Malibu is trademarked for its pristine beaches, prominent surfing spots and laid-back atmosphere. But, within the folds of Malibu’s beautiful sandy shores, are more than just Pacific Coast shells. While Malibu contains Zuma Beach–the surfer’s fantasy–and the famous Point Dume, the city is also home to renowned residents, predominantly business magnates and Hollywood icons, who live on the sprawling “Billionaire’s Beach,” a nickname for the haute Carbon Beach. Here are 13 must-visit spots in Malibu, known for their distinct Malibu twist: effortless, yet upscale.

Photo Credit: Malibu Beach Inn

HAUTE HOTELS

1.MALIBU BEACH INN. Running on a supply of relaxation and constant ocean shore background noise, this boutique hotel located on Carbon Beach is a haven for those looking for much-needed tranquility. While the cuisine at the Malibu Beach Inn is fresh and locally sourced, the spa amenities are even more impressive. As a guest, enjoy a slew of massage and body treatment options as well as complimentary yoga on the beach from 9AM-10AM. Whether you’re an Angeleno, an international visitor or an East Coaster, you’ll leave the Malibu Beach Inn with your inner peace restored, ready to reassume your daily life. 

2. NOBU RYOKAN. Nobu Ryokan is a 16 room architectural marvel. The inn pays homage to the traditional Japanese “Ryokan” (Inn) with its teak soaking tubs, many fireplaces and stunning patios accented with authentic art pieces. Nobu’s amenities provide high-end exclusivity and a seemingly endless cache of comforts.

Photo Credit: Soho House Malibu

THE ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL OF YOUR HAUTE DESIRES 

3. LITTLE BEACH HOUSE. It’s difficult to find a club that conjures both a feeling of home and an elite vibe, but Little Beach House somehow does. The all-encompassing Malibu club features a bar with a contemporary art collection on the wall parallel to a sleek, steep staircase. While the dining room is comfortable with a gorgeous open kitchen, the main terrace adds to the wow-factor with its flawless beach views.

Photo Credit: Nobu

WHERE TO FIND TOP-NOTCH CUISINE

4. NOBU. The go-to restaurant for authentic Japanese cuisine is given a posh upgrade with this Malibu location, which overlooks the ocean. Whether you’re seated inside or on Nobu’s outdoor patio, indulge in traditional favorites like Tiradito and Black Cod Miso.

5. MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB. Mastro’s Ocean Club is as close as you can get to heaven on earth–or at least as close as you can get to the sand while still enjoying upscale dining services. As you peer out of the open windows, you’ll find that the views aren’t the only thing pleasing about the restaurant. From premier wine lists to delicious brunch offerings, Mastro’s Ocean Club presents an array of the best dining options.

6. GEOFFREY’S. Dining at Geoffrey’s is a seaside experience that is unmatched. With its candlelit dinners, the oceanside restaurant is the perfect date night. Surrounded by waterfalls and tropical plants, Geoffrey’s proves itself to be the romantic centerpiece of the Malibu food scene with its Mediterranean cuisine and ambiance.

7 MALIBU FARM. With two restaurants on the Malibu Pier (Malibu Farm Restaurant and Malibu Farm Cafe), Malibu Farm provides a unique dining experience. While both eateries boast fresh farm-to-table food, Malibu Farm Restaurant heats up Malibu Farm’s offerings with a full-service bar and specialty cocktails that visitors have in hand as they bask in the Malibu views.

8. THE SUNSET. When you envision the quintessential, upscale Malibu restaurant, the image that probably fulfills your culinary fantasy is opulence of The Sunset. Its chic, white-quilted seats are complemented by white walls that are offset by windows filled with picture-perfect seaside views. The restaurant is the ideal place to host private parties with its posh atmosphere and delightful food including Mediterranean grilled octopus and Scottish salmon. 

8. MR. CHOW. Located in local hotspot Malibu Country Mart, Mr. Chow presents a menu with old authentic Beijing and original recipes. The restaurant opened in 2012 after Michael Chow decided to invest in a second California location.

BEST OF BEAUTY

Photo Credit: Cure Spa

9. CURE. CURE by Dr. Benya has more amenities than the typical spa. As the name lets on, CURE provides visitors with curative treatments as the staff specializes in Med Spa treatments, laser hair removal and IPL & Fractional Resurfacing treatments.

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  WHERE TO SATISFY YOUR MALIBU SHOPPING FIX

  10. MALIBU COUNTRY MART. There’s no lull of excitement or leisure at the Malibu Country Mart. With a picturesque mountain backdrop, the Mart serves as a dining and shopping complex for any of your eclectic desires from fine dining to art galleries and high-end shops including Ted Baker and the ever so chic Victoire.                      

  11. MALIBU LUMBER YARD. Home to a myriad of the top shops and restaurants, Malibu Lumber Yard very much captures the essence of Malibu. When you’re done fulfilling your shopping craze at stores like Alice and Olivia and James Perse, stop to grab food at BurgerFi or Cafe Habana.

  12. TRANCAS COUNTRY MARKET. Trancas Country Market is curated to exude a rustic, laid-back atmosphere with the buildings’ wood finishes and signature stores like the quaint Vintage Grocers. If you’re looking to decorate your Malibu home or if you’re an out-of-towner who wants to bring a piece of Malibu home, visit Malibu Beach House for home decor or Irit Design for edgy jewelry.