Los Angeles: Private Vintage VW Bus Tour in Malibu

Imagine cruising through the Santa Monica Mountains in a classic vintage VW bus, stopping at scenic overlooks, sampling some of Malibu’s finest wines, and soaking in breathtaking ocean vistas. That’s exactly what the Los Angeles: Private Vintage VW Bus Tour in Malibu promises—and from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s clear this experience delivers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a unique way to see Malibu’s highlights, this tour offers a charming blend of nostalgia, luxury, and adventure.

What stood out to us most is the personalized touch that a private tour brings—guided by knowledgeable locals, with the flexibility to customize your experience. But, as with any tour, there are a few things to keep in mind, like the absence of pickup and drop-off service, which means you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the starting point. This tour feels best suited for small groups of friends or couples who appreciate authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and good wine.

Key Points

• Unique vintage vibe: Cruising in a well-maintained VW bus makes the experience memorable and photogenic.
• Flexible itinerary: Guests can choose whether they want to enjoy wine on the beach or a rustic lunch in the canyons.
• Scenic stops: Expect breathtaking overlooks, vineyard visits, and scenic drives through Malibu’s canyons.
• Includes wine and snacks: Tasting Malibu’s best wines paired with snacks enhances the relaxing vibe.
• Private and intimate: Limited to groups of up to 6, ensuring personalized attention from your guide.
• No included pickup/drop-off: Consider how you’ll reach the starting point at 32111 Mulholland Hwy.

An In-Depth Look at the Malibu Vintage VW Bus Experience

Why Choose This Tour?

From the outset, this tour offers an experience that’s more than just sightseeing. It’s about feeling like a local, exploring Malibu’s hidden gems, and doing so in style. The vintage VW bus, which transports you back in time, adds a playful, nostalgic element that appeals to those tired of cookie-cutter tours. Plus, the small group size—up to six people—means you won’t be just another face in a crowd. The tour is guided by a friendly, knowledgeable host, who seems to have a knack for sharing insider tips about Malibu’s best spots.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

For $750 per group, you gain access to a personalized, guided experience that includes wine tastings, snacks, and the charming VW vintage bus. The guide is crucial here—reviews mention Kurt, who is praised for his friendliness and expertise, making the ride both fun and informative. However, the tour does not provide pickup or drop-off, meaning you’ll need to organize your own transportation to the starting point at 32111 Mulholland Hwy.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour spans roughly 3 hours, covering a mix of scenic drives, vineyard visits, and designated stops. Here’s what you can expect:

• Starting at Mulholland Hwy: This is your launch point, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into the vintage VW. The initial safety briefing takes about five minutes, so you’re quickly on your way.
• Malibu Scenic Drive: The first leg involves cruising along Malibu’s renowned roads, enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and canyon landscapes. The relaxed pace allows plenty of photo opportunities.
• Vineyard Stop 1: You’ll visit a local vineyard where you can take in the views, learn about Malibu’s wine scene, and sample some vintages. The review by Jourdon notes that “the scenery was beautiful, and the van ride was fun,” highlighting how the drive itself was a highlight.
• Winery Experience: Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting session paired with scenic vistas on the way. The guide may recommend different wines, and guests can savor every sip while soaking in more of that stunning coastal landscape.
• Scenic Drive in Canyons: The next hour is dedicated to exploring Malibu’s rugged canyons, with opportunities to stop for photos or just take in the serenity.
• Vineyard Break & Photo Stop: The final stop offers a chance to relax, snap photos, and reflect on the tour’s highlights.
• Return to Mulholland Hwy: The tour wraps up, leaving you with memories of a laid-back, visually stunning adventure.

Highlights That Make This Tour Special

The vintage VW bus is undoubtedly a key selling point. It’s not just transportation but part of the experience—adding charm and a sense of nostalgia that’s hard to match with modern vehicles. The scenic overlooks and ocean vistas are truly breathtaking, especially for those who love natural beauty and photography. You’ll get to taste Malibu’s finest wines, carefully selected to showcase the region’s wine-making talent, with the option to enjoy your wine either on the beach or in the peaceful canyons.

What Guests Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—particularly Kurt—who make the journey fun and informative. One reviewer notes, “Kurt was awesome, the scenery was beautiful, and the van ride was fun! Oh, and the wine was good too!” This highlights how the personal touch can elevate the experience. Another reviewer describes it as “AWESOME!!!! Memorable!!!!,” emphasizing how unique and enjoyable the tour is.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups or couples who want a relaxed, fun way to explore Malibu’s scenery. It’s perfect if you’re interested in local wines, scenic drives, and vintage aesthetics. Because it’s private and intimate, it also works well for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays.

Practical Considerations

The price of $750 covers all the listed activities, wine tastings, and snacks, and is generally reasonable considering the personalized nature of the experience and the inclusion of wine. Keep in mind, this doesn’t include transportation to the starting point, so plan to arrive on your own or arrange a separate ride. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable yet memorable addition to your Malibu itinerary.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re seeking an offbeat way to experience Malibu’s natural beauty, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for groups of friends or couples who appreciate genuine, authentic experiences over cookie-cutter excursions. Lovers of wine and scenic drives will find it particularly rewarding. And if vintage charm, small-group vibe, and personalized attention appeal to you, this tour should be high on your list.

However, if transportation logistics are a concern or you prefer guided tours that include pickup/drop-off, you might want to consider other options. Also, because the tour is for guests 21 and over, it’s not suitable for younger travelers.

Final Thoughts

This private vintage VW bus tour in Malibu offers a delightful mix of nostalgia, natural beauty, and wine tasting—all wrapped into a compact, three-hour adventure. The small-group setup ensures a personalized experience, with knowledgeable guides like Kurt adding a personable touch that makes all the difference.

You’ll love the way the scenic drives, stunning vistas, and vineyard visits blend together seamlessly, creating a relaxed and memorable experience. It’s perfect for those wanting a low-key, intimate tour that balances fun, beauty, and flavor.

While it’s not a tour for those looking for luxury transportation with hotel pickup, it compensates with charm, authenticity, and a genuine taste of Malibu’s scenic and vinicultural delights. Whether celebrating a special day or just eager to explore in style, this tour stands out as a unique way to see Malibu beyond the usual tourist spots.

FAQ

Is there a pickup or drop-off included?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting location at 32111 Mulholland Hwy.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, offering a relaxed pace that covers scenic drives, vineyard visits, and tasting sessions.

Can I customize the experience?
Guests can choose with their guide whether they want to sip wine on the beach or enjoy a rustic lunch in the canyons, adding a personalized touch to the tour.

How many people can join?
The tour is private and limited to groups of up to 6 people, making it intimate and perfect for small groups or couples.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers a private guide, vintage VW bus, wine tastings, snacks, and scenic views. It does not include transportation to the starting point.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s only for guests 21 and over, as it involves wine tasting.

What should I bring?
You’ll need to bring a passport or ID card for the wine tasting, and don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic views.

In summary, this Malibu vintage VW bus tour is a fun, authentic way to explore the area’s natural beauty, sample excellent wines, and enjoy a personalized experience in a charming setting. It’s perfect for small groups looking for a relaxed, memorable adventure with a touch of vintage class.