EAT, STAY, PLAY & SHOP | Malibu
Here we have it (finally!) part 3 of my American vacay to the oh so gorgeous Malibu and my guide to EAT, STAY, PALY & SHOP to make your own holiday smooth and easy!
A little background on Malibu before we jump in.
Being on the West Coast of California, this city is also known to be the home for many Hollywood stars and surfing champions. So as I’m sure you know this town is the hot spot for a gorgeous beach getaway, as well as beautiful hikes and green hills. The name “Malibu” originally came from the Native Americans who called it “Humaliwo” the sound “Hu.” Malibu is also known for its hot and dry weather, so all of you fellow Australians reading this will feel right at home at this beautiful beach destination.
STAY
Our accommodation in Malibu is one I would highly recommend, The Surfrider Hotel. It’s a quaint boutique hotel that overlooked the Pacific Ocean, was an easy stroll to the shops and a 6-minute walk to Malibu Lagoon State Beach! The very comfortable rustic and white interiors instantly helped you relax into your getaway.
The roof terrance was such a highlight, with the chilled tunes, delicious food (nutritious breakfast bowls through to decadent cheese boards) and refreshing drinks (we may have had a margarita or two), you just want to spend the whole day hanging out and watching the world pass by.
Their attention to detail in the rooms, the library where you can chill and reception area with its considered purchase items, and surfboards on loan (of course), you are never short on anything, and it all comes with a welcoming smile.
BTW all fabulous hats are c/o My Milliner, a fabulous Australian label.
If you are going with a large group of people and want to live the high life, we found fabulous accommodation at Luxury Retreats. Homes for the Hollywood elite. This French-style Villa at an affordable price with outside living space and a cabana and pool will take your breath away.
Very highly recommended is the Malibu Beach Inn; barely a hop, skip or jump and you’re are on the beach. This grand hotel has lavish panoramic views of the water and horizon. Wake up and do a morning Yoga class as the sun rises, then spoil yourself to a spa treatment accompanied by breakfast.
That’s what I call heaven.
EAT
Staying at Surfriders we are on the rooftop ALOT, and it was a dream. The bar and restaurant overlooked First Point Malibu and the Pacific Ocean. Watching the sun go down with a cocktail in hand and a french fry in the other…. I loved having my morning coffee up there with my hubby – we were also treated to observing the local wildlife on the hills!
Well, it’s exactly as is sounds.
Want a good American country pub? This place is cracking!
Sit up at the bar and have a laugh with local bartenders, we had a great hearty meal and tried a local craft beer.
Real country Americium feel
Just like Wholefoods, Sunlife was a great healthy café we popped into after a long day of walking.
Filled with invigorating fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and salads. Great for a stop off after a hot day.
The best smoothies
Another locally sourced organic café (because I know how much all you Australian’s are lovers of brunch).
Grab a seat on the pier, look out at the ocean and hear the waves crash below while you enjoy a locally farmed meal.
They also do a gorgeous dinner here. Be sure to book, they fill up quick!
Japanese by the ocean? Yes please!
This renowned restaurant is such a nice way to spend a long lunch.
Grab a lounge table outside and get yourself a banquet of sushi.
All the seafood is sourced locally so it’s incredibly fresh.
PLAY
BEACHES
You have to walk the beaches to see the amazing realestate right on the water front. So many of these amazing houses are just holiday homes and lie idle so many days of the year. We did a bit of research and to add one of these to your realestate portfolio you need to start at a mere $20 million US. Not too shabby.
The iconic Surfrider Beach is known to be California’s surf destination if you’re not afraid of waves. Though just as good for us sunbathers.
Also referred to as the billion-dollar beach, as its semi-private and usually uncrowded. We really enjoyed our morning jogs along this beach.
The whitest sand and of course the home of Baywatch. Also another iconic surf spot.
Known for its picturesque sunsets and natural sea caves.
HIKES
There’s plenty of ways to stay active in Malibu and it’s not always in the water.
This is an easy 45min hike and especially known for its incredible views (vouched for! They were insane).
A quick 20min walk, easy does it! This is a gorgeous beach walk, we recommend having a picnic around here too and watch the sunset go down.
CULTURE
ARCHITECUTRE
At Hills & West we appreciate great architecture, so of course, we had to visit Malibu’s elite, absolutely stunning and decadent homes. Ah… we can only admire and dream!
To name a few…
WINE
The wine tour hikes are widely known to be amazing.
You get to experience all of the gorgeous Malibu landscape and truly taste what the land has to offer.
We did not manage a hike however we stopped into the cellar for a wine and they are pretty delicious.
SHOPPING
Malibu Country Mart and Lumber Yard
We love to venture and support local designers in every city.
It was a real treat too, our favorite was a Boutique called James Perse if you are looking for some comfy and classic beachwear.
Otherwise, if you want to venture a little further Palisade Village and Abbott Kinney BLVD (we mentioned this in our LA Guide with a whole many more tips) are great strips of retail if you are on the hunt for a good shopping spree.
Well there you have it, part three of our US trip. We hope you enjoyed the journey. There are so many places to eat, stay, play and shop however we hope we provided some inspiration for your next trip.
Big love
Aisha xox
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