Malibu is a beautiful coastal city located in Southern California. With its stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, and iconic attractions, Malibu is a popular travel destination for visitors from all over the world. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 23 things to do in Malibu from outdoor adventures to wine tasting, from museums to shopping.
What makes Malibu especially unique is how much variety it packs into one stretch of coastline. In a single day, you can surf legendary waves, hike canyon trails with sweeping ocean views, explore world-class art and history, and end the evening with a glass of local wine at sunset. It’s a destination that balances laid-back beach culture with elevated experiences, making it just as perfect for quick weekend trips as it is for longer group getaways.
Whether you’re visiting for adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, Malibu delivers something unforgettable in every season.
TLDR:
- Malibu offers year-round rental demand with 23+ attractions from Surfrider Beach to wine tasting.
- Properties near iconic spots like Malibu Pier and Leo Carrillo State Park command premium rates.
- Group-optimized rentals with outdoor spaces and multiple suites maximize occupancy and revenue.
- AvantStay manages 2,300+ luxury properties in Malibu and 100+ cities with tech-enabled operations.
- Professional management and tech-driven pricing help owners capture peak summer ADR while sustaining occupancy across shoulder and winter seasons.
1. Visit the iconic Surfrider Beach
Surfrider Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Malibu, and for good reason. It’s known for its world-class waves and beautiful scenery, and is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just looking to relax on the beach, Surfrider Beach is a must-visit destination.
Source: Sandee
2. Experience the tidepools at Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park is a beautiful coastal park that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. One of the highlights of the park is the tidepools, which are home to a variety of sea creatures like crabs, starfish, and anemones. It’s a great spot for kids and adults alike to experience and learn about the marine ecosystem.
3. Go scuba diving or snorkeling
We recommend diving in the crystal clear waters of Point Dume State Beach, a scenic beach that offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in Malibu. The crystal clear waters provide excellent visibility, and there’s a diverse array of marine life to discover, including kelp forests, sea lions, and colorful fish.
Source: Malibu Beach Inn
4. Go kayaking or paddle boarding in Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a peaceful beach that’s perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. The lagoon is a great spot for beginners, as the water is calm and shallow. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, as the lagoon is home to a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl.
5. Take a sunset horseback ride with Malibu Riders
Malibu Riders offers horseback rides in Malibu State Park and Zuma Canyon. The horses are gentle and well-trained, and the views of the ocean and coastline are stunning. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Malibu.
Source: Malibu Riders
6. Hike the trails in Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is a beautiful park that offers a wide range of hiking trails. The park is home to several filming locations, including the set of the TV show MAS*H. The trails offer stunning views of the mountains and canyons, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and coyotes.
7. Go rock climbing at Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is also a great spot for rock climbing, with over 100 climbing routes to choose from. The park offers a range of climbs for all skill levels, from easy boulder problems to challenging multi-pitch routes. There are several guide companies in Malibu that offer rock climbing lessons and guided climbs.
Source: Food for Hunters
8. Take a bike ride on the scenic Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most iconic roads in the world, and it offers stunning views of the ocean and coastline. Biking along the PCH is a great way to take in the scenery and get some exercise at the same time. There are several bike rental companies in Malibu that offer rentals by the hour or day.
9. Go wine tasting
Malibu has its own wine region, with several wineries offering tastings and tours. Check out Malibu Wines or Rosenthal Winery for a great experience.
Source: Malibu Discovery
10. Take a helicopter tour
For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour of Malibu and the surrounding area. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline and the Santa Monica Mountains.
11. Visit the Malibu Pier
Visiting the Malibu Pier is a classic Malibu experience that should not be missed. This historic pier offers stunning views of the ocean, the coastline, and the mountains. Take a leisurely stroll along the pier and enjoy the fresh ocean air, or try your hand at fishing from one of the designated fishing spots. The pier is also home to some great dining options, including Malibu Farm and the Beachcomber Café.
Source: Expedia
12. Go shopping at the Malibu Lumber Yard
The Malibu Lumber Yard is not your typical shopping center. It’s an open-air, luxury shopping destination that features high-end fashion boutiques, health and wellness shops, and gourmet dining options. The design of the center is also unique, with beautiful landscaping, outdoor seating, and water features that make for a relaxing and enjoyable shopping experience.
13. Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway
Driving along the PCH is a breathtaking experience that should not be missed. The highway offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and beautiful beaches. Rent a convertible and put the top down to explore the beauty of Malibu and the surrounding areas. There are plenty of lookout points and scenic stops along the way for the perfect photo op.
14. Visit the Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum
The Adamson House is a beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival-style home that is now a museum showcasing Malibu’s history and culture. The house and grounds are stunning, with elaborate tile work, gardens, and fountains. The Malibu Lagoon Museum is also on site and offers exhibits on the natural history of the Malibu Lagoon and its surrounding ecosystem.
Source: Wowabouts
15. Take a surf lesson
Malibu is known for its great surf, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a surf lesson. There are plenty of surf schools and instructors in the area, offering lessons for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, catching a wave in Malibu is an unforgettable experience.
