Weekend Trips from Malibu, CA

If you're lucky enough to call Malibu home, you're already living in one of California's most iconic coastal enclaves. But even paradise begs for a little variety. From artsy desert towns to wine country hideaways, weekend trips from Malibu open the door to a whole new level of inspiration, adventure, and relaxation.

Just about an hour and 15 minutes northwest of Malibu, the charming town of Ojai feels like an entirely different world. Surrounded by the Topatopa Mountains and known for its pink-hued sunsets, Ojai is an ideal weekend getaway for those seeking a mix of laid-back luxury and artistic energy. This bohemian haven is home to galleries, spas, and one of the state’s most picturesque farmers markets.

 

Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room, browse independent bookstores such as Bart's Books (the largest outdoor bookstore in the U.S.), or spend a quiet afternoon at the Ojai Valley Inn Spa. Hike the Shelf Road Trail for sweeping valley views, then grab lunch at The Nest—a local favorite for fresh, locally sourced fare. Whether you're after healing energy or just a killer lavender latte, Ojai delivers.

Often called the "American Riviera," Santa Barbara is a timeless favorite for weekend trips from Malibu. The drive up the Pacific Coast Highway—past Zuma, El Matador, and Point Mugu—is worth the journey alone. With its Spanish-style architecture, high-end shopping, and scenic beachfront, Santa Barbara hits the sweet spot between relaxed and refined.

 

Tour the historic Old Mission, stroll through the Funk Zone for wine tasting at spots like Municipal Winemakers, and grab craft bites at The Lark. Spend your Saturday kayaking in the harbor or biking along Cabrillo Boulevard. With award-winning restaurants like Bouchon and luxurious resorts such as the Rosewood Miramar Beach, you’ll be planning your return trip before the weekend ends.

If you're craving sun, design, and a splash of retro flair, Palm Springs is your go-to. About a 2.5-hour drive from Malibu, this desert retreat has become a magnet for creatives, influencers, and old-school Hollywood glam.

 

Spend your days lounging poolside at boutique favorites like The Parker or Korakia Pensione, then dive into the city’s iconic design scene with a guided mid-century modern architecture tour from the Modernism Week group. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the cooler elevations of Mount San Jacinto, then head back down to explore the Uptown Design District, treasure hunt for vintage finds, and settle in for dinner at Workshop Kitchen + Bar—where the atmosphere is as stylish as the cuisine. The shopping is chic, the dining scene is inventive, and the vibe? Always effortlessly cool.

Looking for a weekend trip that’s equal parts charming and unexpected? Just two hours north of Malibu, Solvang offers a whimsical detour into Danish culture, right in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. It’s one of the most distinctive weekend trips from Malibu, and absolutely worth the drive.

 

Wander down Copenhagen Drive, where windmills spin slowly above storybook-style buildings and the scent of fresh-baked kringles fills the air. Pop into a cozy bakery for traditional Danish treats like æbleskivers, then dive into local history at the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art. The surrounding vineyards, including standouts like Rusack and Rideau, offer scenic sips and sun-drenched tastings. And if you're a wine lover? Solvang is your gateway to the broader Santa Ynez wine region—an oenophile's paradise tucked behind the coast.

Joshua Tree is where wild desert landscapes meet a spiritual, otherworldly vibe. Located about three hours from Malibu, this national park and its surrounding community offer a raw beauty that's hard to find elsewhere.

 

Hike to Hidden Valley or scramble up the boulders at Skull Rock. For a deeper connection to the land, book a sound bath experience at the Integratron or catch live music under the stars at Pappy & Harriet’s in nearby Pioneertown. The nearby town features eclectic shops, local artists, and cozy Airbnbs that blend perfectly with the area's mystical atmosphere.

Yes, even Malibu locals occasionally crave a cozy cabin and a crackling fireplace. Big Bear Lake offers that alpine fix with a Southern California twist. About three hours away, it's a four-season destination that delivers hiking, mountain biking, and skiing depending on the time of year.

 

In winter, hit the slopes at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain. During warmer months, kayak the lake or hike the Castle Rock Trail for a stunning lookout. Whether you're sipping hot cocoa by the fire or paddleboarding across the lake, Big Bear is a change of pace that feels worlds away from the surf and sand.

About three hours north of Malibu, San Luis Obispo (or SLO, if you're speaking like a local) makes for a breezy weekend escape that blends small-town charm with youthful energy. The downtown buzzes with indie shops, inviting cafes, and Spanish-style architecture that hints at its rich history—but it never takes itself too seriously.

 

Time your visit for the Thursday night farmers market, where Higuera Street transforms into a festive block party of sizzling street food, local produce, and live music. Snap a colorful photo in the quirky Bubblegum Alley, grab a legendary sandwich at High Street Deli, and hike up Cerro San Luis for panoramic views of the valley. And if the coast is calling? Avila Beach and Pismo are just a quick, scenic detour away.

Living in Malibu means you're surrounded by beauty 24/7—but it also means you're centrally located for some of California’s most unforgettable destinations. Whether you're in the mood for wine country tranquility, desert mystique, or alpine adventure, there's something refreshing about stepping away for a weekend and returning with a new story to tell.

 

These weekend trips from Malibu aren't just about geography; they're about recharging your creativity, reconnecting with loved ones, and discovering new layers to the California lifestyle.

Ready to explore more of what Southern California has to offer? These weekend trips from Malibu are just the beginning. Whether you're seeking your next second home, an investment property, or simply great travel tips from a local expert, Adam Brawer has you covered.

 

With a passion for helping clients live their best California life, Adam brings a creative eye and deep local knowledge to every transaction. Reach out today to start planning your next great real estate move.