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Why Malibu Remains the Ideal Weekend Escape

Malibu’s charm as a coastal escape endures, even after fire, loss and change.

One of L.A. County's greatest claims to fame, Malibu is a coastal haven that is just as magical as it is moneyed. This exclusive enclave is known for its tight-knit community of surfers, celebrities, ranchers and affluent beach bums. Despite being one of the most idyllic and picturesque parts of Los Angeles, Malibu has endured serious loss over the last decade; most notably, the Woolsey Fire of 2018 and 2025’s devastating Palisades Fire. 

While local losses like Cholada Thai, Rosenthal Wine Bar and Reel Inn still sting, this resilient community continues to power through by supporting longtime businesses and exciting newcomers alike. The drive down PCH is storied with sadness amidst the city’s lagging rebuilding efforts, but large swaths of Malibu remain untouched by the damage and are ready to treat visitors to a weekend of beachside revelry. 

As the local dining scene continues to evolve, seafood still reigns supreme. Casual spots like Neptune’s Net and Malibu Seafood are perfect for a sandy picnic with fried scallops and shrimp, but more upscale eateries like Geoffrey’s and Nobu turn on the charm with swanky settings and sweeping ocean views. Though you’ll be tempted to spend all of your time at the beach, the mountainous side of Malibu is also home to incredible hiking and wine tasting. Whether you’re an out-of-towner looking to live out your Baywatch dreams or an L.A. local in need of a restorative staycation, we’ve curated the perfect guide for a luxurious weekend in Malibu.

The Ultimate Malibu Guide

Calamigos Guest Ranch

Broad Street Oyster Company

Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

Aviator Nation Dreamland

Wine Taste at Cielo Farms

Visit the Getty Villa

Shop at the Malibu Country Mart

22752 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

With only 16 rooms across the entire property, Nobu Ryokan is Malibu’s most exclusive beachfront hotel. Though the Japanese-inspired garden rooms possess a quiet, zen energy, the ocean-view suites stop you in your tracks. The deep blue hues of the sea contrast beautifully with the room’s neutral tones, and if you’re lucky enough to reserve a room with a teak soaking tub on the balcony, there’s no better place to unwind with a bottle of sake in the evening. In addition to breakfast, the fully stocked mini fridge and snack bar are 100 percent complimentary, and you can always walk over to the next-door restaurant for sushi and wagyu tacos at lunch or dinner. 

22878 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Malibu Beach Inn is a timeless waterfront property located just a short walk away from the historic Malibu Pier. All 47 rooms and suites feature beachy yet modern decor, cozy fireplaces and spacious balconies where you can enjoy the sea breeze while taking in panoramic sunset views. The location is virtually unbeatable, and in addition to the pier, guests have prime access to Carbon Beach, Cure Wellness Club and the on-site Carbon Beach Club Restaurant. 

Calamigos Guest Ranch

261 Calamigos Rd, Malibu, CA 90265

Skip the beach and experience the more rustic side of Malibu with a stay at Calamigos Ranch. Tucked in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, this 52-room wellness-focused resort blends contemporary bones with bohemian accents, while its on-site restaurant, The Ranch Club, pays tribute to the property’s western history. Whether you’re lounging under an umbrella by the main pool or decide to drive 10 minutes up the road to the private Calamigos Beach Club, expect attentive, fast-paced service as you sip on a signature ranch water or market margarita. 

23465 Civic Center Way, Malibu, CA 90265

Clark’s Oyster Bar opened at Cross Creek Ranch to high praise at the end of 2025. This Texas transplant specializes in both raw and cooked seafood dishes, but it’s their dirty martinis with goat cheese-stuffed olives that will have you on the edge of your seat. Start with the colorful, Sicilian-style crudo plate and pre-dressed oysters, before enjoying a comforting cup of New England clam chowder. For your main course, opt for the crispy local rockfish and creamy grits or the tender, pan-seared Hokkaido scallops. 

22706 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

From the breathtaking patio that sits just above the shoreline to the rotating door of star-studded clientele, it’s no wonder that Nobu Malibu is one of the most elite restaurants in all of Los Angeles. Even decades after it debuted, reservations remain difficult to snag, but if you plan in advance, you should be able to get one even on the weekends. From fresh nigiri to crispy wagyu or lobster tacos, the menu is chock-full of iconic dishes and signature items that have made Nobu a household name. 

27400 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Geoffrey’s is an iconic cliffside establishment known for its romantic terrace, epic views and surf-and-turf cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or steak, the menu maintains an old-school edge, with hit starters ranging from spicy fried oysters to jumbo coconut shrimp. For your main course, consider options like the rich lobster risotto, pan-seared Chilean sea bass or Australian wagyu New York strip. 

