Thanks to its scenic beauty, this city has been featured in some of the most popular films and TV shows. Malibu, which is on the northwest side of the county of Los Angeles, offers a wide variety of exciting activities. So if you’re planning to go on vacation here, then let this list be your guide. These are the top 10 things to do in Malibu. Picturesque beaches, exciting hiking trails, and many other attractions are waiting for you.
1. The Beaches
When it comes to gorgeous beaches, you can chose from over 30 in Malibu. Zuma is one of the few beaches in the city with no houses on the sand, making it a perfect place to relax. The waves can get really strong, so be careful when you’re going swimming. If you’re an experienced surfer, then bring out your board and conquer the waters. Other activities include scuba diving, windsurfing, and bodyboarding. There’s also a play area for the children and a volleyball court.
It will take a short hike to reach El Pescador, but it’s guaranteed to be worth it. The beach is less crowded than the rest, and it’s another ideal place for surfing and bodyboarding. It’s also famous for its stunning rock formations and tide pools. At El Matador, you can swim, snorkel, see various birds, or just unwind on the smooth sand. If you want a more adventurous experience, then explore the fascinating caves. There are plenty more beaches to check out, but one thing is for sure, you will experience fun moments.
2. The Getty Villa
This museum in the Pacific Coast Highway houses the antique collection of Paul Getty, one of the richest men in American history. Take a trip to the Getty Villa and be captivated by over 44,000 well-preserved Etruscan, Roman, and Greek artifacts. You will also love the villa’s design, which resembles a Roman country home from the 1st century. At the garden, not only will you see beautiful Mediterranean plants, but impressive bronze sculptures and ancient-style fountains and pools as well.
The Getty Villa
Address: 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
Website: The Gelly Villa
3. Malibu Pier
Outstanding views, memorable moments, and a tranquil atmosphere await you at the 780-foot-long (238 meters) Malibu Pier. Go for a relaxing stroll and when you reach the end, you can watch the surfers in action and ships passing by. It’s also a good place to see the luxurious homes situated on the cliffs. If you want a more exciting experience, then rent a rod and try your hand at fishing. There’s a huge chance of you catching a halibut, mackerel, or bat ray in the summer. The pier also has a shop and a few restaurants offering a wide variety of delicious dishes.
Malibu Pier
Address: 23000 Malibu Pier, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Website: Malibu Pier
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Solstice Canyon
A wonderful trekking experience is what you can expect in Solstice Canyon. It will give you an opportunity to explore the famous Santa Monica Mountains, and thanks to its wide trails, you can expect a relatively easy trek. Aside from astounding views, you will surely enjoy seeing different types of plants up-close. If you will hike during spring time, then prepare to be captivated by the flowers. Other highlights include the ruins of the 1950 Keller house and the 30-foot (9 meters) waterfall. The waterfall contains shallow pools, and you can soak your feet in them. There are also picnic areas if you want to take a break from the hike.
Solstice Canyon
Address: 3455 Solstice Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
5. Circle X Ranch
Posted by Frederick Melikian on Sunday, 3 September 2017
Circle X Ranch, which used to be a Boy Scout camp, is another popular hiking destination in Malibu. It’s your chance to trek to Sandstone Peak, which is regarded as the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains. From there, you can enjoy unobstructed views of Mount Baldy, Anacapa Island, and many other natural wonders. You can also try the Grotto trail, which will take you to a canyon surrounded by large boulders. It’s a good spot to have a picnic or just relax. Each trail in Circle X Ranch will give you an up-close look at the exotic plants and animals of the area as well.
Circle X Ranch
Address: 12896 Yerba Buena Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
6. Malibu Country Mart
It's another beautiful day in the Bu'!
Posted by Malibu Country Mart on Wednesday, 22 June 2016
If a marvelous shopping and dining experience is what you’re looking for, then Malibu Country Mart in Cross Creek Road is where you should go. With over 60 shops and restaurants, you certainly won’t have a hard time choosing. Majority of the stores are inside red stone buildings, giving the complex a unique rustic feel. You can also just sit back and relax on the lush courtyard or explore the picturesque Japanese flower garden. As for the kids, they can expect a fun-filled time at the well-maintained playground. Malibu Country Mart is also frequently visited by some of the biggest celebrities in town, so prepare for a few fanboy or fangirl moments on your trip.
Malibu Country Mart
Address: 3835 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Website: Malibu Country Mart
7. Adamson House
It used to be the house of the wealthy Rindge family, but now, it’s one of the city’s most famous museums. Take a tour of the Adamson House, which was built in 1929, and admire its impressive combination of Spanish Colonial and Moorish Revival architecture. Another beloved feature of the property is the tile work designed by Malibu Potteries. The entrance table, bathrooms, and pool are filled with colorful tiles, all of which will leave you in awe. As you explore further, you will get to know more about the family and their eventful history.
Adamson House
Address: 23200 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Website: Adamson House
8. Pepperdine University
It’s known for having one of the most attractive campuses in the country, and you’re welcome to visit. Pepperdine University in the Pacific Coast Highway promises to captivate you with lush scenery and unobstructed views of the ocean. You will also love the buildings, which perfectly represent the Mediterranean Revival architectural style. Another highlight of the university is the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art. Inside, you will see various works of local artists from the 1960’s to the present.
Pepperdine University
Address: 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90263, USA
Website: Pepperdine University
9. Malibu Wines
California Winter Night. Large Sweaters. Good Wine. And Close Friends. The Best Nights Are Usually Spontaneous And...
Posted by Malibu Wines on Friday, 27 January 2017
Apart from producing the finest alcoholic beverages in town, this place provides memorable experiences as well. Get a table at one of the tasting rooms and enjoy your meal with a delightful bottle of wine in a lovely picnic setting. Malibu Wines doesn’t serve food, so don’t forget to bring your own delicacies. As for the wine menu, you can expect a wide variety of options. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are extra special because there will be live musical performances. You can make a reservation at the official website, and obviously, guests below 21 years old are not allowed to join. Other activities worth trying out here include wine safaris, hikes, and yacht cruises.
Malibu Wines
Address: 31740 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Website: Malibu Wines
10. Arroyo Sequit
Posted by Eric Bristol on Saturday, 15 July 2017
Arroyo Sequit’s nature trail may be short, but it still guarantees to be an unforgettable journey through the Santa Monica Mountains. Take in the tranquil atmosphere as you move along and marvel at the unobstructed views of the Boney Mountains and its surrounding hills. You will also get a good look at Santa Monica’s amphitheater, a few satellite dishes, and the diverse plant life. Dogs are allowed in the area, so don’t forget to bring your pet pooch in your trekking adventure.
Arroyo Sequit
Address: 34138 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
A memorable time awaits you in Malibu Beach
Check out the sites, savor the lovely climate, and see your favorite movie stars up-close. Indeed, there no dull moments in Malibu. So stop fantasizing and let this city fulfill your dream vacation now.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to