Getting Around Malibu. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

The Metro Local Line 534 is the main public bus service in Malibu. It operates along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and connects Malibu to Santa Monica, where you can transfer to other Metro lines to access broader Los Angeles.

This line is useful for moving between major points along the coast within Malibu, like the Malibu Pier, Zuma Beach, and Pepperdine University. It does not extensively serve inland canyon areas or residential neighborhoods. Service frequency is less than urban lines, so check schedules.

Fares & Accessibility

TAP Card: Reusable, reloadable plastic card for all Metro bus and rail services.
Cash: Exact fare ($1.75 per ride) on the bus. Drivers cannot provide change.
Passes: Day pass or weekly pass on your TAP card can be more economical for multiple rides.
Accessibility: Metro buses are generally wheelchair accessible with ramps or lifts.

Route & Hubs

Route mainly follows PCH. Main connection point for Malibu's public transport is in Santa Monica.

Hours & Frequency

Operating hours vary. Check the Los Angeles Metro website for schedules. Off-peak can be 30-60 minutes between buses.

Navigation Tips

Use Metro Trip Planner app, Transit app, or Google Maps for real-time schedules and route planning.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Information

Licensed taxis are less common than in urban LA areas.
You might find them at major hotels, or pre-book one.
Fares are metered, based on distance and time. Higher than public transport.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Malibu.
Request rides through their smartphone apps.
Apps track rides, provide driver info, and include safety features.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Most practical for exploring Malibu.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Limited options, less practical for distances.

Bicycle Rentals

Good for specific beach paths or mountain trails.

Specialty Vehicles

Not common for tourist transport in Malibu.

Walking & Cycling

While Malibu is beautiful, its layout means walking and cycling are best suited for specific areas or activities, not for general transportation.

Pedestrian Considerations

Limited Walkability: Not a highly walkable city due to its sprawling nature.
Walkable Pockets: Around Malibu Pier, Malibu Country Mart, Zuma Beach path.
Hiking Trails: Santa Monica Mountains offer numerous excellent walking opportunities.
Walking Tour Options: Formal tours are limited; self-guided walks are an option.

Cycling Information

Pacific Coast Highway: Has shoulders for cyclists, but can be dangerous due to high traffic and speeds.
Pleasant Cycling: On specific beach paths (Zuma Beach) or mountain biking trails.
Safety: Always wear a Helmet. Use lights if cycling at dusk or night. Obey all traffic laws.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking/cycling on main lanes of PCH outside designated shoulders. Respect private property.

Accessibility Services

Infrastructure: Most public buildings and attractions adhere to ADA compliance.
Beaches: Zuma Beach often provides accessible mats or beach wheelchairs for loan.
Getty Villa: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible parking.

Public Transport: Metro buses are wheelchair accessible.
Trails: Some state park trails are paved or graded for easier access.
Vehicle Rentals: Major companies can provide modified vehicles with advance notice.

Uncommon Transportation

Tour Buses

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off bus services in Malibu.

Boat Taxis

Malibu does not have boat taxi services.

Cable Cars

No cable cars or funiculars are present in Malibu.

Public Transport Efficiency

Public transport is usually insufficient for comprehensive sightseeing if you plan to visit diverse attractions across the city. It works best for getting from one point on PCH to another.

Benefits of Public Transit

Cost-effective for single point-to-point travel along PCH.
Helps avoid parking challenges at popular coastal spots.
Connects to wider LA Metro system at Santa Monica.
A more environmentally friendly option for short trips.

Limitations of Public Transit

Less frequent service, especially on weekends and evenings.
Limited coverage in inland canyon areas and residential neighborhoods.
Can extend travel times due to transfers and waiting for buses.
A rental car often provides more freedom for exploration.

Walking & Cycling Zones

Malibu Pier

A good spot for a pleasant walk with scenic views.

Walkable Area

Zuma Beach Multi-use Path

Ideal for a leisurely bike ride or extended beach walk.

Cycling & Walking Friendly

Hiking Trails

The Santa Monica Mountains offer extensive networks for walking and mountain biking.

Nature Exploration

Rental Car Advantages

Flexibility & Access

Explore remote beaches and hidden canyon trails.
Travel at your own pace without relying on schedules.
Easily transport beach gear, picnic supplies, or shopping.

Comfort & Convenience

Enjoy air-conditioned travel during warmer months.
Listen to your preferred music or podcasts on scenic drives.
More space for luggage and souvenirs compared to public transport.

Challenges for Walkers/Cyclists

Lack of continuous sidewalks in many areas.
Pacific Coast Highway can be dangerous due to high traffic volume and speed.
Many private properties line the coast and canyons; respect "No Trespassing" signs.
Risks of distracted drivers, especially on winding roads.

Hilly terrain makes extended cycling challenging outside specific flat paths.
Exposure to strong sun with limited shade on some routes.
Intersection crossings on PCH can be long and challenging.
Limited bike lanes outside of specific recreational paths.

Takeaways for Getting Around

A mix of options often provides the best experience.

Optimal Transport

Rental Car: Ideal for freedom and exploring the area's widespread attractions.
Ride-sharing: A good option for evenings out or short trips when you do not want to drive.
Public Bus (Line 534): Useful for coastal trips along PCH, especially between main points.
Walking/Cycling: Best for specific, contained areas like beaches or dedicated trails.

Planning Tips

Plan your movements, especially during peak times, to avoid traffic.
Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and route planning.
Factor parking costs into your budget, specifically at popular spots.

Navigation Apps

Utilize Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic and route guidance.

Parking Strategies

Arrive early for popular beach parking or use paid lots.

Scenic Drives

Enjoy the Pacific Coast Highway as a journey itself.

Accessibility Highlights

Accessible Locations

Most public buildings and attractions adhere to ADA standards.
Zuma Beach often offers accessible mats onto the sand or beach wheelchairs.
The Getty Villa is fully accessible with ramps and elevators.

Accessible Transport

Metro buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps or lifts.
Some state park trails have paved or graded sections for easier access.
Rental car companies can provide modified vehicles with advance notice.

Final Local Transportation Thought

Considering Malibu's spread-out nature, a personal vehicle or a combination of ride-sharing and limited public transit offers the most comprehensive way to explore the area.

Planning your route and parking in advance will further support a smooth travel experience.

Getting Around Malibu