Malibu
The 21-mile celebrity coastline of beaches, surf breaks, the pier, and Pacific Coast Highway drives.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
The dream LA coast — Zuma and Surfrider beaches, the Malibu Pier, dramatic PCH cliffs, and a real chance of celebrity sightings.
Our read - 02
The reality check: it's a long drive with notorious PCH traffic, many beaches have tricky parking and access, and the famous restaurants are pricey, so it's a half-day commitment.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
Malibu earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Malibu.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Malibu is an easy yes.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Malibu is an easy yes.
Think twice if
You want something active
Malibu offers some adventure, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
The same streets, hour by hour
Calm surf, empty sand, easy parking
Sunny and busy, beach in full swing
Quiet coast, dinner at clifftop spots
Worth-it spots in the area
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free beaches; food/parking add up
- Timing
- Weekday or early start to beat PCH weekend traffic.
- Allow
- Half to full day
- Accessibility
- Some beaches have accessible parking and boardwalks; many require sand crossings.
- Getting there
- Drive up Pacific Coast Highway; budget extra time for congestion.