Day-walk storage
30–35L Hiking Daypack
Carry spare layers and walking supplies; check fit and use a liner for valuables.
Fly & Drive guide
Fly into LAX, drive to Malibu
41 min drive23 milesReservations: moderate
Trip snapshot
Arrival airport- LAX
Airport drive- 41 min · estimate
Suggested stay- 2–4 days
Reservation demand- Moderate · check entry notes
Vehicle notes- Standard cars are suitable for the PCH, though smaller vehicles handle narrow canyon roads more easily. Check rental agreements for off-pavement restrictions.
Your route
LAX
Los Angeles International Airport
Malibu
About 41 min · 23 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
Step 1Flights to LAX
Compare fares into Los Angeles International Airport.
Find flights
Step 2Standard car at LAX
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Malibu. Compare rental companies in one search. Est. from $45/day · typical rate.
Compare rentals
Step 2SUV at LAX
Select an SUV, pickup location and dates on Airport Rentals. Est. from $55/day · typical rate.
Compare SUVs
Before you goStore extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
Find storage
03 · First night near Malibu
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
Before you land
Reservations
Coastal Access and Mountain Trail Reservations
Access to state beaches like El Matador is generally first-come, but parking is limited and requires a daily fee. Historic sites like the Adamson House require specific tour bookings. Always verify seasonal trail closures with California State Parks or the NPS before arrival.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
April – October
Your route
Day 1 · Canyon Ruins and Coastal Piers
Solstice Canyon → Malibu Pier
Day 2 · Mountain Peaks and Sea Stacks
Sandstone Peak → El Matador State Beach
Day 3 · Marine Bluffs and Wetlands
Point Dume State Beach → Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Viator
Tours & experiences near Malibu
Explore guided activities around Malibu. Check the meeting point, dates and availability on Viator before booking.
Open tour listings separatelyCurated Trip Essentials
Five picks for Malibu
Water on walking days
2L Hydration Pack
Carry drinking water on longer walks; refill before leaving services.
Town & sightseeing days
11.5L Travel Sling Bag
Keep small day-trip belongings together without a bike-mounted bag.
Uneven walking trails
Adjustable Trekking Pole
An optional support on uneven walks. Check trail rules, pole length and airline baggage rules.
Wildlife & night viewing
Hawknite 1 4K Night Vision Binoculars
52MP photo · 1,200m range · full color at night. Check park rules before using lights at night.
$299.99 USD · store price
Shop at WILDGUARDEROptional picks, not a complete packing or safety list. Photos from the ROCKBROS and WILDGUARDER stores. Prices as of 2026-10-19 / 2026-10-20; price, stock and shipping may change.
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Malibu?
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from LAX to Malibu?
Roughly 41 min (about 23 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Malibu?
Access to state beaches like El Matador is generally first-come, but parking is limited and requires a daily fee. Historic sites like the Adamson House require specific tour bookings. Always verify seasonal trail closures with California State Parks or the NPS before arrival.
Keep planning
Full guideStays, 3-day plan and route map for Malibu
