20 Best Things to Do in Malibu in 2023 By A Local

Boasting 21 miles of prime Pacific shoreline, Malibu, CA, is a veritable playground for anybody searching for solar, surf, and an unforgettable Californian expertise. Just a brief drive from the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, the near-perfect climate and lengthy golden seashores have attracted Hollywood celebrities to its shores for many years. Malibu’s well-known seashores could also be its greatest draw however it’s removed from the one attraction.

Malibu’s mountain backdrop gives mountaineering, tenting, and biking choices. In the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, vineyards draw weekend crowds. If you’re on the lookout for among the greatest issues to do in Malibu, you’ll additionally discover loads to do in city. There are a few actually distinctive museums in town and the retailers, eating places, and pubs buzz with a lifetime of their very own.  Here are my prime selections of the issues to do in Malibu you can not miss! 

Top Things to Do in Malibu

You can’t go to Malibu with out spending at the least a while on the seaside. Boasting 21 miles of magnificent shoreline, Malibu, or “Bu” because the surfers name it, has a variety of seashores to appeal to seaside lovers of all types. 

From lengthy sandy seashores to rugged cliffs, you’ll discover someplace to dangle your toes in the cool, salty waters of the Pacific Ocean.  In Malibu, the local weather additionally performs together with gentle temperatures year-round. In this information we’ll discover the sprawling seashores that dot Malibu’s shoreline, every providing its distinctive appeal and actions.

We’ll enterprise into culinary delights at Neptune’s Net, take a scenic drive alongside the Pacific Coast Highway, spot whales with Malibu Coastal Adventures, delve into historical past on the Malibu Lagoon Museum, and even journey off the mainland to Santa Cruz Island. Read extra: 24 Of The Best Beaches in California

1. Zuma Beach

By far the preferred of the Malibu seashores, Zuma Beach can be essentially the most pure with no signal of movie star homes and an amazing huge patch of unpolluted sand that stretches 1.8 miles into the gap. 

Nestled on the western aspect of Malibu, this sandy seaside is arguably some of the gorgeous seashores in Southern California. With its pristine sands stretching over a mile lengthy, and glowing turquoise waters, Zuma Beach gives guests a tranquil retreat from metropolis life. Whether you’re a nature lover, a water sports activities fanatic, or a household on the lookout for a fun-filled time out, Zuma Beach has one thing for everybody.

The seaside has loads of on-site parking and lifeguards on the alert. There are additionally showers and picnic areas. You’ll even discover a restaurant on the seaside so you’ll be able to plan a laid-back lunch. 

This isn’t Malibu’s greatest browsing seaside however, it’s nice for physique boarding, and kiteboarders and windsurfers choose up the breeze every day. If you’d like to attempt the game out you’ll be able to rent gear shut by. Should you favor one thing slightly tamer, there may be at all times a seaside volleyball sport on the go. 

2. Point Dume State Beach and Preserve

Point Dume State Beach with its lengthy stretch of golden sand and seaside cliffs is a nature lover’s Paradise. Here marine and coastal wildlife abound and tons of of birds name it residence. 

The Dume Beach headland is a Nature Preserve with 34 acres of state land providing up wonderful mountaineering and wonderful views of Santa Monica Bay. At the precise time of the 12 months, it’s possible you’ll even catch a glimpse of migrating whales and dolphins from the headland. 

There are seashores on both aspect of the purpose, Big Dume Beach, also called Dume Cove Beach lies to the east. It’s that quintessential Malibu seaside that’s good for browsing. It’s additionally not as crowded as among the different seashores on the Malibu shoreline. West of Dume Point you’ll discover Dume Point State Beach. It kinds a part of Zuma Beach so it enjoys comparable services. 

3. Surfrider Beach (Malibu Lagoon State Park)

Looking for one of the best browsing in Malibu? Then head down to Surfrider Beach. The seaside is world-renowned thanks to the various surfer films made in the Fifties and Sixties. Located adjoining to the enduring Malibu Pier, this world-famous surf spot attracts surfers from across the globe with its excellent, long-breaking waves. But the attract of Surfrider Beach goes past simply the surf. It embodies the laid-back Californian way of life that’s synonymous with solar, sand, and sea. It additionally kinds a part of the Malibu Lagoon State Beach and estuary so a brief stroll up the seaside will take you to top-of-the-line locations to get pleasure from chicken watching. 

