10 Best Things to Do in Malibu, California

Malibu is a beautiful coastal town near Los Angeles and everyone that comes to Los Angeles does not leave without taking a trip to Malibu. Malibu has breathtaking ocean views, white sandy beaches, and countless outdoor activities. You can spend your afternoon wine tasting, surfing on the perfect waves, eating with celebrities, or hiking to waterfalls. But Malibu has so much to do than just its coastline. You can camp atop cliffs, cool down in natural pools and wake up to breathtaking mountain views. You can enjoy your morning coffee while looking at the most glorious sunrise, either among the mountains or by the beach. So, stop hesitating and start packing your bags. This blog will guide you on the top 10 things to do in Malibu so that you have the best time in the city.

Things to do in Malibu

1. Scuba Diving
2. Thornhill Broome Campground
3. Hiking
4. Visit Vineyard
5. Paragliding
6. Malibu Pier
7. Beaches
8. Getty Villa
9. Adamson House
10. Famous Restaurants

Scuba Diving

If you are in California, scuba diving is one of the best things to do in Malibu. You will see the most beautiful ecosystem of life underwater. California is home to some amazing ocean life that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. The sea bed in Malibu is full of kelp forest that hosts species like the horn shark, sea hares, and lobsters. Kelp forest diving is the highlight when you visit Malibu!

Various retail outlets all around Malibu have scuba diving tours and rent all the equipment needed. Make sure to go with a company that is reputable and has good reviews. Safety is the most important thing while going diving.

Malibu Divers

This diving center is located in Malibu and has courses in scuba diving, equipment rentals, or guided trips. It has training for all diving levels and has a team of qualified diving instructors. Visit their website for more details.

In2Deep Diving

In2Deep Diving is another store that has scuba diving services as well as lessons. They have high-tech gear and equipment as well as trained professionals. Visit their website for more details.

PCH Scuba

PCH Scuba is a PADI 5-star instructor training center. They have beginner courses and classes guided by trained professionals. They have classes, equipment sales, rentals, air fills, and more. Visit their website for more details.

Thornhill Broome Campground

Situated within Point Mugu State Park along the picturesque Pacific coastline of southern California, Thornhill Broome Campground has established itself as a favorite destination for camping enthusiasts. This campground is situated in a flat area near the coast, making it convenient for people to reach the beach easily.

You can fully enjoy a variety of activities by the sea, such as swimming, playing on the beach, and even sunbathing. With a total of 62 camping sites available, Thornhill Broome Campground welcomes tent encampments for a unique outdoor experience.

The campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, it is recommended to arrive early, especially during peak camping periods, to secure one of the coveted sites. Whether you are embarking on a family adventure or seeking to escape the city, Thornhill Broome Campground is the perfect place to relax in the middle of nature.

Hiking

Hiking in Malibu is one of the favorite things to do in Malibu and you will soon see why. Multiple trails have ocean views that people love to hike in Malibu. It’s a great way to get outdoors and be in nature.

Escondido Falls

The Escondido Falls trail is a beautiful four-mile trail that is great for families and beginner hikers. The trail goes to one of the biggest waterfalls in California. You can find multiple waterfalls on this trail and also enjoy some beautiful scenery on the way.

Solstice Canyon

A moderate three-mile hike around the Solstice Canyon is one of the most popular things to do in Malibu. The hike includes a visit to a few old ruins that have very interesting stories like Keller House and Tropical Terrace. There is also a small waterfall and natural pool on this trail.

Malibu Creek State Park

With more than 8000 acres of beautiful trails set across the park, this place should not be missed. Trails like Mesa Peak, Zuma Canyon, and Lower Malibu Creek Loop all start inside this park. There are also rafting tours and picnic spots available here.

Visit Vineyards

While exploring the scenic Malibu attractions, going to the local vineyards is a must for wine enthusiasts and those wanting a unique and relaxing experience. Get on a custom safari vehicle and go on an exciting tour through the vineyards. You will meet a bunch of exotic wildlife along the way while sipping on the delightful wines.

