Malibu Beach Surf Tour in a Vintage VW Van

Rating: 5.0/5 (based on one glowing review)
Location: Santa Monica, USA
Price: $349 per person
Duration: Approximately 6 hours
Features: Pickup offered, Mobile ticket

A Quick Look at the Malibu Beach Surf Tour

Imagine cruising along the iconic California coast in a charming vintage VW van, with the sun glinting off the waves and the salty breeze in your hair. That’s exactly what this Malibu Beach Surf Tour promises—a laid-back, intimate experience that combines scenic sightseeing with a beginner-friendly surfing lesson. While we haven’t personally been (yet), reviews have highlighted its fun, relaxed vibe and knowledgeable guides, making it a standout option for anyone wanting to blend adventure with authentic local scenery.

One aspect we really love? The small group size—capped at just four people—ensuring personal attention and a more relaxed, engaging experience. The inclusion of snacks, lunch, and all the surf gear makes this a well-rounded and convenient day out. On the flip side, if you’re not comfortable with some moderate physical activity or have specific gear needs like a towel or sunscreen, you’ll want to bring your own.

This tour suits those who appreciate scenic drives, enjoy a touch of adventure, or just want to soak up the relaxed SoCal atmosphere. Whether you’re a complete newbie eager to learn to surf or someone who loves small-group, personalized excursions, this experience is crafted to deliver.

Key Points

• Small group size offers personalized interaction and a less crowded, more intimate experience.
• Vintage VW van adds a fun and nostalgic vibe, elevating the journey.
• Multiple scenic stops ensure you see iconic Malibu sights like Malibu Pier and Point Dume.
• All necessary surf gear (boards and wetsuits) are included, making it accessible for beginners.
• Authentic local scenery and wildlife at Point Dume and Malibu Lagoon provide memorable photo opportunities.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand adds peace of mind.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in Santa Monica: The Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off at 1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, a convenient spot near public transit, around 8:00 am. From here, you hop into a vintage VW van, which sets a relaxed, fun tone right away. The vehicle’s nostalgic charm makes for excellent photo opportunities and adds to the feeling of being on a laid-back California road trip.

The small group size—max seven, but usually four—means your guide has plenty of time to answer questions, offer local tips, and make sure everyone is comfortable. The driver and guide, Alejandro, gets special mention from previous guests for his enthusiasm and knowledge, making sure the experience feels personal and engaging.

Malibu Pier: Iconic Views and Coastal Charm

The first stop is the Malibu Pier, a renowned landmark offering a perfect spot to stretch your legs. Walking along this historic pier gives you a chance to admire the rugged coastline and perhaps spot surfers catching waves below. While it’s a brief 10-minute stroll, the scenery is classic Malibu—think wooden walkways, ocean views, and a laid-back vibe.

Point Dume State Beach and Natural Preserve: Clifftop Marvels

Next up is Point Dume State Beach, famous for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, taking in spectacular views from the cliffs, which are often dotted with native wildlife and greenery. It’s an ideal spot for photography, and the natural preserve offers a peaceful escape from crowds. Past guests have appreciated the breathtaking scenery and the chance to spot local flora and fauna.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach: The Surfing Hub

The final stop is at Malibu Lagoon State Beach, where the real action begins. The tour includes approximately four hours here, during which you’ll have the opportunity for your surfing lesson. The provided wetsuits and boards make it straightforward for beginners to get their first wave, and the guide ensures everyone gets comfortable in the water.

You might find that this mix of beach relaxation and active participation makes for a well-balanced day. The beach chosen for surfing varies depending on conditions, which adds a layer of flexibility and authenticity to each trip.

The Surfing Lesson: Learning in a Friendly Environment

The highlight for many guests is the hands-on surfing lesson. With expert guidance, you’ll learn the basics—popping up on your board, balancing, and riding your first wave. Reviewers like Marnie praise guide Alejandro’s expert teaching and friendly attitude, making even nervous first-timers feel confident. All the gear, including wetsuits and boogie boards, is included, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

Food and Refreshments: Convenient and Tasty

Throughout the day, snacks like chips and bars keep you energized, and the tour includes a hot dog lunch—meat or vegetarian—plus coffee, tea, water, and soda. These small touches help keep energy levels high during the active parts of the day and add to the overall value of the tour.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included:
– All surf gear (boards, wetsuits, boogie boards)
– Snacks and hot dogs (meat and vegetarian options)
– Coffee, tea, bottled water, soda
– Guided visits to Malibu Pier, Point Dume, and Malibu Lagoon

Not Included:
– Towels, sunscreen, swimwear (it’s advisable to bring your own for comfort and sun protection)

Practical Tips

Since towels, sunscreen, and swimwear aren’t included, packing these essentials is a good idea. The tour operates in good weather, and if canceled due to adverse conditions, you’ll receive a full refund or an option to reschedule. The physical activity involved means it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

The only review available praises the tour as “The best tour ever” and highlights guide Alejandro’s warm, engaging teaching style. The reviewer loved the way the guide made the experience accessible and fun, especially for teenagers, emphasizing its family-friendly nature.

Other details that stood out include the stylish vintage van, which guests found charming and fun, turning the journey itself into a memorable part of the day. The scenic stops for photographs, wildlife spotting, and coastal views are well appreciated, especially since they break up the active surfing part with moments of relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Malibu Beach Surf Tour strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, active adventure, and authentic local experiences. It offers value for money, particularly considering the included gear, snacks, and personalized attention. The small-group setting ensures everyone gets a chance to participate, ask questions, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine a scenic coastal drive with a beginner-friendly surf lesson in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a personalized, memorable Malibu experience will find this tour a standout choice.

However, if you’re looking for a full-day surfing immersion or you prefer to explore more beaches independently, it might be worth considering other options. Still, for those wanting a taste of Malibu’s iconic scenery and a fun introduction to surfing, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at 1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA, a convenient location near public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, with specific stops like Malibu Pier, Point Dume, and Malibu Lagoon included.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, and you’ll explore in a vintage VW van, enhancing the fun and authentic vibe.

What is included in the cost?
All surf gear (boards, wetsuits, boogie boards), snacks, hot dogs (meat or vegetarian), drinks, and guided visits are included.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to enjoy both the sightseeing and surfing parts of the tour comfortably.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds offered.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, swimwear, and any personal gear you prefer. Since these aren’t provided, packing them ensures comfort during your time in the water.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The surfing lesson is designed for beginners, with all necessary gear provided and guides like Alejandro making sure everyone feels confident.

Final Verdict

This Malibu Beach Surf Tour in a vintage VW van offers a wonderfully authentic, personalized way to experience California’s iconic coast. It blends scenic sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and a beginner-friendly surfing lesson into a single, well-paced day. The small-group format, cheerful guides, and inclusive amenities make it especially appealing for those wanting a relaxed, engaging adventure.

If you’re after a memorable, fun-filled day that combines stunning views, some active fun, and a dash of nostalgia, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to connect with Malibu’s relaxed vibe without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

This experience delivers excellent value through intimate group size, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of scenic and active highlights. It’s an opportunity to enjoy Malibu’s natural beauty in a fun, relaxed way that leaves you with great stories — and hopefully, a few waves!