Malibu's coastline has faced numerous challenges recently, from fires to high tides, but for actor Nicolas Cage, the immediate threat comes in the form of a sinkhole. A massive, expanding sinkhole opened on September 8 outside his oceanfront home on Sea Level Drive, consuming his driveway and reaching a depth of 25 feet.
To address the damage, Cage has secured four permits for repairs, city records show. The scope of work includes excavation to retrieve a soil sample, debris removal, and the placement of sandbags to protect the property from strong waves and ongoing coastal erosion. The permits for these efforts totaled $3,158.
Cage is not alone in facing the impacts of the shifting coastline. His permits are among 14 granted to residents along Sea Level Drive over the past two months. Neighbors in the area are actively working to prevent further damage following high tides and rain from Tropical Storm Marie, which contributed to the severe conditions. The sinkhole’s impact has been significant enough that the city of Malibu red-tagged 31 homes on Sea Level Drive.
The damage has effectively blocked the only route in and out of the secluded beachside neighborhood, forcing residents to evacuate. It remains unclear when these evacuation orders will be lifted, indicating a prolonged period of disruption for the affected homeowners. According to Malibu.fm, the original contractor tasked with the repairs was terminated, with a new contractor taking over in early October.
Further complicating matters, the Sea Level Drive Homeowners Association is responsible for the necessary repairs, according to the city. In the interim, both gas and power lines have been shut off to the street, rendering the road impassable by any vehicles. This extended closure highlights the severity of the damage and the complex nature of the recovery efforts.
The issues on Sea Level Drive reflect broader concerns across Malibu. As pounding waves continue to batter homes along the coast, fears of an upcoming El Niño season are spreading throughout the region and beyond. In response to these potential threats, the city of Malibu declared a state of emergency on October 7. This declaration was described as a “preventive measure based on threatened conditions of extreme peril,” designed to grant city officials greater flexibility to respond quickly to any emergency situations that may arise.
Mayor Bruce Silverstein addressed the declaration, explaining that Malibu has previously endured significant impacts from powerful storms, particularly during El Niño years. He stated that the city is well aware of the seriousness of such events and that the effects of El Niño are already being experienced. Residents in Malibu are grappling with the uncertainty, with one resident reportedly considering moving and another contacting their insurance provider to inquire about sinkhole coverage.
Nicolas Cage purchased his Malibu residence for $10.5 million in 2024. Located near Lechuza Point, the modern, boxy house spans 3,938 square feet, featuring four bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a rooftop deck complete with a hot tub. Cage is an acclaimed actor, known for roles that earned him an Oscar and a Golden Globe for his performance in the 1995 film “Leaving Las Vegas.” His recent work includes titles such as “Pig” and “Spider-Noir.” The ongoing situation on Sea Level Drive underscores the persistent challenges faced by coastal properties in Southern California, particularly when confronted with the forces of nature.
