Malibu — a sun-soaked paradise along the Pacific Coast Highway. This charming seaside town is way more than just a celebrity hangout. Wondering what to do in Malibu?
From fancy villa rentals to outdoor adventures, wine tastings to cultural gems, get ready to uncover hidden treasures! In 2024, you have multiple unusual things to do in Malibu that'll make your trip memorable.
1. Rent a Luxury Villa in Malibu
Renting a fancy villa is the first thing to do in Malibu. Just picture waking up to ocean views, strolling out to your private balcony, and breathing in fresh, salty sea air. With so many huge, luxurious villas available, you can live out your California dream vacation. Spend days lounging by your own private pool, throw an amazing outdoor dinner party, or simply chill in complete comfort.
Staying in a Malibu villa lets you fully embrace the laid-back yet glamorous vibe the town is famous for. The options are endless — from modern mansions with sleek infinity pools to cozy beachfront cottages with amazing patios. You'll have all the space and high-end amenities you could want. Take a look at some villas that can catch your attention:
PCH Paradise. This relaxed yet stylish Malibu beach house sits right on the Pacific Coast Highway with 60 feet of dazzling ocean frontage. The open living spaces flow out to a private courtyard and rooftop deck offering incredible coastline views. The master suite and living areas have walls of glass overlooking the blue horizon. With three bedrooms and a luxurious bathroom, it's the perfect Malibu retreat just minutes from the Getty Villa, shops, and dining.
Escondido Escape. This stylish Malibu beach villa offers the ultimate oceanfront living on a secluded, sandy section of Escondido Beach. The open-concept interior highlights seamless indoor-outdoor flow and jaw-dropping ocean, coastline, and Catalina Island views through walls of glass. With five total bedrooms, multiple decks, and a beach-level great room, it's perfect for entertaining or relaxing beach vacations.
Malibu Oasis. This architectural masterpiece along Malibu's pristine shores offers refined coastal living at its finest. The open layout connects living spaces made for entertaining, anchored by a chef's kitchen flowing onto an ocean-view balcony. Just steps from the legendary Topanga Point surf break, and conveniently near Santa Monica and Malibu's iconic pier and amenities.
Overview:
Location: Various locations throughout Malibu, CA.
Ideal stay duration: 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on your vacation duration.
Price range: Varies widely based on size, location, and amenities, but expect to pay $1,000-10,000+ per night for a high-end villa.
Complementary experiences: Hiring a private chef, arranging in-villa spa services, or booking exciting Malibu activities and excursions.
Best time of the week to stay: Any time, villas are available year-round.
Suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely, many luxury villas are perfect for a rejuvenating solo getaway.
2. Surf's Up in Malibu
Of course, no trip to Malibu is complete without catching some waves. With over 20 miles of coastline, Malibu's beaches offer surfing for all levels. Beginners can take lessons at the more mellow breaks, like Zuma Beach. Experienced surfers flock to renowned spots like Surfrider Beach and County Line for bigger swells.
To maximize the stoke, many savvy surfers rent a beach house or luxury villa right in Malibu when visiting. That way, you can wake up, brew some coffee, and stroll just steps from your front door to be among the first in the water.
Overview:
Location: Multiple beaches, including Zuma, Surfrider, County Line, and others along Pacific Coast Highway.
Ideal stay duration: 2-4 hours is typical for a surf session.
Price range: Beginner surf lessons start around $70-100/hour. Board rentals are around $20-40 for a half day.
Complementary experiences: Grabbing post-surf food like acai bowls or fish tacos at beachside cafes and restaurants.
Best time of the week for this activity: Weekdays when beaches are less crowded.
Best time of the day for this activity: Early morning when winds are calmest and crowds are smaller.
Suitable for solo travelers? While possible, it's recommended to surf with a buddy for safety reasons, especially as a beginner.
3. Go Wine Tasting
Malibu has way more to offer than beaches and surfing — it's also an up-and-coming wine destination. You've got to go wine tasting, a great thing to do in Malibu, at one of the many vineyards and tasting rooms tucked away in Malibu's rolling hills. From the famous Malibu Family Wines to the rustic vibes of Cornell Winery & Tasting Room, you'll discover a huge variety of locally-made wines.
Sip and savor the rich, unique flavors as you learn all about the winemaking process. The winery staff are super knowledgeable and can give you the inside scoop. You might even get to meet the actual winemakers. Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, or specialty blends, Malibu's wineries have something for every taste.
Overview:
Location: Multiple vineyards and tasting rooms like Malibu Family Wines, Cornell Winery, etc.
Ideal stay duration: 1-3 hours per winery.
Price range: Tasting fees vary from $15-40 per person generally.
Complementary experiences: A picnic lunch on the vineyard grounds or a day touring multiple wineries.
Best time of the week for this activity: Weekends when more wineries have extended hours.
