Long walks along the sand and shopping promenades or paddling out to catch some waves, Malibu was made for finding your flow. Infamous as the low-key movie star hideaway, this dreamy beachside destination leaves the hustle and bustle of Hollywood in the distance in favor of a more natural pace. Let the sun and surf keep track of time while you slow things down with a hike, bonfire, or beach read. Savor the best fare the ocean has to offer or some of the purest, wholesome health foods around. In a sundress and sandals there’s no need to rush. We’ve got 24 hours in Malibu!
Three time winner of one of Condé Nast’s “Best Hotels” awards, this boutique 20-room beach house captures the heart of California surf culture in a chic, four-star stay. Located steps from the pier, enjoy a beach yoga class or rent a board and wetsuit for a surfing lesson. When you’re done splashing in the waves, take in panoramic ocean views from their exclusive, guest-only rooftop bar and restaurant featuring local food and drink.
A stroll to the end of the Malibu Pier will lead you directly to Malibu Farm Café. This local, woman-owned small business has a full espresso bar and casual counter service of a vegetable-forward menu that rotates seasonally. They strive to provide responsibly sourced, sustainable ingredients, featuring local bread, produce, eggs, dairy, and seafood.
Descend the craggy, bluffside trail from the parking lot and you’ll see firsthand why El Matador State Beach is a favorite for professional photographers, native Angelenos, and tourists alike. Explore stunning rock arches, caves, and sea stacks, which are best experienced at low tide. Be sure to bring your waterproof camera — there will be plenty of prime photo opps! A walk south will take you past some of the most beautiful real estate in Western Malibu.
“The reason we don’t serve breakfast is we’re out catching lunch.” The tagline says it all! Owned and operated by commercial fishermen, Malibu Seafood is as ocean-fresh as it gets. Enjoy your catch steamed, grilled, deep fried, or cocktailed on their open-air patio or browse their fish market for something to cook up yourself. Don’t miss the hand-battered Alaskan cod with their famous tartar sauce or the homemade clam chowder.
Located just a mile from the pier, the Malibu Country Mart serves as the unofficial town square of Malibu. You’ll find local vendors, upscale boutiques, snacks and sips, salons, and even a yoga studio. Stop by Sunlife Organics for a smoothie or açaí bowl, or visit the Malibu Shaman, a metaphysical bookstore and spiritual gift shop. The entire shopping center is committed to sustainable, green, and eco-friendly practices as they work to keep their carbon footprint as small as possible.
The original home of the Getty Museum, the Getty Villa is like stepping into an ancient Roman country house, complete with classic column architecture, tranquil gardens, and ocean breezes. Exhibits span 4,000 years of art, sculptures, and artifacts, from the Stone Age to the final days of the Roman Empire. If you’re planning to visit on a Thursday or Saturday, you can make reservations to enjoy an afternoon garden tea with seasonal ingredients from the Villa Herb Garden.
Surround yourself with waterfalls, tropical plants, and the vastness of the ocean in this one-of-a kind Mediterranean-meets-Malibu restaurant experience. The menu features California-style international cuisine with plenty of artisan cheeses, salads, fresh seafood, and aged steaks to enjoy while taking in the Pacific sunset in their outdoor dining area. Every table offers breathtaking views, making this a great choice for your evening meal.
Photo courtesy of: Malibu Beach Inn
Cap It Off with a Cocktail
Carbon Beach Club Restaurant at the Malibu Beach Inn
Wrap up your night wrapped up in a blanket as you warm your toes by the outdoor firepit at the Carbon Beach Club. Toast to your Malibu adventures with a small batch speciality cocktail mixed by an award-winning bartender or a glass of wine expertly chosen by their world renowned sommelier. Located on the Malibu Beach Inn property, the beachfront beauty is just the place to stretch out the remainder of your day in paradise.
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