MALIBU ACTIVITIES
Things To Do In Malibu
Malibu stretches 21 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway, with beaches, canyons, vineyards, and trails in every direction. Whether you’re here for a day trip from LA or staying at Malibu Beach Inn on Carbon Beach, this guide covers the best things to do in Malibu, from surf sessions and paragliding to quiet wine tastings and spa treatments. Activities are organized by type, with booking details available through our Concierge Team or the Reception Desk. Stop by and we’ll help you see all that Malibu has to offer.
Local Partnerships
Malibu Colony Pilates
We’ve partnered with Malibu Colony Pilates, a third-generation owned and operated studio that makes every guest feel right at home. Located just five minutes from the hotel in Malibu Colony Plaza, the studio features six V2 Max Plus Tower Reformers in a dimly lit, tranquil setting led by master instructors. Guests can enjoy reformer and mat Pilates, candlelit sessions, Friday DJ classes, as well as pre- and post-natal classes, private sessions, and more. First-time clients receive classes for just $35. Ask our team for more details and preferred guest access.
LA Sculpt
LA Sculpt brings elevated West Coast energy to your wellness routine with sculpt-driven Pilates and barre classes just minutes from the hotel at Malibu Country Mart. Guests can enjoy an exclusive 25% off drop-in classes. Ask our team for the exclusive discount code.
Kia Forum
Looking to experience your next event like never before? Kia Forum offers an elevated way to enjoy concerts and live events with an exclusive Legends Box experience perfect for groups of friends, coworkers, or family. Guests can enjoy preferred parking, Fast Pass entry, and dedicated in-suite service for a seamless VIP evening. Planning a smaller outing? Our concierge team can still help arrange a personalized VIP experience — from premium tickets to transportation and more. Reach out to our concierge team for details.
Outdoor Activities & Adventures on Land
Beach Day at Malibu Beach Inn
What better way to spend your day than with a beach day at Malibu Beach Inn! Our Hotel is located on Carbon Beach, just 34 steps to the ocean. Relax with our sun loungers and umbrellas with full food and beverage service.
Cruising Pacific Coast Highway
Rent a Porsche Boxer Convertible from our partners Midway Car Rental to see all 21 scenic miles of Malibu coastline.
Electronic Mountain Bike Tours
Experience Malibu off the beaten path! For our adventure lovers, Malibu Mountain Bike Tours offer tours in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, where you will see an array of plant and animal life, along with views of the Pacific Ocean.
Helicopter Tours
Get a birds eye view of Malibu with a private helicopter tour over the stunning Malibu coastline. Take in the gorgeous ocean views and the beauty of the beaches and mountains.
Hiking Escondido Falls
Discover Escondido Falls Trail, a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail offering a scenic and easy route with views of the of plant life, wildlife, streams, and the tallest waterfall in the Santa Monica Mountains. Hike, run, and mountain bike on this trail year-round.
Hiking Newton Canyon
Newton Canyon is a moderately challenging out-and-back trail that is 4.5 miles in total. Go first thing in the morning to check out the birds and wildflowers along the route.
Hiking Point Dume
Point Dume is popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and sightings of dolphins, sea lions, and seals. This 1.1 mile out-and-back trail has sandy and rocky sections with views of the ocean.
Hiking Solstice Canyon
The hike through Solstice Canyon is most well-known for the ruins of the Tropical Terrace house, the oldest stone building in Malibu, as well as a three-tiered waterfall that feels entirely removed from the nearby beaches. Wade into the knee-deep pool, which is shaded and surrounded by boulders, to stand beneath 30 feet of rushing water.
Horseback Riding by the Ocean
Take a guided horseback riding nature tour in the Malibu mountains with stunning ocean views. This trail experience is provided by Malibu Riders and is available for beginners to more advanced riders.
Mountain Biking Malibu
Explore the Malibu area on a mountain bike! There are multiple one-and-back and loop trails that vary in difficulty to provide you with stunning 360-degree views.
Tandem Paragliding
For our thrill seekers, go on an unbelievable tandem flight with an instructor over Carbon Beach. This 30-minute experience can also be captured with photos and videos, through our partners Malibu Paragliding.
On Property Boardgames
Did you know that board games are located in each guestroom and at our Front Desk? From classic games such as chess and Monopoly to card games such as playing cards and Uno, we can offer fun for the whole family!
