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Malibu

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About Malibu

Famed for its 21 miles of golden Pacific Ocean beaches, superb surf and trendy beachfront houses, Malibu has long been a popular destination with sun-worshippers the world over. As is to be expected, there is a huge choice of accommodation in the area, set to suit a range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re pining for a surf-centred boutique beach house or a romantic wine-country cottage, the best places to stay in Malibu all fuse stylish interiors with a real appreciation of the area’s natural beauty.

Just 30 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, Malibu has long been synonymous with the Hollywood set, and is undoubtedly one of California’s most glamorous seaside spots. Movie buffs will adore the annual Malibu Film Festival and the Fox Ranch Movie Location, whilst art aficionados can pop into hip galleries or museums, including the Getty Villa — the original home of the Getty Museum. With designer boutiques and independent shops aplenty, it’s worth coming with some space in your suitcase.

Whilst there’s certainly a glitzy side to Malibu’s bars and boutiques, life remains centred around soaking up the region’s natural wonders. The first World Surf Reserve, Malibu is a haven for those keen to hone their skills out on the waves, and is reputedly where the Californian surf culture boom began. Top spots include renowned Zuma and Surfrider Beaches, whilst Topanga Beach is ideal for longer rides on longer boards; no doubt the team at your hotel will have all the latest local tips. With 20 public beaches, there’s no shortage of spots to sunbathe either, while whale-watching and scuba diving are also on offer.

Beyond the salt and sand, hike the length of Point Dume for striking sea views, or head inland to explore the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu Creek State Park on foot or on horseback. The dramatic scenery of the Pacific Coast Highway, too, makes for some seriously impressive drives.

Foodies will be thrilled by the abundance of chic gourmet eateries, cool beach bars and excellent wine tastings at nearby vineyards. Most of the best places to stay in Malibu face the Pacific Ocean, but one of our favourite hotels is tucked inland, on a beautiful 250-acre ranch with wonderful wine-country views. Wherever you choose to base yourself, our top spots offer a brilliant taste of the fabulous Californian lifestyle — it’s easy see why many keep coming back for more.

The Best Places to Stay in Malibu

For beachfront bliss

  • Malibu Beach Inn sits just three minutes from Malibu’s iconic pier, with 47 lovely contemporary rooms and suites decorated in blue and cream tones. The property’s outwardly boxy design makes the most of the setting, so that guests can gaze at the ocean from cosy beds and private terraces. Highlights include a rejuvenating onsite spa, a private beach and a trendy restaurant with sea views. A smart and central beachfront choice.
  • The Surfrider is a small, super cool 20-room boutique spot with ace sea views and great surf. Adapted from its original 1953 design, the hotel balances soothing minimalism with luxurious touches to create an upscale beach house vibe. Think lots of natural materials, hammocks, rain showers and excellent organic food. The hip rooftop restaurant is ideal for sunset cocktails. One for the surfers!
  • Nobu Ryokan offers 16 elegant, Japanese-style rooms overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Set in a long line, rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, big soaking tubs, beautiful minimalist decor and private terraces. There’s a brilliant Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant, and guests enjoy priority access to a nearby spa and members-only racquets club, too. An intimate, adults-only escape.

For wine-country luxury

  • Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club is a luxury retreat with impressive views of Malibu’s wine country. The 56 rooms, suites and cottages are beautifully appointed, with an intimate, boutique feel and a great sustainable ethos. Enjoy onsite wine tastings, soothing spa treatments, gourmet dining and exclusive access to the chic Beach Club (12 minutes’ drive). A top pick for honeymooners or couples keen to hide away.

PREFER A HOLIDAY HOME OR APARTMENT?

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the closest airport to Malibu. The journey from the airport takes about one hour by car, or 1.5 hours on two buses. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can also fly to Burbank Airport, Long Beach Airport or San Diego International Airport.
  • With the dramatic Pacific Coast Highway snaking along nearby, Malibu is best explored by road. If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
  • California is a year-round destination famed for its sunshine, though Malibu is at its most popular during the summer months. Visit in April or May for slightly cooler weather — great for exploring — or come in September or October to avoid the crowds and to make the most of hotel and travel offers. This is a hugely popular destination, so do book well in advance to avoid disappointment!

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Best Hotels in Malibu

  • Malibu Beach Inn Malibu 47 rooms from £243

    Surfing  -  Visit legendary surf spots like Zuma and Surfrider beaches.
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A high-end Inn, three minutes from Malibu's iconic pier. Plush rooms with understated elegant furnishings. Full floor to ceiling windows and private balconies allow one to fully appreciate the spectacular ocean views. On-site spa, private beach and hip restaurant complete the Malibu experience. See More

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  • The Surfrider Malibu (CA) 20 rooms from £254

    Beach Life  -  The ultimate beach chic getaway- paired back luxury rooms offering views of the pacific and the best surfing beach in California
    Total relaxation  -  Relax, unwind and enjoy- rooftop cocktails by the firepit and listening to waves crashing on your private terrace
    Surfing  -  Take advantage of your location and hit the beach for some surf (beginners should ask reception for instructors)
    Sights nearby  -  Within a short walk of Malibu Pier, a great place to people watch and grab a bite
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    An uber cool and laid back Malibu boutique. The perfect balance of simplicity and luxury is all in the fine details, scented candles, organic materials and private balconies with Pacific views. The rooftop restaurant is perfect and the staff are as friendly as you will find anywhere. Beach-chic! See More

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  • Hotel June Malibu 13 rooms from £413

    Families  -  With a laidback feel and some of the bungalows fitted with additional bunk beds, this is an easy choice for families
    Beach Life  -  Located within moments of some of the area's most beautiful beaches and some good surf beaches too
    Boutique  -  Stylish, unpretentious, and a little bit bohemian — the perfect mix for a boutique stay
    Great walks  -  The property is set within a short distance of several trailheads and hiking trails
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A small boutique hotel channelling surfer-chic vibes in a secluded spot near the coast. Bungalows are minimalist in design with whitewashed walls, Scandi-style furniture, & pop art. Each has a patio & the larger have bunks and hammocks. With an outdoor pool & casual dining, this is a coastal haven. See More

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  • Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club Malibu (CA) 56 rooms from £513

    Local exploring  -  Set in the verdant plains of the Malibu wine country, this hotel is perfectly placed for local vineyard exploring
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic private suites at this hotel; book a couples' massage for a romantic evening in
    Beach Life  -  With an exclusive beach club within the resort, this hotel is perfect for a relaxing seaside getaway
    Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    This hotel is located on an exclusive ranch on the Malibu coast in California. Guestrooms blend rustic fittings with boutique furniture for a luxury home feel; book a bungalow for a private patio and separate living space. Unwind at the VIP beach club after a wine tasting; a chic country stay. See More

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  • Nobu Ryokan Malibu (CA) 16 rooms from £1468

    Total relaxation  -  The marriage of Japanese philosophy and a relaxed, Californian atmosphere means this hotel promises total relaxation
    Romantic Break  -  With its adult-oriented amenities, this hotel scores highly with couples; book an ocean room for romantic views
    Beach Life  -  Located on an exclusive stretch of the Malibu coast, this hotel makes for a VIP beach break
    Restrictions on children  -  This is an adult-oriented hotel
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsNo pets

    This Japanese-style inn is located on the coast of Malibu, California. The custom-designed guestrooms feature sweeping skylights, a private deck and ensuite fireplace; book a Beachfront Room for sea views. Sample Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine at the seaside restaurant; an exclusive beach break. See More

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