Sprawling beaches and a renowned celebrity scene are not the only draws to LA’s most iconic beach town. Look beyond the glamour of Billionaire’s Beach and what you’ll find is a laid-back surf town with a labyrinth of hiking trails and countless other can’t-miss attractions, including a restaurant scene you’ll be eager to sink your fork into. Pack your bags ¾ Malibu is calling.

Malibu Farm Pier Café

After a morning stroll on on the sandy beach, you’ve no doubt worked up a bit of an appetite. Let your nose guide the way to the Malibu Farm Pier Café for brunch with your friends. Savor artisanal menu items like the Salsa Verde Egg Sandwich, or the breakfast pizza. We have a feeling you’ll like this breakfast with a view. Think a chic rustic, yet “beachy” atmosphere.

Nobu Malibu

Those of you who have heard of, or have been to a Nobu or Matsuhisa know why we get excited when we hear, “Black Miso Cod.” We invite you to nosh on this “Ahh-mazing” dish and many other mouthwatering chef-d’oeuvres. Odds are you’ll find yourself dining among celebrities at this beachside culinary sanctuary, as the most luxurious food chain is a favorite of many stars who live nearby.

Map data: GoogleMaps

A Canyon Drive

Sometimes all you need is a drive on winding roads to give you the right amount of adventure and plenty of amazing views. Hop in your convertible, with the top down of course, and go for a drive. We recommend beginning on the Pacific Coast Highway and turning on to Mullholland Hwy and eventually on to Decker Rd.

The Getty Villa

Take a step back in time when you walk through the doors of the Getty Villa designed after the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, Italy. Inside the villa you’ll find art and ancient antiquities from the Greek, Roman, and Etruscan civilizations. Dazzle your eyes with bronze and marble statues, coins, and jewelry and even a library containing books on the art of the time periods.

El Matador

When the sun is crawling below the horizon, there is one place that you must capture it from: El Matador Beach. The rock formations add an unmistakable mystery to the beach and the changing colors in the sky, so bring along your camera. Also bring the correct footwear, considering the beach is only accessible via a 150-ft staircase.

Hiking

There is no shortage of beautiful trails in Malibu to explore. We narrowed it down to two of our favorites:

Solstice Canyon

If you love to take in the incredible view in Malibu, but aren’t looking to increase your heart rate then Solstice might be the canyon for you. It comes with stunning views of the ocean and old stone houses that were destroyed by a wildfire. However, parking is limited so arriving early, or carpooling, is suggested.

Escondido Falls

When the water is flowing, it becomes arguably one of the best waterfalls in the area. Leashed dogs are welcome, so bring them along for an adventure. In the springtime, picture the trail freckled with with wildflowers throughout the forest and creeks flowing alongside the trail surrounded by greenery.

Shopping

Browsing Malibu’s Country Mart isn’t like shopping in the rest of Los Angeles.  Think Beach Chic, vintage, and casual styles from some top designers including James Perse, Morgane Le Fay, Rubin Chapelle, and Madison. Still want more? Go for round two at the Malibu Lumbar Yard.

WRITTEN BY KALIEGH LAWSON