Malibu

Far enough away from the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills and Hollywood, Malibu offers a more relaxed Southern California experience, one in tune with nature. The fresh ocean breeze means the temperatures are rarely too hot or too cold and, on most nights, you can see the constellations in the sky. The quintessential postcard vistas will have you daydreaming long after you’ve returned home!

Malibu’s hallmark coastline is highlighted by golden beaches, giant palm trees, and the gently sloped seaside mountains. The epitome of coastal elegance, Malibu is a quintessential California beach town with a unique celebrity allure not found elsewhere. From the college students at Pepperdine mixing with multimillionaire residents, to everyday Angelenos hitting the beaches for the day, Malibu is an eclectic melting pot. Aside from sand and surf, Malibu is also famous for its hiking trails, horseback riding in the Santa Monica Mountains, impressive wineries, and the collection at the Getty Villa Museum. No LA vacation is complete without a visit to this area, but it’s also the perfect escape for a vacation all its own! Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or mountain retreat, a five-star hotel or a boutique hotel, these are the best hotels in Malibu.

With Christmas behind us and plenty of winter months ahead of us, January feels like a difficult month to get through. So why not lift your spirits by jotting off to sunnier and warmer places? It's prime time for some of the world’s best beaches, whether you prefer something far-flung, or want to stay closer to home. To help you with your daydreaming and trip planning, here are nine warm vacation spots in January.

Malibu is the perfect weekend getaway, located 45 minutes outside of Los Angeles (depending on traffic).

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Southern California, Malibu stands as a beacon for travelers seeking sun-soaked adventures and coastal serenity. From its iconic beaches to its rugged mountainside trails, Malibu offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every type of wanderer. Whether you're craving a day of surfing along the Pacific waves, embarking on a scenic hike through its sprawling canyons or indulging in the local cuisine and culture, Malibu promises an unforgettable journey filled with natural wonders and laid-back charm. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions that make Malibu a quintessential destination for exploration and relaxation alike.

I live in Malibu. I met my husband in Malibu and got married in Malibu. I've been obsessed with this Los Angeles escape since I landed 16 years ago. I also think Malibu has the best beaches in California. It's an excellent couple's getaway for a long weekend away from the hustle and bustle.

Whether you're looking for romantic or adventurous, beach or mountains, famous or off-the-beaten-path, Southern California has it all. With warm and sunny weather year round plus countless activities, world-class restaurants and gorgeous views, this beloved region is a must-visit for so many occasions and trip types. Below is a five-day road trip itinerary filled with delicious bites, unforgettable scenery and a balanced combo of activities and down time to recharge.

Malibu was one of three stops on my Southern California road trip in March of 2024. While there, my home away from home was Hotel June Malibu. This intimate, 13 room collection of bungalows, was the perfect landing pad after a day full of hiking and shopping. Its prime location, just off of the Pacific Coast Highway, but hidden away from tourists, made it a true respite. What stood out most was the incredibly friendly and hospitable staff, who were eager to make my stay as pleasant as possible. I look forward to returning as well as recreating the experience for my clients.