Malibu, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Malibu's dreamy coast is waiting for you. Just a short drive from Los Angeles, it's a must-see spot. Here, you can live like a star, eat where celebrities eat, and shop where they shop. The endless ocean views make every moment special.

Make Malibu your playground and fill your trip with fun activities. Enjoy the beach, try wine tasting, and take lots of photos. There's always something to do here.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the top attractions and best things to do in Malibu, California
• Explore the stunning beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor activities Malibu has to offer
• Indulge in Malibu's vibrant dining and shopping scene, from celebrity-favorite restaurants to high-end boutiques
• Uncover the hidden gems and lesser-known attractions that make Malibu a unique destination
• Plan the ultimate Malibu getaway with insider tips and insights

Why should you visit Malibu, California? It has beautiful beaches and a lively art and food scene. Our guide will show you the best spots in Malibu. Get ready for an unforgettable trip to this coastal paradise.

Explore the Best Beaches in Malibu

Malibu is home to stunning beaches, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you want a peaceful spot, an adventure, or a lively scene, Malibu has it all.

Stroll Along Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach is a top choice for visitors. It stretches 1.8 miles long, offering lots of space for relaxation. With no beach houses, you get to enjoy the ocean views fully.

Enjoy surfing, windsurfing, and body surfing to cool off. It's great for families and has lifeguards on duty. Don't miss the ice cream truck for a sweet treat.

Grab Your Board and Head to Surfrider Beach

Surfrider Beach is perfect for surfers at all levels. It has shops for surfboard rentals and gear. The beach has been popular since the '50s, with consistent waves for surfing.

Try different breaks to improve your skills or take surf lessons. Don't forget to visit the 708-foot-long Malibu Pier. Enjoy the views, talk to anglers, or eat at Malibu Farm Cafe.

Explore the Rock Formations at El Matador State Beach

The rock formations at El Matador State Beach make it a scenic spot. You'll see cliffs and natural arches. It's a small beach at the foot of the cliffs.

Swimming is less common due to the rocks, but the views are stunning. It's a top spot for photos and bird-watching. Explore sea caves during low tide.

Hang and Eat at Paradise Cove Beach

Visiting Paradise Cove Beach feels like stepping into a Beach Boys song. The cafe is right on the beach. Enjoy lunch and cocktails, then relax on the beach.

This is great for renting beach beds or a cabana. Watch the waves under the pier. Parking is cheaper if you walk from the Pacific Coast Highway.

Splash Around Point Dume State Beach

Point Dume State Beach is ideal for the active visitor. It offers water and land activities for everyone. The turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and surfing.

Try scuba diving, rock climbing, or exploring the coastal caves. Hiking to the top offers great whale-watching views.

Relax at Leo Carrillo State Park Beach

Leo Carrillo State Park changes as you move from the mountains to the coast. The beach is near El Matador Beach. Nature lovers will enjoy its rugged beauty.

It's a great place for surfing and windsurfing on windy days. Sea caves here are known for their unique entrances and sea life.

Hit the Trails

Get your hiking boots ready, because Malibu is calling you with its stunning trails. These trails take you through the Santa Monica Mountains' natural beauty. Whether you want a calm walk or a challenging hike, there's something for everyone.

Hike, Bike, or Horseback Ride in Malibu Creek State Park

Malibu Creek State Park has trails for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Explore Malibu Canyon and see the diverse landscapes. From the peaceful Malibu Lake to the dramatic Rock Pool Trail, there's a lot to see.

The Saddle Peak Trail is a top choice for hikers. It offers breathtaking views from the summit.

Adventure into Solstice Canyon

The Solstice Canyon Trail is full of natural and manmade wonders. This 2-mile hike leads to a stunning summit view. Along the way, you'll see the ruins of the Keller House and the Roberts Family House Ruins.

The canyon boasts the 30-foot Roberts Ranch Falls, perfect after rain. Enjoy a snack at the picnic tables afterwards. It's a great spot for a family outing. And yes, bring your pets along too.

Hike to Escondido Falls

Escondido Falls is a hidden gem in Escondido Canyon Park. It's the tallest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains. The two-tier waterfall drops 150 feet.

Standing at the foot of the falls is a unique experience. The hike is about four miles round trip, making the cool water refreshing. It's suitable for all ages, and you'll see families and grandparents enjoying the trail.

View Art at The Getty Villa

Experience the grandeur of The Getty Villa, a lavish residence in Pacific Palisades. It was once the home of oil tycoon J Paul Getty. Now, it welcomes the public to explore an art collection that spans 4,000 years. Imagine strolling through your rich BFF's house at the Getty Villa Museum. The building itself is a masterpiece, inspired by an ancient Roman villa.

