Malibu is a beautiful city located on the Pacific Coast Highway of California with deep-sea scenery and sandy beaches. The area is a famous tourist spot where people can surf, hike, and relax by the water. Tourists also enjoy the luxury resorts, oceanfront restaurants, and local cafes serving fresh California cuisine. Malibu has art galleries, scenic areas, and even an opportunity to visit celebrity houses. Malibu offers a combination of nature, comfort and coastal beauty with sun rays, waves and a relaxed lifestyle.
What Are the Best Places to Stay in Malibu?
Here are the eight top stays in Malibu, offering everything from luxury beachfront hotels to cosy inns and scenic campgrounds.
Malibu Beach Inn (Carbon Beach, “Billionaire’s Beach”)
The Malibu Beach Inn is a luxurious hotel located on the popular Carbon Beach. Visitors have individual balconies, excellent meals, and a spa. The price of rooms is usually around $700-$1,200 a night, depending on the season. Parking spots are valet, and the building is within walking distance of the beach. It attracts tourists seeking luxurious accommodation and a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean.
Address: 22878 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club (Malibu Wine Country)
Calamigos Guest Ranch is located among the wine country of Malibu in the Santa Monica Mountains. The ranch has luxury cottages, swimming pools and access to the beach. The average cost is between $500 and $1000 per night. There is on-site parking, and it is used in retreats and weddings. Tourists are entertained by hiking paths, horseback riding, and winery tours.
Address: 327 Latigo Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Nobu Ryokan Malibu
Nobu Ryokan Malibu is a Japanese-designed, highly luxurious beachfront resort. The resort features peaceful gardens, soaking tubs, and direct beach access. The rates usually begin at $2,000 USD per night. The guests have their own parking. It has attracted tourists who are seeking privacy and elegance, and a real luxury retreat.
Address: 22752 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
The Surfrider Malibu (Across Malibu Pier)
The Surfrider Malibu is a modern boutique hotel that stands right opposite Malibu Pier. The visitors are provided with rooftop meals, beach-friendly facilities, and comfortable rooms fronting the sea. The average price range is $400-$900 per night. There is valet parking, and the rooftop of the hotel attracts guests to enjoy sunsets and local cocktails.
Address: 23033 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Malibu Country Inn (Zuma Beach area)
Malibu Country Inn is a small and pleasant inn close to Zuma Beach. It has comfortable rooms, a pool outside and a peaceful environment. The price is quite affordable, between $200 and $400 per night, and the rates are lower than most hotels in Malibu. There is free parking, and its location attracts beach lovers and families.
Address: 6506 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
The M Malibu (Pacific Coast Hwy, near Surfrider Beach)
The M Malibu is a low-cost hotel on the Pacific Coast Highway. Rooms are basic yet have their own balconies with ocean access. The pricing is usually between $150 and $300 per night. Parking is free but with a limited number of spaces. It is close to the Surfrider Beach, thus it is a favourite among surfers and travellers who desire cheap accommodation.
Address: 22541 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Malibu Creek State Park
The Malibu Creek State Park is an attractive place to camp, being connected by mountains, hiking trails, and natural pools. The camp sites are approximately $45 per night, and they have picnic tables, fire rings and toilets. The parking is located within the park. Hikers, climbers and families can visit to spend an enjoyable day in the nature of Malibu.
Address: 1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States
Leo Carrillo State Beach Campground
Leo Carrillo State Beach Campground is a mix of beach access and camping. The cost of camps is approximately $45-$60 USD per night, and they offer fire pits, showers, and picnic tables. There is parking in the campground. The tide pools, sea caves, and trails nearby are popular with visitors, making it an ideal spot to go outdoors.
Address: 35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
How Do You Get Around Malibu?
Here are the four main ways visitors explore Malibu, from driving along the coast to enjoying slow walks by the beach.
Driving
The best mode of exploring the city of Malibu is by driving because the city is located along the Pacific Coast Highway. There is parking in beaches, restaurants, and parks, although some spots cost $5-$15. When you rent a car, you have the freedom to make stops at scenic lookouts, hidden beaches, and local attractions.
Ride-Shares & Taxis
Uber and Lyft are also used in Malibu to ride to beaches or restaurants over a short distance. The prices are varied but mostly cost between $15 and $30 in the city. There are also traditional cabs, but they are not that common. This is a good choice among those visitors who do not want to drive.
