The Malibu center is approximately 1 mile southeast of Zuma Beach and 6 miles west of Pepperdine University.
The most amazing thing about Malibu is that the entire city is essentially one long stretch of land along the California coast. You are constantly bordered on one side by the Pacific Ocean, and on the other side by amazing red rock mountains. You get the best of both beautiful worlds. Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway on a beautiful day, through Malibu and beyond, is one of the most iconic California experiences a visitor could have. I also recommend making this drive right at Sunset, as the view will be incredible. You are guaranteed to see parked cars all along the PCH with people stopping to admire the view. Despite its fame, Malibu is still a quiet beach town, which is part of what is so great about it. Your chances of seeing a celebrity out in public are higher than almost anywhere else, but this doesn't seem to faze any of the hyper-casual locals. Malibu provides a lot of activity in a relatively close proximity – You can enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the world while there, and then take a quick trip south to the city of Santa Monica when you feel like some night life and entertainment. Or, you can visit the famous and eccentric Venice Beach. This city truly provides the Southern California experience.
One of the best times to visit Malibu is in the spring when tourist season hasn't yet arrived and the hotel rates are discounted. You'll encounter fewer crowds from March through May and have access to a number of local festivals around Los Angeles, including the California Poppy Festival and the UCLA Jazz Reggae Festival.
Summers in Southern California are sweltering and plagued by heavy fog, but this doesn't deter the tourists who flock to Malibu and LA from June to August. Hotel rates skyrocket during this season, but if you want to experience the surf and sun, you can't go wrong with a summer trip.
Autumn is another shoulder season in Malibu that brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and more reasonable hotel rates. Since the average temperatures remain in the high 70s and low 80s, you'll still have a chance for outdoor recreation without having to battle the crowds on the beach. You can also experience Orange Street Fair, the Los Angeles International Tamale Festival, and a number of other fall events in the LA metro area.
Winter is a great time to visit Malibu if you're looking to save money. Although the area experiences a lot of rain from December to February, you can't beat the hotel rates, and the temperatures hover in the upper 60s, making a winter getaway here quite pleasant.
If you plan your trip carefully, you can take advantage of discounts that save you even more money on your trip to Southern California. Many area hotels, including Residence Inn Los Angeles Westlake Village, offer discounted rates to AAA/CAA members, seniors, government employees, corporate travelers, and military families. Simply book the appropriate rate and show your proof of eligibility at check-in to save as much as 20 percent off the property's best available rates.
Other hotels extend special offers that change seasonally. For instance, Hampton Inn & Suites Agoura Hills offers premium Wi-Fi, double rewards, and weekend getaway packages to help you get even more bang for your buck. You can also take advantage of membership discounts if you're enrolled with your favorite hotel's rewards program, which can also lead to free nights.
Malibu offers many mid-range hotels that give you plenty of value for the money.
The M Malibu is a three-star boutique accommodation featuring an old-school exterior and updated, retro-chic rooms that will surprise you. Guest rooms feature wood floors, ceiling fans, ocean-view balconies, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen television, mini-fridges, and plush bedding. On-site amenities include free parking, a sundeck with lounge chairs, an ocean-view pool, and multiple dining options within walking distance.
Hyatt Regency Westlake is a Mediterranean-style upscale accommodation that's more affordable than similar properties closer to Malibu, making it a great option if you don't mind staying a bit further out. Its warm, colorful rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffee makers, and iPod docks, while suites add separate living areas. Guest amenities include an outdoor pool with waterfalls, two hot tubs, a fitness center, an informal restaurant, a bar, and a convenience store.
Hilton Garden Inn Calabasas places you within walking distance of shopping at the Commons at Calabasas complex. Rooms are contemporary with custom-designed beds, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, and Keurig coffee makers. Upgraded rooms and suites add additional features, such as separate living areas. Enjoy an on-site American restaurant, a Starbucks, and an outdoor pool with hot tub.
Located off the Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu Country Inn is a casual, Cape Cod-style accommodation within walking distance of Zuma Beach. It features unassuming rooms with coffee makers, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, plus suites with whirlpool tubs and fireplaces. Guests can also enjoy a relaxed restaurant with rooftop bar, free parking, and a heated outdoor pool.
Exploring everything Malibu has to offer is a tall order, but if you plan your itinerary right, you can be sure to hit the high spots. Zuma Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Los Angeles County thanks to its long, wide sands and exceptional surf. It's the perfect spot to people-watch, observe wildlife, build sandcastles, swim, surf, or sunbathe.
Malibu Country Mart is a unique shopping experience featuring retailers, recreation, and dining options in the heart of Malibu. Shop for designer items, grab a Starbucks coffee, or score the perfect souvenir to take home with you.
If you prefer hiking, head to Solstice Canyon, a park within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Offering solitude and an abundance of natural resources, Solstice Canyon is a favorite among hikers and backpackers looking to get away from the city traffic and smog. It's also a great place to bring the kids or dogs.
Those who love architecture will want to pay a visit to the Adamson House. This Spanish Revival beach home and gardens were built in the 1930s for Rhoda Rindge Adamson and her husband. It now features the Malibu Lagoon Museum and a gift shop, making it the perfect place to experience a guided tour. Admission to the site is just $7 for adults and $2 for children, with paid parking available at the nearby beach lot.
Exploring everything Malibu has to offer can seem impossible, but when you're centrally located, you can experience all the top attractions, beaches, and eateries that have put Malibu on the map. Whether you're looking for an upscale boutique accommodation or a more affordable lodging a little further out, you'll find the perfect hotel in Malibu to meet your needs and budget.
Below are reviews of the city of Malibu, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
The Adamson House is beautiful
It's a distance from Malibu beach- 30 min through treacherous roads but can certainly be done. Great food at Finny in Westlake village.