Hotels in Malibu

Malibu Unveiled: A Coastal Tapestry of Academia and Sea Breeze

Malibu, California offers a quintessential coastal escape with its famed Malibu Beach and the legendary Surfrider Beach, perfect for catching some of the best waves on the Malibu Coast. This seaside haven is also home to the iconic Malibu Pier, where visitors can savour stunning ocean views and enjoy a leisurely stroll. With its blend of sun, sand and academic charm from nearby universities, Malibu promises a truly authentic Californian experience for every traveller.

Discover great hotels near Malibu

Malibu offers charming coastal retreats from cosy B&Bs to luxury hotels with ocean views. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere near the beach, with many properties providing a blend of modern comforts and scenic Californian vistas. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Malibu:

1. Good Nite Inn - CalabasasOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly motel offers a comfortable stay with a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. Enjoy entertainment options including a flatscreen television and premium cable channels, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the nearby suburbs and mountains. Frequent travellers appreciate the great location and excellent value for a short getaway, highlighting its quiet atmosphere and the flexibility of check-out times.
2. Cambria Hotel Calabasas - MalibuOpens in a new window: A charming 3.0-star hotel with a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this property is ideal for leisure travellers seeking adventure and beach experiences. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in various adventure sports such as mountain biking and surfing, all within close proximity. The heated pool and delightful dining options enhance the overall experience, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and fun.
3. Topanga Canyon Inn B&BOpens in a new window: Rated 8.8 out of 10, this delightful bed and breakfast caters to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. With a focus on a serene and secluded atmosphere, it offers breathtaking views and a range of outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing nearby. The charming rooms and friendly hosting make it a wonderful choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Where to stay near Malibu

In Santa Monica, Calabasas and Woodland Hills, each offers its own charm: Santa Monica dazzles with beach and seaside attractions, Calabasas blends family-friendly shopping with hilly, budget options, and Woodland Hills impresses with luxury dining and live music. For first-time visitors seeking a true Malibu experience, Santa Monica is the best suited option.

1. Santa MonicaOpens in a new window: A vibrant coastal escape where you can enjoy the beach, sea and gorgeous sunsets, Santa Monica is perfect for travellers seeking a mix of leisure and excitement. Its lively atmosphere offers a range of activities such as walking along the bustling Santa Monica Pier, exploring the artistic vibes at Venice Beach, and sampling local cafes and dining spots. The presence of live music and cultural attractions further enriches your experience, making it a top choice for those who love a blend of relaxation and urban energy.
2. CalabasasOpens in a new window: Ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back and family-friendly environment, Calabasas offers a charming mix of shopping and dining with a local twist. The area’s hilly surroundings and friendly people add to its warm ambience, while unique spots like Malibu Hindu Temple and Candy Cane Lane provide interesting cultural insights. Its proximity to Santa Monica Beach ensures you’re never far from a refreshing seaside visit, making Calabasas an appealing option for a relaxed yet enriching stay.
3. Woodland HillsOpens in a new window: Woodland Hills is a great base for travellers who appreciate a blend of luxury and a relaxed lifestyle. With an emphasis on shopping, dining and live music, this area offers a sophisticated yet welcoming experience. The hilly landscape and array of local cafes contribute to its charming vibe, making it a preferred spot for those seeking a mix of entertainment and a comfortable stay. Its family-friendly and business-oriented setting means you can enjoy a balanced trip that caters to diverse interests.

Things to do in Malibu

Malibu beckons with its stunning beaches and rugged mountains, offering a perfect blend for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy invigorating hikes through scenic trails, catch breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, and ride the waves while surfing. With opportunities for water sports and leisurely strolls along the coast, this coastal gem promises a refreshing getaway.

• Candy Cane LaneOpens in a new window – Discover this unique exhibit where the charm of a festive display meets the seaside vibe, offering a visual treat that highlights the playful fusion of art and nature.
• Santa Monica BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy the expansive stretch of sand and surf at this beach, where you can relax by the sea and take in the coastal scenery with a dash of university-inspired energy.
• Zuma BeachOpens in a new window – Experience the open, breezy atmosphere of Zuma Beach, a perfect spot to enjoy the sea, engage in beach activities, and appreciate the vibrant coastal environment.
• Malibu Lagoon State BeachOpens in a new window – Stroll along the shores of Malibu Lagoon State Beach, where the interplay of tides and the serene lagoon creates a delightful setting for a coastal walk and nature watch.
• Universal Studios HollywoodOpens in a new window – Dive into the world of movie magic at Universal Studios Hollywood, a theme park that offers dynamic attractions and behind-the-scenes insights into the film industry while retaining the seaside charm.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Malibu

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Malibu is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For an enriching experience that allows you to explore the area's key landmarks, history, and cultural attractions, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy the stunning beaches, picturesque hiking trails, and breathtaking sunsets, as well as visit local wineries and charming cafes. This budget-friendly approach ensures you get great value for money while immersing yourself in Malibu's vibrant scenery and outdoor sports, including surfing.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For a relaxing trip to Malibu, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover enticing offers. If you're planning a spontaneous getaway, check out the Last-Minute Deals area to see available options close to your travel date. Consider enabling alerts to receive notifications about flash sales and price drops, so you're more likely to be informed promptly. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool on the app could help you compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you secure a room when availability opens up.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on various factors, such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could assist you in finding a more affordable stay in a Malibu hotel. For those in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher end, we may suggest more economical dates to help you locate a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be pricier; however, with Malibu’s superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further afield that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Malibu

Malibu experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 56.1°F (13.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.7°F (23.7°C). December is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Malibu, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, February, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny conditions.