š Beach Escapes: Top-Rated Places to Stay in Malibu, California

Sunset views, barefoot luxury, and salty airāhereās where to stay when you want Malibu magic from check-in to checkout.
Malibu isnāt just a beach townāitās a way of life. With rugged cliffs, pristine shorelines, and quiet exclusivity, this stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway is home to some of Southern Californiaās most iconic and luxurious seaside escapes. Whether you’re seeking a surf-forward boutique hideaway or a once-in-a-lifetime ryokan experience, these top-rated hotels in Malibu promise unforgettable oceanfront stays with elevated dining, design, and service.
šļø Malibu Beach Inn
šCarbon Beach
Why Stay: Nestled on the sands of āBillionaireās Beach,ā this modern boutique property offers direct beachfront access and sleek, serene interiors that frame the ocean as the main event.
Where to Eat:
- Carbon Beach Club ā Located just above the shoreline, this restaurant delivers fresh coastal California cuisine with seasonal menus and an all-day ocean breeze. Local seafood, farmerās market produce, and a curated wine list set the tone.
Insider Tip: Book a Premier Ocean Front King for a private balcony so close to the water you can feel the mist. Grab a cappuccino early and watch the surfers roll in.
šæ Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club
šMalibu Wine Country
Why Stay: Tucked into 200 acres of oak-dotted hills, this luxury-meets-nature retreat offers cozy-chic cottages and private bungalowsāand best of all, access to its exclusive beach club on the Malibu coast.
Where to Eat:
- The Ranch Club Restaurant ā The heart of the resortās culinary offerings, serving upscale ranch-style California cuisine in a cozy yet refined setting. Think grilled branzino, fresh pastas, and wine from nearby vineyards.
Insider Tip: Shuttle service to their private beach club includes lounge chairs and towel service. Itās a hidden gem experience only available to guests.
š“ The Surfrider Malibu
šAcross from Malibu Pier
Why Stay: A California dream for modern beachgoers. This 20-room, surfer-inspired boutique hotel brings design-forward charm, casual luxury, and killer rooftop views all under one sun-drenched roof.
Where to Eat:
- The Surfrider Roof Deck ā Open only to hotel guests, this rooftop restaurant and bar is perfect for sunset tacos, mezcal cocktails, and a view that stretches from Point Dume to Catalina on clear days.
Insider Tip: Surfboards, paddleboards, and beach gear are complimentaryājust grab one and head across the street to Surfrider Beach. Best enjoyed barefoot.
š Nobu Ryokan Malibu
šCarbon Beach
Why Stay: For the ultra-discerning traveler, this exclusive 16-room Japanese-style ryokan offers discreet luxury, minimalist interiors, and unparalleled oceanfront serenity. Itās more retreat than hotelāand itās spectacular.
Where to Eat:
- Nobu Malibu ā One of the most iconic dining destinations in the world. Guests receive priority reservations. Pro tip: sit outside for ocean-spray breezes and order the yellowtail jalapeƱo and black cod miso.
Insider Tip: This property is adults-only and typically requires booking far in advance. Perfect for anniversaries, special occasions, or when you want to disappear in style.
š Final Takeaway
Malibuās beach vibes are more than aestheticātheyāre a lifestyle. Whether you’re toasting sunset at a rooftop bar, falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves, or savoring farm-to-table fare by the sea, these top-rated hotels redefine the meaning of a coastal escape. Come for the views, stay for the mood.
š Plan your perfect coastal getaway with Beach Vibes: Top-Rated Places to Stay in Santa Barbara. From oceanfront luxury to charming boutique inns, this guide helps you find the ideal stay in Californiaās Riviera.
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