Malibu
Neighborhood

Malibu

Stunning Pacific coastline meets celebrity beach town glamour

Malibu isn't just another LA beach town. This 21-mile stretch of Pacific coastline has been Hollywood's playground since the 1920s, and you'll feel it the moment you cruise down Pacific Coast Highway. Celebrities still call Carbon Beach home, surfers chase perfect waves at Malibu Lagoon, and couples watch sunsets from Point Dume's clifftops. But here's what makes Malibu special — it manages to feel both exclusive and accessible, where you can grab fish tacos at a beachside shack then stumble into a $200 dinner at Nobu. The vibe is California casual with just enough glamour to remind you you're somewhere special.

Itineraries coming soon

We're working on adding amazing itineraries for Malibu. In the meantime, try the app to create your own!

Malibu moves at beach time. Even on busy summer weekends, there's a laid-back energy that comes from living next to 21 miles of Pacific coastline. The town splits into distinct pockets — touristy Malibu Pier with its carnival rides and seafood restaurants, exclusive Carbon Beach where paparazzi camp outside celebrity homes, and the quieter stretches near Point Dume where locals walk their dogs at sunrise. You'll see everything from beat-up Volkswagen vans to Maseratis parked at the same taco stand. That's Malibu — where surf culture meets Hollywood money, and somehow it all works. The architecture leans heavily into that California beach house aesthetic: lots of glass, natural wood, and homes that seem to spill down cliffsides toward the ocean.

Money-Saving Tips

  • 1.Beach parking runs $8-15 at most spots, but some residential areas near Point Dume have free street parking if you're willing to walk
  • 2.Happy hour at many Malibu restaurants runs 3-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers — perfect timing for sunset views
  • 3.Grocery shopping at Whole Foods or Ralphs in the Malibu Country Mart costs about 20% more than inland LA, so stock up before you arrive
  • 4.Many hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains are free, including popular spots like Escondido Falls and Solstice Canyon
  • 5.Malibu Wine Safari offers group discounts for parties of 8+ and sometimes runs Groupon deals during off-peak months

Travel Tips

  • •Visit El Matador Beach at low tide for the best access to those Instagram-famous sea stacks and tide pools
  • •Pacific Coast Highway gets foggy in the mornings during May and June — plan beach time for afternoons when it usually clears
  • •Surfrider Beach is best for beginners, while more experienced surfers should head to Malibu Point or Third Point
  • •Download the Malibu Alerts app for real-time updates on beach conditions, parking availability, and fire warnings
  • •Book dinner reservations at least a week ahead during summer months — popular spots like Nobu and Geoffrey's fill up fast
  • •The best sunset viewing spots are Point Dume (requires a short hike), El Matador Beach, or the deck at Duke's Malibu

Frequently Asked Questions

Late spring through early fall (April-October) offers the warmest weather and clearest skies. Summer gets crowded but has the best beach conditions. Fall is ideal — warm days, fewer crowds, and great surf conditions.

Explore Malibu

Things to Do in MalibuWhen to Visit Malibu3 Days in Malibu7 Days in Malibu

Ready to explore Malibu?

Get a personalized itinerary in seconds with Takeoff.

Free on iOS. No credit card required.