Malibu Attractions: 7 Fun Things to Do While Visiting SoCal
Scenic Malibu is known for beaches and celebrity homes. What many don’t know is the area also has other fun things to do and sites to see. For a quick look, read about the top Malibu attractions before coming to SoCal.
Popular Malibu Attractions Visitors Can’t Miss
El Matador State Beach
Malibu is best known for beaches, so it’s no surprise the top Malibu attractions are beaches. El Matador State Beach is the most popular beach within Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach.
Upon arrival, visitors notice a parking area with picnic tables that overlook the ocean. To access the beach, walk the trail and stairs. Guests may even see a photographer in the middle of a shoot, rock formations and shore birds.
Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach is another must-see and provides opportunities for different outdoor recreation. Here, enjoy access to 2 miles of shoreline, volleyball courts, picnic areas and restrooms. Swimming is not recommended, but on-duty lifeguards help keep everyone safe. This spot also features homes along the coast and plenty of space to spread out. Just bring beach chairs and sun protection.
Malibu Pier
The pier ranks as the most famous Malibu attraction and serves as a destination itself. Malibu Pier has stood strong since the early 1900s. Today it serves as a gathering place where visitors eat, shop, fish and rent boats for water recreation. For more adventure, rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak for a personalized experience.
While exploring Malibu Pier, enjoy waterfront dining and local cuisine at Malibu Farm. Then shop for locally made products and souvenirs at the pier’s retail shops. Guests should note: Pets are not allowed on the pier, and smoking is prohibited.
The Getty Villa
The Getty Villa allows visitors to get an up-close look at art and culture from ancient Greece and Rome. The attraction has exhibits both inside and outside, so guests can explore and learn. See more than 7,000 years of ancient art including rare objects, sculpture, jewelry and art from the Roman empire. Then admire architecture as The Getty is a re-creation of an ancient Roman country house. Afterwards, head outside to stroll four gardens that blend Roman architecture with Mediterranean plants.
In addition, The Getty Villa hosts family-friendly events, educational lectures, tours and special performances. Admission is free, but there is a fee to park.
Malibu Wines and Beer Garden
In addition to beaches, Malibu also has a burgeoning wine scene complete with tastings and tours. Malibu Wines helps guests sample new flavors, unwind and connect in fun ways. Daily tastings feature Semler and Saddlerock label wine, regional craft beer, and food on weekends.
To make a day of it, schedule an outing with Malibu wine hikes. These activities pair Malibu’s stunning scenery with delicious regional wines. To get started, book the base hike, which includes a 2-mile loop, vineyards and several wines. Not into hiking? No problem. Book a Malibu Wine Safari, and enjoy a tour from an open-air safari vehicle.
Malibu Country Mart
Located in Malibu Civic Center, Malibu Country Mart provides a place for everyone to play, shop and connect. Browse upscale art galleries and boutiques. Sit down with loved ones, and enjoy lunch or dinner. Families with children love the playground, which has swings, sand, climbing structures and places to run. Kids won’t get bored here.
Malibu Country Mart also hosts events. Movie showings, holiday celebrations and festivals delight all ages. Visitors also have access to services such as yoga studios, salons, spas, car washes and real estate agents.
Santa Monica
If these Malibu attractions don’t provide enough to do, take a day trip to Santa Monica. The city sits about 30 minutes – less than 20 miles – from Malibu and has plenty of fun activities. Beaches and parks welcome outdoorsy types. Then check out the Ferris wheel and other rides at Santa Monica Pier.
In addition, guests visit museums and shop Third Street Promenade. The latter has big-name retailers and restaurants located in a pedestrian-friendly four-block section of downtown.
Find more things to do in Malibu, and plan a getaway in California.