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How to Get to Malibu

How to Get to Malibu

Malibu Los Angeles, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports

These airports serve as main gateways to the Los Angeles region and Malibu.

Airport Locations & Access

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Main gateway, 25-35 miles southeast of Malibu.
  • Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR): Smaller, less crowded, 35-45 miles east/northeast of Malibu.
  • Santa Barbara Airport (SBA): Regional option, 45-55 miles northwest of Malibu.

Airlines & Transfers

Information on airlines and ways to reach Malibu from the airports.

Airline & Transport Options

  • LAX: All major domestic and international airlines. Prices peak summer and holidays. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
  • Rental Car: Most common method, major agencies at all airports.
  • Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): Available at designated pick-up zones.

Airport Facilities

All three airports provide standard facilities: dining, retail, car rental, currency exchange, Wi-Fi.

Shared Ride Vans

Offer an economical alternative to private taxis, but involve multiple stops.

Public Transport

Less practical from LAX to Malibu; multiple transfers. Best for light luggage.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

  • No specific exit fees are levied beyond your airline ticket price.
  • Airport Arrival: 2-3 hours before domestic flights, 3-4 hours before international flights.
  • Online Check-in: Check in with your airline before arriving at the airport to save time.
  • Security: Lines can be long. TSA PreCheck or CLEAR can expedite the process.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

  • All major airports (LAX, BUR, SBA) provide standard amenities.
  • Find shops for last-minute souvenirs, and a range of restaurants.
  • Comfortable waiting areas and lounges are available.
  • Restrooms and Wi-Fi access are standard.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus

No direct train services reach Malibu. Nearest Amtrak stations are in Oxnard or Van Nuys. Long-distance buses typically drop passengers in downtown Los Angeles or Santa Monica.

Self-Driving

A rental car is highly recommended. You will need a valid driver's license (or IDP), a major credit card, and meet age requirements. Check DiscoverCars.com for options.

Road Conditions

PCH can be heavily congested. Winding roads are common in the canyons. Watch for cyclists and wildlife. Be aware of landslides during heavy rain.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Ports

Malibu's coastline does not serve as a major port for passenger ferries or cruise ships.

No Direct Services

  • No ferry services operate directly to Malibu.
  • Nearest major cruise ports are the Port of Los Angeles (in San Pedro) and Port of Long Beach.
  • These ports are far south of Malibu and do not offer direct connections.

River Transportation

River transportation is not a feature of Malibu's geography.

Not Applicable

  • Malibu is a coastal city.
  • River transportation systems are not present.
  • Connections to land transport from sea arrivals are not specific to Malibu.

Driving Safety

Driving Considerations

A rental car is the most practical way to explore Malibu.

Aspects

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license (or IDP), major credit card, age 21-25+ (surcharges for under 25).
  • Road Conditions: PCH can be congested. Winding canyon roads. Watch for cyclists, pedestrians, wildlife.
  • Safety Concerns: PCH sections can be dangerous due to turns/speed. Landslides during heavy rain. Wildfire evacuations.

Driving Laws & Parking

Familiarize yourself with local driving rules and parking options.

Regulations

  • Driving Laws: Standard U.S. Laws apply. Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Handheld cell phones are illegal.
  • Parking: Can be challenging and expensive at popular locations. Metered parking is common.
  • Read signs carefully for restrictions and time limits. Many beaches have paid lots ($10-$15+).

Specialty Vehicle Options

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals

Options are limited in Malibu. More choices in Santa Monica or Hollywood, but less practical for Malibu's distances.

Bicycle Sharing/Rentals

No major city-wide bike-sharing programs. Rentals are available from local shops for specific paths (e.g., Zuma Beach) or mountain biking trails.

Other Vehicles

No unique specialty vehicle options (like tuk-tuks or jeepneys) are common for tourist transportation in Malibu.

Navigation Tip

For safe navigation, use a phone holder for your car dashboard or windshield. This keeps your GPS visible without distraction and makes for a more focused journey.