Top reasons to visit Malibu
- Stunning Beaches: Malibu boasts breathtaking beaches with soft sands and picturesque views, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy scenic hiking trails that offer magnificent coastal vistas and opportunities for exploration.
- Vibrant Surf Culture: Immerse yourself in Malibu's renowned surf scene, ideal for both novices and seasoned surfers.
- Charming Boutiques: Explore unique boutique shops that showcase local art, fashion, and gifts.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of stays, including pet-friendly and luxury options, catering to all traveller needs.
Find great hotels near Malibu
Discover the charm of Malibu with a variety of accommodation options, including guesthouses and hotels, designed to cater to every traveller. Whether you seek a pet-friendly getaway, a business-friendly stay, or an adventure-filled holiday, Malibu has something for everyone. Explore delightful options like the Malibu Country Inn and Surfrider Malibu, ensuring a memorable experience along the stunning Californian coast.
- Hotel Angeleno: Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, Hotel Angeleno is a charming 3.5-star hotel that caters to families and business travellers alike, with a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Located 21km from Malibu, it boasts a city-themed vacation experience. The hotel is particularly family-friendly, offering amenities such as complimentary cribs and window guards for children. Guests can enjoy the modern facilities while being situated conveniently in the city centre, making it easy to explore local attractions.
- Best Western Plus Carriage Inn: A 3.5-star choice with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Best Western Plus Carriage Inn is located 26km from Malibu and is an excellent option for business travellers and pet owners. This city-themed hotel allows for some pets onsite, accommodating dogs and service animals with waived fees. With its comprehensive pet policy and proximity to urban conveniences, guests appreciate its blend of comfort and practicality while enjoying the vibrant local atmosphere.
- Good Nite Inn - Calabasas: Offering budget-friendly lodging, Good Nite Inn - Calabasas is a modest motel with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, situated 13km from Malibu. Ideal for those seeking value, this accommodation features entertainment options such as flat-screen televisions and cable channels. The motel is surrounded by picturesque mountains and suburban scenery, providing guests with a serene environment to relax after a day of exploration.
Where to stay in Malibu
Malibu is a stunning coastal city perfect for family and outdoor beach vacations. Visitors can revel in breathtaking ocean views and the quintessential Californian coastal vibes. Nearby areas offer a delightful atmosphere, from family-friendly spots to romantic escapes and luxury retreats. Discover private beaches and picturesque scenery that make Malibu an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveller.
- Los Angeles: A sprawling metropolis, Los Angeles is the vibrant heart of Southern California and serves as the gateway to Malibu. With a plethora of experiences, from family-centric attractions and entertainment-themed venues to iconic landmarks, Los Angeles is a city that never fails to impress. Visitors can explore renowned theme parks, film studios, and theatres, ensuring a rich cultural experience. The city’s dynamic nature means that while it welcomes a constant stream of tourists, peak periods occur from July to August and again in October, making it an exciting hub for all ages.
- Central Malibu: Nestled around the idyllic shoreline of Malibu, Central Malibu offers an enchanting blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. This neighbourhood is particularly popular during March and the summer months, with visitors flocking to its beautiful beaches and recreational areas. Central Malibu boasts charming shopping spots and educational venues, all within easy reach of stunning coastal views. The local beaches, ideal for family outings, make it a delightful spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze.
- Western Malibu: Known for its picturesque beaches and outdoor escapades, Western Malibu is a seasonal hotspot, with visitor numbers peaking from July to September. This neighbourhood is perfect for families seeking a beachside retreat, featuring recreational areas and shopping opportunities. With its stunning coastline and family-friendly beaches, Western Malibu offers a serene yet vibrant atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for tourists looking to unwind and enjoy nature. While it sees fewer visitors from November to January, the tranquillity during these months provides a unique perspective on this beautiful area.
Things to do near Malibu
Shopping
Explore the chic boutiques along Pacific Coast Highway, where you can find unique gifts at Malibu Village. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Westfield Topanga for a wider selection of shops and dining options, offering everything from designer brands to local artisan products.
Recreation
Malibu's Healing Arts Centre offers tranquil yoga sessions and holistic therapies, set against stunning ocean views. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic trails of the Santa Monica Mountains provide invigorating hikes amidst breathtaking landscapes, enhancing your connection with nature while promoting wellness and relaxation.
Adventure
At the Porsche Experience Center, located 42km from Malibu, immerse yourself in the thrill of high-performance driving. Experience the rush of motor racing while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere filled with sports and adventure, perfect for adrenaline seekers and car enthusiasts alike.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Malibu at The Bungalow, where you can enjoy cocktails and ocean views. For a lively atmosphere, visit Moonlight Lounge for music and dancing, or unwind at Malibu Beach House with its laid-back vibe and sunset views.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Malibu
Malibu offers various free attractions such as Santa Monica Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach, making it an affordable destination. To save on transport, consider using the local bus services instead of hiring a car. For accommodation, the most budget-friendly months are November to January, with Mondays being the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia to compare prices and find great deals by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities. This approach will help maximise your savings while enjoying all that Malibu has to offer.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Malibu are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Malibu is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Malibu is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Malibu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Malibu
Malibu is ideal for family and outdoor beach holidays, featuring stunning attractions such as Malibu Beach, Malibu Pier, and various urban parks. Visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and outdoor experiences, with opportunities to explore the beautiful beaches and the best beach hotels in the area. Whether you're looking to relax by the shore or engage in water sports, Malibu offers a perfect getaway for all types of travellers.
- Paradise Cove Beach: Experience the quintessential Californian beach vibes at Paradise Cove Beach. This picturesque spot invites you to bask in the sun, take leisurely strolls along the shore, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean waves, making it an ideal place to unwind and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
- Malibu Pier: Stroll along Malibu Pier, where friendly locals and stunning scenery create a welcoming ambience. Enjoy the scenic views of the coastline, indulge in fresh seafood at nearby eateries, and perhaps even try your hand at fishing, all while taking in the vibrant community spirit.
- Candy Cane Lane: Located 19km from Malibu, Candy Cane Lane transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season. Explore this charming neighbourhood, adorned with whimsical decorations, and immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the holiday cheer.
Best time to go to Malibu
The best time to visit Malibu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Malibu
Reaching Malibu is convenient with several major airports nearby. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is situated 27km away, with luxurious hotel options such as the FairmONT Miramar Hotel (13km), The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey (6km), and Casa Del Mar (11km). Orange County Airport (SNA) is 85km from Malibu, with top picks like The Resort at Pelican Hill (10km), The Viv Hotel, Anaheim (14km), and Balboa Bay Resort (8km). Lastly, Ontario International Airport (ONT) is 101km distant, featuring hotels such as DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Airport (2km) and Sheraton Ontario Airport Hotel (2km).