and staircases were damaged. Either way, it was a memorable long weekend.