The 11 Best Things to Do in Malibu

Malibu is quintessential California—you’ll find miles of sandy beaches, towering palm trees, expert surfers, fancy boutiques, hip restaurants, and lots of celebrity homes. It’s no surprise that the ‘Bu has earned the title of the top vacation beach town. People come here for celebrity sightings or check off all the fun things from their bucket lists. We’ll leave the first to luck—despite it being a regular occurrence—and focus on the second. If you’re planning on spending the coolest vacation ever, here are the best things to do in Malibu.

These Are All Fun Things To Do in Malibu

1. Get Your Tan in Check at Zuma Beach

If Zuma Beach isn’t at the top of your list, do you even know how to have fun in Malibu? This two-mile stretch of sand is the perfect place to spend a full day by the glimmering ocean waters. The must-visit L.A. beach caters to people of different interests—from swimming and surfing to sunbathing and sunset strolls, you’ll have a blast at Zuma. Of all the Malibu beaches, this one has the best amenities, including restrooms, showers, lifeguard stations, and picnic areas. Don your swimsuit, it’s time to catch the rays. 

2. Marvel at the Beauty of the Adamson House 

The striking Spanish-style Adamson House is located within Malibu Lagoon State Beach Park. Built in 1929 by the Adamson family, the house features extensive colorful tilework, frescoes, and unique light features. Lucky for us, the house and its gorgeous garden are still in their original state and open to the public for a minimal fee, which also includes a tour of the Malibu Lagoon Museum. 

3. Admire the Spectacle that is The Getty Villa

The Getty Villa is where oil magnate Paul J. Getty’s rich collection of antiquities awaits exploration. Around 1,200 artifacts dating from 6,500 BC to 500 AD are on display. This famous Malibu attraction still makes for a perfect date idea, even if you’re not into art—its picture-perfect courtyard and well-groomed gardens are enough to make your date swoon.

4. Hike to Escondido Falls

If you’re looking for an easy hike with plenty of shade, the Escondido Falls Trail is the right path for you. The 3.7-mile hike has a rather unconventional start—the trail takes you through gorgeous Malibu mansions instead of a dirt path. After a mile or so, you won’t need a map; the sound of the 150-foot cascade will guide you to your endpoint. Go on this cool SoCal hike and enjoy one of most beautiful waterfalls you’ll ever see.

5. Explore Life Underwater with Malibu Divers

Convinced Malibu is gorgeous? Wait till you see its inner beauty—literally. Opt for Malibu Divers to show you an unseen side of the ‘Bu. The trained professionals teach you the essentials of scuba and deep diving and will accompany you on underwater excursions. Diving is not just a fun thing to do in Malibu; it’s also life-saving—you just might find Nemo.

6. Stroll along the Malibu Pier

One of the top things to see in Malibu is its famous pier. The wooden planked pier is a local icon and a major tourist attraction. As you walk towards the end of the pier, admire the stunning ocean, keep an eye out for dolphins, and check out the surfers showing off their skills. And if you feel hungry, either catch your own dinner or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants. 

7. Shop at the Malibu Country Mart

There are certain places to visit in Malibu that you simply can’t miss, and the Malibu Country Mart is one of them. Here, you’ll find the best boutiques for much-needed retail therapy. You won’t be shopping alone here either—celebrities come here all the time. Experience the ‘Bu like an A-lister at this mall and thank us later. 

8. Ride the Waves at Surfrider Beach

Surfrider Beach—officially known as Malibu Lagoon State Beach—is your go-to destination to shoot the curl, do a turtle roll, and practice your closeout re-entry. As one of Los Angeles’ top surfing spots, Surfrider Beach is usually packed, which is why it’s best to come here during the early hours of the day. Get your surfboard ready and head to Malibu Lagoon State Beach to ride the waves all day, every day. 

9. Experience the Pacific Ocean at its Finest with Malibu Coastal Adventures

One can never get enough of the beaches in Malibu. And if you thought they all offer the same activities, think again—more adventures await by the ocean. Malibu Coastal Adventures allows you to learn about all the watersports you’ve been meaning to take up as well as explore the abundant SoCal marine life aboard a vessel. Go on a coastal Malibu sightseeing excursion or take part in the many activities organized by the captain himself. Want to go whale watching or do you prefer paddleboarding? Malibu Coastal Adventures has you covered and you’re in for a treat. 

10. Indulge in Mouthwatering meals at Neptune’s Net

Remember the scene from The Fast and The Furious, where the late Paul Walker and Vin Diesel shared a meal after test driving the Toyota Supra? You can have that exact same experience at Malibu’s famous Neptune’s Net—this is where the scene was shot. The restaurant's postcard-perfect location and vintage 50s vibes make it a top Malibu spot. Did we mention the seafood here is extra delish? Whether you’re looking to hang out with friends or planning a romantic date in SoCal, Neptune’s Net should be your top pick.

11. Pitch a Tent at the Thornhill Broome Campground

The best beach towns naturally have the best beach camping destinations, so it goes without saying that Malibu has the coolest of them all—Thornhill Broome Campground. Packed with top-notch amenities, this campground is where you’ll swim all day and roast marshmallows at night. Enjoy a cute outdoor date with your boo as the ocean breeze runs through your hair—everything’s extra romantic under the star-lit Malibu night sky. Just like Miley Cyrus said: “Next to you, the sky is more blue in Malibu.”