Rosenthal

Along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway is Rosenthal — The Malibu Estate. It is a peaceful setting to enjoy a great collection of wines. You can relax as you sip on their exceptional wines, accompanied by live music, with views of the magnificent coastline.

Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyard

Perched atop a hill, the Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards has a luxurious wine-tasting experience with breathtaking views of the ocean. This exclusive estate produces limited quantities of premium wines, primarily using Bordeaux grape varieties that you will get to taste!

Malibu Wine Hikes

One of the best wine experiences in Malibu Wine Country is at Malibu Wine Hikes. The guides lead you through the beautiful Saddlerock Ranch which has an expansive 1100-acre vineyard. You can choose between hiking, going on a 4×4, or doing a cute VW bus tour.

It is recommended that you book and confirm the vineyard tours in advance because they tend to sell out months in advance.

Paragliding on the Coastline

Paragliding is a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and breathtaking views in Malibu. Soaring through the air with nothing but a parachute-like wing and feeling the rush of the wind against your face is an experience like no other.

Point Dume State Park, located along the Malibu coastline, is a great place for paragliding. As you glide through the sky, you’ll be treated to views of the ocean, beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The combination of the insane heights and the breathtaking coastal scenery creates an unforgettable experience.

Point Dume is known for its great wind conditions which makes it an ideal location for paragliding. The consistent ocean breeze creates a good environment for a smooth flight without too many bumps. Even kids can enjoy this thrilling adventure!

When paragliding at Point Dume, it’s important to ensure you go with a reputable paragliding company that prioritizes safety. Experienced guides will give you the required equipment, guidance, instructions, and training to ensure a safe flight.

Paragliding at Point Dume in Malibu has an incredible opportunity to combine adventure, natural beauty, and a sense of freedom. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply looking to tick off a bucket list experience, paragliding is one of the best things to do in Malibu.

Malibu Pier

The Malibu Pier is a beloved destination in Malibu, with a great combination of the best restaurants, a sunny beach, and a vibrant atmosphere. One of the best things to do in Malibu, you are going to love your trip here.

The Malibu pier extends into the Pacific Ocean and has stunning views of the coastline. Malibu Pier is also located right next to the beach so you can jump over and relax on the beach for a while or even take a refreshing swim in the ocean. It’s also a popular spot for longboarders, who can catch the gentle waves around here. Fishing from the pier is also a favorite activity for the locals here so you will see them lined up on the pier on sunny days.

The pier is home to a variety of retail shops and sea-facing restaurants. You can browse through boutique stores having beachwear, souvenirs, and local artisan products. When you get hungry, you can taste some great cuisine while enjoying the ocean breeze and scenic views from the restaurants. Malibu Farm Pier Cafe is the best farm-to-table restaurant in the area for brunch!

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, enjoy water activities, dine with a view, or experience vibrant events, Malibu Pier has something for everyone to do. It’s a must-visit destination in Malibu!

Malibu’s Beaches

Malibu has so many beaches it is sometimes hard to even remember all of their names. No wonder the best beaches are always included in things to do in Malibu. It is home to the most beautiful white powdery beaches blessed with warm California sunshine. Here are some of the best beaches in Malibu.

Surfrider Beach

Surfrider Beach is famous for its excellent surfing conditions and is popular among surfers of all levels. You can relax on the warm sand, listen to the crashing waves, and watch all the surfers ripping on the waves here. Adjacent to the beach is the iconic Malibu Pier, where you can grab a bite to eat, go for a stroll, or shop for souvenirs.

And if you are a surfer, you can go nuts here! Take your surfboard out for a ride on these iconic waves. You will finally be able to say you have surfed in California!

Carbon Beach (Billionaires Beach)

Carbon Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline known for its luxury oceanfront homes owned by celebrities. Since there is no one but crazy rich people here it has a quiet atmosphere, which makes it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and chilling by the ocean.

Zuma Beach

As one of the largest and most popular beaches in Malibu, Zuma Beach has something for everyone. With its wide sandy shoreline, gentle waves, and beautiful coastal views, it is perfect for picnicking, beach volleyball, and swimming.

