Seaside Malibu Local Neighborhood Guide - 40 Places 🐚☀️🌴 [2025]

[Updated to reflect the aftermath of the 2025 Palisades Fire. Moonshadows, Cholada Thai, Reel Inn, and Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio are tragically gone but never forgotten ❤️‍🩹]

Where to Eat in Malibu? 🍝

Each category is listed in descending order of preference, starting with my ABSOLUTE favorite at the top.

Every restaurant listed below has gluten-free options, unless otherwise noted! 

☕ Coffee

Alfred Coffee

@destination195

My go-to daily Los Angeles coffee shop chain. The place to be if iced coffee or matcha is your fav. Expect any iced drinks (like my favorite iced lavender latte) to come unmixed. Revel in the fun of swirling your straw around the thick syrup layer at the bottom to produce the finished, delectable delight that is your stirred iced concoction.

Add to

Details

Caffe Luxxe

@destination195

A more refined café alternative if tea or hot, artisanal drinks like gibraltars or marocchinos are your thing. Expect your beverage to be served up on a sleek marble slab at this premier small-batch coffee roaster.

Add to

Details

Broad Street Coffee Co.

@destination195

A funky Country Mart coffee shop serving up both espresso and ice cream for your sweet tooth! Affiliated with Broad Street Oyster Co. just around the corner, I usually end up getting an iced coffee here in the afternoon if my morning Alfred's didn't pack enough of a punch. The french toast latte with a healthy coating of cinnamon is my fav!

Add to

Details

🥞 Breakfast

Malibu Farm Restaurant at the Pier

@destination195

Dig into creative farm-to-table bites on Malibu's iconic pier at this modern coastal barn. While Malibu Farm serves up dishes all day, I'm incredibly partial to their brunch. Sit inside the farmhouse on cozy wooden benches covered in fur throws or lounge on the seaside patio couches to hear waves crash under the pier. Space heaters and blankets are available upon request! Parking can be a bit of a doozy, so make an effort to scout out a spot along PCH (which will likely require some parallel parking) lest you get ripped off by the $20 pier parking lot fee. Reservations are available for dinner but not for daytime dining. If you follow my advice and stop by for brunch, put your name down at the hostess stand and expect a bit of a wait if you visit during the weekend. For a smaller counter service cozy café vibe, you could also check out affiliated Malibu Farm Cafe at the end of the pier. To eat, you can't go wrong with: -larry’s berries baked french toast (fluffy deconstructed soufflé served in a skillet w/ berry whipped cream on top) -I heart you gluten free waffle (a similar second if you're gluten-free and can't eat the french toast) -salsa verde egg-wich (drippy egg sando on a golden, buttery bun) -abc tacos (spicy mini taco flight entailing 3 distinct flavor profiles in each tortilla) And to drink: -coco canella latte (hot and creamy coconut latte) -ube latte (just what it sounds like, semi-sweet purple coffee!) -mint lemonade (oh so refreshing, the mint cuts the lemonade so it's not too sweet)

Add to

Details

Sunlife Organics

@destination195

The best wellness smoothie + açaí shops in LA -- as the name implies, all the ingredients used are good for you, and many of the menu items are crafted with specific health benefits in mind! While this chain has slowly spread across the country, you're visiting the first ever location opened in 2011! Best fruit smoothies: -Fountain of Youth -Pink Cloud Best protein shakes: -Vanilla -Peanut Butter Chocolate Best açaí: -Hawaiian bowl Smoothies to avoid: -Athlete a.k.a The James Ashton (tastes dull and pretty flavorless to me, get the Vanilla protein shake instead) -Mint Chocolate Chip (name is extremely misleading, it's giving grassy not mint chocolate chip) If you really want to dive into wellness, consider adding a Shroom Shot or cup of Bone Broth to your order. Or take it up another notch with the $33 Billion Dollar Smoothie or $40 Billion Dollar Bowl (yes, you read those prices right!).