Surfrider was the primary seaside ever to obtain the “World Surfing Reserve” Accolade. It is sort of a small seaside with not a lot area to swim so it might probably get crowded. Still, it’s value a go to even when it’s simply to watch the surfers. If you’re inquisitive about browsing the waves at one most iconic browsing seashores, you could possibly discover a surf faculty and rent a board. You’ll quickly be strutting your stuff in the rolling blue waters of Surfrider Beach. Surely top-of-the-line issues to do in Malibu.

Steps away from the seaside, there’s an entire array of native eating places and retailers the place you’ll be able to fulfill your post-surf cravings. From savoring contemporary seafood to purchasing for surf gear, the choices are plentiful. And when the solar dips beneath the horizon, the seaside transforms right into a silhouetted dreamscape, marking the proper finish to a blissful day.

4. El Matador State Beach

Quite probably one of many prettiest seashores on the California shoreline, El Matador Beach boasts dramatic rock sculptures carved by the weather. Getting down onto the sand isn’t all that straightforward however, boy, is it definitely worth the stroll. The photographic choices are infinite and the little bays and alcoves are attractive. The solely entry to the western Malibu seaside is through a steep gravel path that winds its approach from the parking space. 

This compact stretch of sand, nestled between Point Dume and Leo Carrillo, boasts some of the fascinating landscapes in Malibu. Unlike your quintessential Malibu seaside, El Matador is a imaginative and prescient straight out of a fantasy novel. It seems like you will have stepped right into a surrealist portray with the seaside’s otherworldly rock formations, tide swimming pools brimming with sea critters, and the ever-present sound of the crashing waves.

The seaside has no services however it’s a lot much less crowded than Zuma Beach. Bring your diving gear and revel in snorkeling and swimming. You may additionally like Top 10 Best Places to Camp in California

5. While Away the Time at Malibu Pier

Movie buffs will acknowledge the stunning wood Malibu Pier with its iconic twin white towers. Scenes from dozens of movies together with Taken 2 and three, Indecent Proposal, and American Pie 2 have been filmed from the pier. 

Built in 1905, the pier was designed to offload cargo from arriving ships. Today, guests benefit from the laid-back ambiance and bustling seashores as they stroll the pier having fun with the ocean breeze. Across the waters, movie star properties and fairly cliffs draw consideration. 

No matter the time of day, there are at all times fishermen making an attempt their luck on the pier. Visitors wile away the time on the wood benches watching the fishermen reeling in the catch of the day or the surfers using the waves at Surfrider’s Beach. Sometimes even the dolphins come out to play. 

The pier hosts a mixture of retailers. Browse round, and benefit from the informal seaside ambiance. Make time to cease for a seafood meal on the Malibu Farm Cafe on the pier’s finish. It’s a counter-service however you’ll be able to take your meal away and benefit from the ocean views as you tuck into your scrumptious contemporary fish, calamari, or shrimp. 

The Malibu Farm Restaurant on the other finish of the pier gives three meals a day for diners preferring full sit-down service.  It is the proper place to sip a cocktail as you watch the solar soften into the ocean. 

6. Hike the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Trails

Covering 157,000 sq. miles of wilderness, the Santa Monica Mountain National Recreation Area simply north of Malibu is the largest city nationwide park on earth. With greater than 10,000 archeologic websites it additionally has the best focus of such websites. There are miles and miles of trails in the park however some of the common is the Solstice Canyon Trail. 

Solstice Canyon gives hikers of all health ranges a chance to take a stroll by way of among the nicest trails that Malibu has to provide. The trails vary from difficult to straightforward amble. Paths meander by way of the wilds, previous waterfalls, alongside creeks, and into the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. 

There are additionally quite a lot of deserted buildings alongside the route. These embody the oldest stone constructing in Malibu. You’re additionally seemingly to come throughout a great deal of wildlife, together with an enormous number of wild birds. 

