Blake Walsh

35 Best Things to Do in Malibu, CA

  • Published 2023/02/11

Located in the Golden State of California, Malibu is a gorgeous beach city in Los Angeles county.

The city is full of stunning sandy beaches and fishing piers overlooking the magnificent Pacific Ocean.

This picturesque is known for homes of distinguished celebrities, including Robert Downey Jr., Miley Cyrus, Jennifer Aniston, Lady Gaga, Tom Hanks, and many more.

The city is also known for its incredible surfing waves and Mediterranean climate.

It is fondly called “the ‘bu’” by the residents and surfers.

Malibu coast has more than ten delightful beaches where you can soak in the Californian sunshine and enjoy the extraordinary Pacific Ocean’s remarkable views.

The city also has several nature trails where you can enjoy hiking while appreciating the beautiful beach city’s sweeping views.

Apart from all this, Malibu has several fine dining restaurants for you to enjoy delectable seafood.

Here are the 35 best things to do in the sunny Californian city of Malibu:

Visit the Magnificent Santa Monica Mountains

Santa Monica Mountains

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Malibu offers much more than stunning beaches and scenic trails.

Santa Monica Mountains are a coastal mountain range, and it offers marvelous views of the city, along with picturesque hiking trails and charming waterfalls.

Wildcat at Santa Monica Mountains

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The scenery of the environment is phenomenal, with sunlight beaming down the mountains; the views all around are splendid.

Make sure to take a hike up to the top to relish the most stunning views of the city as far as eyes can see.

View of Magnificent Santa Monica Mountains

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Admire the Grandeur of Adamson House

View of Adamson House

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When it comes to the top locations in Malibu, the Adamson House is a popular destination.

Although it’s known as the Taj Mahal of Tile, it features a quirky and distinctive but unquestionably gorgeous interior most likely constructed for marketing purposes.

Established in 1929, the estate stands on 13,000 acres of property covering the city of San Antonio and an area of land that Spanish inhabitants had settled.

View of Adamson House

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The Rindges were dairy farmers who, in 1926, started Malibu Potteries, a pottery studio in Malibu.

Different civilizations and muses inspired the pottery firm to create a variety of intricate and magnificent ceramic tiles with a broad spectrum of themes.

For their oldest daughter’s wedding, the Rindges erected the Adamson House.

View of Adamson House

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Rindge’s various ceramic tiles make it a one-of-a-kind building based on Mediterranean Revival architecture.

It’s a 60-foot-long “Persian rug” constructed entirely of tiles that greets visitors to the property.

The rest of the interior is adorned with custom tiles, spanning from Art Deco to Native American and nautical to Andalusian.

Exterior view of Adamson House

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Everything from the bathrooms and kitchens to the fountains and swimming pool has them, from top to bottom!

In 1932, a fire at the pottery plant forced the firm to close its doors for good.

Fountain at Adamson House

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Witness Amazing Art Collections at the Getty Villa

The Getty Villa

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Opened in 1974, The Getty Villa is a museum that showcases the art collection of the Gettys.

The museum was formerly the residence of Paul Getty, who was one of the richest men in the world.

The estate is designed to resemble an Italian Villa from the 1st century.

View of Getty Villa

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The collection displayed consists of 1,200 works displayed in about 23 galleries.

Apart from these 23 galleries, the museum also has five more galleries that display visiting or changing exhibits.

The outsides of the museum are gracefully decorated with extensive manicured formal gardens.

Corridor at Getty Villa

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Play Volleyball at Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach

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Located at Malibu’s 30000 Pacific Coast Highway, Zuma Beach is the largest and the most popular beach in the city.

It is known for its excellent surf and its golden and shiny sand.

People enjoying at Zuma Beach

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The beach is perfect for spending a day enjoying various recreational and fun activities, such as playing volleyball, building sandcastles, swimming, surfing, fishing, and much more.

There are various fantastic eateries located nearby, where you can eat delicious food after a day of fun.

View of Zuma Beach

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Dine With a View at Geoffrey’s

Once a popular Malibu hot spot for stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe, the old Geoffrey’s has been transformed into a contemporary California restaurant designed by Richard Neutra, a renowned architect, in 1948.

Additionally, the Executive Chef’s culinary masterpieces compete with the sophisticated elegance of the dining room and the breathtaking ocean views from the outdoor terrace.

Don’t miss out on the wonderful Ahi Tuna Tartare combined with avocado, scallions, ginger, Wonton chips, and Tobiko caviar for breakfast.