Add to

Details

Country Kitchen

@destination195

Home to the infamous crispy potato breakfast burrito coveted by early riser surfers and sunrise hikers alike. The earliest opening restaurant in town (at least that I'm aware of) -- Country Kitchen is the definition of the early bird gets the worm! A simple café counter directly off PCH, a quick glimpse to the side and you could easily miss this hidden gem while driving by. Even though they can whip up everything and the kitchen sink for a reasonable price (burgers, hot and cold sandwiches, salads, wrap, quesadillas, you name it!) their real speciality is burritos, specifically their breakfast burritos. Pick your favorite combination of meat, egg, potatoes, and cheese -- you really can't go wrong with any option on the menu! The resulting burrito in a tightly wrapped, warmed tortilla is never soggy, perfectly marrying the crispy crunch of fried golden potatoes with luxuriously silky scrambled eggs. A few free parking spots are available in the associated strip mall.

Add to

Details

🦪 Lunch

Broad Street Oyster Company

@destination195

A funky fresh seafood shack in the Country Mart. Best known for their silky oysters served cold on ice, the lobster sandwich (either warmed with butter or chilled with mayo) is another can't miss! A ton of covered patio seating is available next to the shop--you'll see these tables once you walk down the corridor towards the restaurant entrance. Hot sauce is already waiting on the table for you. A public bathroom is hiding back here as well, which can also be used if you're shopping around the Country Mart and need to go. A few doors down Broad Street has an associated coffee and ice cream shop, where you can grab a sweet treat after your seafood splurge.

Add to

Details

Prince Street Pizza

@destination195

You'd think they were serving crack based on how often I come here. My favorite pizza on this planet hands down, coming to you straight from New York City. The original Soho location eventually made it's way to California, and these ~sort of~ deep dish slices perfectly marry the best of pizza and pasta. I'm talking about the spicy vodka and naughty pie (basically the same thing, with pepperoni, ricotta, and hot honey added) Sicilian squares of course! The body of the pie is saucy and not too cheesy, while the edges are baked to a perfectly golden brown that creates a tantalizing crunch with every bite. That being said, make sure you get an edge piece! I get this so often the regular employees know my time (you could even say I have a problem!) If the thought of a thick pizza slice feels unnatural to you fear not, because Prince Street serves up thin crispy Neapolitan round pies as well. No gluten-free pies on the premises either sadly, just salads.

Add to

Details

Zinqué - Malibu

@destination195

An elevated French chain with a few locations around the city. While not quite a ~fancy~ meal, Zinqué does keep things interesting with culinary delights like quiches, tartines, and moules-frites. The posh interior of the Malibu location has comfy jewel-toned couches perfect for lounging in while getting some work done (their guest wifi password is redwhitewine), while the rattan light fixtures and fire pit give the outside seating a bit of a Tulum-inspired feel. While I'm usually craving a quiche, I can also confirm their crudo, beef carpaccio, and moules-frites are divine if you're feeling adventurous. Tons of free parking is available in the associated strip mall.

Add to

Details

John's Garden

@destination195

A fresh and crisp deli in the Country Mart. The best place to go in Malibu if you're craving a simple sandwich, salad, or soup--with a side of chips of course! Seating is available at the picnic tables directly outside this shop. As a fan favorite, you may have to wait a bit for your number to be called. Prepare any sandwich with your favorite bread, including sourdough, ciabatta, gluten-free, and lettuce wraps! The Surfer Princess (sans tomato) is my go-to, and all sandos come with a mixed green salad on the side! Served with mayo on a fluffy piece of white bread, this is the perfect post-beach bite (especially if you customize your sandwich with an added layer of salty, crunchy chips).

Add to

Details

Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe

@destination195

Lobster, shrimp, squid, snapper, oh my! The best pure play seafood spot in town frying, filleting, and grilling your favorite cuts of fish. A classic joint, you won't find much culinary artistry, instead the freshness of flaky white fish is their speciality. Operating as a frozen seafood counter as well, there can be a bit of a line to get inside. Be prepared to wait during peak lunch hours on the weekend. The shack has both indoor and outdoor seating with prime ocean views. A sizable parking lot on a more remote stretch of PCH means you shouldn't have to park on the highway. The fresh grilled seafood plates (with a cup of clam chowder of course) are the thing for me, coming with two hearty sides of your choice!

Add to

Details

Gladstones Restaurant

@destination195

Another classic seaside seafood joint. I'm partial to Malibu Seafood for their quality of their catch, but since these comparable spots are pretty much in opposite directions down PCH, I'd just pick the one you're closer to. Gladstones does have a bit more of a refined restaurant vibe as well, whereas the style of laid-back Malibu Seafood can be compared to casual, fast-food service.

