Renowned for its stunning beaches and celebrity mansions, Malibu is a city located west of Los Angeles, California. Though this coastal resort was impacted by wildfires in January 2025, it continues to attract visitors exploring the City of Angels. Everything you need to know about Malibu in this comprehensive guide.

History

Long before surfers and contemporary villas, Malibu's territory was home to the Chumash, an Indigenous people who thrived on fishing and coastal trade. In the early 19th century, Spanish arrival transformed the region: in 1805, Governor José Joaquín de Arrillaga formalized the vast land grant of Rancho Topanga Malibu Sequit.

Malibu remained isolated for decades. In the late 19th century, it became the property of the Rindge couple, fiercely determined to preserve every parcel. They hired armed guards, blocked public access, and waged bitter legal battles to prevent the state from building roads and railways. Despite their resistance, the Hueneme railway line eventually crossed their estate, paving the way for urbanization.

Burdened by debt, May Rindge subsequently established a tile and ceramics factory whose patterns still adorn many Los Angeles buildings. With the opening of the Pacific Coast Highway in the early 20th century, Malibu finally opened to the world and gradually became the luxury seaside town we know today.

Malibu Today

Despite fires in early 2025, Malibu remains a flagship destination on California's coast. The fires primarily affected the eastern edge of the city, damaging a few restaurants and facilities, but the majority of the resort remained intact. Its iconic beaches, coastal trails, museums, oceanfront cafés, and legendary residential neighborhoods remain accessible.

Tourist services reopened quickly, and the city strengthened its fire safety and prevention measures. The atmosphere remains what Malibu is known for: a blend of understated luxury, preserved nature, and relaxed ambiance.

What to Do in Malibu?

The Malibu resort deserves at least one or two days to explore all its treasures. Here's a list of things to see and do.

1. Malibu's Beaches

Malibu boasts several remarkable beaches, each offering a distinct atmosphere and activities.

Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach features a vast expanse of fine sand perfect for families. The waves are moderate and facilities are complete, with showers, restrooms, and lifeguards year-round.

El Matador State Beach

El Matador's spectacular rock formations create intimate coves. Access is via a steep staircase. The beach is photogenic and sea caves await exploration.

Point Dume State Beach and Preserve

Point Dume's headland offers exceptional panoramas of the Pacific Ocean. You can observe sea lions or whales during migration season. Nearby coastal trails delight hikers.

Surfrider Beach (Malibu Lagoon State Beach)

This legendary beach attracts surfers worldwide thanks to its consistent waves. You'll also find Malibu Lagoon, a protected wetland harboring numerous migratory birds.

Malibu Pier

Malibu's historic pier, built in 1905, remains intact. You can fish for local species, watch the sunset, or enjoy fresh seafood at restaurants at its end.

2. Hiking and Nature

From refreshing waterfalls to breathtaking coastal vistas, the Santa Monica Mountains bordering Malibu offer varied trails.

Escondido Falls

You'll hike a 3.4-mile trail departing from Winding Way East to reach this 150-foot waterfall. Cascading over a series of moss-covered limestone rocks in vibrant green, it's one of Southern California's largest waterfalls. The lower section is easily accessible, while the upper waterfall requires brief rock scrambling.

Malibu Creek State Park

This park immerses you in MASH film settings and numerous Hollywood productions. Across 20 miles of trails, you'll discover natural pools, steep cliffs, and diverse wildlife.

Wine Country Hikes

Malibu extends beyond its beaches. Visitors also discover vineyards here. Combine physical exercise with California wine discovery in an exceptional mountainous setting overlooking the ocean.

Camping at Leo Carrillo State Park and Beach

This coastal park offers 135 camping spots between beach and mountains. Sea caves, hiking trails, and picnic areas complete this immersive nature experience in Malibu.

3. Arts and Culture

From ancient collections to remarkable historical architecture, Malibu possesses rich cultural heritage.

