Insider’s Guide to Malibu

I first met Bo McIlwaine when I was in 8th grade; I had just transferred schools, and she welcomed me with open arms. We quickly became friends and share lots of similar interests. Bo is one of the kindest, funniest, smartest, and most interesting people I have ever met, and I am so excited to feature her on The Zeitgeist this month as a travel guest editor. Recently, several of my friends who live in other cities have asked me about things to do in Malibu besides spending time on the coastal city’s beautiful beaches. Even though I sometimes go to Malibu during the summer since it is only a 45-minute drive from Los Angeles, I do not live there year round. As soon as my friend from San Francisco started to ask me questions involving Malibu, I instantly thought of Bo, a Malibu native, because I knew she could answer people’s questions better than anyone else! I hope you enjoy her Insider’s Guide to Malibu! xx

SEE: 
  • Jim Morrison Cave, off of Corral Canyon Road, is a super cool thing to see in Malibu; there is graffiti everywhere, and some of the caves are even pink! There’s a rumor that he used to come here to escape and write.

EAT:

  • Malibu Farm is the best! There is such a great view right on the water, and the Swedish Pancakes are to die for!

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  • Taverna Tony in the Malibu Country Mart is so yummy! The flaming cheese is amazing, and I highly recommend the tabouli as well.

  • Cholada is an amazing Thai restaurant right at the beginning of Malibu that offers everything from curries to salads to noodles.

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  • Cafe Habana, located in the Malibu Lumber Yard, is so good! I love their taquitos, and their famous Cuban rice is delicious! Also, don’t forget about their special iced tea!

  • Sunlife Organics has the best smoothies! The “Wolverine” is my personal favorite — a delicious treat packed with dates and honey. 

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SHOP: 

  • San Lorenzo Bikinis is a really cute swimwear shop that offers many of my favorite brands, including Acacia and Frankie’s Bikinis.
  • Just all over the Malibu Country Mart, there are really adorable small boutiques that are super fun!
DO: 
  • Veronica Skin Care is an amazing spa right along Malibu that gives the best facials ever!
  • Soul Cycle! Of course the major workout chain has locations everywhere, but it’s super fun to get a good spin in!

vox