While you’re in the realm, plan to cease off on the Grotto. The views from the lookout are nice and in case you’re in the temper for a swim, you’ll be able to climb by way of the rocks and discover the small waterfall and secluded pool hid behind the rocks. 

Depending on the time of 12 months, it’s possible you’ll discover your approach to Escondido Falls. Regardless of whether or not the falls are working, it’s value taking the three.7-mile path. When in full circulate, the falls are the best in the Santa Monica Mountains dropping 150 toes down a number of tiers of sheer rock.   

7. Malibu Creek State Park

Malibu has greater than its justifiable share of pure sights. The Malibu Creek State Park and Leo Carrillo State Park are two such sights, providing nature lover’s among the greatest issues to do in Malibu.

Malibu Creek State Park is one other Hollywood favourite having performed host to the MASH and the Planet of the Apes movie crews amongst others. Spanning 8,000 acres, the park boasts a variety of habitats that embody tall grass plains and Oak forests towards a backdrop of craggy mountain peaks.  Fifteen miles of mountaineering and biking trails wind their approach by way of this gorgeous park.

A 2.5-mile hike by way of the park will take you previous the set of Planet of the Apes and all the best way to the realm the place Nineteen Seventies sitcom MASH was filmed. 

Malibu Creek runs by way of the park ending in an estuary that pulls tons of of birds. More than 200 chicken species be certain that the park stays a prime attraction amongst chicken lovers. 

A stunning campsite invitations guests to keep over and revel in mountaineering, biking, or kayaking as you commune with nature. It is certainly among the greatest parkland in the Santa Monica Mountains.

8. Leo Carrillo State Park

Visit the 1.5 miles of shoreline at Leo Carrillo Park because the tide ebbs and also you’ll come throughout a bunch of tidal swimming pools and sea caves ripe for exploration. This beautiful state park is a highly regarded vacation spot for surfers, rock and surf fishermen, and hikers. The park can be dog-friendly. 

There are greater than 120 websites for campers and RVs amongst the sycamore bushes on the ascent into the canyon.  All campsites have picnic tables and a fireplace ring.  In the summer time months, the park runs occasions, like fireplace constructing and Junior Rangers for visiting youngsters. 

9. Getty Museum

If you like the cultural issues in life, you’ll discover a number of museums and artwork galleries in town. Still, there are two museums distinctive to this space and effectively value a go to. Let’s begin with the Getty Museum. Read extra: The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Opened in 1974, the Getty Museum has a rare assortment of vintage artworks. Though the museum boasts 14,000 relics, you’ll discover 1,200 on present. The antiquities date again from 6,500 BC to 500 AD falling into a spread of themes from Greek and Roman life and mythology.

The Getty villa museum mirrors the construction of the Herculaneum Villa deli Papyri, as soon as thought of essentially the most luxurious home in the Roman Empire. It has tons of of rooms, every internet hosting a unique assortment of displays. 

Take a stroll by way of the tranquil rose and ivy formal gardens to view the valuable Roman statues that adorn them. You may take a 40-minute backyard tour amongst the aromatic herbs and fruit orchards. If you’re on the lookout for a meal that’s just a bit completely different, guide a “Tea by The Sea”. It’s a bit expensive however you’ll get pleasure from an beautiful meal made in half from produce grown on the villa.  Entry to the museum is free however you will have to guide in advance.  

10. Adamson House Museum

As the primary Malibu seaside residence ever constructed, you’d anticipate Adamson House to occupy top-of-the-line areas in town. In this, it doesn’t disappoint. It overlooks the Lagoon State Beach the place the Malibu Creek flows into the ocean. 

This Spanish revival house is greatest identified for its astounding array of ornamental tiles. The Rindge household constructed the home as a marriage present for his or her daughter in 1929.  This home museum is effectively value a go to if solely to observe the fashionable architectural opulence of the house. 

Here, forged iron blossoms add appeal to swish arched doorways. Lead glass home windows, frescoes, molded ceilings, and complex forged ironwork full the image. Classic furnishings fills the house with grace and appeal. The attractive tiled Persian rug in the 60-foot entrance is the piece de resistance.  