Broad Street Oyster Company

23359 Pacific Coast Hwy #3874A, Malibu, CA 90265

Caught a craving for a buttery lobster roll and a crisp beer? Head to Broad Street Oyster Co. Despite its casual, counter-ordering setup, Broad Street serves unbelievably fresh, high-quality seafood and a fun lineup of canned wines and craft IPAs to match. Though the caviar and uni-topped lobster rolls are what they’re famous for, you can also order raw items like ceviche, crudo and oysters. 

3835 Cross Creek Rd, Suite #18, Malibu, CA 90265

Timeless and elegant, Lucky’s serves up classic steakhouse vibes along with the best martinis in Malibu. Whether you’re flying solo, on a date or catching up with an old friend, the swanky setting takes you back in time to Hollywood’s Golden Era, with crisp white tablecloths, bistro-style barstools and an enclosed patio with a nautical feel. The ice-cold martinis are shaken tableside, and though you’ll definitely want to save room for the Lucky’s melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, don’t skimp on appetizers like the grilled artichoke, Stephen’s tuna tartare and decadent macaroni and cheese.

3939 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu, CA 90265

No question about it—Cafe Habana serves up the best margaritas in Malibu. Whether you want to sit at the laid-back bar or on the lush patio with Cuban-inspired murals, the hot pink prickly pear margarita is the ultimate thirst quencher. Each of the signature margs is made with Casamigos tequila, but you can also order other cocktails, beer and wine. If you want something to snack on while you sip, order a side of plantains, black beans and yellow rice. 

17300 CA-1, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Gladstones was one of the few Pacific Palisades restaurants to survive the January 2025 fires. Located right at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and PCH, this historic community hotspot sits just above the sand, promising uninterrupted ocean views from a spacious wooden deck. This is the perfect place to sit down for a mojito or mai tai during sunset, but if you’re a zythophile, Gladstones also offers a solid selection of draft beers that rotate seasonally. 

Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

28128 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Looking to sip something fruity with your toes in the sand? Paradise Cove Beach Cafe is a laid-back shack on one of Malibu’s most private enclaves. Situated next to a small pier and rocky bluff, this coastal eatery is quintessentially California, serving up craft cocktails alongside fresh seafood and BBQ. The food menu is overwhelmingly large, but we recommend sitting down for drinks and a cup of award-winning clam chowder while watching the sun dip behind the horizon. 

Aviator Nation Dreamland

22969 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Directly across from the emblematic Malibu Pier, Aviator Nation Dreamland doubles as a music event space and restaurant/bar. Whether you’re stopping by for a show or simply want to enjoy retro vibes with a Malibu Margarita in hand, this moody lounge provides a stylish backdrop to your evening. The Surfer Sour is a complex blend of light and smoky, while the Birds of Paradise takes a more tropical approach with pineapple, passion fruit and Aperol.

Despite its affluent and famous residents and fancy restaurants, Malibu is, first and foremost, a beach town. From Paradise Cove to Westward Beach to El Matador, each strip of sand boasts its own character and aesthetic. Though some beaches are better than others for surfing and swimming, you’ll also find plenty of great tide pools where you can search for sea slugs, starfish and the occasional octopus (if you’re lucky). Of course, nothing beats a good beach read while lounging, but you’ll also find locals paddleboarding, kayaking, and even windsurfing. 

Wine Taste at Cielo Farms

31424 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Experience a totally different side of Malibu at Cielo Farms. After a winding drive through the mountains, guests are greeted by a Tuscan-style stone tasting room that’s surrounded by cliffside tables outfitted with cozy firepits. Though most people go for the wine, the views are the true draw, and you’ll be able to look out at the surrounding peaks and lush landscape that almost look otherworldly from above. Enjoy a tasting paired with an Italian-inspired menu provided by Novikov Beverly Hills. 

Visit the Getty Villa

17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Despite facing impending devastation during the Palisades Fire, the Getty Villa was thankfully spared, and remains one of the most stunning and unique museums in Los Angeles. Admire the Greek and Roman artifacts and antiquities before walking outside to check out the elegant fountains and gardens. Though the art collection is a fraction of what you’ll find at the actual Getty Center in Brentwood, its outdoor aesthetic and Grecian architecture make it worth visiting at least once. 

Shop at the Malibu Country Mart

3835 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu, CA 90265

From upscale boutiques to name-brand designers to metaphysical crystal stores, Malibu Country Mart is a true one-stop shop destination. It’s located just across the street from the ocean, so if you’re in need of a last-minute bikini or sun hat, this is the place to go. There are also plenty of restaurants and coffee shops in the center, should you need a little pick-me-up during your shopping spree. 

Though some of the Westside's best hiking trails were damaged in the Palisades Fire, most of the routes deeper in Malibu were untouched. Solstice Canyon is a popular option offering a variety of levels, from easy to strenuous. If you want an extra scenic hike with panoramic Pacific views—and maybe some sea lion sighting—trek the sandy path along Point Dume. Other popular trails include Zuma Canyon, Corral Canyon and Escondido Falls. 

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