The dinner, which is heavy on seafood, is complemented by an exceptional wine selection.

Sunbathe at Westward Beach

Westward Beach

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Hidden away in the western side of Point Dume, Westward Beach is a three-mile-long stretch of shiny blonde sand and serene blue water.

It is much quieter and less crowded than Zuma Beach, and its tranquil environment is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, swimming, and more.

Stunning sunset at Westward Beach

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You can also spot dolphins, seals, and sea lions from the beach.

Do not forget to relish the orange skies of the stunning sunrise or sunset from Westward Beach.

View of Westward Beach

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See the Escondido Falls

Escondido Falls

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Escondido Falls is a famous hiking trail with a stunning 150-foot fall.

It is a 6-kilometer long trail and is open year-round for visitors to enjoy.

The hike is moderately easy and is absolutely worth doing with spectacular views from the top along with the gorgeous waterfall.

View of Escondido Falls

Enjoy the High-End Malibu Country Mart

Signs at Malibu Country Mart

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Located in the heart of Malibu, Malibu Country Mart is a 6-acre boutique mall.

It offers a unique experience of high-end dining, shopping, playing, and more.

You can buy groceries, get your car fixed, buy a gown, and have a fancy meal, check out galleries, and get pampered all in one place.

Appreciate Spectacular Panoramic Views at Solstice Canyon

Solstice Canyon

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Solstice Canyon is a unique historical site located in the Santa Monica Mountains.

It is surrounded by tall and gorgeous waterfalls that can be accessed by a two-mile hike.

Waterfall at Solstice Canyon

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You can also access the insides of the Solstice Canyon by another arduous six-mile trek.

Visit this scenic coastal canyon to enjoy the spectacular panoramic views.

View of Solstice Canyon

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Experience the Best Malibu Adventure With Good2Go Adventure Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Malibu, a good guide will be able to point you in the correct direction of the best areas to explore.

What better way to get to know the city than by hiring a qualified and enthusiastic local guide to show you the most excellent regions and vineyards?

It’s all taken care of for you by the Good2Go Adventure’s tour team.

They’ll take care of transportation, book your visit, put together the entertainment schedule, and share with you everything about the areas you’ll pass by.

In addition to a picnic, a stopover for some musical performances as you cruise the Pacific Coast Highway, three wineries and their tasting rooms, and a beautiful drive with intervals for the most incredible vistas, the Malibu Vino Run is one of the most popular tours.

Hike the Picturesque Malibu Creek State Park

Malibu Creek State Park

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Located in the enchanting Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park covers over 8,000 acres.

It is often called “The Yosemite of Southern California” because of its dramatic peaks, oak savannahs, and rolling tallgrass plains.

Pool at Malibu Creek State Park

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It is an excellent area for exploring and hiking, surrounded by the picturesque scenery of the park, mountains, and the ocean.

View of  Malibu Creek State Park

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Relish a Sunrise or Sunset From Point Dume State Beach and Preserve

Point Dume State Beach and Preserve

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Located on Malibu’s coast, Point Dume State Beach is a promontory with soft white sand and rocky coves.

Scenic view of Point Dume State Beach and Preserve

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You can enjoy hiking, swimming, surfing, fishing, and diving here with a beautiful view of the ocean mixed with greenery.

Visit the Point Dume State Beach and Preserve and make sure to catch the sunrise or sunset from the coast.

View of Point Dume State Beach and Preserve

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Stroll Along the Malibu Pier

The Malibu Pier

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Malibu is known for its pier. Built in 1905, it is a fishing pier and is 780 feet long.

It is the heart of California’s surf culture and is also called “The Riviera of America.”

People walking on the Malibu Pier

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It is a popular spot for fishing and surfing. You can stroll around here and appreciate the magnificent panoramic views of the blue ocean.

Make sure to catch a sunrise or sunset from the pier.

View of  Malibu Pier

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Stop by the Leo Carrillo State Park

 Leo Carrillo State Park

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Leo Carrillo State Park is a coastal area with a 1.5 mile-long stretch of white sandy beach situated along the Malibu coast.

Surfing at Leo Carrillo State Park

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It is famous for swimming, beachcombing, surfing, and windsurfing.

The park has interactive displays and several trails for visitors to enjoy.

View of Leo Carrillo State Park

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See the Exquisite Views of the Pacific Ocean From Nicholas Flat Trail

Nicholas Flat Trail runs through Leo Carrillo State Park and is 6.9 miles long.

It is situated on 1,664 feet of elevation with rocky and sharp land.

