Malibu, CA
Stretching for more than 30 miles along the Pacific and Highway One, Malibu has achieved almost mythological status among California beach towns. Hollywood stars and top athletes live in oceanfront homes here, under an elegant veil of privacy on long strands of beach, and enjoy front-row seats for surfing and unforgettable sunsets. The scenic city also extends north into the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains. You’re going to want a car to explore—especially if you plan on hitting those canyon roads—but thankfully most of your driving will be along the oceanfront Pacific Coast Highway.
Milk & Honey Tip
Watch an unforgettable sunset from El Matador State Beach, a narrow stretch of sand lined with sublime rock outcrops and small caves into which you can squeeze when the tide is low. Leave the coast behind for the canyons, and taste a selection of vino at the cozy Cornell Winery.
Eat
Grab a bite at Malibu Farms, the organic café and restaurant that sits right on the pier. Or browse the fresh catches—and try one of the famed ahi tuna burgers—at Malibu Seafood, right across from Dan Blocker Beach.
Play
The Getty Villa—the original home of the Getty Museum, which opened in 1974—focuses on Ancient Greek and Roman Art (admission is free, but you need to make a reservation). For more contemporary, beachy masterpieces, check out the 30 historic surfboards on display, some dating back to the 1910s, at the Surf Museum at Pepperdine University’s Payson Library. Tough as it is to drag yourself away from the ocean, head inland a short distance and you can also hike through hills and canyons, filled with spring wildflowers and even waterfalls, on trails in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
Sleep
The Surfrider [Boutique]
The look is pared-down and elegant, a sort of bohemian minimalism, the 20 rooms decorated in light neutrals that are full of organic textures, from the reclaimed teak floorboards to the modern-rustic furnishings created by local designers. Upstairs rooms have private terraces with partial or full views of the Pacific. And while some of our favorite hotels use their public spaces to interact with the local scene, the Surfrider’s roof terrace restaurant and bar is for guests only, in keeping with the intent of the hotel: more a private Malibu beach house than a typical boutique hotel.
Malibu Beach Inn
[Luxury]
Each of the 47 well-appointed guest rooms sit directly above the sands of Carbon Beach. Wake each morning to the soothing sounds of the sea, and at day's end watch the shores come alight with the glow of the setting sun. Throughout the property the Mani Brother's revered art collection is displayed, each piece carefully curated and positioned.
Nobu Ryokan Malibu [Luxury]
Drifting above the Pacific, the Nobu Ryokan Malibu is a triumph of architectural carpentry and subdued hospitality. This intimate 16 room retreat honors the traditional Japanese Ryokan, featuring teak soaking tubs, indoor/outdoor fireplaces, serene outdoor patios, timeless artwork and gracious accents. From the moment you arrive, the unforgettable views of Pacific Ocean and tranquil landscaping sets the tone for a private oasis.
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