Add to

Details

D'Amores Pizza

@destination195

A true Malibu institution run by an iconic owner, if you enter this pizzeria you'll immediately learn who Mr. D'Amore is--as well as his high opinion of his pizza and the names of all the famous personnel who have graced his hallowed halls. Jokes aside, this is a quick and easy place to grab a slice (or whole pie for that matter) before heading out for a beach day at Carbon Beach. While Prince Street serves up artistry, D'Amores is moreso on this list for convenience and sustenance, but it'll still get the job done. Paid parking (particularly if you're spending the day at any nearby beach) is available on the roof of this building. If you're just grabbing a slice and going, you should be able to find a slice on the ground floor lot. Also no GF-friendly pizza here either unfortunately.

Add to

Details

🐟 Dinner

Nobu Malibu

@destination195

The best of the best, haters will say it's overrated but they're just jealous they can't get a reservation. Not that I can either! At least, I couldn't before learning the local tricks. Don't bother calling this divinely delectable Japanese haunt with a Peruvian influence. Instead, arrive early in the evening on the intended night of your dinner (in person), and put your name down on the wait list. Worse case when you show up later, you can always eat at the bar on the cozy counters they have tucked away from the main dining room. A global institution at this point, Nobu NEVER misses and this just so happens to be their best location in the world--I'm serious! Lounge around on their seaside patio before dinner to get the perfect vacation flick, then prepare your wallet (and your stomach) for the best meal of your life. If you can foot the bill, dining omakase here is always the best option. If not, the following dishes curated by a Nobu connoisseur (me) should satisfy your pallet: -If you're only going to order one dish, get the rock shrimp tempura. The fried batter is hearty enough that you should be satiated by the end, and for ~$36 this is a pretty reasonably-priced gourmet meal. -If you're here for the first-time, these are the classic dishes you NEED to try: yellowtail jalapeno, crispy rice with spicy tuna, black cod with miso, prime filet "toban" yaki, baked crab handroll, and some salmon nigiri. -If you're returning to Nobu, these are more modern interpretations I keep coming back to: fluke sashimi with dry miso (but ask for salmon instead of fluke), tiradito 'nobu style', new style sashimi, creamy spicy snow crab, grilled shishito peppers -Dishes I'd avoid, not because they're bad by any means, they just don't have that WOW factor: monkfish pate with caviar, squid "pasta" with light garlic sauce, chilean sea bass with dry miso (get the black cod instead), shrimp and lobster with spicy lemon sauce (get the creamy spicy snow crab instead) -If you're drinking, you can't go wrong with their: espresso martini, lychee & elderflower martini, pina martini Valet parking is the only option, and honestly with how chaotic the lot is, this is a good thing. Parking is $17.25 when paying with card.

Add to

Details

MUSE Santa Monica

@destination195

Swanky fine French dining with a side of modern art deco ambience that makes the drive more than worth it, since this favorite restaurant of mine isn't ~quite~ in Malibu but sits on the outer edge of the Palisades right before the Bu begins. I've been honored to watch the kindly charismatic chef and owner evolve his vision from a private dorm-room dinner series to a fully fledged restaurant that will have you leave saying WOW -- especially after digging into the vanilla st. honoré dessert. You really can't go wrong with anything on this artfully plated menu, but during my modern feasts here I'm always sure to get the: -hamachi with yuzu olive oil & calabrian chili coulis -lobster in a pomme soufflé -saffron risotto, lobster & gremolata with lobster glace -catch of the day with tarragon pistou & beurre blanc Street parking is basically impossible to obtain, so be prepared to pay the $20 valet.

Add to

Details

Geoffrey's

@destination195

A bit further down PCH, this similar highway-adjacent elevated seafood spot is a bit more upscale--and expensive--than Moonshadows (RIP). Which you'll probably deduce from the mind-boggling sports cars filling the lot. Geoffrey's is positioned on a cliffside, so you have more panoramic sweeping views of the ocean and houses below. It's been a few years since I've dined at Geoffrey's, so I don't remember their exact valet rate--but you should pretty much to pay for parking at any of these haunts positioned off the highway.

