Malibu’s reputation as a Hollywood playground often overshadows its true appeal: stunning natural landscapes, rolling hills, and vineyards that produce some of California’s finest wines. While many travelers focus on celebrity sightings and beaches, Malibu also offers some genuinely memorable wine-related experiences.
We’ve found two top tours that showcase this side of Malibu — whether you’re after a relaxed hike through organic vineyards or a luxurious cruise with wine and scenic vistas.
These tours stand out because they combine local history, natural beauty, and excellent wine, all at different paces and price points.
One of our favorites is the Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with Photo Stops and Wine — a relaxing, info-rich walk that combines native cave paintings, organic gardens, and panoramic views, ending with a refreshing two cans of wine to go.
On the other end, the Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour offers a lively, high-end experience aboard an open-air bus, with stops at celebrity homes, celebrity-style beach photos, and tastings in the Santa Monica Mountains.
Quick Overview
This list covers two distinct Malibu wine experiences: the guided vineyard hike that’s ideal for nature lovers and history buffs alike, and the luxury tour that blends sightseeing, wine tastings, and beach stops with a touch of celebrity glamour. For more detail on each, keep reading.
1. Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with Photo Stops and Wine
At just $49 per person for roughly 2 to 3 hours, this guided hike offers a surprisingly rich experience of Malibu’s natural and cultural highlights. The 2.5-mile loop explores vineyards, organic gardens, and native cave paintings created by the Chumash people, giving you a taste of both the land and its history.
The hike is easy to moderate with about 300 feet of elevation gain, suitable for most ages—just no strollers or wagons are allowed due to the terrain.
The highlight here isn’t just the scenery but the chance to learn about Malibu’s native history and sustainable farming practices. The guide shares stories about the rocky peaks, golden hills, and native oaks that characterize the landscape. After completing the hike, you’ll receive two cans of wine to go, making this a casual yet enriching outing.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides like Tug, who makes the history fun and accessible, and the stunning views that make you feel miles away from the city.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an authentic, educational outdoor experience with a splash of local history, this hike is a winner. It’s especially good for active travelers who want a taste of Malibu’s natural beauty combined with wine.
2. Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour
For around $70, this 4.5-hour guided tour offers a different kind of Malibu experience—luxury, scenery, and celebrity sightings, all from the comfort of an open-air bus. The tour is designed for those who want a relaxing yet engaging way to see Malibu’s most famous sights.
The vehicle is air-conditioned with a premium sound system, and you’re allowed to bring your own wine or enjoy the complimentary offerings.
The itinerary includes stops at Legacy Park, a beautiful wetland preserve ideal for an early walk; Malibu Pier, for a quick photoshoot at one of the most iconic surf spots; and Cornell Wine Co., perched high in the Santa Monica Mountains, offering tastings in a rustic “old west” setting.
The tour culminates at Point Dume State Beach, Malibu’s crown jewel, perfect for photos and just soaking in the ocean views.
Guests appreciate the casual, friendly vibe and the chance to see celebrity homes, drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, and enjoy wine and snacks while exploring. “Gavin was very knowledgeable and funny,” says one reviewer, emphasizing that a good guide makes all the difference.
The tour accommodates small groups (4-12 people), creating an intimate experience with plenty of photo opportunities and insider stories.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice if you want a stylish, relaxed day combining Malibu’s best scenery, exclusive stops, and wine, all without the hassle of planning.
How to Choose
Deciding between these options depends on your interests and what kind of experience you seek. If you love outdoor activity combined with learning about Native American history and sustainable wineries, the guided vineyard hike is perfect. It’s also budget-friendly and offers an authentic taste of Malibu’s natural landscape. Check out the Malibu Guided Vineyard Hike.
If you’d prefer a more relaxed, scenic, and upscale day with a touch of celebrity glamour and beach time, the Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour is ideal. It offers more sightseeing variety, a chance to see celebrity homes, and stops at iconic locations with wine and snacks included. Learn more about the Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour.
When choosing, consider your budget, fitness level, and whether you prefer a more active outdoor experience or a comfortable sightseeing trip. Tours are popular, so it’s best to reserve early, especially during peak seasons.
Malibu offers a surprising variety of wine-related adventures, from active hikes through native lands to luxurious beach cruises with celebrity sightings. For active travelers, the Malibu Guided Vineyard Hike provides an authentic outdoor experience that combines history, nature, and wine tasting.
Those seeking a more leisurely day with scenic drives and photo ops will enjoy the Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour, especially if they want to soak in Malibu’s glamour. Either way, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.