People will spend hours in traffic just to get to Malibu… and then only go to Zuma, Starbucks, and Malibu Seafood. I’ll never get it.

Here’s the thing about Malibu: there’s no “secret local spot” that everyone’s hiding. There just aren’t that many dining, shopping, or activity options to begin with — which is exactly why I don’t believe in gatekeeping any Malibu businesses. They’ve been isolated enough.

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So, here’s the only Malibu guide you’ll ever need:

  • Aviator Nation Dreamland – Sunday Sessions
    Every summer, they host live music on the pier with drinks at AV and shopping from local vendors. It’s on the 2nd Sunday of each month, no tickets needed.
  • Soho Malibu – Now Open to the Public (Sometimes)
    You don’t have to be a member to go on select event days. It’s basically a glorified clubhouse — and honestly, most of the members I know don’t have jobs.
  • Nobu Malibu
    People love to talk badly about Nobu as if it makes them “authentic” (which is funny because most of them are probably Soho members). Here’s the truth: Nobu will always be good. It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant, and while it’s not the best sushi in LA, it is hands-down the best food in Malibu. Friday and Saturday nights at the bar go until midnight, and you’ll meet some characters. Pro tip: put your name down for an outdoor table, come back in an hour, and ask again — they’ll usually seat you.
  • Calamigos Guest Ranch
    My favorite small hotel escape in LA. They even have a “secret” café open to guests and bikers.
  • Surf Canyon
    Malibu the way it was meant to be — local artists, farm animals, and a long dirt road.

Not pictured but equally worth the stop: Broad Beach, Caffe Luxxe, Broad Street, and Ollo.