Public Transit
Malibu has minimal public transit, which can be reached with Metro buses on the Pacific Coast Highway. The cost is typically about $1.75 per ride. Although it is slower than a driving experience, it links Malibu with Santa Monica and other nearby regions, and it is helpful to budget travellers.
Biking & Walking
Riding a bike and walking are best used on short routes, particularly in the area around the Malibu Pier and around Zuma Beach. There are special bike lanes and beach walks, which ensure that the experience is picturesque and comfortable. It can cost between $10 and $20 an hour to rent bikes. Walking is also common when visiting the local stores and beaches.
What to See & Do in Malibu?
These are the ten best attractions and experiences in Malibu, which reflect on beaches, culture, and outdoor activities.
Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach is the biggest public beach in Malibu with long stretches of sand and surf waves. There are lifeguards on duty at the busiest times; there are restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. There are large parking lots which are located near the beach, and the prices vary depending on the lot and season.
Address: 30000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach has sea stacks, small coves, and rock arches that have access through a stairway. Tourists have to follow a steep path; wear heavy shoes on the irregular rocks and sand. Tide pools are only visible when the tide is low, and thus, consult tide charts to be on the safe side. There is limited parking, but come early to secure a parking space.
Address: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Surfrider Beach
Surfrider Beach has long peeling waves that are attractive to longboarders and surf schools. The surf breaks are effective during low to mid tide; the local instructors conduct lessons on the beach. Lifeguards and warning signs observe danger, waves, and currents; read safety regulations in place. Parking close to Malibu Pier can be crowded at weekends.
Address: 23050 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Point Dume Nature Preserve
The Point Dume Nature Preserve gives cliff-top paths, bluff recaps and entry to mini beaches. Minor waves give rise to views of whale and dolphin sightings during the migration season. Tracks are sun-exposed; carry water, a hat and sunscreen on daytime hiking. Parking lots are small during the first few weeks of the month; little parking on the street near the entrance.
Address: Birdview Ave, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Malibu Pier & Malibu Farm Cafe
Malibu Pier is a wooden walking and fishing pier with rented paddleboards at the base. Malibu Farm Cafe offers ocean-view, patio dining, meals and local fresh ingredients. There are small shops and water activity gear rentals in the pier area. There are paid private parking and metered places around the pier.
Address: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy Building B, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Getty Villa (Pacific Palisades, near Malibu)
The Getty Villa is a reconstruction of a Roman-style villa that contains ancient Greek and Roman artworks. Even free admission needs timed-entry tickets, and there is a fee for parking. Galleries and gardens can be visited between 1.5 and 2 hours; hours of work for audio tours and family programs are scheduled.
Address: 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, United States
Malibu Wine Safari
Malibu Wine Safari is a guided wine-tasting tour that combines a tour of the animals with wine tasting on open-air vehicles. Tours involve various taste-tests, farm sightseeing, and seeing zebras and other wildlife. Tours made their reservation, and it takes approximately two hours. The hotel allows guests to park on the premises.
Address: 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Adamson House & Malibu Lagoon Museum
Adamson House has Spanish Colonial architecture and original Malibu Potteries tiling in an old house. Tours describe the history of tiles, period furniture, and local history; a neighbouring lagoon museum describes local ecology. Visitors are served by a small parking area and nearby street parking; tour fees are charged.
Address: 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University is located on seaside bluffs and has buildings designed in a Mediterranean style overlooking the sea. Tourists walk the grounds, pay a visit to the views of the chapel, and consult the events calendar on campus to see what is happening. Parking is provided to visitors in lots on campus; event restrictions are posted on check signs.
Address: 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90263, United States
Topanga State Park
Topanga State Park is a park that hosts dozens of canyons, cliffs and oak forest trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. The difficulty of trails is easy walks to steep climbs; carry water and layers of clothing in case of temperature changes. There is parking available at trailheads, and a parking fee or day-use fee applies at some trailheads.
Address: 20828 Entrada Rd, Topanga, CA 90290, United States
Where Are the Best Places to Eat in Malibu?
These are the eight best restaurants and cafes in Malibu that offer more than just a seaside meal experience.
Nobu Malibu
Nobu Malibu is a popular Japanese-Peruvian restaurant on the oceanfront in California, which serves high-end cuisine. The signature foods, such as black cod miso, yellowtail jalap, and fresh sushi trays, are complemented with cocktails and elegant wines. The deck has a beachfront dining experience with a direct view of the sunset. The prices are higher, and entrees can be $40-$60. Reservations are made weekly in advance for a particular dinner.