Borrow A Book (Or Two)
At Malibu Beach Inn, we offer an array of reading materials that you can borrow throughout your stay. From a variety of books and magazines located within each room, to newspapers and magazines for purchase in our Reception Area, enjoy reading throughout the property from your own personal balcony to the sands of Carbon Beach.
Watercolor The Local Views
Inspiration can be found everywhere! Stop by the Front Desk for a post card, notebook, and some vibrant, washable paint to use to paint the sky, the ocean, or whatever your heart desires.
Water Sports & Ocean Activities
Surfing Malibu
Malibu is the quintessential spot for surfing with nearly 30 miles of prime coastline, beautiful white beaches, and ideal weather. Surfing in Malibu is ideal for all levels, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer.
Paddleboard Surfing Tour
Take a paddleboard surfing tour starting at nearby Surfriders Beach, past Malibu Pier to Colony Rock. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life with Catalina Island as the backdrop.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Want to learn how to paddleboard? Our Concierge Team can coordinate equipment rentals and private instructors to have you gliding on the water in no time flat.
Carbon Beach Swimming
Nothing better than taking a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean! Our beach is swimmable and accessible from the hotel via stairwell, only 34 steps to the ocean! A little piece of heaven on Earth.
Kayaking In Malibu
Our Concierge Team can assist you with kayaking rentals and direct you to ideal kayaking spots in the area, with the assistance with our partner Sea N Soul Surf. Private and group tours are available for larger parties as well.
Malibu Pier Fishing
Live like a local by fishing off the famous Malibu Pier! Permits are not required to fish from the pier. Our team can assist you with rod rentals, bait and tackle.
Yachting, Catamarans, & Boating
Spend the day on enjoying Malibu coastline from your own private chartered boat. From luxury yachts to deep sea fishing, our Team can help you coordinate a perfect day on the water.
Arts, Culture & Local Attractions
Explore The Getty Villa Museum
Take a step back into time with a walk through Ancient Rome and explore lush gardens at The Getty Villa Malibu. Just a short 15 minute drive from the Inn, the museum is a re-created Roman country villa featuring ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan art from the Neolithic and Bronze Age to the Roman Empire with rotating special exhibitions, a 450-seat outdoor classic theater and an afternoon garden tea experience. Tranquility and wonder go hand-in-hand as the gardens feature ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, frescoes, and fountains, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Live Music
In the mood for some live music and shows? Nearby Aviator Nation Dreamland is Malibu’s iconic music venue from the 70s that offer weekly live music and targeted events. Catch some of today’s hottest musicians jamming along with some friends to watching local comics and up-and-coming bands grace the stage.
Discover A Piece of Malibu History
Once home to the Chumash Indians, the Ridge family purchased Malibu Creek and owned 17,000 acres and 20 miles of coastline. Today one of their original Spanish Colonial Revival style beach houses, Adamson House, and the area around it are a Historic California Landmark, California State Park and Museum. Visit today to learn more about Malibu’s history and tour through their lush gardens.
Cafes, Wineries & Dining in Malibu
Curated Cocktails On The Beach
Taste our curated cocktails and crafted mocktails, all while watching the sun set on the Pacific Ocean from our Carbon Beach Club’s outdoor terrace. Don’t forget to try our more seasonal cocktails while supplies last!
Alfred Coffee In Malibu
This artisanal coffee shop serves up innovative drinks and a retail area for different roasts, drinkware, and merch. Established in Los Angeles, this popular coffee shop has now extended across the U.S. and the globe.
Café Luxxe
Visit this local neighborhood coffee roaster and experience an exceptional coffee experience. From premium coffee options to organic teas, experience this Los Angeles-based roaster with European traditions.
Malibu Farm
Walk next door to the Malibu Pier and enjoy the café at Malibu Farm. Sip your cup of crafted coffee overlooking the ocean and people watching on the pier.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Stop by this specialty, international coffee house and retailer located in the Malibu Country Mart. Enjoy their signature blends and take some of your favorite blends home from your travels.
Dinner Parties At Malibu Beach Inn
Looking to host your next small group event? Look no further than our own Carbon Beach Club! Our restaurant offers semi-private and private dining options. Ask our Concierge Team for further details.
Carbon Beach Picnic
Have a picnic on the beach! Our beach service complete with sun loungers, umbrellas, and food and beverage service.