Add to

Details

Lucky's Malibu

@destination195

The home of the original Nobu (seriously!) is now a New American elevated bistro serving up hearty weekly homestyle specials--but rest assured, they're best known for their juicy steaks. Since Lucky's lives in the back of the Country Mart, you can actually dine here and park for free! Lacking some of the oceanside ambiance of other Malibu favorites, Lucky has more of a New York feel if you're tired of the same seafood aesthetic but still want some finely prepared. I'm usually not a steak person, so I've never actually ordered their most famous dish. If that sounds like you, considering instead getting the: -Lucky's Chili (a cheap and hearty option if you're not seeking to spend too much) -Grilled Artichoke -Jacklyn's Truffle Fries -Petit Filet 7 oz (the smallest steak if you want to give it a try)

Add to

Details

Taverna Tony

@destination195

Another Country Mart special, straight-out-of-Mykonos Taverna Tony's is a coveted Greek spot with the BEST creamy bread spread you've ever tasted. People actually request to-go orders of just this whipped buttery delight. As long as you're dining in, it comes free to the table anyways! The largely Greek staff makes this place feel even more authentic, and it's another good seafood-sub to mix up your dinner rotation one night. Plus, it's a bit more casual than some of the other Malibu hotspots listed above this. My go-to order includes: -meze plate (perfect for sharing, try all of their dips and pita bread including humus, tzatziki, taramosalata, and more! You can always ask for more pita, since they honestly don't get you enough for a good bread:dip ratio in each bite) -saganaki flaming cheese -spanakopita -octopus -and if you're somehow still hungry, any of the souvlakis Since Tony's lives in the middle of the Country Mart, you can park for free!

Add to

Details

Mastro's Ocean Club

@destination195

You guessed it, more seaside dining by the ocean with a solid chance of dolphin sightings on the side. You'll definitely pass Mastro's when you originally drive into Malibu, and while it undoubtedly deserves a shoutout, it's not my favorite (see all the other seaside restaurants recommended above this). It's a bit more stuffy and enclosed than the other spots I mentioned (I like to hear the waves, not just see them). Plus, I'm a staunch believer that the Mastro's Beverly Hills location is far superior--but this will be much further away from you. Nevertheless, don't knock it until you try it, since this particular location specializes in surf and turf steak and seafood highlights that you won't find in the city locations. Just don't get the creamed corn (trust me).

Add to

Details

Duke's Malibu

@destination195

Imported from Hawaii, Duke's is an iconic Polynesian chain serving up tropical flavors amidst otherwise pretty standard seafood offerings around town. A more casual scene than most other Malibu restaurants (hence the "Barefoot Bar" serving up island-inspired cocktails), Duke's fishy cuisine lies on the cheaper end of the price scale as well, so you can expect the quality to diminish a bit accordingly. Not to say Duke's is bad by any means, but it's certainly not a once in a lifetime meal--you pretty much get what you pay for! The mac nut & herb crusted fresh fish is a fan-favorite you should absolutely consider ordering, and if you're in town over the weekend pop by after 4 PM on Fridays for live Hawaiian music. This is one of the other main drinking scenes, as Malibu is quite sleepy (and sober) otherwise.

Add to

Details

Tra di Noi

@destination195

A pretty standard homestyle Italian spot. Nothing is particularly mind-blowing here, but again, sometimes you get sick of seafood! If you're craving a consistent plate of pasta that hits the spot every time for a reasonable price, that's Tra Di Noi. The Ravioli Rosa is solid, and the most interesting dish by far is the Siciliana salad. Fennel, arugula, orange, pistachio-crusted goat cheese, and lemon olive oil--yum! And that's coming from someone who doesn't even like salad very much. Since Tra di Noi lives in the back of the Country Mart, you can actually dine here and park for free!

Add to

Details

🍦 Dessert

Kith Malibu

@destination195

Believe it or not, an ice cream and smoothie shop featuring primarily name-brand cereal and candy concoctions is hiding instead the designer Kith Malibu location. These special recipes created by famous figures can be blended into milkshakes or top a frozen ice cream swirl, like The Witness featuring Frosted Flakes, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Ca'n Crunch, Oreos, and Twix. These are surely sweet tooth satisfiers, so if you're craving a bit fruitier (or healthier), you're likely to be better served at Malibu Yogurt or Sunlife.

Add to

Details

Malibu Yogurt & Ice Cream

@destination195

Where Olivia Rodrigo got her "strawberry ice cream in Malibu." What you see is what you get at this family-run ice cream, with scoops grabbed from ice cold steel tubs topping cones and cups. Nothing is particularly mind-blowing here, but hey there's not much competition in Malibu anyways! If you're seeking crunchy toppings from your favorite candy brands or creamy cereal milkshakes, check out Kith instead. Or if you're already planning to hit the Country Mart, you can get similar scoops served up at Broad Street Coffee Co.