16. Experience the Santa Monica Mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains offer a wealth of hiking trails with stunning views of the ocean and the city. There are trails for all levels of hikers, from easy nature walks to challenging summit hikes. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of Malibu.
Source: All Trails
17. Go on a whale watching tour
Malibu is a great place to spot whales during their migration season. Book a tour with one of the local companies and get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.
18. Visit the Getty Villa
The Getty Villa is a stunning museum dedicated to the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. The building itself is a work of art, modeled after an ancient Roman villa, and the collection is truly impressive. It’s a great way to learn about history and art while enjoying the beauty of the museum’s gardens and views of the ocean.
Source: Wikipedia
19. Take a day trip to nearby Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a charming town just a short drive up the coast from Malibu. It offers a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, historic sites, and great restaurants. Take a walk down State Street, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the scenery.
20. Visit the Malibu Country Mart
The Malibu Country Mart is an outdoor shopping center that offers a variety of high-end shops and restaurants. It’s also home to a weekly farmers’ market where you can sample fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. The center has a laid-back, beachy vibe that makes for a great shopping and dining experience.
Source: Malibu Country Mart
21. Take a sunset cruise
Watching the sun set over the Pacific is a must-do when in Malibu. Book a sunset cruise and enjoy a relaxing and romantic evening on the water. You’ll see stunning views of the coastline and maybe even spot some dolphins or other marine life.
22. Visit the Malibu Hindu Temple
The Malibu Hindu Temple is the largest Hindu temple in the Western Hemisphere and offers a unique glimpse into Hindu culture and spirituality. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths, and there are regular ceremonies and events
Source: Hidden California
23. Stay in an AvantStay vacation rental
With so much to see and do along the coast, staying in an AvantStay vacation rental in Malibu is the perfect way to experience it all. Whether you’re traveling with a group of friends or the kids, AvantStay offers spacious, luxurious rentals that will make your trip unforgettable.
Malibu truly has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and outdoor activities to world-class dining and cultural attractions. And with AvantStay’s group-optimized vacation rentals, featuring spacious layouts, multiple primary suites, and tech-enabled convenience; you can experience it all in style and comfort. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Malibu today!
We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to Malibu. Don’t forget to check out the links we’ve included throughout the post to learn more about the various activities and attractions. Happy travels!
Stay in Malibu with AvantStay
With so much to explore along the Malibu coast, where you stay matters just as much as what you do. AvantStay offers a curated collection of luxury vacation rentals designed for group travel, from ocean-view estates to hillside retreats just minutes from Surfrider Beach, Malibu Pier, and the Santa Monica Mountains.
Each home is professionally managed and built for comfort, connection, and convenience, featuring spacious layouts, multiple primary suites, high-speed WiFi, and indoor-outdoor living spaces perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.
Whether you’re planning a friends’ getaway, a family beach trip, or a coastal offsite, AvantStay makes it easy to experience Malibu in style, with the consistency of a hotel and the space of a private home.
FAQs
What makes Malibu an attractive market for luxury vacation rental owners?
Malibu offers year-round demand from diverse guest segments including group travelers, families, and corporate clients seeking coastal retreats. The area’s iconic beaches, outdoor activities, wine region, and cultural attractions create multiple revenue opportunities across different seasons, while proximity to Los Angeles makes sure consistent booking interest.
How can property owners maximize their rental income in Malibu’s competitive market?
Focus on creating experiential spaces that cater to group travelers, such as outdoor entertainment areas, multiple primary suites, and smart home technology. Properties near popular attractions like Surfrider Beach, Malibu Pier, and state parks command premium rates, especially when professionally designed and managed with institutional-grade operations.
What are the most important amenities for Malibu vacation rentals?
Modern guests prioritize high-speed WiFi for remote work, multiple bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms for group stays, outdoor living spaces to take advantage of the coastal climate, and proximity to beaches and hiking trails. Smart locks, professional cleaning protocols, and 24/7 guest support also differentiate premium properties from standard rentals.
When is peak season for vacation rentals in Malibu?
Malibu experiences strong demand during summer months (June-September) for beach activities, spring and fall for hiking and outdoor adventures, and winter for whale watching season. Strategic pricing around local events, festivals, and holiday weekends can drive ADR increases while maintaining occupancy during traditionally slower periods.
Final thoughts
After long beach days at Surfrider, hikes through the Santa Monica Mountains, and sunset dinners along the coast, having the right home base makes all the difference. AvantStay’s Malibu vacation rentals are designed for group travel, offering spacious layouts, multiple primary suites, and indoor-outdoor living spaces that let you soak in the ocean air long after you leave the sand.
From hillside estates with sweeping Pacific views to homes just minutes from the pier, each property is professionally managed with high-speed WiFi, smart locks, and 24/7 guest support. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a friends’ trip, or a coastal work retreat, you can settle in, spread out, and experience Malibu your way.
