The Ultimate Day Trip: A Guide to Malibu Wine Country from Los Angeles
Escape the hustle of Los Angeles and discover a world where rugged canyons meet the sparkling Pacific, and boutique vineyards cling to sun-drenched hillsides. A day trip from Los Angeles to Malibu wine country isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about experiencing the stunning, resilient spirit of the Santa Monica Mountains. Forget Napa—this is coastal California winemaking at its most scenic and unique. Get ready for an unforgettable day of ocean breezes, incredible views, and fantastic local vintages.
Your Malibu Wine Day Trip at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect for your adventure in 2025.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from LA | ~30-40 miles from Downtown |
| Drive Time | 1-2 hours (each way, highly traffic dependent) |
| Average Cost | $140 – $395+ per person |
| Best Time to Go | Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November) |
| Vibe | Relaxed, Scenic, Boutique, “California Casual” |
How to Get to Malibu Wine Country from Los Angeles
Getting to this coastal paradise is part of the adventure. Your main goal is to get there safely and without stress. Remember, the most important rule of wine tasting is to never drink and drive. Plan ahead!
By Car (The Freedom Option)
Driving offers the most flexibility to explore at your own pace. You can take the iconic, scenic Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) for breathtaking ocean views, or use the US-101 to reach the canyon roads a bit faster. A designated driver is non-negotiable for this option.
How long does it take to drive from Los Angeles to Malibu? The drive is typically between 1 to 2 hours. However, this is Los Angeles—plan for at least 90 minutes each way, as traffic can significantly extend your travel time, especially on weekends.
By Guided Tour (The Stress-Free Option)
For the ultimate relaxing day, a guided tour is your best bet. These tours handle all the logistics: transportation, winery reservations, and sometimes even lunch. From vintage VW bus tours to private luxury vehicles, there’s an option for every style. You can simply sit back, sip, and enjoy the scenery without a single worry.
By Rideshare (The Tricky Option)
Using Uber or Lyft is possible to get to Malibu, but it comes with challenges. It can be expensive ($50-$90+ one way), and more importantly, cell service in the Santa Monica Mountain canyons is notoriously spotty. Booking a return trip can be difficult and stressful. It’s a viable option but less reliable than a pre-booked tour.
| Method | Cost (Round Trip) | Convenience | Safety (Drinking) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (w/ DD) | $20-$30 (Gas/Parking) | High | Excellent (with DD) |
| Guided Tour | $150-$250+ pp | Excellent | Excellent |
| Rideshare | $100-$180+ | Medium | Excellent |
Top Malibu Wineries & Tasting Rooms to Visit
The Malibu Coast AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a story of resilience, especially after the devastating 2018 Woolsey Fire. Many vineyards are still rebuilding, but the spirit is strong and the tasting rooms are welcoming. Here are a few must-visit spots.
-
Rosenthal Tasting Room
Located directly across the PCH from the ocean, Rosenthal offers the quintessential Malibu vibe. While the vineyards are inland, this lively tasting room is the perfect coastal spot. It’s known for its fun, social atmosphere with food trucks and live music on weekends. They are particularly praised for their Cabernet Sauvignon.
Insider Tip: This is the easiest tasting room to access and is fantastic for groups or anyone who wants to combine wine tasting with beach time without venturing deep into the canyons.
-
Cornell Wine Co. & Tasting Room
Tucked away in the rustic Santa Monica Mountains, Cornell is a historic gem. This charming tasting room and bottle shop pours a curated selection of local Malibu Coast AVA wines alongside other California favorites. The vibe is wonderfully old-timey and authentic, a true escape from the city.
Insider Tip: For a perfect canyon experience, make a reservation far in advance for dinner at the legendary Old Place restaurant right next door. It’s a one-of-a-kind rustic steakhouse.
-
Strange Family Vineyards
For a more polished and intimate experience, head to Strange Family Vineyards in the Malibu Hills. Their tasting room is beautifully designed, offering a serene and elevated atmosphere on a stunning patio. They specialize in exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown on their nearby estate.
Insider Tip: This is the spot for a quieter, more romantic tasting. Reservations are essential and are strictly enforced to maintain the tranquil ambiance.
A Sample 1-Day Malibu Wine Itinerary
Feeling overwhelmed? Use this sample schedule to structure your perfect day trip.
- 9:30 AM: Depart from Los Angeles. Grab a coffee and hit the road before traffic gets too heavy.
- 11:00 AM: Arrive for your first tasting. Start at Rosenthal Tasting Room for those immediate coastal vibes and a lively atmosphere.
- 1:00 PM: Head to Malibu Pier for lunch. Snag a table at Malibu Farm Cafe for delicious farm-to-table food with an unbeatable ocean view.