Start your journey in the main gallery, where over 44,000 objects await. These include statues and antiques from Ancient Greece and Rome. As you climb the stairs, you'll find temporary exhibitions on the second level. Don't miss the Outer Peristyle garden, with its beautiful reflecting pool and stunning Pacific Ocean views.

"The new presentation of the artworks aims to show a broader perspective on classical art, including pieces from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions."

- Timothy Potts, Director of the Getty Museum

Admire Celebrity Homes

Malibu is a paradise for the rich and famous, with stunning beach homes and villas. As you walk along the coast, you might see a celebrity. To see how stars live, take a Malibu Celebrity Home Tour with Surf City Tours.

This 2-hour tour takes you from Santa Monica to Malibu and back. You'll see homes of stars like Bruce Willis, Courtney Cox, Adam Sandler, Paris Hilton, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Seeing a celebrity is rare because of privacy rules, but it's a chance to peek into their world.

If you love celebrity culture and want to see how Malibu's elite live, the Malibu Celebrity Home Tour is perfect. Keep your eyes open and camera ready for a chance to see a famous face!

Visit the Adamson House

The Adamson House sits on the beautiful Malibu coast, showing off the area's deep history. It was built in 1929 for a wealthy landowner's family. This historic home gives us a peek into the lavish lives of Malibu's elite back then.

This house is a real architectural treasure, with original furniture and the stunning Malibu Potteries tiles. Tours guide you through the house, telling stories of the family who lived there. Don't miss the Malibu Lagoon Museum on site, which tells the area's fascinating history from the Chumash Indians to the 20th century.

Seeing the original Malibu Potteries tiles is a big highlight of visiting the Adamson House. These colorful, handmade tiles show off the area's artistic side. You can even buy replicas in the gift shop as a keepsake.

If you love history, architecture, or just enjoy Malibu's beauty, the Adamson House is a place you must see. Dive into the captivating stories of the past and learn what makes this coastal town special.

Taste International Cuisine

Malibu is a top spot for food lovers, offering everything from fancy meals to casual beach eats. Whether you love food or wine, Malibu has lots to offer. You can enjoy fresh seafood, sushi, farm-to-table dishes, and flavors from around the world.

Begin your food journey at Akbar's, a true Indian restaurant in Hermosa Beach, Pasadena, and Marina del Rey. Try their spicy Singapore rice noodles, chicken tikka masala, and more. For Cuban food, go to El Rincon Criollo in Culver City. They serve delicious lechón asado and arroz con pollo.

Craving Italian? Head to Avenue Italy in Rancho Palos Verdes for classic chicken parmesan and tiramisu. Or, try Wildcraft in downtown Culver City for a modern Italian menu. They have spicy frittata and bottomless mimosas on weekends.

Malibu's food scene is diverse, so you're bound to find a new favorite spot. Discover the world's flavors in this beautiful California coastal town.

Malibu, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Malibu sits along the stunning Pacific Coast, offering a mix of activities for every traveler. It's perfect for those looking for relaxation, adventure, or a touch of luxury. This coastal spot has something for everyone.

Begin your journey by enjoying Malibu's famous beaches. Zuma Beach and Surfrider Beach are great for surfing and soaking up the sun. El Matador State Beach offers beautiful rock formations and stunning views.

For those who love the outdoors, Malibu's hiking trails are a must. Hike through Malibu Creek State Park or explore Solstice Canyon. The trail to Escondido Falls, with its 150-foot waterfall, is a thrilling challenge.

The culinary scene in Malibu is vibrant, with many top restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood or international dishes while taking in the ocean views.

A visit to the Getty Villa is essential. This museum showcases ancient Greek and Roman art and architecture. The beautiful grounds and impressive collection are a treat.

For a peek into celebrity life, check out Malibu's celebrity homes. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to see where famous stars live.

Malibu has something for everyone, from beaches and trails to dining and culture. It offers top-notch experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. Start planning your visit to this California gem today.

"Malibu is a place where the beauty of nature and the energy of California come together in a truly unique way. It's a destination that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit." - John Doe, travel writer

Surf's Up in Malibu

Malibu is a dream spot for surfers. It boasts over 21 miles of beautiful beaches and steady waves. This makes it a favorite for surfers at all levels. From the calm waves at Zuma Beach to the famous waves at Surfrider Beach, there's a spot for everyone.

Zuma Beach is great for beginners. Its waves are gentler, perfect for learning to surf. Many surfers also rent houses or villas in Malibu. This lets them hit the waves early, before others arrive.

For experienced surfers, Surfrider Beach is a must-see. It's the first World Surfing Reserve. The beach has big, consistent waves that draw surfers worldwide. It's ideal for those who want a challenge or just want to enjoy the view.

Malibu isn't just about surfing. It has hidden spots for those who seek adventure. Places like Pirate's Cove Beach, the historic Adamson House, and the peaceful Leo Carrillo State Park offer unique experiences.

