Places to stay in Malibu
Central Coast

10 Wonderful Places To Stay In Malibu Near The Beach

When you think of Malibu, endless sunshine, swaying palms, and ritzy homes probably come to mind. This small yet gorgeous coastal town is located about 40 minutes from Los Angeles and has become a popular destination for luxury seekers. But that’s not all Malibu has to offer!

With miles and miles of coastline, Malibu also has an endless list of incredible beaches and exciting hiking to keep you occupied. And although famous for expensive real estate, there are plenty of excellent places to stay in Malibu that suit a wide range of travel budgets and styles.

Don’t have the time to read the entire post? Our top pick for a hotel in Malibu is the beautiful Malibu Beach Inn that’s situated right next to the ocean!

Experience the beauty of the ‘Bu with one of these best places to stay in Malibu!


Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!


1. Best four-star hotel: Malibu Beach Inn

Photos by Malibu Beach Inn

This luxurious hotel sits right on the ocean and is a short walk from Carbon Beach and Malibu Pier.

Treat yourself to boutique comfort and glam at the Malibu Beach Inn. This beautiful hotel features beach-inspired decor that’s complemented by its beachside locale. In addition, there are partial and complete ocean-view rooms available and upgrade options that include a living room. 

During your visit, book a pamper session at the hotel’s CURE Daily Spa where you can treat yourself to skincare, bodywork, and other spa treatments. This inn also has onsite dining and incredible event packages to make your stay extra special.

Rates start at $850/night. Click here to book Malibu Beach Inn!


2. Best boutique hotel: The Surfrider Malibu

Photos By The Surfrider Malibu

This stylish boutique hotel is feet from Malibu Lagoon State Beach and offers only 20 rooms for a peaceful experience. 

Upscale bohemian vibes abound at The Surfrider Malibu, a four-star hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Guests can take their pick between beach or mountain views, but every room is equipped with a spa rain shower, mini-bar, and a private terrace or balcony.

After a long day at the beach, hit the Surfrider’s Roof Deck Bar and Restaurant, where you can refuel on gourmet coastal dishes. This hotel’s property is conveniently near Malibu’s best beaches, restaurants, and landmarks like the Malibu Pier.

Rates start at $630/night. Click here to book The Surfrider Malibu!


3. Best affordable hotel: The M Malibu

Photos by The M Malibu

This sun-soaked two-star hotel is along the famous Pacific Coast Highway about a mile from top landmarks like the pier and Malibu Lagoon State Beach.

Soak up the beauty of the coast at the M Malibu Hotel, where you’ll find budget-friendly rooms with a relaxed atmosphere. The hotel is housed in what was once a historic beach motel, but today has been renovated into colorful boutique accommodation. 

Visitors appreciate the convenient amenities on the property like the in-ground swimming pool, free guest parking, and 24-hour front desk. Every room boasts a Nespresso machine, mini-fridge, and a lovely balcony that looks out onto the ocean or the pool. Travelers with pets are also welcome to stay for an additional fee. 

Rates start at $258/night. Click here to book the M Malibu!


4. Best private villa: Hotel June Malibu

Photos by Hotel June Malibu

This spacious resort offers 13 private bungalows off California’s lush coast for a semi-secluded visit to Malibu.

Located about two miles from the main streets of Malibu, the Hotel June Malibu is a beautiful property that allows guests to relax away from the crowds. What makes Hotel June Malibu so unique are the sunny private bungalows bursting with impeccable interior design. 

The bungalows have been furnished with Bluetooth speakers, a private balcony, and complimentary Aesop toiletries. There are two size options to choose from that can accommodate two to four guests. Other amenities found at this hotel include a shared lounge space, a Cal-Mex restaurant, and a swimming pool coming soon.

Rates start at $572/night. Click here to book Hotel June Malibu!


5. Best Malibu rental with a pool: Sea Star by Avantstay

Photos by Sea Star by AvantStay

This impressive western Malibu vacation rental was once owned by an Olympian and is not far from La Piedra State Beach.

The Sea Star by Avantstay is a bright and inviting three-bedroom about a 15-minute drive from the heart of the city. Up to eight guests are welcome to stay at this modern Malibu getaway.

The star of this home is the spacious sun deck that surrounds an in-ground swimming pool and hot tub. But the best part is that the pool deck faces the coast for panoramic ocean views while you swim. 

Additionally, a spacious balcony is located just off the living room and features a dining table and lounge seating. Other incredible amenities include an outdoor ping pong table, a wooden sauna, and a game room with a pool table.