The Malibu Lagoon Museum, annexed to the Adamson House has a wonderful array of artifacts providing the customer insights into the early Malibu story. 

11. Book a Wine Safari

There’s nothing fairly as enjoyable as a visit by way of the Winelands. Malibu’s vineyards hug the slopes of the Santa Monica Mountains, making certain an ideal backdrop for an ideal day. There are a lot of wine excursions that depart from Malibu so select one which titillates your style buds. 

The Safari wine tour is a tour that basically stands out. It takes you on a journey of discovery in an open-topped safari automobile to discover the 1,000-acre Saddlerock Ranch and winery. The farm homes dozens of untamed animals together with alpacas, zebra, bison, and water buffalo. There is even a resident giraffe. Your safari will cease to greet the animals and savor the winery’s produce. 

If you’d somewhat not spend the day roaming the tranquil vineyards, you’ll be able to nonetheless savor the scintillating flavors of the vines at one of many many wine bars and tasting rooms in Malibu. Read extra about wine in California at How to Visit Napa Valley on a Budget and 31 Best Things to do in Napa Valley

12. Spend a Night on the Channel Islands National Park

If you’re in Malibu for various days, plan a visit to the Channel Islands National Park. This chain of volcanic islands is a deal with for nature lovers. The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve gives a habitat for among the most distinctive animals on earth. These embody vegetation and birds. The island fox, island evening lizard, and noticed skunk are discovered nowhere else on earth. 

Here one can find the largest group of breeding western gulls and California brown pelicans. This is a chicken lover’s Paradise. Hiking trails wind their approach throughout the wild landscapes of the islands taking you again to nature.  

If you guide a visit you’ll depart by boat from Oxnard. You can select to spend an evening or two tenting on the islands however make certain to convey alongside all of your provisions. The waters across the islands are alive with marine life, offering an ideal snorkeling journey amongst the forests of kelp.

Kayaking can be highly regarded. Hundreds of caves encompass the island and with a kayak, you’ll be able to discover the caves and the attractive wild shoreline. 

13. Enjoy Family Time at Malibu Bluffs Park

One of one of the best locations in Malibu for a household outing have to be on the Malibu Bluffs Park. It’s a six-acre group park that overlooks the ocean. Half is wild and undeveloped. Hiking trails run by way of the wilderness, and picnic tables invite households to get pleasure from a meal in the park. Spend a while on the whale-watching station. Even in case you don’t get to see the whales, the views are gorgeous.  

The park additionally hosts leisure services, baseball diamonds, a multipurpose area, and a youngsters’s playground. There isn’t any entrance payment and no cost for parking. 

14. Admire the Intricacies of the Malibu Hindu Temple

One of the biggest Hindu temples in the west might be discovered close to Calabasas in the Santa Monica Mountains. Built in 1981, the constructing is totally gorgeous. The outdoors is crafted with intricate patterns in stark white with pops of gold. The structure is unbelievably subtle. The elaborate workflows on into the inside sanctums of the temple. 

If you test the temple calendar, you could possibly coordinate your go to with a Hindu celebration or ceremony as this can be a working temple and there may be at all times one thing happening. If you need to benefit from the full expertise plan a vegetarian meal on the temple kitchen over a weekend go to.    

15. Indulge Yourself at Malibu Country Mart

The Malibu Country Mart will not be to be missed. Opened in 1975, the purchasing space with a distinction, is throughout from the seaside in the middle of downtown Malibu. The nation mart is a 6-acre purchasing heart boasting 75 retailers that embody trendy boutiques, quaint espresso retailers, and top-class eating places all served up in a laidback and tranquil ambiance. 

The heart has a great deal of parking, a youngsters’s playground, and loads of inexperienced areas in maintaining with the relaxed ambiance. malibu civic heart

16. Paradise Cove Beach

Paradise Cove Beach lives up to its title by providing slightly slice of paradise proper in Malibu. Tucked away beneath scenic cliffs, this non-public seaside gives a extra laid-back, intimate setting in contrast to among the space’s bigger seashores. Renowned for its picturesque views, peaceable ambiance, and iconic Paradise Cove Beach Café, this spot is a cherished vacation spot amongst each locals and guests.

As you step onto the seaside, the very first thing you’ll discover is its stunning, broad sandy shore, which gently slopes into the clear blue waters of the Pacific. The seaside is flanked by towering bluffs, including a dramatic backdrop to your seaside day, and offering a way of seclusion that’s onerous to discover on public seashores.

Paradise Cove Beach is the best place for a wide range of seaside actions. From swimming and sunbathing to beachcombing and tide pooling, there’s one thing for everybody. The calm waters additionally make it a secure spot for households with youngsters. Plus, you’ll discover loads of seaside lounges, daybeds, and personal terraces out there for lease, including a contact of luxurious to your seaside expertise.

No go to to Paradise Cove is full with no meal on the Paradise Cove Beach Café. This beachfront restaurant gives a pleasant menu of traditional seaside delicacies, from contemporary seafood to burgers and salads. Dining on their out of doors patio whereas taking in the gorgeous ocean views is an expertise that mixes one of the best of Malibu’s culinary scene with its unparalleled beachfront ambiance.

If you’re into images, the pier at Paradise Cove is a must-visit. This wood pier jutting out into the ocean is a favourite spot for capturing breathtaking photographs of the seaside, the rolling waves, and the mesmerizing Malibu sunsets.

17. Nicholas Canyon Beach

Known as “Point Zero” amongst locals, Nicholas Canyon Beach is certainly one of Malibu’s hidden gems. Located proper off the Pacific Coast Highway, this seaside is a secluded haven that provides a refreshing escape from the extra crowded vacationer spots. With its broad sandy shores, gorgeous vistas, and wonderful surf breaks, Nicholas Canyon Beach is a paradise for beachgoers and surfers alike.

Upon stepping onto the seaside, you’re greeted by an enormous stretch of golden sand framed by rugged cliffs and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. The expansive seaside gives ample area to unfold out a towel, arrange a seaside umbrella, or interact in a sport of seaside volleyball. If you’re an avid sunbather, you’ll discover loads of room to take in the California solar. And because the day winds down, the seaside gives the proper vantage level to watch the solar dip beneath the horizon, portray the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple.

For surfers, Nicholas Canyon Beach is a revered spot. The seaside is understood for its constant surf situations, that includes a right-hand level break that may produce lengthy, rolling waves excellent for longboarding and shortboarding. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a newbie trying to catch your first wave, Nicholas Canyon Beach gives a wonderful browsing expertise. The native surf tradition right here is powerful and welcoming, including a pleasant and energetic vibe to the seaside.

18. Visit Neptunes Net

There’s nothing fairly like the mix of contemporary seafood and panoramic ocean views, and Neptune’s Net delivers each. Perched proper on the sting of the Pacific Coast Highway, this beloved Malibu landmark has been serving up an array of seafood delights to locals and vacationers alike since 1958.

One of the restaurant’s standout options is its twin kitchen idea. On one aspect, the “restaurant side,” you’ll be able to order mouth-watering dishes corresponding to clam chowder, lobster, and shrimp, served sizzling and bursting with taste. On the opposite aspect, the “seafood market side,” you’ll be able to select from an array of contemporary seafood on ice, together with oysters, clams, and numerous fish species, all cooked to order.

Every merchandise on the menu showcases the freshness and high quality of the seafood. Whether it’s the beer-battered fish and chips, the heaping seafood platter, or the easy however scrumptious shrimp cocktail, you’re in for a deal with. And, in case you’re a fan of spice, don’t miss out on their famend “Firecracker Shrimp”.

Neptune’s Net isn’t nearly implausible meals; it’s in regards to the expertise. From your desk, you’ll be able to take in uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, watch surfers catching waves, and even spot a pod of dolphins frolicking in the gap. Or you’ll be able to seize your meals and head over to the County Line seaside which is throughout the highway.

19. Pacific Coast Highway

Spanning over 650 miles, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is greater than only a highway; it’s a journey that encapsulates the very essence of California’s coastal magnificence. It isn’t any marvel that driving on the PCH is taken into account some of the iconic highway journeys in the United States.

Running by way of the guts of Malibu, the PCH gives breathtaking vistas at each curve. To one aspect, you will have the majestic Pacific Ocean stretching out so far as the attention can see, its infinite waves crashing onto the rocky shoreline beneath. To the opposite, you’re flanked by towering cliffs, lush hills, and sumptuous properties that dot the shoreline.

As the PCH snakes by way of Malibu, it gives handy entry to lots of the metropolis’s sights. The Surfrider Beach, Malibu Pier, El Matador State Beach, and the fashionable purchasing district of Malibu Country Mart are only a few stops alongside the best way. Of course, a pit cease at Neptune’s Net for some contemporary seafood is a must-do on this scenic drive.

20. Whale Watching with Malibu Coastal Adventures

There are few experiences that may match the awe-inspiring spectacle of watching whales in their pure habitat. In Malibu, this distinctive journey is introduced to life by Malibu Coastal Adventures, a regionally owned firm that provides unforgettable oceanic excursions.

Upon boarding their specifically outfitted boats, you’re not only a passenger; you’re part of an expedition. These intimate whale-watching excursions are designed to take you shut to the motion, providing unobstructed views of those magnificent marine creatures.

Throughout the 12 months, the waters off Malibu’s coast play host to a number of species of whales, together with the big blue whale, the playful humpback, the acrobatic breaching orcas, and the 1000’s of California grey whales that move by throughout their annual migration. Their pure behaviors are a sight to behold, from spouting and fluking to breaching excessive above the water.

It’s not simply in regards to the wildlife, although. As the boat cruises off the coast, you’ll be handled to gorgeous views of Malibu’s shoreline, its gorgeous seashores, and the unique oceanfront properties of celebrities.

Whale watching with Malibu Coastal Adventures isn’t just an tour; it’s a deep dive into the marine world that leaves you with a profound appreciation of nature’s marvel. It’s a must-do expertise when in Malibu, one which guarantees to be memorable and thrilling.

Final Thoughts and FAQs

How do you spend your day in Malibu?

Start your day with a dawn stroll alongside Zuma Beach, certainly one of Malibu’s most expansive seashores. Enjoy breakfast at a neighborhood café earlier than heading over to the Lagoon Museum to delve into the realm’s wealthy historical past. Spend the afternoon browsing or sunbathing at Surfrider Beach, adopted by a leisurely lunch at Neptune’s Net, savoring their array of contemporary seafood. Go for a scenic drive alongside the Pacific Coast Highway, making stops on the scenic overlooks. Round off your day with a sundown whale-watching tour with Malibu Coastal Adventures for an unforgettable marine wildlife expertise.

What is Malibu well-known for?

Malibu is known for its breathtaking seashores, wonderful surf breaks, and movie star properties. Iconic landmarks embody the Pacific Coast Highway, the historic Malibu Pier, Surfrider Beach, and the Adamson House in the Malibu Lagoon Museum. Malibu can be famend for its upscale eating scene, together with the favored seafood restaurant, Neptune’s Net.

What time of 12 months is greatest to go to Malibu?

While Malibu boasts nice climate all year long, one of the best time to go to is in the course of the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these durations, temperatures are comfy, and town is much less crowded. Whale watchers ought to observe that grey whale migration happens from February to April, whereas blue and humpback whales might be seen from June to November.

Is Malibu value going to?

Absolutely. Malibu gives a mix of pure magnificence, out of doors actions, and cultural sights that attraction to all types of vacationers. From its world-class seashores and water actions to its wealthy historical past and vibrant eating scene, Malibu gives a very Californian expertise. Whether you’re a surfer, a nature fanatic, a historical past buff, or a foodie, Malibu has one thing for everybody.

What are You Waiting for? Discover the Best Places in Malibu!

With a lot to do, Malibu is definitely one of many premier vacation locations in the nation. Whether you need to go to a traditional Malibu Beach, take in the fantastic thing about the Santa Monica Mountains, or take a look at Santa Cruz Island this a part of Southern California you positively need to add to your listing. What’s holding you up? Start planning your vacation now and you can also get pleasure from an unforgettable vacation on Malibu’s sunny shores.