Add to

Details

What to Do in Malibu? 🌊

🛍️ Shopping

Malibu Country Mart

@destination195

Heaven on earth, no other outdoor mall will compare once you've stopped by the Malibu Country Mart. When I'm in town, I literally come here every day. Sprawling Santa Monica mountains as the backdrop, beach lagoon across the street, and the best bohemian beach stores to peruse for cheeky additions to your wardrobe. Many of the restaurants detailed in this guide live within the Country Mart, so I won't rehash those, but for a taste of the retail therapy you can expect consider Res Ipsa. This rainbow-textile laden boutique is chock full of wry slogans like a doormat which reads "Stay Out of Malibu, Deadbeat" or a quaint throw pillow encouraging you to "Don't Be a Little B*itch". Pop in and check it out for yourself, but honestly, check out all the stores around the Country Mart! You won't be disappointed, and I would dare say you haven't done Malibu right if you don't stop by the Country Mart at least once.

Add to

Details

Little Shop

@destination195

A "you could drive by and easily miss it" hidden gem. Curated designer vintage collection from a local fashionista in a groovy like casita that feels like home. Given the repertoire of Malibu's local residents, you know the closet cleanouts this curator sources her supplies from are going to be good. Definitely take the time to inspect each piece on the rack, since some diamonds in the rough could easily be hiding where you least expect them. Check out her Instagram (linked below) ahead of time before visiting to see some of the current collection!

Add to

Details

Malibu Farmers Market

@destination195

Hands down the best way to spend a Sunday morning in Malibu. From glistening dragonfruit and pluots (plum apricot hybrids!) to flaky pistachio croissants and regenerative farmed beef (whatever that means), I guarantee this is the best farmers market you'll ever encounter. There's nothing quite like fresh California fruit in the summer, and somehow the organic, non-GMO fruit sold here even takes that up a notch--it practically tastes like it was grown in the garden of Eden! While some boutique businesses, snack sellers, and street food stands are scattered throughout the market, the produce is truly where it's at. While the farmers market runs every Sunday from 9 AM - 2 PM, there's significantly more vendors in the summer. Park along the ride near the public library for easy access to the market tents.

Add to

Details

🏖️ Beaches

Big Dume Beach

@destination195

The best beach in Malibu, period. Secluded, scenic, dare I say you may even find inner peace here. Naturally, such a pristine setting comes with some challenges. Big Dume can only be accessed by descending a long staircase next to the Point Dume trail, which inconveniently has 6 parking spots serving this whole area. I will admit, I've parked in a handicap spot here before when desperate times called for desperate measures. Depending on the tide, once you've walked down the hundred steps you may need to scramble over rocky terrain for a bit before you'll reach the sand. Wearing shoes is advisable until you're on soft terrain. From there, untouched natural beauty is at your disposal all around. Stroll down the winding beach admiring the towering cliffs around you, or wade into the calm water that's naturally sheltered by the surrounding rock.

Add to

Details

Carbon Beach

@destination195

The next best Billionaire's Beach in Malibu, but the raging waves can be significantly stronger, so be sure to mind the riptide. My companions and I have coined this sparkle beach given how the water glitters here, but no matter what you call it this is inherently a 100% Southern California strip of land. Smooth white sand underfoot, bring your own beach fixings since you'll be plopping down in front of some millionaire's house. Public access to Carbon Beach can be found through a gate on the left side of Nobu Malibu (unfortunately next to their stinky fishy trash). Since parking on PCH is an utter pain, this would be a good time to park on the roof of the D'Amores building, grab a slice of 'za, and walk over from there to your glorious beach day.

Add to

Details

Westward Beach

@destination195

The beach you should actually go to instead of Zuma. Don't get ripped of by their expensive parking lot, instead turn down Westward Beach Road and park along the road to go to the exact same stretch of sand for free. Even though this beach is mere steps away from Zuma, it does seem to be a bit more protected from the wind as well, so you won't have to deal with whipping cold gusts blowing your hair around. Come here instead of Carbon Beach if you want a bit more privacy, since there's only rocky cliffs behind you instead of houses with potentially peeping Toms.