The hike along this trail is pretty tricky, but its highlights include the lovely plantlife of the terrain and exquisite views of the Pacific ocean.

Take Pleasure in the Idyllic Setting of the Nicholas Canyon Beach

The Nicholas Canyon Beach

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Situated in Western Malibu, Nicholas Canyon Beach is a popular spot to hang out in the city.

The beach is very peaceful with a charming, idyllic setting, perfect for surfing, swimming, beachcombing, windsurfing, surfing, and more.

It is also called “Point Zero” by locals.

Stairways at Nicholas Canyon Beach

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Enjoy Birdwatching at Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach

View of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach

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Located between Point Dume State Beaches and Leo Carrillo, Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach is a beach with small “pocket beaches” or coves.

The three coves or “pocket beaches” of the State Beach are El Pescador, La Piedra, and El Matador.

In the offseason, the beaches are empty and are perfect for relaxing and enjoying birdwatching, surfing, and beachcombing.

Hike Along the Circle X Ranch

The Circle X Ranch

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Located about 17 miles away from Malibu in the western Santa Monica Mountains, Circle X Ranch is a pretty well-liked hiking location among tourists and visitors alike.

Its main attraction is the highest peak in the Santa Monica mountains, the Sandstone Peak.

The hike along the trails offers a chance for the hikers to see the coastal plant and wildlife.

Name board of Circle X Ranch

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Explore Underwater With Malibu Divers

Malibu Divers is the Malibu area’s one-stop shop for divers. The organization offers a wide range of diving training for all skill levels.

Malibu Divers also offers guided dive trips to nine famous islands and reefs of Southern California.

The company can also assist divers in organizing charters for unique expeditions in the Southern California seas.

Many tours include meals, hotel accommodation, and transportation as part of a single package offer.

For freediving, rescue diving, and beginner level diving, Malibu Divers provides resources and instruction.

Divers may purchase various items from the on-site store, including diving gear, guides, and logbooks.

Whale Watching in Malibu

Whale Watching Malibu

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The whales migrate along the Malibu Coast annually, mainly between February and April.

You can easily spot whales while walking along the coast or the pier.

Along with whales, you can also easily view sea lions, seals, and dolphins.

The prime location to watch whales is Point Dume.

You can also take tours with Malibu Coastal Adventures to view the animals up close.

Surf on Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Malibu Lagoon State Beach

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Located in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a protected beach.

It is also known as Surfrider Beach and is long-known for being the most premium surfing location in the entire state.

Rocky shore at Malibu Lagoon State Beach

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The Malibu Pier is also located on this beach, and there are several recreational activities that can be enjoyed here, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, diving, and much more.

View of Malibu Lagoon State Beach

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Camping at Point Mugu State Park

Point Mugu State Park

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Nestled within the Santa Monica Mountains, Point Mugu State Park is a 5-mile long coastline.

The park covers an area of over 40,000 acres, and some of its highlights are its unspoiled beaches, rocky hills, sand dunes, thriving valleys, and massive canyons.

Shoreline of Point Mugu State Park

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It also has two campsites for camps and trailers where you can enjoy camping in a beautiful environment overlooking the blue ocean and rolling hills.

View of Point Mugu State Park

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Try the Scrumptious Seafood at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

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Located at the end of the Malibu Pier, Malibu Farm Pier Cafe serves farm-to-table food.

The cafe provides extraordinary views of the waters.

View of Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

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It caters to its wide customer by serving gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian food as well.

Make sure to try the smoked salmon, crabcake sandwich, and fish tacos when you visit the cafe.

Signage of Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

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Try the Japanese-Cali Fusion at Nobu Malibu

Nobu Malibu

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Overlooking the stunning waters, Nobu Malibu is a renowned seafood restaurant, and its clientele consists of several Hollywood celebrities.

It serves mouth-watering Japanese and Californian fusion food.

Do not forget to order the sashimi taco, rock shrimp tempura, and wagyu beef.

Also, make sure to stick around and enjoy the gorgeous sunset.

Relish Local Wineries

Malibu Wineries

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California has charming and rustic wineries all over the state.

Malibu is also no stranger to excellent wineries with even more impressive wines.

Some of the city’s best wineries are Cornell Winery & Tasting Room, Malibu Wines, and Malibu Family Wines.

Vineyard at Malibu

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Stay at the Malibu Beach Inn

The Malibu Beach Inn

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Located on Billionaire’s Beach, Malibu Beach Inn is Malibu’s most luxurious hotel overlooking the magnificent Pacific ocean.

The boutique hotel offers the most extraordinary views.

