Malibu Day Trippin’ along the PCH
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as PCH, is a famed west coast route where you’ll find yourself cruising smoothly, the ocean on one side and the state of California on the other.
Malibu’s portion of The One is especially picturesque, filled with shopping, lookouts, and insider locations. Should you have a day primed for both adventure and relaxation, below is your guide to a plethora of #MalibuMoments.
Brunch at Carbon Beach Club, Saturday & Sunday
Nestled directly above the sands of Carbon Beach, our boutique property proudly lends itself as the only luxury hotel to the city of Malibu. Our onsite restaurant, Carbon Beach Club, is situated oceanfront, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, enabling locals and travelers alike to enjoy the first part of their morning sea side, indulging in seasonally inspired brunch cuisine.
Malibu Pier
The 780-foot pier was originally built in 1905 to support the commercial operations of Malibu Rancho, an endeavor so immense it even had its own railroad to move goods to and from the pier. Current day, though, the pier is home to a handful of great spots: at the end of the 780-foot stretch you’ll discover Malibu Farm Pier Café, a handful of fishermen, and an atypical gift shop complete with surf museum.
Malibu Country Mart
Photo credit: Malibu Country Mart
In accordance with typical Malibu panache, the Malibu Country Mart is quaint, but filled to the brim with upscale boutiques and galleries. Among the places to check out are Oliver Peoples (chic, unique sunnies and eyeglasses), Calypso St. Barth (dip-dyed caftans to cashmere cardigans), Lululemon (high quality exercise gear and accessories), Letarte Swimwear (founded by Malibu-born sisters Lisa and Michele Letarte), Rubin & Chapelle (flowing and bias-cut silk party and special occasion dresses), and Vintage Malibu (highly coveted pieces of vintage jewelry, watches, handbags).
Malibu Farmer’s Market, Sunday
Photo credit: Malibu Farmer’s Market Yelp
Venture to the lot directly outside the Malibu Library from 10 AM to 3 PM on Sundays to shop like a local. Discover fresh fruits and vegetables, locally sourced meats and fish, custom made candles and incense, as well as a whole assortment of other palate-pleasing commodities.
Solstice Canyon
Photo credit: Tommi Virtanen via Flickr
The 3.4-mile loop of Solstice Canyon trail takes you past a 30-foot-high waterfall and the ruins of a house from the 80’s, once home to Malibu locals, but now eerie, scorched relics beckoning what once was. The hike’s difficulty is rated moderate, but its return is well worth the exertion.
Latigo Canyon Diversion
Map data: GoogleMaps
This strip of road is regarded by experienced motorists as one of the best canyon roads out there. The asphalt path snakes along 167 turns in 11 miles through bold scenery and architecture.
Vintage Grocers
Photo credit: Vintage Grocers Facebook
The Vintage Grocers isn’t your typical grocery store, but rather an indoor farmer’s market filled with the highest quality of fare. It offers first-rate charcuterie, brick-oven pizza, artisan sandwiches, and locally sourced salads to any hungry traveler driving by. We suggest stocking up here before heading to the next beachside location.
Zuma Beach
Located along the coast at its superior address of 30000 Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, this strip of shore is known for its prime surfing waves and the cleanest water in Los Angeles County.
Leo Carrillo State Beach
As your day comes to a close, stop by Leo Carrillo State Beach to catch the day’s final bout of sun and color, before it dips below the sea. Named after Broadway and television actor, Leo Carrillo, this beautiful strip of sand memorializes Carrillo after he dedicated much of his time to preserving multiple stretches of coast through his service on the California State Park and Recreation Commission.
Malibu Beach Inn
We suggest ending your day on your own oceanfront, private balcony with a glass of Rosé and some of Carbon Beach Club’s best land and sea cuisine—the sounds of the sea serenading you into full bliss.