HomeItinerariesMalibu & Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip

ITINERARYMalibu & Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip

Cruise a short but sweet segment of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (often abbreviated as the PCH), one of the most scenic roads in the world. It’s a drive so stunning it doesn’t need an end destination, but postcard-perfect Malibu makes an idyllic stop, just an easy 30-minute drive from Santa Monica and The Pierside.

Morning

Cruise toward Malibu on the Pacific Coast Highway, featuring views almost too good to be true. With the coastline flying by one side and the Santa Monica mountains on the other, the drive will almost seem to go by too quickly.

The morning makes a perfect time to discover some of Malibu’s unique attractions, like The Getty Villa. Step into an ancient world at the original home of the Getty Museum, which originally opened in 1974. This oceanside re-creation of a Roman country house displays over 4,000 years of Greek and Roman antiquities — from the Stone Age to the final days of the Roman Empire — among lush gardens and tranquil spaces with views of the Pacific Ocean.

Malibu & Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip 2

The Pierside Santa Monica Introductory Rate

Afternoon

When in Malibu, oceanside lunch is a must. If you’re looking for something low-key, there are plenty of casual spots dotted along the Pacific Coast Highway. Satisfy your fried fish craving at Malibu Seafood. Savor fresh, California-style eats at the dual-concept Malibu Farm restaurant directly on the pier. Or, feast on Hawaiian-inspired cuisine by the ocean at Duke’s Malibu, featuring an interior that pays tribute to the early days of surfing.

For an extra special occasion, Nobu Malibu is a popular choice. Located directly on the Pacific Coast Highway with views of Surfrider Beach, it’s been an iconic LA destination for nearly two decades with its fusion-inspired sushi and seafood menu. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance if this is on your bucket list.

After lunch, spend some time soaking up the sun on one of the world’s most famous surfing spots, Surfrider Beach. Known for its perfect swells, it’s a must-visit destination for surfers and spectators that you might recognize from a movie or two.

Later

Before you head back to your home-away-from-home at The Pierside, reserve some time later in the day to explore beyond the beach with a sunset adventure. After all, Malibu is home to some of the best hiking in Southern California. Solstice Canyon Loop is a popular choice for casual hikers, offering canyon and ocean vistas. Point Dume Cove Trail is a family-friendly option featuring views over the bluffs of Point Dume. And if you’d prefer to break a sweat, Zuma Canyon Loop Trail is a longer trail where hikers, mountain bikers, and dog walkers are welcome to take in spectacular mountain views.