The 6 best hotels in Malibu

Located on the picturesque Carbon Beach, the waterfront Malibu Beach Inn features private beach access for exclusive use of hotel guests. Book a stay in one of 47 well-appointed rooms, all of which come with a private balcony and face the water in some fashion. Outdoor, high-end shopping and dining destination, Malibu Country Mart, is within a mile, and the Malibu Pier is right next door, where fabulous breaks provide some of the best longboard surfing in Southern California. The high-end getaway isn’t cheap, but that’s the price you pay for your own slice of paradise on one of L.A.’s most coveted stretches of beach. 

Mood? Oceanfront views.
Location perks? The ocean is your doorstep. #winning
Budget range? Pricey as heck.

A former roadside motel turned stylish, beachy retreat, the Surfrider has the best—and most exclusive—rooftop in Malibu. The beachy, uncluttered and refined rooms are fit for a magazine spread without ever feeling too precious. This is a space equipped to handle the water and sand you’ll track in from across the street, with a comfy bed you’ll sink into after a day in the sun. While the street noise won’t creep much into your room, it may keep you off your private balcony, but no matter: Most of your time on property is likely to be spent on the hotel’s rooftop terrace anyway, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner exclusively for hotel guests. Make sure to take advantage of the surfboards on loan, as well as hybrid Minis to cruise about town.

Mood? Surfers paradise.
Location perks? Directly across from Cali's Surfrider Beach – enjoy the complimentary surfboards.
Budget range? On the more expensive side.

Hotel June Malibu is a contemporary spot on the Pacific Coast Highway. Originally constructed in 1947, the rooms at the hotel have fresh, beachy decor and minimal (but curated) furnishings which provide a laid-back energy that is far removed from the busy road outside. In fact, it’s a world away—the hotel has a surfer-esque, no-frills vibe and is much more affordable than other Malibu boutiques. 

Mood? Malibu retreat.
Location perks? The perfect balance of secluded relaxation and easy access to nearby beaches.
Budget range? Mid to high end.

Hidden in the Santa Monica Mountains, the rustic yet elegant hotel rests on longtime, family-owned property, Calamigos Ranch. The dreamy location—often used as a prime California wedding destination—is home to 70 private cottages, bungalows and estate rooms. During your stay, head to the property's trendy outdoor restaurant, Malibu Cafe, go wine tasting in the vineyards, surf the waves at the nearby beach, or horseback ride through the surrounding mountains. It has the makings of a dream vacation.

Mood? Ranch livin'.
Location perks? You can't go wrong on a 200-acre ranch, right?
Budget range? A wide range of options. 

Inspired by the traditional Japanese ryokan (inn), the oceanfront Nobu Ryokan Malibu offers 16 intimate, luxurious rooms complete with teak soaking tubs, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, beachfront decks and stunning, minimalist design. The tranquil retreat is located on the exclusive Carbon Beach—and for sushi fans, it’s just steps away from the high-end Japanese restaurant Nobu Malibu. But luxury amenities and well-appointed rooms come at a pretty price. There is a two-night minimum stay with rates starting at a jaw-dropping $2,000 per night. 

Mood? A taste of Japan.
Location perks? Wake up to the ocean and bask in your truly unique Malibu accommodation.
Budget range? Spennnnny.

Sure, there are frillier spots and it’s located right next to buzzy PCH, but if you’re looking for lodging that’s just a short walk from the ocean, the M Malibu is a fine choice. Located near plenty of restaurants, shops, beaches and dining options (including a takeout menu from the nearby Nicolas Eatery), the M Malibu (renovated in 2016 along with a more recent refresh) offers minimal, retro-style rooms with free Wi-Fi and parking, air conditioning, beach towels and balconies with partial ocean views.

Mood? Cheap and cheerful.
Location perks? Malibu Pier is just over a 10-minute walk away. Easy.
Budget range? Super affordable.