Malibu is a beautiful beach city in California that sits right along the Pacific Ocean. With warm sunshine, sandy beaches, and stunning coastal views, it makes an awesome place to visit and have fun!
There are so many cool things to see and do in Malibu for people of all ages. Whether you love being outdoors, learning about history and culture, eating delicious food, or just relaxing in gorgeous surroundings, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
This guide will tell you all about the best spots in Malibu to check out during your visit. You’ll read about pristine beaches perfect for swimming, surfing, and soaking up the sun.
There are amazing hikes to go on with amazing ocean views the whole way. You can tour unique museums and historical sites that give you a window into the past.
Of course, Malibu also has incredible restaurants serving up tasty dishes from tacos to sushi. No matter what kind of interests you have, this list has you covered with the top things to experience when vacationing in Malibu!
Getty Villa
The Getty Villa is an amazing place to visit in Malibu. It is a museum that recreates an ancient Roman villa from thousands of years ago.
When you go there, you get to walk through beautiful gardens filled with plants, trees, fountains, and pools just like the Romans had.
Inside the villa itself, you’ll see incredible ancient art and artifacts from Greek and Roman times.
The sculptures, vases, jewelry, and other objects are so old but still look amazing. You can almost imagine what life was like way back when these things were actually being used.
What makes The Getty Villa really special is that the whole place transports you back in time to the ancient world.
The architecture, the gardens, the antiquities on display – it all comes together to give you a taste of how the wealthy elite lived in Rome and Greece centuries and centuries ago.
You can attend tours and presentations to learn a ton about this fascinating era of history.
If you love art, culture, beautiful outdoor spaces, or just imagining life in the classical age, The Getty Villa should definitely be on your must-visit list for Malibu.
Here are more details about visiting The Getty Villa in a table format:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Reservations | Advance timed-entry tickets are required for admission. Reservations can be made online. |
| Cost | Free admission. Parking is $20 per car. |
| Parking | On-site parking garage. Capacity is limited so arriving early is recommended. |
| Hours | Open 10am to 5pm. Closed on Tuesdays. |
| Days Open | Wednesday through Monday. Closed Tuesdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. |
| Highlights | Recreated ancient Roman villa, gardens modeled after those in Pompeii, Greek and Roman antiquities collection including sculptures, vases, jewelry and more. Guided tours available. |
Some additional notes:
- Strollers, wheelchairs, and electric conveyance vehicles are available to borrow for free
- Audio tours available with admission
- On-site dining options include an outdoor cafe
- Special events/exhibits often occur so checking the schedule online beforehand is recommended
With timed-entry tickets required and paid parking, a little planning ahead helps ensure the best experience at this unique museum celebrating ancient Greek and Roman culture.
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State BeachEl Matador State Beach is one of the best beaches to go to if you are near Malibu.
The beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and pristine waters.
When you arrive, you are treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean’s crashing waves against the seaside cliffs and caves carved out by erosion.
The beach itself has soft tan sand perfect for relaxing, playing games, or going for a walk.
During low tide, you can explore the tide pools filled with marine plants and animals. Another reason El Matador is a top beach is because of its seclusion and natural beauty.
Since it is inside the Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, the area is protected and unspoiled by overdevelopment.
The beach has basic facilities like parking and restrooms but not much else – giving it a wonderfully tranquil vibe.
Nature lovers can spot coastal birds, watch the sunset paint the cliffs in brilliant oranges and reds, or go hiking on nearby trails.
With its one-of-a-kind scenery and serene atmosphere, El Matador State Beach stands out as an ideal spot to relax and connect with nature’s splendor.