Add to

Details

Malibu Point

@destination195

The closest beach to the Country Mart you might as well go to if you're already in the area. Don't even worry about moving your car, simply walk across the street and you can easily reach the beach. The beginning of the sandy path winds around a lagoon that can be a bit stinky during low tide, but this salty scent fades by the time you make it to the beach. This isn't the best place to lounge or swim, head to Big Dume, Carbon Beach, or Westward Beach for that. Instead, come here for a simple (sunset?) beach walk or to enjoy food you procured in the Country Mart with a side of ocean views.

Add to

Details

County Line Beach, Malibu

@destination195

Where the real shredders go. Head down this way if you're staying on the other side of Point Dume, otherwise you can see similar surfing action at Surfrider Beach. This is a relatively narrow strip of land alllllll the way at the other end of Malibu. Not the best for swimming, but scenic sunset walks can be had here away from all the crowds--ESPECIALLY during the summer.

Add to

Details

⛰️ Hikes

Point Dume

@destination195

A relatively flat circular route around the tip of Point Dume, an ocean outcropping marking the middle of Malibu. Parking can be a challenge, with only 6 spots dedicated to this whole hiking area. You may have to wait for another walker to return before being able to secure a spot. Scenic panoramic views of the ocean and flanking cliffs can be had during this whole 1.1 mile out-and-back hike, which begins on soft sandy terrain that may be difficult for those with mobility issues. Listen for barking sea lions sunbathing on the rocks far before and you're sure to see a flock of pelican fly by at some point during this half hour walk. The coolest part of this trail lies toward the Zuma beach side, where a precarious path on a rocky peninsula jutting out from the main mountain allows you to get even closer to the ocean. From a distance it looks quite dangerous, but once you get up close you'll find the path is much larger and flatter than it seems, allowing you to easily walk out to the tip without having to do any kind of scrambling.

Add to

Details

Solstice Canyon

@destination195

Part shaded canyon trail, part sunny hillside ascent, Solstice Canyon truly has it all. I recommend starting with the relatively flat route into the canyon to get warmed up before the eventual ascent up the Rising Sun Trail, but given this 3 mile hike forms a loop you could go about it either way during the hour and a half it takes to complete. If you park in the free lot next to the Solstice Canyon Education Center, you'll be heading out in the right direction. While in the shaded canyon, listen to the calming sounds of babbling brooks until you eventually encounter the waterfall where these streams originate. The coolest part of this trail is yet to come, as you'll eventually stumble upon the stone and brick ruins of The Roberts Ranch house designed by architect Paul Revere Williams in 1952. A good portion of this structure and the surrounding landscaping is left standing, including a massive metal oven. It honestly feels a bit eerie walking around knowing someone used to live out here, but nonetheless this is a one-of-a-kind feature I have yet to encounter on any other hike I've completed!

Add to

Details

Malibu Creek State Park

@destination195

A sprawling public park in the canyon offering a choose-your-own-adventure style experience, since you can pick whichever hike inside suits your fancy! It's quite spectacular to walk amongst the soaring mountains flanking the edges of the otherwise flat, brush-filled entryway. If you're feeling adventurous, take an easy stroll to the Rock Pool Swimming Hole where you can scramble up large boulders and jump off into the water basin below. I came here for a rock climbing excursion set up by my college's nature club, so although this is entirely possible within the park -- I'd be sure to get professional assistance if this is something you're interested in.

Add to

Details

Escondido Falls

@destination195

The best waterfall hike with easy access from Malibu--there's even a designated paid parking lot at the trailhead! I will say temper your expectations when it comes to your definition of a "waterfall"--depending on the season and how much rain has come down recently, this could be more adequately described as a drizzle. It is very cool when the falls are in full swing though! A 3.5 mile out-and-back trail that should only take you around an hour and a half. Dog friendly and incredibly doable for the average person.

Add to

Details

Malibu Bluffs

@destination195

Charming flat cliffside trails that would be the ideal place to walk a dog around. Access these trails by parking in the Malibu Bluffs Park lot, where you'll find a few different youth sports fields. While you can get down to the beach from here, I wouldn't advise it. Getting back up is quite the challenge (especially if you decided to go for an impromptu swim) and I broke my toe attempting to do pretty much just that.