Best time of the day for this activity: Mid-day to early afternoon to allow time for tastings.
Suitable for solo travelers? Yes, it's a great way to meet fellow wine lovers.
4. Giddy Up for a Horseback Adventure with Malibu Riders
Looking for an extreme thing to do in Malibu? You can also experience Malibu like a real-life cowboy or cowgirl by saddling up for a scenic horseback ride. Malibu Riders is a family-run business that'll take you exploring the area's trails and canyons on horseback. It's such a unique way to soak in the natural beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains.
For the more experienced riders, Malibu Riders offers some adrenaline-pumping excursions, too. You can gallop along ridgelines and experience the freeing feeling of cruising on horseback.
Overview:
Location: 5306 Chesebro Rd. Agoura Hills, CA. 91301.
Ideal stay duration: 1 hour, 1.5 hours, or 2 hours is the typical duration.
Price range: $100 for the Paramount Ranch excursion, non-ocean view Zuma Canyon trail, and 1-hour Malibu Creek State Park ride. $150 for the ocean view Zuma Canyon route, and $200 for the 2-hour Malibu Creek State Park adventure.
Complementary experience: Complement the ride by enjoying a tasty, healthy seafood lunch at a nearby Malibu eatery or taking a revitalizing nap at a close-by beach to recharge for more activities.
Best time of the week for this activity: These scenic rides are available any day of the week.
Best time of the day for this activity: Morning time slots are offered at 11:30 or 12:00 noon, while afternoon departures are at 2:00 or 2:30, varying by month.
Suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely! It's a great opportunity to make new riding companions or simply relish the journey solo, taking in the amazing views and your beautiful equine partner.
5. Discover Malibu's Trendiest Outdoor Mall: The Country Mart
If you're looking for the iconic Malibu vibe in one place, we’ve got another unusual thing to do in Malibu. Head straight to the Malibu Country Mart. It's the perfect spot to spend an afternoon shopping, eating, and just immersing yourself in the local scene.
You can start by wandering through the boutiques and specialty shops lining the walkways. You'll find all sorts of stylish and unique brands, from trendy clothes to artisanal home goods. The Mart is a great place to pick up some quintessential Malibu souvenirs, too, like beach apparel, jewelry, or art from local makers.
Once you've worked up an appetite, you've got an awesome array of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Grab a table on one of the sunny patios and enjoy some stellar people-watching as you eat.
Overview:
Location: 3835 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu, CA 90265.
Ideal stay duration: 2-4 hours.
Price range: Varies based on shopping, dining, entertainment.
Complementary experience: A leisurely day experiencing the shopping, dining, and coastal vibe.
Best time of the week for this activity: Weekends when it's most lively.
Best time of the day for this activity: Late morning through late afternoon/evening.
Suitable for solo travelers? Yes, it's a fun environment to explore alone and people-watch.
6. Dive Into Underwater Adventures in Malibu
With its sparkling clear waters and sea life, Malibu offers some epic scuba diving opportunities right offshore. If you're looking for an unforgettable underwater adventure, sign up for a guided dive tour. An amazing thing to do in Malibu!
Even if you're a newbie, Malibu is the perfect place to get certified with lessons from experienced instructors. They'll ensure you feel safe and confident before guiding you to explore the underwater landscapes.
For certified divers, Malibu also offers some extra special dives. You can explore shipwreck sites and sea caves teeming with marine critters. Every dive reveals new surprises. The crystal clear visibility lets you fully appreciate Malibu's underwater scenery in all its glory. Sunrays filtering through the water create an almost ethereal vibe as you float weightlessly.
Overview:
Location: Multiple beach entry points like Leo Carrillo State Beach, Malibu Pier, etc.
Ideal stay duration: 2-4 hours for a guided dive trip.
Price range: $100-200+ for a guided boat dive, plus rentals if needed.
Complementary experience: Stopping for lunch/drinks after at a beachside restaurant.
Best time of the week for this activity: Whenever visibility is best, typically summer/fall.
Best time of the day for this activity: Morning is ideal when winds are typically the calmest.
Suitable for solo travelers? It's recommended to join a group dive for safety reasons.
7. Step Back in Time at the Adamson House
For a glimpse into Malibu's earliest days as a seaside colony for the elite, don't miss touring the Adamson House. The 1920s home along the coast transports you back in time to the Roaring Twenties and the indulgent lifestyle of its original owners.
As you wander through the immaculately restored interior, you'll be dazzled by the intricate craftsmanship and period details, such as hand-painted ceramic tiles, carved wooden ceilings, and extravagant furnishings. Each room recreates a different aspect of the family's daily life, from living quarters to service areas.
Part museum, part time capsule, exploring Adamson House makes for a uniquely immersive and educational experience. Where else can you wander the halls of a masterpiece of Spanish Colonial architecture just steps from Malibu's iconic surf beaches? History has never felt so alive.
