Putting together this Malibu travel guide was easily one of the most fun parts of what I do. Malibu is one of my favorite places on this planet so getting to spend some extra time up there to enjoy all it has to offer was a real treat. From the shopping to restaurants, beaches to hikes – there is no shortage of relaxation and fun to be had in Malibu. Check out all my favorite spots below that you won’t want to miss while in Malibu!
WHERE TO STAY:
The Surfrider: If you follow me on Instagram then you know I needed to start off my Malibu Travel Guide with this spot! Aside from it’s charming and beachy interior, The Surfrider is perfectly situated on the iconic PCH making it just steps from the beach and having the most perfect views no matter where you look. Their rooftop is the perfect place to work from during the day as they have a full daytime menu and relaxing views of the ocean but it’s also the best spot to hang at night and enjoy their custom cocktails, beachy soundtrack, and cozy chairs. I stayed in the Pacific Room when I was here last and absolutely loved it! I kid you not, I spend one full day just laying on my balcony hammock reading a book and watching surfers. Talk about a dream spot!
Malibu Beach Inn: This isn’t your typical beach hotel but rather a five star hotel that happens to be sitting on the beach. I haven’t stayed here yet but plan to do so very soon and I cannot wait. I’ve heard such great things about how relaxing and luxurious Malibu Beach Inn is!
Calamigos Guest Ranch: Situated on over 250 acres of beauty in Malibu, this destination is your ultimate escape. Between their private cottages with outdoor showers to the spa and their beach club, you’ll do a whole lot of unwinding during your time at Calamigos.
WHAT TO DO:
Beach: There are so many amazing beaches in Malibu but my favorite, secret spot is Broad Beach Road which has public access about halfway down the street. Other favorite spots are Carbon Beach which is towards the entrance of Malibu (coming from the south), Escondido Beach (fun fact: from this beach you’re able to see the house where the Kardashians have been quarantining), Point Dume (situated on a cliff, this beach is down a massive staircase) and Westward Beach (located right next to Point Dume).
Malibu Country Mart: If you’re wanting to shop in Malibu, The Country Mart is the best spot to do so! From Planet Blue (beachy, trendy clothing) to Burro (highly curated gift shop where I get basically all my gifts, candles, coffee table books, etc.) and so much more, The Country Mart has it all. Not to mention some of the best restaurants in Malibu are located inside the mart!
Hikes: Another thing Malibu has no shortage of is hikes. One of my favorites is a quick trail in Point Dume where you can walk down to the water on a staircase or climb to the top of a hill overlooking incredible views of Malibu, cliffs and the water. It’s also a great spot to see sea lions which is so much fun! Some other great hikes in Malibu are Solstice Canyon, Escondido Falls, and Malibu Bluff Trail.
Drive along PCH: This iconic drive is something you’ll never get tired of. Try to avoid rush hour and instead opt for a sunrise or mid-day drive although if you do hit traffic, you’ll likely have views of beach homes and the beach itself so it really isn’t bad! If you head north on PCH, you’ll eventually get deep into Malibu and then are driving alongside all nature which is truly special.
One Gun Ranch: This biodynamic farm in Malibu is such a special one. While it’s no longer open to visitors, I do believe you can make a reservation for a special occasion. If not, their book is sure to give you all the feels of visiting this ranch!
Malibu Fig Ranch: I recently discovered this spot and have since been getting all my produce from here. Located right off PCH, this ranch has it’s own farm for you to visit along with produce to purchase and a giant pup for you to cuddle. The views of the hills aren’t so bad either!
Malibu Wine Safari: This iconic Malibu spot is the most fun way to celebrate or hang with a group of friends while in Malibu. Hop in the Malibu Wine Safari Jeep and tour the grounds while stopping to pose with Stanley the Giraffe from The Hangover, feed the zebras and sip some wine along the way.
WHAT TO EAT:
Taverna Tony’s: Easily the best Greek food in all of LA, this photogenic hot spot truly transports you to Greece with the food, service and atmosphere. Try not to get too full off the pita and dip they serve when you arrive – I say that from experience as I could easily eat that as my meal and be perfectly happy. Of course, the Greek salad is perfect but truly you can’t go wrong ordering here.
Sunlife Cafe: If you’re looking for a smoothie or açaí bowl in Malibu this is your spot. Located inside the Country Mart, this spot has some of the best, and most decadent, smoothies you’ll ever try.
D’amores Pizza: Every single time I’m in Malibu I always get at least one slice of pizza from D’amores (yes, you can get just a slice!). My favorite is to get a large pizza, meet some friends at the beach, lay out blankets and have a little pizza party while watching the sunset.
Malibu Farm: You’ve likely seen or heard about this iconic Malibu spot and thankfully it fully lives up to its reputation. The food is so fresh and delicious but more than that, the 360 ocean views can’t be beat. At the end of the pier is Malibu Cafe which is more casual whereas at the start of the pier is Malibu Farm which is, in my opinion, the best way to take in a sunset and eat an amazing meal. Either way, you’ll be so happy you came here!
Cholada Thai: I don’t even have words to describe how good this food is, you’ll just have to go and experience it yourself! All I will say is you must order the Golden Bags, Thai Beach Salad, Pad Thai and Pad See Ew – aka come hungry!
Geoffrey’s: I absolutely love Geoffrey’s for special occasions. Between the cliffside tables with incredible ocean views, the elegant yet not at all stuffy service and incredible food it truly makes for a memorable night. The tuna tartar is a must order here!
Neptune’s Net: If you want to grab some fresh seafood and a beer after a long day at the beach then you’ll love Neptune’s Net. This casual spot is known for massive groups of bikers hanging out here all day long as well as some really great seafood.
WHERE TO UNWIND:
Five Sense Collective: Malibu itself is the perfect place to unwind but Five Sense Collective takes it entirely to another level. The dome-shaped magical healing haven is located on the a stunning cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Filled with cozy pillows and blankets, here is where you can indulge in aromatherapy, breath work, body massage, reiki, sound healing and everything else they have to offer.
The Mindry: This meditation studio is a modern sanctuary for meditation classes and is worth a trip while in Malibu. Even if meditation isn’t necessarily your thing, between the teachers and this atmosphere by the time you leave here it likely will be your favorite spot.
WHAT TO PACK:
Comfortable shoes: You never know if you’re going to be walking for miles exploring all Malibu has to offer or stopping for a bite to eat at the chic country mart which is why comfortable sandals like these and these have been my go-to for spending time in Malibu. Wearing them all day, despite the activity (ok probably not hiking – for that these are a great option) make them the perfect shoe to pack.
Jacket or sweater: Since Malibu is right on the ocean, it can get a bit cooler at night. I suggest bringing a light sweater or jacket so you can layer if need be. My favorite to bring is a cozy, oversized sweater that doubles as basically a small blanket for rooftop hangs or after late night beach swims!
Sunglasses: I feel like 90% of the year it’s sunny in Malibu making it the dream location. With that, it’s important to bring your sunnies with (these are my current favorite pair) or you’ll be squinting all day long and potentially well into the evening. This pair is also super chic making any outfit, day or night, look pulled together.
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