Address: 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Geoffrey’s Malibu
The Malibu by Geoffrey is a combination of Californian and seafood meals and one of the finest cliff-top restaurants in Malibu. Popular dishes are lobster bisque, seared scallops, and weekend brunch. The terrace sitting enables the guests to view dolphins and sea birds. The prices are average to high, and most entrees cost between $35 and $55. The restaurant is popular, particularly on anniversaries and sunset dinners.
Address: 27400 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Malibu Farm Cafe (on the Pier)
Malibu Farm Cafe is located at the end of Malibu Pier and is a place that focuses on organic, farm-to-table cuisine. Fresh foods such as cauliflower pizza, fish tacos and green juices make it a favourite among health-conscious customers. The cafe is casual but picturesque, as the tables are located around surfers. It is less expensive than most Malibu waterfront restaurants, with prices ranging between $15 and $30 per dish. It is excellent for breakfast, lunch or light afternoon meals.
Address: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy Building B, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Duke’s Malibu
Duke Malibu is a Hawaiian-themed restaurant that offers poke bowls, coconut shrimp, and tropical cocktails. The relaxed dining room is popular for families, and the Barefoot Bar section handles small-plate diners and happy hour. The prices are average, with most meals costing between $20-$40. Parking is offered, although it gets packed during holidays.
Address: 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Neptune’s Net (north Malibu)
The Neptune Net is a local favourite, and has been in the area since the 1950s, and is known to serve fried seafood baskets, clam chowder and fish tacos. It provides picnic tables outside where people can see surfers on the other side of the road. The atmosphere is relaxed, and bikers and road-trippers pull in along the Pacific Coast Highway. The cost is low, and most baskets range between $15-$25. Weekends are the busiest, and weekdays have shorter lines.
Address: 42505 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Caffe Luxxe (Country Mart)
Caffe Luxxe at Malibu Country Mall is a luxurious coffee shop that offers handmade espresso beverages, cold brews, and pastry items. It attracts locals and visitors who want high-quality coffee before shopping in the area. It is an easy choice to take a quick break in the indoor and shaded outdoor seats of the cafe. The prices are above average for cafes, and coffee is between $5 and $8. It is a great spot for a morning break before visiting the beaches of Malibu.
Address: 22333 CA-1 Suite 160, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
Blue Bottle Coffee (Malibu Village)
The Blue Bottle Coffee brand is known for its smooth espresso, pour-overs, and cold brew. It is situated in Malibu Village and can be visited by travellers and teleworkers who like to sit quietly indoors. Its speciality coffee is served with light snacks and pastries. The average cost is $5-$9 per drink. The cafe is particularly suitable for people travelling to the local beaches or stores.
Address: 23401 Civic Centre Way, Suite 2A, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
John’s Garden (Malibu Country Mart)
John’s Garden has been a Malibu favourite since the 1970s, serving fresh sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies. Its outdoor balcony is relaxed and warm for families and beachgoers. Some of the popular dishes are turkey avocado sandwiches, fruit smoothies and vegetarian wraps. The majority of these cost between $10 and $18. The Malibu Country Mart is a good place to eat a healthy lunch and then shop or visit the beach.
Address: 3835 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
What Essential Tips Should Tourists Know Before Visiting Malibu?
There are seven most important travel tips for making your Malibu trip more enjoyable.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Malibu is late spring to early fall, when there is a clear sky, hot weather, and water that is comfortable. Weekdays are less stressful than weekends.
Crowds
During weekends and holidays in summer, beaches and restaurants become crowded. It is best to come before 10:00 AM or on a weekday to prevent parking problems and waits in line at busy attractions in Malibu.
Costs
Malibu is a luxury place with dining, parking, and hotels that are costly. Tourists can combine high-end and low-end restaurants by visiting the Neptune Net and John’s Garden in Malibu.
Safety
There are powerful waves and currents in the ocean, and it is always safe to swim in areas that have lifeguards. Pacific Coast Highway roads are not safe at night because of sharp turns and poor lighting.
Locals
Local people enjoy a beautiful and respectful atmosphere. Small businesses, clean beaches and respect for private property can guarantee visitors good interactions and the original Malibu experience.
Driving Advice
Driving in Malibu is along the Pacific Coast Highway, which can be congested. Parking close to beaches is quick to fill; therefore, early arrival is advisable. When renting a car, it becomes easier to get to various attractions.
Photography
Malibu is a beautiful place to take photos, particularly at El Matador State Beach, Malibu Pier, and Point Dume. The best light in coastal landscapes and portraits is during the golden hour before the sun sets.