Overview:
Location: 23200 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265.
Ideal stay duration: 1-2 hours.
Price range: $7 for adults, $2 for kids under 12.
Complementary experience: Combining with a stop at nearby beaches/parks.
Best time of the week for this activity: Any day they're open (Wed-Sat).
Best time of the day for this activity: Morning or early afternoon.
8. Chase Waterfalls on a Hike to Escondido Falls
One more thing to do in Malibu, California, is chase waterfalls at Escondido Canyon Park. This four-mile hike takes you through the beautiful canyon before rewarding you with the stunning 150-foot Escondido Falls.
The climb is no joke, with plenty of steep sections and boulder scrambles to keep things interesting. But the lush scenery of oak, sycamore, and willow trees makes it a pleasure, as does knowing that a refreshing waterfall swim is waiting for you.
When you finally reach the falls after about two hours of hiking, you'll definitely want to take a break and cool off in the large rock pools and maybe even scramble behind the falls. The whole grotto area is surrounded by striking rock formations and little hideaways to explore.
Overview:
Location: Escondido Canyon Park, 27200 Winding Way, Malibu, CA 90265.
Ideal stay duration: 2-4 hours for the full hike.
Price range: $10 per vehicle for parking.
Complementary experience: Packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at the waterfall.
Best time of the week for this activity: Weekdays when less crowded.
Best time of the day for this activity: Morning is cooler for the strenuous hike.
Suitable for solo travelers? Yes, but stick to marked trails for safety.
9. Glimpse of Ancient Grandeur at the Getty Villa
The jaw-droppingly Getty Villa brings the luxury and grandeur of ancient Greece and Rome into the modern day.
As you wander the grounds, you'll be surrounded by recreated gardens, colonnaded walkways, fountains, and an open-air theater overlooking the Pacific that all perfectly evoke the opulence of the classical world. Every sight delights the senses, just as it would have two millennia ago.
Overview:
Location: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.
Ideal stay duration: 2-4 hours.
Price range: Free admission, $20 for parking.
Complementary experience: Making a day visiting other LA museums/attractions.
Best time of the week for this activity: Weekdays when less busy.
Best time of the day for this activity: Morning for cooler temps to stroll gardens.
Suitable for solo travelers? Yes, a peaceful place to explore art/antiquities alone.
10. Ride Malibu's Trails on Two Electric Wheels
For an outdoor thing to do in Malibu, book a guided electric mountain bike tour. Even if you're not a hardcore biker, the bike's pedal-assist motor helps you tackle tricky inclines and uneven terrain with relative ease.
Your local guide will pick the perfect route to match your ability level, from moderate fire roads to more challenging singletrack trails. No matter which you choose, you're in for some mind-blowing scenery, usually only accessible to hardcore hikers and bikers.
Overview:
Location: Tour companies operate out of multiple Malibu trails/parks.
Ideal stay duration: 2-4 hours.
Price range: $100-200+ per person for a guided e-bike tour.
Complementary experience: Stopping for a trailside snack or lunch after the ride.
Best time of the week for this activity: Anytime, based on tour availability.
Best time of the day for this activity: Morning for cooler temps and shade.
Suitable for solo travelers? Yes, a fun group activity to meet active travelers.
Additional Tips for Malibu Travelers
To make the most of your Malibu adventures, keep these extra tips in mind as you start planning your sun-soaked getaway.
Pack Layers
Malibu's climate can be unpredictable, with cool ocean breezes and warm inland temperatures. Be prepared by packing lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove as needed.
Explore Off-the-Beaten-Path
While Malibu's iconic beaches and attractions are a must-visit, don't miss the opportunity to explore the hidden gems and lesser-known spots. Ask locals for recommendations or join a guided tour to uncover the true essence of this coastal paradise.
Embrace the Slow Pace
Malibu is all about taking it slow and savoring the moment. Leave your watch behind, soak up the laid-back vibes, and embrace the art of relaxation. After all, that's what a Malibu getaway is all about!
Respect the Environment
As a stunning natural destination, it's crucial to respect and protect Malibu's delicate ecosystems. Properly dispose of waste, and be mindful of your impact on the environment.
Discover Malibu's Endless Charms in 2024 – Book Your Luxury Villa Escape Today
So, what to do in Malibu? You’ve got numerous options. Whether you're looking for thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking to waterfalls or going on epic scuba diving trips, or if you just want to indulge in total relaxation — Malibu delivers. No matter how you spend your time, a Malibu getaway is guaranteed to create those blissful, sun-soaked SoCal memories you'll never forget.
To make your Malibu experience even more incredible, book a luxury villa rental through the Maimon Group. Our exclusive collection of beachfront homes, sleek modern villas, and sprawling multi-bedroom estates will have you living in mega luxurious style.