Things to Do in Malibu, Couple
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Globe Trotter: Things to Do in Malibu, California

Megan Simpson

Sun, surf, sand… it doesn’t get much more “stereotypical Californian” than the beach paradise suburb of Malibu. Known around the world as the seaside playground for the rich and famous living in Los Angeles, you’d think Malibu would stretch miles and miles along the Pacific Coast… but in actuality, the town is rather small. And—surprise, surprise—it’s not all beach! The city limits run through the rugged Santa Monica mountains: there are a few in-land spots visitors tend to miss out on. While there are tons of things to do in Malibu, team YRH does have some favorites. In fact, some of the most romantic things to do in Los Angeles are situated in this little town. Grab your sweetie, your friends, your family—heck, even a friendly California stranger—and jet off to Malibu for the weekend.

Things to Do in Malibu

Things to do in Malibu, California
photos via Armando Castillejos, Kelsey Knight, Fun Surf LA

Take a Wine Tour in a Vintage VW Bug

Take a trip back in time (chic 70s Los Angeles, anyone?) and see some of the most sweeping, scenic views of the ocean, the hills, and the City of Angels from the comfort of this ’72 Volkswagen Van. You’ll visit a few of Malibu’s most impressive wine spots with your small group. A recipe for an unforgettable day trip! Interested? Reach out to us!
Text “EXPERIENCE” to (323) 673-3101
photos via Derick McKinney, Malibu Pier

Stroll Historic Malibu Pier

This salty-air, permanent farmer’s market is an excellent way to spend a lazy Malibu afternoon. Opened to the public in 1934, the pier is a Hollywood star in and of itself. With the camaraderie of tourists, locals, and fishermen, the pier isn’t quite “busy” or “bustling,” but there’s a low hum of relaxed faces and happy patrons. It’s an idyllic option for those seeking Sunday things to do in Malibu.
Escondido Falls, Malibu
photos via Timmy Wesley, Alyssa Ramos of My Life’s a Travel Movie

Hike Up to Escondido Falls

For anyone looking to work off a few of those delicious California burritos, one of the best things to do in Malibu: get your butt to Escondido Falls! Classified as a family-friendly hike (something all age groups should be able to complete), this 3.7-mile hike will take you and your group through lush California wildlife to a beautiful waterfall. Talk about romantic things to do in Los Angeles!

Where to Stay in Malibu

photos via The Surfrider Hotel

The Surfrider Hotel

One of YRH’s most favorite beach escapes! This trendy-but-still-unique hotel is, actually, a renovated motel from the 1950s. It still *just* across the street from the beach (so you know the view are spectacular) and offers plenty of outdoor spaces for each of their 20s rooms. Bonus: this boutique hotel shares a name with its adjacent beach, as well as our partners at the Surfrider Foundation.
photos via Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club

Feeling a little fancy? Grab a luxury room at this sprawling hotel, nestled on 250 acres of private ranch land. This accommodation lies inland—your view is more tree than water. As a guest of the ranch, you’ll have access to pools, a spa, fitness centers, Malibu Café (see the section below), and a variety of hotel-sponsored excursions.
photos via Malibu Country Inn

Malibu Country Inn

The best of both worlds! This vintage setting has views of both land and sea. Guests get a whole lot of bang for their buck; the Country Inn offers a warm, welcoming aesthetic in a luxury California town. The best part? Guests are constantly raving about their excellent customer service!
 
photos via Nobu Ryokan Malibu, Forbes

Nobu Ryokan Malibu

If you’re familiar with the swanky Nobu restaurants gracing the likes of Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, and beyond… you’ll be *thrilled* to discover the matching accommodations! This 16-roomluxury enclave is heavily inspired by Japanese Ryokan—private inns found throughout the country: typically featuring hot springs—and the aesthetic embodies sea-side tranquility. Heads up: this is an adult-focused hotel, so we’d recommend leaving the kiddos at home in favor of a romantic Los Angeles couples retreat.

 

Where to Eat & Drink in Malibu

photos via Rosenthal Estate Wines

Sip & Savor at Rosenthal Estate Wines 

Team YRH is constantly singing Rosenthal’s praises. Located right off of the famed Pacific Coast Highway, this mostly-outdoor hotspot boasts live music/entertainment (from popular bands to elaborate drag queen productions), some of the best food trucks in Los Angeles, and plenty of refreshing wines. This is an excellent spot to host day parties with friends: patrons often dance their way through brunch and make a litany of new friends in line for the bathroom.
photos via The Malibu Café

Spend Hours at Lively Malibu Café

If you’re looking to attend a large “family picnic” in the rolling hills of Malibu… you’re in luck. Malibu Café is an outdoor paradise: tucked far away from the beach. Live music, lawn games and yoga, a lovely lake, paddle boats, small hills to roll down—this lively brunch spot is worth spending a few hours on a Saturday or Sunday. It’s a truly unique, Instagram-worthy experience. Trust us!
Geoffrey's Malibu Restaurant
photos via Geoffrey’s Malibu

Get Bougie at Geoffrey’s

A Malibu classic! High-ranking on the list of things to do in LA at night, Geoffrey’s is a famous dining locale overlooking the water. Locals and celebrities make frequent reservations at this luxurious seafood haven. In our opinion, one of the most romantic things to do in Los Angeles is to sweep your sweetie off their feet for an anniversary at Geoffrey’s!
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