El Matador State Beach

El Matador is a hidden gem tucked away in a secluded cove. It is known for its rugged cliffs, and rock formations. You might even have to climb over rocks to get to the beach which is quite an adventure.

Point Dume State Beach

This gorgeous beach in Malibu is known for its iconic surf spots and natural rock formations that are a favorite amongst photographers. Rock climbers love this beach for its rocky cliffs and the locals prefer it because it’s quiet and away from all the touristy crowds. On Rope Consulting is a great company to give beginners a rock climbing lesson!

Getty Villa

The Getty Villa is a beautiful villa designed with Roman architecture in mind. It is a re-creation of a Roman country house right down to the trees that were planted at the original house. Out of all the things to do in Malibu this one is the most historically important.

Getty Villa has 4000-year-old artifacts from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire. Multiple exhibitions focus on Roman and Greek life. The marble statues are exquisitely carved and the gems with carvings are so impressive. There is even a mummy on the premises!

The outer villa is equally impressive. The villa has a reflecting pool and colonnaded walkways that make it seem like you are actually walking in ancient Rome — but with the Pacific Ocean! The herb garden is another feature that was picked from the house it was designed after. Native Mediterranean fruits and trees have been planted here that thrive in the heat of California.

Your favorite part of the villa will be the afternoon tea. Their garden tea has a delicious menu with sweet and salty treats that have been inspired by the Romans. Garden tea only takes place on Thursday and Saturday so make sure you make reservations in advance.

Getty Villa is the most culturally rich and wonderful experience you could have in Malibu and one that you should make a point to include in your itinerary.

Adamson House

An often overlooked but culturally rich Malibu attraction is the Adamson House. Built by the daughter of the man who owned most of Malibu before the city was established, the house was her personal project and pride.

The house is built using Spanish architecture and has beautiful decorative tiles, vast gardens, and a pretty fountain at the back of the pool. The most beautiful parts of the house include hand-painted frescoes, ceiling molded into various designs, and stunning glass windows. The iconic house has been designated as a national historic site.

A great way to spend an afternoon is by going through the various flora and fauna in the garden before heading to take a tour of the house. You are free to wander around the property and enjoy the gardens at your leisure. You will only need to pay to go inside the house with the tour.

Famous Restaurants

Neptune’s Net

A seafood shack right out of an 80s movie. That is Neptune’s Net. It is a famous Malibu attraction and their food is as good as their kitschy exterior. A seafood restaurant and a biker bar, you won’t find vibes like this anywhere else. They have the best seafood in all of Malibu. Grab some food here and then head over to one of the nearby beaches to sit and watch the sunset.

Nobu

Yes, this is the restaurant where you will almost always spot a celebrity. The restaurant has a unique Japanese-infused Persian flavor menu which brings the most famous people from LA to its doorstep. You will need to make a reservation way in advance but the food and the views over the ocean are worth it.

Geoffrey’s

A romantic restaurant that will remind you of nights in Italy, Geoffrey’s is the best place to go with your partner. The restaurant is cozy and intimate and the experience is luxurious. They have an international fine dining menu. Pair the wine with the steak and you won’t be disappointed!

Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

The best farm-to-table cafe in Malibu is at the Malibu Pier. Their avocado toasts and pancakes are to die for. If you were looking for a place to do brunch with the girls then look no further because the combination of their mimosas and the brunch menu makes for the perfect afternoon on the beach.

Conclusion

Malibu is a destination that has the perfect blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the depths of the ocean through scuba diving, camping along the breathtaking coastline, indulging in the exquisite wines of the vineyards, or paragliding over the stunning cliffs, there is no lack of things to do in Malibu. With its 21 miles of scenic coastline, Malibu has endless opportunities to relax, unwind, and chill on the beach. Malibu has the best of all worlds. So pack your bags, embark on a journey to this coastal paradise, and let Malibu enchant you with its captivating landscapes, vibrant energy, and unforgettable experiences.

Originally published at https://theworldoverload.com on August 13, 2023.