🌊 Coastal Cool Down: Las Vegas to Malibu Road Trip

Need to swap the Strip for sea spray and celebrity vibes? Hit the road from Las Vegas and head straight for Malibu—the Southern California beach town where cinematic sunsets, cliffside mansions, and laid-back surf culture collide.

This road trip is the perfect blend of casual luxury and natural beauty, ideal for travelers looking to cool off, kick back, and maybe even spot a star or two.

🚗 The Route: Las Vegas to Malibu

Driving from Vegas to Malibu takes about 5 hours via I-15 S to US-101 S. Aim to leave early to avoid LA traffic and catch golden hour on the coast.

☕ Scenic Stopover Idea:

Calabasas Commons – A stylish break to grab a smoothie at SunLife Organics, do a little boutique shopping, and refuel before hitting the PCH.

🏖️ Why Malibu? It’s Not Just for Celebs

Sure, Malibu is known for its celebrity homes and red carpet sightings, but it’s also home to some of California’s most beautiful beaches, gourmet restaurants, and charming hideaways.

Whether you’re a surfer, sunbather, or seafood enthusiast, Malibu has a little something for everyone—plus those Pacific Coast Highway views? Worth the drive alone.

🌅 Top Beaches to Visit in Malibu

El Matador Beach

• 🧭 Distance from central Malibu: 10 minutes
• 📸 Why go: Sea caves, dramatic cliffs, golden hour perfection
• 🥾 Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—there’s a bit of a hike down to the sand

Zuma Beach

• 🧺 Best for: Classic sunbathing, beach picnics, family time
• 🏄‍♂️ Surf-friendly, spacious, and lifeguard-patrolled
• 🚙 Easy parking (rare for Malibu!)

Carbon Beach (aka “Billionaire’s Beach”)

• 🏖️ Vibe: Quiet, exclusive, tucked behind oceanfront homes
• 💡 Insider tip: Public access is available—just look for marked walkways

🍽️ Where to Eat Like a Local (or a Celebrity)

🦞 Malibu Farm at the Pier

• Fresh, farm-to-table dining with sweeping ocean views
• Must-try: Cauliflower crust pizza, frosé, and the Swedish mini pancakes

🍣 Nobu Malibu

• A-list energy and upscale Japanese dishes right on the water
• Reservations essential—book well in advance
• Worth it for: Black cod miso, yellowtail sashimi, and that beachfront table

🍔 Lily’s Malibu (Casual Favorite)

• Home of the legendary Malibu breakfast burrito
• Tip: Call ahead for pickup and eat picnic-style at Zuma

🛌 Where to Stay: Beachfront & Boutique

🏨 The Surfrider Hotel

• Boutique vibe with a rooftop deck, surfboards for guests, and ocean views
• Located right across from Surfrider Beach and the Malibu Pier
• Great for: Stylish travelers who appreciate laid-back luxury

🏖️ Malibu Beach Inn

• Sleek and modern with rooms literally over the sand
• Spa, oceanfront balconies, and direct beach access
• Perfect for: Romantic weekends and ultra-relaxing stays

🎯 Things to Do (Besides the Beach)

• Hike Solstice Canyon – An easy-to-moderate trail with ocean views, waterfalls, and a bit of local history
• Visit Getty Villa – A Roman-inspired museum perched above the coast with epic gardens and art collections
• Shop Malibu Country Mart – Boutiques, cafes, and people-watching galore

🌟 Road Trip Essentials

• ✅ Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses (Malibu sun is no joke)
• ✅ Reusable water bottles and beach blankets
• ✅ Portable speaker and road trip playlist
• ✅ Book Nobu and Surfrider Hotel early—peak weekends fill fast

🚘 The Perfect Weekend Escape

A road trip from Las Vegas to Malibu is more than a coastal escape—it’s a refreshing reset. With just one tank of gas and a few hours on the highway, you can go from desert sprawl to cliffside serenity, surf sounds, and seriously good eats.

So, pack your weekender bag, turn up the tunes, and let the coast call you back to calm.

Need help finding the best beach towns in SoCal? Explore our companion post: [Sun, Surf, Stay: Best Beach Towns in SoCal →]