Malibu Area Picnics
Interested in hosting a romantic or group picnic off property? Our partner, Malibu Table Maven, can style lovely tablescapes, plateware, florals, tailored to your dining and location preferences.
Wine Tasting In The Santa Monica Mountains
Visit Cielo Farms, a Tuscan-inspired estate set amongst a 30-acre vineyard in Malibu nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. A perfect spot for wine tastings to large events and weddings.
California Wine & Beer Tasting
Taste a selection of California wines and beers in a historic 1930’s building at Malibu Wines. Cozy, elegant, and Californian.
Shopping in Malibu
Malibu Country Mart
Enjoy a day at Malibu Country Mart, an outdoor shopping area featuring an array of high-end shopping, chic boutiques and wellness, and restaurants.
Malibu Lumber Yard
An outdoor shopping destination featuring upscale retail, dining, and entertainment, featuring one of the largest free-standing aquariums in Malibu.
Malibu Village
Great outdoor location for a mix of high-end shopping, restaurants, and wellness options. Shop ‘til you drop, indeed.
Spa, Wellness & Fitness
Yoga on the Beach
At Malibu Beach Inn, welcome the day with morning yoga on the beach, mere steps away from the hotel on the sands of Carbon Beach.
Detox At The Beach
Cleanse your body and mind with detox options at our Cure Spa. Work with the Spa’s medical professionals to tailor a detox program based on your needs.
Spa Treatments & Facials
Interested in signature spa treatments and facials? Look no further than Cure Spa. We offer customized massages, scrubs, therapies, and facials that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Glow Up – Cure Spa
Cure Spa offers a multitude of medical services that can leave you glowing from the inside out. The Spa’s medical professionals can offer specialty testing and monitoring, consultations, and medical paths forward.
Meditation & Relaxation
Interested in alternative wellness options and spiritual practices? Let our Team assist you with sound bath classes, bioressonance sessions, sound therapy, aromatherapy, hypnotherapy classes, breathwork classes, reiki sessions, tarot card readings, and more.
Brain Mapping
Ever wondered how your brain functions and reacts to both internal processing and external environments? Try brain mapping today and learn more about yourself on a neurological level.
Workout Classes
At our Cure Spa, sign up for our latest workout classes, from boxing classes, pilates, to personal training, and more. Working up a sweat never felt so good.
Plan Your Malibu Stay
Malibu Beach Inn is located on Carbon Beach, 34 steps from the ocean, with direct access to many of the activities listed above. Our concierge team books everything from surf lessons and helicopter tours to restaurant reservations and spa treatments. Browse our oceanfront rooms and suites to start planning.
What are the best free things to do in Malibu?
Hiking trails (Point Dume, Solstice Canyon, Escondido Falls), swimming at Carbon Beach or Zuma Beach, exploring the Malibu Pier, and visiting the Getty Villa (free admission, parking $20) are all free or low-cost. The Malibu Farmers Market runs on Sundays during the season.
What are the best things to do in Malibu for couples?
Sunset dinner at Carbon Beach Club, a private wine tasting at Cielo Farms, couples spa treatments at Cure Spa, a tandem paragliding flight over Carbon Beach, and a sunset yacht charter along the Malibu coastline.
What are fun things to do in Malibu with kids?
Board games at Malibu Beach Inn, fishing from the Malibu Pier (no permit needed), swimming at Carbon Beach, kayaking, the Getty Villa museum, and exploring tide pools at Point Dume.
What is the best time to visit Malibu?
Malibu is a year-round destination. Summer (June through August) brings the warmest water and longest days. Fall (September through November) offers smaller crowds
Is Malibu worth visiting for a day trip?
Yes. Malibu is about 35 miles from downtown Los Angeles (roughly 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic), 12 miles from Santa Monica (roughly 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic), and 20 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) (roughly 1.5 hours depending on traffic). A day trip can cover PCH scenic stops, a beach visit, lunch, and a hike. For more time, an overnight stay at Malibu Beach Inn puts you on Carbon Beach with sunset views from your balcony.
What outdoor activities are popular in Malibu?
Surfing at Surfrider Beach, hiking Solstice Canyon and Escondido Falls, kayaking, paddleboarding, horseback riding in the Santa Monica Mountains, mountain biking, and paragliding over Carbon Beach. Whale watching runs from December through April.