It is also full of amenities, such as private beaches, private balconies, soundproof rooms, conference rooms, gyms, and much more to make your stay as comfortable and worthwhile as possible.

Wander around the Trancas Country Market

Amid western Malibu, California, lies a stunning retail complex called Trancas Country Market.

The market’s attractive rustic, barn-style architecture, situated on a 17-acre natural sanctuary, perfectly depicts the timeless simplicity of the coastal hamlet.

Trancas Country Market opens its doors to outstanding retail and culinary experiences while surrounded by picturesque views of the ocean and mountains.

Discover the tranquil open-air commons, a cherished neighborhood garden nursery, and much more.

Experience a local shopping and dining destination highlighting the neighborhood, sophistication, and laid-back way of life of western Malibu through popular market and café options.

Soak in the Ambiance at Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club is the sole luxury resort in Malibu offering visitors access to a private 250-acre ranch in the Malibu Wine Country and a prestigious beachfront Beach Club.

All exclusive Cottages, Bungalows, and Estate Rooms have been carefully created to be warm, private areas that can coexist healthily with The Ranch’s untainted landscape.

Spend a day at Spa Calamigos resting to restore your mind, body, and spirit while enjoying The Ranch’s serene beauty.

At the gorgeous five-acre ranch along the Malibu shore, Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant and Lounge, savor delicious snacks and handmade beverages.

The Restaurant Lounge features stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean from just about every window and a beachy mid-century ambiance.

Tour the Vineyard at Malibu Family Wines

Malibu Family Wines is an expert in creating extraordinary occasions centered on fine wines.

Malibu Family Wines produces approximately 12 distinct varietals across the Semler and Saddlerock labels, using 70,000 vines on the 1,000-acre Semler Family property in Malibu hills.

The vineyards are particularly special since they are perfectly situated at the peak of the Santa Monica Mountains.

The rocky topography and slopes to the south are ideal for cultivating quality wine grapes.

Don’t miss out on joining a tour of the vineyard and Saddlerock Ranch.

Appreciate Art at Malibu Contemporary Art Gallery

Malibu Contemporary Art Gallery is a gallery devoted to lovely Coastal Living that only displays artwork created by Southern California-based artists.

The gallery, housed within The Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, showcases 14 well-known and distinguished Southern California artists.

Owner of Malibu Contemporary, renowned oil painter Lori Mills lives in Malibu and organizes solo and group exhibitions.

In addition to several up-and-coming artists, the holdings include contemporary works by well-known artists who exhibit abroad and have worked in museum collections.

They take great pride in their stylish, upmarket contemporary assortment appropriate for seaside residences.

Grab a Drink and Unwind at Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate Tasting Room

Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate Tasting Room is situated in Malibu, California, directly across from the beach.

It provides a relaxed setting to explore and savor the range of wines from Rosenthal and Surfrider.

Come and enjoy the food trucks at Rosenthal with an ocean view on the beautiful garden terrace on Saturdays and Sundays.

You’re welcome to pack a picnic or bring your food.

The Tasting Room is a special and enjoyable venue for your business’s holiday celebration.

They can arrange with reputable suppliers, food trucks, bands, DJs, or caterers, and the spacious outside terrace can hold up to 300 guests.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Horseback Riding in Topanga State Park

Topanga State Park

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Situated in the Los Angeles’ Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park is a part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

It consists of striking cliffs and riveting canyons.

Nature trail at Topanga State Park

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It also contains 36 different nature trails that are popular for hiking, horseback riding, and biking.

The trails offer impressive views of the city and its charming coastline.

View of Topanga State Park

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Enjoy Wonderful Views From the Grotto Trail

A hiker walking along the Grotto Trail

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Located near Malibu, California, with lovely wildflowers, Grotto Trail is a moderately easy 4-kilometer hike leading to the charming grotto and waterfall.

The trail is open year-round and is dog-friendly as well.

If you want to enjoy an easy hike with a great payoff of beautiful views at the end, visit and hike the Grotto Trail when you visit Malibu.’

Final Thoughts

Malibu is a fabulous beach city with stunning and worthwhile beaches, along with gorgeous rolling hills, delectable food, celebrity sightings, vibrant culture, and several terrific hiking trails with magnificent views.

This Californian beach city is full of new places to explore and things to do at every other corner.

The mighty Pacific Ocean and its pristine blue water is definitely a treat to the eyes.

Visit this wonderful town and experience its coastal life and golden sunshine yourself.

Do not forget to tell us your favorite thing from the list, and make sure to do all these things when visiting Malibu.

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