The 4 Best Places to Stay in Malibu: Our Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

Malibu stretches along one of California’s most dramatic coastlines, where rugged cliffs, wide beaches, and quiet canyons shape the rhythm of daily life. Although it’s often spoken about as a single destination, Malibu is better understood as a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each offering a different relationship to the ocean, landscape, and pace. 

Choosing where to stay here influences everything from how you start your mornings to how evenings unfold. Some areas place you directly on the sand, while others offer elevation, space, and privacy just minutes inland. Below, we explore the best places to stay in Malibu, highlighting places where Wander offers thoughtfully designed homes that balance comfort, discretion, and a strong sense of place.

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1. Broad Beach: Iconic Oceanfront Living

Broad Beach is one of Malibu’s most coveted stretches, known for its wide shoreline, architectural homes, and uninterrupted Pacific views. Life here revolves around the water, with direct beach access and a calm, residential feel that rarely feels crowded.

Why Stay in Broad Beach?

• Immediate access to the sand allows you to move easily between home and shoreline throughout the day.

• The area feels quietly established, with fewer through-roads and a strong sense of privacy.

• Expansive ocean views create a constant connection to the coastline, especially during golden hour.

Best for: Couples, families, and travelers seeking classic Malibu beachfront living with space and privacy.

Where to Stay in Broad Beach

• Wander Malibu Broad Beach – A breathtaking architectural masterpiece perched at the tip of Broad Beach, this oceanfront retreat features floor-to-ceiling glass walls that frame sweeping Pacific views. Expansive decks and a dipping pool create the ideal setting for sunset drinks or morning coffee, and a private drawbridge leads you directly to the sand for effortless beach days. Inside, refined living spaces and sophisticated finishes elevate your stay without sacrificing comfort.

• Wander Malibu Sea – One of Malibu’s standout beachfront estates, this luxurious home offers private access to pristine sands and panoramic ocean vistas. A sparkling outdoor pool and hot tub frame daily relaxation, while a private movie theater invites evening entertainment. Thoughtfully oriented indoor-outdoor spaces create seamless transitions between sea breezes and refined interiors.

• Wander Malibu Dunes – A grand Broad Beach estate that reimagines beachfront living with immense scale and style. The property includes an elegant guesthouse for added privacy, a private hot tub for soaking with ocean views, and a layout designed for both family stays and shared gatherings. With the sand just steps away, this home anchors classic Malibu days with ease.

2. Zuma & Westward Beach: Open Coastline and Easygoing Energy

Zuma and Westward Beach are defined by wide sands, open skies, and a distinctly relaxed Malibu atmosphere. This area is ideal for guests who want space to roam, consistent surf, and a setting that feels less formal and more connected to the outdoors.

Why Stay Near Zuma & Westward Beach?

• Broad beaches provide room for long walks, surf sessions, and full days by the water.

• The area feels active yet uncrowded, with easy access to scenic coastal drives.

• Homes here often sit slightly removed from the highway, offering a quieter residential feel.

Best for: Active travelers, families, surfers, and guests drawn to classic Malibu beach culture.

Where to Stay Near Zuma & Westward Beach

• Wander Malibu Waves – A stunning coastal retreat that blends relaxed elegance with outdoor amenities built for fun. Days here revolve around the sparkling pool, firepit gatherings under the stars, and expansive outdoor living spaces that encourage low-key afternoons. Inside, well-appointed rooms provide comfort and coastal flair for groups and families alike.

• Wander Malibu Coast – Contemporary in design and panoramic in outlook, this beachfront property offers 57 feet of private ocean frontage with seamless indoor-outdoor flow. A rooftop deck with a hot tub and a fire pit sets the stage for unforgettable evenings, while smart home features and a rooftop terrace elevate everyday living.

• Wander Malibu Shores – A welcoming beachfront sanctuary that brings surfside living close to home. With ocean views, beach access, and thoughtful interior spaces, this home balances stylish comfort with effortless coastal living. Gather around the fireplace after a day at the beach or lounge on the outdoor deck overlooking the Pacific.

3. Malibu Canyon & Hills: Elevated and Tranquil

Just inland, Malibu’s canyons and hills offer a quieter, more secluded experience. Winding roads lead to homes tucked into the landscape, where views stretch across hillsides and out to the Pacific.

Why Stay in Malibu Canyon & Hills?

• Elevated settings provide increased privacy and a sense of retreat from coastal traffic.

• Cooler evenings and surrounding greenery create a calm, restorative environment.

• Close access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks adds depth to your stay.

Best for: Extended stays, wellness-focused trips, and travelers prioritizing space and privacy.

Where to Stay in Malibu Canyon & Hills

• Wander Malibu Canyon – A modern hillside retreat that blends natural beauty with thoughtful design. Enjoy serene mountain and creek views from the outdoor seating areas, unwind beside the fireplace, and take advantage of inviting indoor spaces built for family comfort. The home’s atmosphere is quietly uplifting, making it a restorative base for exploring Malibu’s inland terrain.

• Wander Malibu Canyon Retreat – A luxurious canyon escape with a private guest house and inviting fire pit for evenings under the stars. Nestled among natural beauty, this home offers both privacy and space for gatherings, with scenic views that extend from mountain ridges to canyon valleys.

• Wander Malibu Crest – An elevated hilltop sanctuary where mountain views and sophisticated design meet tranquil living. The home’s outdoor pool and movie theater provide both relaxation and entertainment, while large windows invite in natural light and frame the surrounding landscape.

4. Point Dume: Natural Beauty and Coastal Calm

Point Dume stands apart for its protected beaches, dramatic bluffs, and community-oriented feel. This area offers a quieter version of Malibu, with strong ties to nature and easy access to scenic coastal landmarks.

Why Stay in Point Dume?

• Proximity to headlands, coves, and some of Malibu’s most scenic coastal trails.

• A residential atmosphere that feels grounded and unhurried.

• Easy access to Zuma Beach and central Malibu without feeling exposed to traffic.

Best for: Couples, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic base.

Where to Stay in Point Dume

• Wander Malibu Cove Retreat – A serene coastal home with ocean views and thoughtful design touches that draw the outdoors in. The property’s patio and BBQ area invite lingering mornings, while breezy interiors keep every day light and comfortable.

• Wander Malibu Estate – A grand beachfront sanctuary with sweeping ocean views and high-end amenities, including a private outdoor pool and hot tub. From sunrise coffee on the sand to evenings backlit by Pacific sunsets, this estate offers a truly elevated Malibu experience with plenty of room for shared moments and quiet relaxation.

• Wander Malibu Colony Coastline – An exquisite retreat in Malibu’s exclusive Colony enclave, this home blends modern sophistication with resort-level amenities like a gym, home theater, and infinity pool. Expansive windows showcase dramatic ocean and mountain views, while elegant interiors provide a refined setting for coastal living.

Choose Wander For Your Next Stay in Malibu

Each part of Malibu offers a slightly different way to experience the coast. Broad Beach delivers timeless beachfront living, Zuma offers space and movement, the Malibu Hills provide elevation and quiet, and Point Dume blends natural beauty with residential calm. The best choice depends on how you want your days to unfold: on the sand, above the coastline, or somewhere in between.

For travelers seeking thoughtfully curated luxury vacation rentals along one of California’s most iconic stretches of coast, Malibu offers no shortage of exceptional options. So when taking a vacation in Malibu, choosing the right place to stay matters. Explore Wander’s collection of luxury homes to settle into the coastline with space, privacy, and a sense of ease that lets the destination unfold on your own terms.

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