Add to

Details

🏄‍♀️ Excursions

High Horse Malibu

@destination195

Malibu is full of horse girls, with the local bohemian vibe sitting somewhere along the spectrum of "beach cowboy." Embrace your inner Bu'er and book a horseback riding tour while you're in town! Similar to my surfing excursion note below, you don't necessarily need to book with this tour operator--find the one who best suits your needs! If you want sweeping canyon views overlooking the rugged valleys and coastline while sitting atop an equine, however, this could be the tour for you.

Add to

Details

Always Summer Surf School

@destination195

What would a trip to Malibu be without a surf sesh? Unfortunately, if you're assuming you can just rent a board and easily hop in the line off Surfrider Beach--you're wildly mistaken. And I say this as someone who attempted to do just that! The notorious surf spots around Malibu (Surfrider and County Line for example) are highly territorial, with local shredders riding their line even if you're sitting in it. Don't get knocked in the head with a board like I did, instead sign up for a surf lesson and you'll be much better off! The company I rode a soft board with for the first time years ago appears to be out of business (RIP Malibu Surf Shack), so I've linked another reputable company in the area. You don't necessarily need to book with this operator and should instead ideally pick a business that runs lessons close to your lodging, but either way an initial lesson is key to ensure you stay safe on these challenging waves.

Add to

Details

The Getty Villa

@destination195

While not technically in Malibu, this is the best place to start your day if you're looking to inject some artistic intrigue into your itinerary. Admire ancient Greek and Roman art in a recreated Roman villa from the Pacific Palisade cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean below. While admission is free, you do need to secure a timed-entry reservation from their official website.

Add to

Details

Cielo Farms

@destination195

The best place to go wine tasting near Malibu, and in Los Angeles for that matter! Cielo Farms is positioned deep in the Santa Monica mountains along a ridge that will grant you panoramic rugged views as you sip vino amongst the clouds. Whereas Rosenthal Winery is great for a casual glass, Tuscan estate-inspired Cielo is where to go for a proper wine tasting excursion--fire pit and all! Reserve a $35 Wine Bar Day Pass (which doesn't include the $19 weekend parking fee) for your entire party, assuming you aren't a member of the establishment's wine club. This will grant you access to the property where you can then order your preferred of three different Flight options each served as an assortment of four wines.

Add to

Details

Logistics for Staying in Malibu 🏡

- 🚗 No matter how long your visit it, you NEED a car to get around. "27 miles of scenic coastline" isn't just a cute catch phrase. This tagline accurately describes the geography of Malibu, which really is just a thin strip of inhabitable land stretched out between stunning beaches and rocky cliffs.

This particular layout means Malibu is not walkable at all, and you're going to rack up a hefty fee trying to Uber around everywhere—if you can even find a car to pick you up! Renting a car is almost guaranteed to be cheaper (Sixt is my favorite provider with airport pick-up and drop-off), plus you'll have the flexible freedom to explore as you please.

SIXT rent a car | Premium Car Rental & Top Deals WorldwideSIXTSIXT

www.sixt.com

- 🏨 The area between the pier and Point Dume is the more commercialized half of Malibu, so find a hotel or Airbnb in this neck of the woods if you want to be closer to the action and avoid driving around too much. If you're seeking undisturbed serenity, the other half of Malibu past Point Dume is where you'll find this zen retreat (with significantly less traffic too!)

- 🏋🏻‍♀️ If you're staying in the area for a decent amount of time, you can get a gym day pass at Malibu Fitness for $25 or a week-long pass for $75. Your next closest option if Equinox Pacific Palisades, although you need an All-Access pass to use this gym.

- 🛒 For groceries, shop at the Whole Foods in the Country Mart or Vintage Grocers in the Trancas Country Market if you're staying on the other side of Point Dume.

- 🔥 While this coveted destination is generally beautiful year round, adverse natural disasters can shut the whole town down, closing PCH traffic (which is your only way into and and out of town, other than the Malibu Canyon Road route near Pepperdine) or even mandating evacuation. Be wary of booking a trip around wildfire season, as these raging flames can take weeks to contain, and avoid an early winter trip in January and February lest another atmospheric river lead to 40 days of rain. mudslides, and falling rock on the highway.

✈️ Find this guide useful?

It would mean the world if you:

💾 SAVE this guide

📩 SHARED this guide with someone else who'd find it useful!

☘️ GIFTED a small tip—my go-to coffee order while I'm sitting in cafés curating more travel advice is a $5 iced lavender latte from Alfreds!