- 2:30 PM: Time for some scenery. Take a short, scenic drive to El Matador State Beach to marvel at the dramatic sea stacks and caves.
- 4:00 PM: Head into the canyons for your second tasting. Experience the rustic charm and local flavors at Cornell Wine Co.
- 6:00 PM: Begin your drive back to Los Angeles, filled with good wine and beautiful memories, hopefully beating the worst of the return traffic.
Where to Eat in Malibu
From iconic seafood shacks to world-class dining, Malibu’s food scene is as impressive as its coastline.
Casual Bites & Ocean Views
- Malibu Farm Cafe ($$): Situated at the end of the Malibu Pier, this spot is famous for its fresh, organic, farm-to-table California cuisine. The views are simply iconic.
- Neptune’s Net ($$): A legendary biker bar and seafood shack on the northern end of PCH. It’s the perfect no-frills spot for fried shrimp, fish tacos, and people-watching.
- Broad Street Oyster Co. ($$): Located in the Malibu Village, this is your go-to for an incredible lobster roll, fresh oysters, and a laid-back vibe.
Iconic & Upscale Dining
- Geoffrey’s Malibu ($$$): A timeless romantic destination. This cliffside restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views and sophisticated California cuisine. Perfect for a special occasion.
- Nobu Malibu ($$$$): The pinnacle of Malibu dining. This world-renowned restaurant serves Japanese-Peruvian fusion sushi right on the water. You’ll need to make reservations weeks or even months in advance.
Insider Tips for the Perfect Day Trip
- Book Everything in Advance: This is critical! Winery tasting reservations are often required, especially on weekends. The same goes for popular restaurants like Nobu or Geoffrey’s.
- Go on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, plan your trip for a Thursday or Friday. You’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds, more parking, and a more relaxed experience.
- Pack in Layers: The coastal climate is fickle. A warm, sunny morning can quickly turn into a cool, windy afternoon as the marine layer rolls in. A light jacket is your best friend.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service is unreliable once you venture into the canyons. Download your route on Google Maps or Waze beforehand to avoid getting lost.
- Combine Grapes with Waves: You’re in Malibu! Don’t spend the whole day indoors. Make time to walk on the beach, hike Point Dume, or simply pull over on PCH to soak in the views.
What to Pack for Your Trip
A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s a quick checklist for your 2025 adventure:
- Valid ID (You will be carded for wine tasting)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- A light jacket or sweater for coastal breezes
- Comfortable shoes suitable for walking on gravel or dirt paths
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A portable phone charger or battery pack
Malibu Wine Day Trip: Budget Breakdown
Your day trip costs can vary widely depending on your choices. Here’s a general idea of what to budget per person.
| Expense Item | Low End Estimate | High End Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas/Rideshare) | $25 | $150 |
| Wine Tastings (2 wineries) | $70 | $140 |
| Lunch | $30 | $75 |
| Snacks/Coffee | $15 | $30 |
| Total Per Person | $140 | $395 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best day trips from Los Angeles?
Malibu wine country is a top-tier choice for its unique blend of coastal scenery, mountain landscapes, and sophisticated wine culture. Other fantastic day trips include the Mediterranean vibes of Santa Barbara, the bohemian charm of Ojai, or the otherworldly desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park.
How long does it take to drive from Los Angeles to Malibu?
The drive typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. However, it can be shorter with no traffic or much longer during peak commute times or on a busy weekend. Always check traffic before you leave and plan for at least 90 minutes each way.
How long is a Malibu wine tour?
This can mean two things. A single wine tasting experience at one winery usually lasts about 60-90 minutes. A fully guided, all-inclusive day tour from Los Angeles, which includes transportation and visits to multiple wineries, typically lasts a full day, around 6-8 hours.
What’s the best time of year for wine tasting in LA?
For the Malibu region, the best times are Spring (March-May) when the hills are vibrantly green with wildflowers, and Fall (September-November) during the excitement of harvest season. The weather is usually warm and sunny during these periods. That said, Southern California’s climate makes it a wonderful year-round destination.
TL;DR: Your Quick Guide to Malibu Wine Country
- Go for: Stunning ocean views, unique canyon wineries, and a relaxed vibe just an hour from LA.
- How to get there: Drive with a designated driver or, even better, book a guided tour to eliminate stress.
- Must-visit spots: Rosenthal (beach vibes), Cornell (rustic charm), Strange Family (elegant and quiet).
- Key tip: Book everything in advance—wineries and restaurants fill up fast.
- Don’t forget: To download offline maps, as cell service is spotty in the mountains.