The Getty Villa

This 1974 building, constructed by oil magnate J. Paul Getty, recreates a Roman villa. It displays over 1,200 objects dating from 6,500 B.C. to 500 A.D. Mediterranean gardens, fountains, and galleries transport you to antiquity, with stunning ocean views.

Adamson House

Adamson House is a historic Spanish neo-colonial residence dating to 1929. It captivates with its decorative tile collection, manufactured by the renowned Malibu Potteries, founded by May Rindge. Guided tours reveal its elegance and the Rindge family's fascinating story.

Malibu Hindu Temple

This Hindu temple perched in the Santa Monica hills surprises with authentic Dravidian architecture. You'll admire colorful sculptures and finely carved deities. As an active place of worship, visitors must remove their shoes (socks permitted) to enter.

4. Gastronomy

Finally, Malibu seduces through its cuisine. The ocean dictates the menus.

Nobu

Nobu Malibu offers refined Japanese fusion cuisine by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Terrace tables overlook the waves directly, creating a dining experience favored by celebrities and food enthusiasts.

Neptune's Net

This roadside restaurant, established in 1956, serves generous seafood in a relaxed atmosphere. You'll encounter bikers, surfers, and families enjoying lobster, shrimp, and fish and chips with ocean views.

Practical Information

Where is Malibu Located?

Malibu stretches 27 miles along the Pacific, approximately 30 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, about 2 hours via public transportation. The city sits between Santa Monica to the southeast and Oxnard to the northwest, bordered by the Santa Monica Mountains to the east.

By Bus

Malibu isn't the best-served city in Los Angeles County, but reaching it by bus from the city is entirely feasible.

1. From Downtown Los Angeles

• Take the E Line (Expo Line) metro to Downtown Santa Monica.
• From Santa Monica Station, board the Metro 534 bus heading toward Malibu/Trancas Canyon. This bus follows the Pacific Coast Highway and serves several stops: Malibu Pier, Surfrider Beach, Pepperdine University, Point Dume, etc.

1. From Venice or Santa Monica

• You can take the 534 bus directly without returning to the metro. This is the simplest and quickest way to reach Malibu by public transit.

By Car

Take the Pacific Coast Highway (SR-1) from Santa Monica to reach Malibu in 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Highway 101 is a faster alternative for reaching northern Malibu.

You'll need a car to explore Malibu efficiently, as attractions are dispersed across 27 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. Local buses are limited and distances between sites make walking impractical.

When to Visit Malibu?

Given the abundance of beaches, June through September represents the best time to visit Malibu. Summer extends from June to September, with peak temperatures in July.

That said, the mild climate permits off-season vacations, such as autumn or spring. There are fewer crowds during these periods and you'll enjoy the beach with greater privacy. Two major events animate the city in autumn: the Malibu Chili Cook-Off and the Malibu Triathlon.

FAQ About Malibu

How long does it take to visit Malibu?

It depends on what you wish to see, but half a day to a full day suffices to discover the essentials. Add one to two additional days if you want to explore more remote beaches, visit vineyards, hike several trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, or simply enjoy quieter sunsets away from the bustle.

Is Malibu part of Los Angeles?

Malibu has been an independent municipality since 1991. Though located in Los Angeles County, the city maintains its own city council and independently manages local administration.

Why is Malibu famous?

Malibu owes its renown to its pristine beaches, celebrity estates, and surf culture (the capital of this sport in the United States). Combining laid-back luxury and preserved nature, the city embodies the California lifestyle.

Which celebrities live in Malibu?

Numerous Hollywood celebrities own properties in Malibu. Notable residents include Jennifer Aniston, Lady Gaga, Robert Downey Jr., Halle Berry, Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Miley Cyrus.

Which film was shot in Malibu?

Iron Man featured a Malibu villa as Tony Stark's residence. Planet of the Apes, Inception, and CSI: Miami also filmed iconic scenes on Malibu's beaches and landscapes…