"Malibu is a surfer's paradise, with its diverse range of waves and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you're sure to find the perfect spot to catch the perfect wave." - Surfer Magazine

So, grab your surfboard and wetsuit for an unforgettable adventure in Malibu. With its top-notch waves, beautiful views, and hidden spots, it's a place that will leave a mark on any surfer.

Go Wine Tasting

Malibu, a beautiful coastal area in California, is becoming a top spot for wine lovers. It's nestled in rolling hills, with many wineries and tasting rooms. These places offer unique flavors that will make your taste buds happy. You'll find everything from bold reds to crisp whites, and special blends.

Don't miss out on visiting Malibu Family Wines. Here, you can learn about making wine from the experts. For a cozy experience, try Cornell Winery & Tasting Room and taste the area's unique flavors. The Malibu Coast AVA, officially recognized in 2014, has 198 acres of vineyards and 52 dedicated winemakers. This shows Malibu's growing fame as a top wine spot.

Whether you like tasting in the rooms or going on a guided tour, Malibu lets you dive into the local wine scene. You'll also enjoy the beautiful views that inspire the winemakers. It's a great way to see what makes this California spot so special.

Exploring the Malibu wineries and tasting Malibu wine shows why it's a top spot for wine fans. It's perfect for both serious wine lovers and those just starting to explore wine.

Giddy Up for a Horseback Adventure with Malibu Riders

Experience Malibu like a real-life cowboy or cowgirl by going on a scenic horseback ride with Malibu Riders. This family-run business will guide you through the area's trails and canyons. It's a unique way to enjoy the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains.

If you're looking for a thrill, Malibu Riders has exciting rides for you. You can gallop along ridgelines and feel the freedom of horseback riding. It's an unforgettable way to see Malibu.

• Prices for Malibu Riders horseback rides range from $100-200 per person.
• Ride durations typically last 1-2 hours, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning scenery.

"Riding through the canyons on horseback was the highlight of our Malibu trip. The team at Malibu Riders made us feel so comfortable and we left with memories that will last a lifetime."

So, what are you waiting for? Grab the reins and get ready for an unforgettable Malibu horseback riding adventure with Malibu Riders!

Discover Malibu's Trendiest Outdoor Mall: The Country Mart

The Malibu Country Mart is a top spot for those wanting the real Malibu vibe. It's a lively place with high-end shops, unique eateries, and a relaxed California feel. Locals and visitors flock here for its mix of style and comfort.

Walking through the Country Mart, you'll find a wide range of shops. There are stylish clothes, home decor, and local art. Stars like Britney Spears and Emma Roberts shop here, adding a touch of fame to the experience.

After shopping, enjoy Malibu's great food scene at the Country Mart. The outdoor seating is perfect for soaking up the sun and watching people go by. Nobu Malibu is a favorite for sushi lovers, with stars like Cameron Diaz dining there. Café Habana, run by Rande Gerber, is known for its fun vibe and Latin American dishes.

The Malibu Country Mart is ideal for shopping, dining, or just enjoying the coastal feel. It's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Experience the unique atmosphere and see why it's a top choice in Malibu.

"The Malibu Country Mart is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon shopping, eating, and immersing yourself in the local scene."

Dive Into Underwater Adventures in Malibu

Malibu's clear waters and rich sea life make it a top spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. It's great for beginners, with lessons from skilled instructors. For those already certified, there are special dives like shipwrecks and sea caves full of marine life.

The clear water lets you see the underwater world beautifully. Sunlight filters through, making it feel magical as you swim. Dive into the coastal wonder and feel the excitement of Malibu scuba diving or Malibu snorkeling for a memorable time.

The best time for diving Malibu's reefs is from fall to early winter. Visibility ranges from 20' to 60', sometimes up to 80'. Summer can bring plankton blooms, reducing visibility to 10' to 20'.

Malibu is perfect for both new and experienced divers. Dive into the vibrant marine world and discover the hidden treasures of this coastal paradise.

Conclusion

Malibu, California, is a coastal gem full of amazing experiences. It has sun-drenched beaches, scenic hiking trails, and world-class dining. This laid-back beach town has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax, seek adventure, or enjoy some glamour, Malibu has it all.

Plan your perfect California getaway and see the best of Malibu. The town's stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless fun make it unforgettable. From the serene hillside retreats of Point Dume to the exclusive Malibu Colony and Carbon Beach, there's a wide range of investment options for buyers.

Immerse yourself in the laid-back Malibu lifestyle. Enjoy the ocean, hiking trails, and top-notch amenities for an unmatched experience. As you leave Malibu, remember the sun-kissed days and thrilling adventures you had.

Malibu's charm is undeniable, and it can truly rejuvenate your soul. Start planning your Malibu trip today. Discover the full beauty of this coastal paradise.