4 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Malibu (With Prices)

Malibu isn’t just about celebrity sightings and beaches; it’s a place where nature lovers can find some of Southern California’s most memorable outdoor experiences. The rugged hills, native oak groves, and scenic ocean views make Malibu a perfect destination for hiking and trekking tours.

We especially like the Malibu Vineyard Hike, which combines gentle walking with wine tasting and cultural sights, offering a taste of the region’s natural beauty and history.

If you’re after a more vigorous adventure, the Santa Monica Mountains Guided Hike delivers sweeping vistas and expert guidance away from the city hustle.

For those seeking a bit of both biking and hiking, Malibu’s eMTB tours—like the Waterfall and Hidden Grotto experiences—add a fun, active twist to exploring Malibu’s waterfalls and canyons.

Whether you prefer a relaxed walk through vineyards, a challenging mountain trek, or an electric bike ride to waterfalls, Malibu has a tour to suit your style. Each offers a different way to enjoy this coastal landscape, with options for history, scenery, or adrenaline to keep your adventure fresh and memorable.

Quick Overview of Malibu Hiking and Trekking Tours

This list features guided hikes and eMTB adventures suitable for various fitness levels and interests. From the relaxed 2-3 hour Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with wine tasting to the longer Santa Monica Mountains trek that lasts about five hours, there’s a range of options.

For active travelers, Malibu’s eMTB tours—including waterfalls and canyon views—offer a unique way to see the outdoors without needing advanced riding skills. For a full breakdown, see the detailed descriptions below.

1. Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with Photo Stops and Wine

At number 1, we highlight the Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike—a 2.5-mile loop that combines easy hiking with cultural and culinary delights. This tour stands out because it offers an informative walk through a private vineyard, where you’ll see native cave paintings, organic gardens, and stunning views of Malibu’s rocky peaks and golden hills.

The highlight is the opportunity to learn about the Chumash people, whose cave paintings still tell stories from centuries ago.

The hike is rated easy to moderate, with about 300 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible to most active visitors. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring the experience is both fun and educational. After completing the loop, you get to enjoy two cans of wine to go, making this a perfect combo of light activity and relaxing tasting.

This tour is ideal if you want a short, informative, and beautiful outing that combines scenery, history, and a little bit of wine.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a gentle hike with cultural insights and wine tasting, this tour offers excellent value and a relaxing way to spend part of your day.

2. Santa Monica Mountains Guided Hike

Next, the Santa Monica Mountains Guided Hike promises a more immersive experience in Malibu’s natural landscape. With a duration of about five hours, this tour takes you away from the city and into the less-traveled trails of Zuma Canyon. This outfitter is licensed to lead hikes in the Santa Monica National Wilderness Area, which means access to pristine, protected scenery most visitors never see.

This tour is perfect for both first-timers and seasoned hikers who want an expert guide to show them the best panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged mountain terrain. The guide, Cooper, is described as attentive and knowledgeable, making sure the group stays engaged and informed.

While it’s a longer, more intense outing, it’s well-suited for those who want a deeper connection with Malibu’s wilderness.

Bottom Line: For those seeking a full day of scenic hiking with expert guidance and a focus on beauty and solitude, this tour offers excellent value for its price, especially if you appreciate well-maintained trails and expert insights.

3. Malibu Waterfall eMTB & Hiking Adventure (Beginner)

For riders wanting a fun, active day, the Malibu Waterfall eMTB & Hiking Adventure provides a great way to explore without requiring advanced skills. With a price of $169 per person, this e-bike tour includes the use of a premium electric mountain bike—such as Ducati or Specialized—and takes you to Escondido Falls, Malibu’s most accessible waterfall.

The tour features a shady grove of sycamores and a manageable mix of paved and dirt paths. Riders of all levels can enjoy the electric assist, making it easy to tackle the trail and focus on the views. The highlight is the photo-worthy waterfall, where you can take your time snapping pictures.

The guide is praised for being friendly and accommodating, making this ideal for beginners or those wanting a low-impact outdoor adventure.

Bottom Line: If you want to combine cycling and hiking with scenic waterfall views, this tour offers a great introduction to Malibu’s natural beauty without requiring prior experience.

4. Hidden Grotto Waterfall eMTB & Hiking Adventure

Finally, the Hidden Grotto Waterfall eMTB & Hiking Adventure offers an out-and-back trip that’s perfect for beginners and casual outdoor lovers. Priced at $199 per person, this tour takes you through paved and fire roads to reach the Hidden Grotto and its waterfall, with amazing canyon and ocean views along the way.

The 2025 premium electric mountain bikes make the ride accessible for everyone, and the trail’s mix of terrain ensures a fun but manageable ride. The highlight is the Grotto, a striking natural feature, and the waterfall, which is perfect for photos or a relaxing break. Because this tour involves a combination of biking and hiking, it’s flexible and highly rated for its scenic variety.

Bottom Line: If you’re a beginner looking for a fun, scenic, and easy ride to waterfalls, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.

How to Choose the Right Malibu Hiking or Trekking Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and time availability. The Vineyard Hike appeals if you want a short, cultural experience, while the Santa Monica Mountains hike is better for serious hikers seeking solitude and panoramic views.

If you prefer active transportation, the eMTB tours are ideal—they combine biking with scenic waterfalls, perfect for those who like a little adventure without too much exertion.

For budget-conscious travelers, the Vineyard Hike is the most affordable, offering a balanced mix of scenery and culture. If you’re short on time but want a full, enriching day, the Santa Monica Mountains tour provides a deeper immersion. The waterfall eMTB tours are excellent for active explorers or families wanting an easygoing yet scenic trip.

Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure a spot on these popular outings. Check the weather and trail conditions beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.

Malibu truly offers an array of outdoor adventures, whether you’re after a gentle cultural walk, a challenging mountain trek, or an active bike ride to waterfalls. Each tour provides a unique way to enjoy Malibu’s landscapes—so pick what fits your style and start exploring. With such diverse options, your ideal Malibu outdoor experience is just a booking away.