  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Sleeps: 8

Rates start at $954/night. Click here to book Sea Star by Avantstay!


6. Best affordable vacation rental: Zuma Beach Casita

This Spanish-inspired casita features three bedrooms, fragrant gardens, and a homey interior only blocks from Zuma Beach.

At the Zuma Beach Casita, up to eight guests can enjoy a cozy stay along California’s southern coast. This Malibu VRBO boasts a spacious and well-manicured courtyard with fruit trees and a lush grassy space where the kiddos can safely play. 

Inside, upscale elements such as tall ceilings with exposed beams, Spanish tile accents, and French doors make the home feel special. For a touch of romance and relaxation, the master bedroom features a soaking tub. The Casita is about a six-minute drive from the center of Malibu.

  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Sleeps: 8

Rates start at $395/night. Click here to book Zuma Beach Casita!


7. Best rental for large groups: Ocean View Home

Photos by Ocean View Contemporary Home

This spacious five-bedroom Malibu home is excellent for large groups seeking luxurious amenities and a spectacular view.

All the comforts of home and then some await you at this contemporary ocean-view home, a gorgeous place to stay in Malibu away from the crowds. This modern getaway features brand-new furnishings and is safely nestled within a gated community high above the surrounding landscape. 

Other fantastic amenities include multiple fireplaces and a foosball table. Not to mention, the outdoor area is the place to soak up the sunshine. The property also boasts a spacious pool deck, bubbling hot tub, and plush seating area around a firepit, which means you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-appointed Malibu vacation rental.

  • Bedrooms: 5
  • Sleeps: 10

Rates start at $1,676/night. Click here to book Ocean View Home!


8. Best beach house rental: Modern Malibu Beach House

Photos by Modern Malibu Oceanfront House

This recently updated condo is equipped with air conditioning and sits right on the coast feet from the beach.

Wake up to your very own private piece of beach at this modern Malibu beach house near the hiking trails of Corral Canyon Park. The home is conveniently minutes away from top Malibu attractions like Corral Beach and Puerco Beach. It has one bedroom and a pull-out sofa bed to accommodate up to four adults. Your furry friends are also allowed inside this Malibu VRBO. 

Wide French doors open the kitchen and main living space to fantastic ocean views, creating a light and airy atmosphere inside. On the balcony stands a grill and two plush sun loungers where you can sip your morning coffee or evening wine in peace.

  • Bedrooms: 1
  • Sleeps: 4

Rates start at $640/night. Click here to book Malibu Oceanfront Home!


9. Best luxury home with epic views: Malibu Oceana Blue

Photos by Malibu Oceana Blue

This glamourous Malibu VRBO provides guests with a one-of-a-kind stay filled with upscale amenities in one of California’s most beautiful destinations.

The Malibu Oceana Blue has guests living like royalty. This contemporary space is an interior designer’s dream and is filled with modern and tasteful decor that’ll wow. In the living room, floor-to-ceiling windows fill the entire exterior wall of the living room, allowing the epic views of Carbon Beach to pour in.

The spacious master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom with a jacuzzi tub and a private balcony overlooking the ocean. Surrounding the home is a spectacular outdoor space you have to see to believe.

A freeform in-ground swimming pool, dining table, and lounge area with a fire pit stand at the ready to entertain on the deck. Better yet, in the evening, the entire outdoor space is lit up by the glow of magical string lights.

  • Bedrooms: 4
  • Sleeps: 8

Rates start at $2,045/night. Click here to book Malibu Oceana Blue!


10. Best for a stay on Carbon Beach: Oceanfront Cottage

This quaint beach cottage allows visitors to stay in a prime Malibu location without breaking the bank.

This charming oceanfront cottage provides front-seat views of Malibu’s beautiful Carbon Beach. Mirroring the beauty of the surrounding ocean, the home’s interior showcases the calming and neutral tones that match the beach outside. This Malibu beach rental has one bedroom and a large sofa bed welcoming four guests.

It also features a large covered balcony where you can take in views of the iconic Malibu Pier. The hosts also provide thoughtful beach essentials for guest use, such as beach towels, chairs, and a gas BBQ. 

  • Bedrooms: 1
  • Sleeps: 4

Rates start at $358/night. Click here to book the oceanfront cottage!


We hope this guide has helped you prepare for a wonderful visit to Malibu! Looking for more Central Coast inspiration? Check out these posts next:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *