Celebrities living in expensive mansions, beautiful beachfront properties, and fancy sports cars parked in driveways are just some of the things that come to mind when Malibu is mentioned. However, the small town offers an array of other activities, long stretches of sandy beach, endless miles of canyon trails, and numerous dining options to suit your palate.
Malibu has plenty of gorgeous and unique neighborhoods where you can crash when in town. Not only will you get a chance to live in truly distinct Airbnbs in Malibu, but you also get a chance to live affluently or on a budget, depending on how much money you have to spend. You can mingle with the locals and get insider tips for a truly unique vacation that you won’t forget.
Whether you have been to Malibu before or this is your first time in this part of California, there are so many Malibu Airbnbs to suit all.
Here are 15 of our favorite rentals, your vacation planning will be made even easier with this selection of Airbnbs in Malibu.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Malibu
Cottage Loft with Spectacular Views Near Malibu Colony Beach
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Private outdoor patio
- > Spectacular views
Condo suite in Malibu Beach with Ocean Views
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Private access to beach
- > Beautiful ocean views
Arts and Crafts Villa Overlooking Paradise Cove
- > $$$$
- > 10 Guests
- > Pool, outdoor grill, and gardens
- > Classic Californian mansion
Home Built Among the Trees
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Overlooking the Pacific Ocean
- > Private gated road
Condo Just Steps from the Beach
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Perfect views of the beach
- > Forty-foot balcony
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Malibu
While most people associate Malibu with oceanfront mansions perched on cliffs and tan surfers bobbing on the breaks, this wonderful city in Los Angeles has plenty of stunning natural wonders. Say goodbye to the glitzy landmarks of Beverly Hills and the tarnished glow of Hollywood, Malibu will make you want to spend every single day in the waterfront city.
From a little bit of wine tasting, some of the best beaches in the world, hiking trails, and waterfalls, there is an endless list of things to do. But, of course, you need to find yourself a suitable place to stay first.
Finding the best Airbnb in Malibu need not be a challenge. Malibu has alot of properties and although the city might be a little more expensive than most other places, there are still Malibu Airbnbs within your budget.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Malibu
Let’s not waste any more time, let’s dive into the ocean of exceptional Airbnbs in Malibu.
Travelers are spoilt for choice with all the wide array of options. We have narrowed down the best choices for you!
Cottage Loft with Spectacular Views Near Malibu Colony Beach | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Malibu
This property is in one of the best locations in Malibu. Less than a mile from the Civic Centre and Whole Foods, and just a few minutes away from restaurants, the Malibu Pier and Surfrider Beach. Located in a quiet neighborhood, the home comes with a fully-equipped kitchen, private outdoor patio area, and a BBQ. It’s well-equipped and it has everything guests need for an intimate, fun, and cozy experience in Malibu.
Places to visit:
- Zuma Beach
- Escondido Falls
Condo suite in Malibu Beach with Ocean Views | Best Budget Airbnb in Malibu
Fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the shore right beneath you in this condo suite. It is exactly what California beach dreams are made of.
The home is located on the gorgeous Carbon Beach in Malibu and boasts amazing ocean views which you can enjoy from the private balcony with sunbeds. Conveniently located, guests are only a few minutes away from the pier, restaurants, and shopping.
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIHome Built Among the Trees | Perfect Malibu Airbnb for Solo Travelers
This quiet and quaint property is nestled among the trees featuring amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu Pier.
There’s a beautiful deck where you can enjoy your morning coffee while basking in the breeze or perhaps a cocktail during sunset. Accessed through a private gated road, it is only a few minutes away from shops, beaches, and a plethora of restaurants that make Malibu one of the most famous places on Earth.
Condo Just Steps from the Beach | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Malibu for Digital Nomads
Want to be near the beach but need to complete an assignment while on vacation? This is the perfect place for any digital nomad who wants excellent views and fast WIFI at the same time. There’s a dedicated workspace where you can get some work done but there is also a forty-foot balcony where you can lounge on your laptop and listen to the ocean while answering emails and sipping cocktails.
The beach is just a few steps away, and the Santa Monica Pier is just a short drive.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Malibu
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Malibu!
Guesthouse Across the Beach | Best Short-Term Rental Airbnb
Staying for a few weeks in one location need not be boring. This home is just across the street from the beach, and there are plenty of activities to try from horseback riding and mountain biking, to guided hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains, pottery, Capoeira, and Slack Line training.
The house is close to lots of excellent restaurants where you can have your fill of delicious fish dishes. Grocery stores are also nearby for those who would like to prepare their own meals.
Oceanfront Malibu Home with Spectacular Views | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Malibu
This luxurious condo sits right above the Pacific Ocean, and has one bedroom with a king-sized bed and one bathroom.
Just a few steps away from the water, you can enjoy the coastal breeze and hear waves crashing. There’s a private oceanfront balcony where you can work on your tan while reading an exciting book.
The kitchen is well-equipped, and inside ocean view dining is an option for memorable home cooked meals. Just below the private balcony is a shared deck where you can mingle with other guests.
Residential Home with Pool, Spa, and Views | Best Airbnb in Malibu for a Group of Friends
Featured on the Emmy award-winning show, Staycation, this home comes with an interesting story! It’s owned by an Olympic diver who had the bottom of the pool engraved with Olympic rings after he won the gold in the 1984 Olympics.
The property has spacious interiors, an ocean-facing pool and spa, a sauna, three bedrooms, and three bathrooms. Please note that there is no AC available in the house and there is no pool heating. La Piedra State Beach is only just a few steps away.
Beachfront Bungalow with Ocean Deck | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners in Malibu
This property has been featured in Forbes Magazine and HGTV for its stunning design. From the moment you step into the villa, you will be transported to a different world.
Spend your honeymoon in this gorgeous beachfront bungalow that’s located on a secluded beach and have the ocean literally at your feet. What can be better than that?
There are plenty of restaurants to discover less than 3 miles away so if you enjoy long walks with your significant other, this is the perfect place.
Tranquil Treehouse in Topanga | Most Romantic Airbnb for Couples
Couples who want to get away from the noise of the city will love this tranquil treehouse in the Fernwood area of Topanga.
The property has a single bedroom, a kitchenette, a full bathroom with a bathtub, a private entrance, yoga deck, picnic table, and swing, and a private outdoor garden terrace. There are beach towels, yoga mats, and beach umbrellas available for guests to use. Parking is always reserved in the driveway.
The queen-sized bed has a modern wrought iron frame for cozying up with a book after a day at the beach.
Beachfront Property in Proximity to Everything | Beat Airbnb for a Weekend in Malibu
This property is close to Los Angeles, but far enough to make you feel like you are away from it all. Sitting right on the sand, the duplex has a master bedroom and living room that look out over spectacular ocean views. You can watch pelicans as they dive for fish, as well as seals lounging on the rocks.
The property has high-quality binoculars for those who would like to indulge in observing wildlife. Just 15 minutes from the Santa Monica Pier and five minutes from the Malibu Pier, you can enjoy exploring the town as well as your private abode.
Private Mountain Top Suite with Breakfast | Another Perfect Airbnb in Malibu for Solo Travelers
This secluded mountaintop property is situated on six acres within Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. It has an amazing view of the ocean and the mountains and is a perfect quiet environment for solo travelers who would like to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city and love nature.
You can watch sunsets, go on hikes, and indulge in stargazing. The retreat is close to Santa Monica and Malibu Civic Center. There’s even free breakfast daily from 7 am to 9 am! The kitchen can’t be used for cooking, but can be handy for prepping sandwiches.
Malibu Beach Pad | Best Airbnb in Malibu for Families
The whole family will love their stay in this 4 bedroom home, with a variety of activities such as hiking, surfing, horseback riding, and SUP boarding nearby.
You will have access to the entire property and there’s even an attached studio with a separate entrance kitchen and bath.
The garage is not included, and parking is possible on the driveway or on the street.
Arts and Crafts Villa Overlooking Paradise Cove | Over-the-Top Luxury Airbnb
Guests will be greeted by an immense driveway tiled in natural bright stone and leafy lemon trees.
This classic Californian mansion features elegant stone and masonry, and sits on three acres of land with landscaped gardens. There is a pergola patio that houses an alfresco dining set under a chandelier, and a waterfall that descends between a picturesque set of steps that leads to the pool.
The home has a large lawn, terraced gardens, an outdoor grill, and a five-hole putting green. The mansion has five bedrooms with king-sized beds and six bathrooms.
Camper in a Romantic Nature Getaway | Most Unique Airbnb in Malibu
Sleep under 100-year-old oaks at an animal rescue and sanctuary, this renovated 1960 Land Yacht Airstream in Topanga is surrounded by adorable llamas, pigs, sheep, and giant African tortoises.
Featuring a Wee Wind Airstream food trailer where you can prepare delicious snacks, you won’t need to head into town often. Spend your days lounging and reading beside the rolling creek, or soaking in the Jacuzzi with your loved one.
The property is just a few minutes away from the beach, and guests can easily hike to the nearby state park.
Malibu Oasis with Fire Pit, Pool & Stunning Views | Best Airbnb with Pool & Jacuzzi
This is by far the best Airbnb in Malibu for its outstanding location, epic amenities and touches of luxury. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, this is the place to come when you want to escape and relax. Filled with natural light and homey amenities, you have everything you need for an unforgettable stay.
Chic, modern and with ocean views, a weekend here will be the perfect mental reset.
What to Pack for Malibu
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Malibu Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Renting Airbnbs in Malibu
With its Pacific Coast Highway that’s a mecca for celebrities, Malibu remains unique as its just 30 minutes away from the city but has a totally different energy. Being on its shores is like being transported to another world. Malibu is a must-see spot, not only for its celebrity residents but also for its unrivalled beauty.
Whether you are in town for just a few days or for longer than a month, there is a Malibu Airbnb right for you. Don’t have your activities sorted out just yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty of Airbnb experiences to check out and book.
- Check out our Backpacking California guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of California.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around California.
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