Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting

Traveling through Malibu in a 1972 VW camper van might sound like a nostalgic daydream, but it’s actually a delightful reality for those seeking a relaxed yet memorable adventure. This Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour with Wine Tasting offers a charming combination of scenic coastal drives, iconic photo spots, and a taste of California’s renowned wine scene — all in a funky, hippie-inspired vintage van.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of fun transport and authentic local experiences. You’ll cruise past celebrities’ homes, stop at stunning viewpoints, and finish with a wine tasting in a cozy setting.

However, it’s worth noting that the experience is quite laid-back and primarily focused on sightseeing and tasting, so if you’re after a fast-paced or highly educational tour, this might not be the perfect fit.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy relaxed, visually driven excursions, vintage vibes, and a little indulgence along the way. Whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or a solo traveler looking for something different, this ride delivers charm and character in spades.

Key Points

• Vintage Vibe & Authenticity: Travel in a 1972 VW camper van that’s as much a photo prop as a mode of transport.
• Breathtaking Scenic Stops: Visit Point Dume, Malibu Pier, and other iconic spots with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Alexy and Stephen make the experience engaging, sharing insights and local tips.
• Wine & Food: Enjoy a flight of four Californian wines, complemented by cheese, salami, and crackers, at a cozy tasting room.
• Flexible & Small Group: Options for private or small groups ensure a personalized experience.
• Great Value: For $195, you get a memorable scenic drive, multiple photo stops, and a wine tasting, which many feel is worth the price.

A Detailed Look at This Malibu Experience

How the Tour Begins: Meet, Greet, and Snap

Your adventure kicks off at either the Santa Monica Pier or another designated starting point, depending on your booking. From the moment you see the vintage VW van parked, you’ll understand why this tour is a picture-perfect experience. Guests love the hippie vibe of the van, inside and out, which instantly sets a relaxed, fun tone. As one reviewer, Marlene F., mentioned, “The VW Bus was such a fun experience, and very unique. We loved cruising around and checking out the sites.”

The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, with Alexy being praised for his easygoing attitude and local insights, making everyone feel comfortable from the start. Expect plenty of opportunities to snap photos with the van and the stunning scenery — it’s a great way to kick off a memorable day.

Scenic Drive Along Pacific Coast Highway

The tour’s highlight is the scenic drive along Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1), which takes roughly 40 minutes in one direction. This stretch is famous for its breathtaking coastal views with cliffs dropping directly into the ocean, making it one of California’s most scenic drives.

Guests often comment on how relaxing and visually stunning the drive is, with plenty of chances to appreciate the uninterrupted views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The route also offers glimpses of Malibu’s celebrity homes and secluded beaches, which are part of what makes this area so iconic.

Malibu’s Top Photo Stops: Point Dume and Malibu Pier

The tour makes several stops at some of Malibu’s most photogenic spots.

Point Dume is a particular favorite, with its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. Visitors have praised this stop for both the breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to take memorable photos. One reviewer noted, “The views at Point Dume are truly spectacular, and it’s a great place to walk around and soak in the scenery.”

The Malibu Pier provides a charming walk with ocean views, perfect for capturing photos of the historic pier or just enjoying the sea breeze.

The Highlight: Wine Tasting at Rosenthal

The final stop is at the Rosenthal wine tasting room, where you’ll sample four local California wines alongside a cheese, salami, and cracker platter. Guests have raved about the quality and ambiance of this part of the tour. Marlene F. described the experience as “a nice experience complete with music, and cool ambiance,” making it more than just a quick tasting.

Guests tend to appreciate the unhurried pace, which allows them to relax, chat, and enjoy the wines in a welcoming environment. The tour’s timing ensures you visit the tasting room at the end, wrapping up the day on a high note.

The Return Journey: Scenic Drive and Drop-offs

After the wine tasting, the van heads back down the coast for an hour-long scenic drive along PCH, giving you plenty of opportunities to admire the coastline one last time. The tour concludes back at your starting point, making for a convenient and relaxed end to the day.

The Experience, Guided by Local Experts

Guides like Alexy and Stephen receive high praise for their friendly attitude and local knowledge. Guests mention that guides are chill, accommodating, and eager to share interesting facts and stories about Malibu and its surroundings. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing ride.

Authentic, Fun, and Relaxed Atmosphere

Many reviews emphasize how much fun the vibe of the tour is, especially thanks to the vintage van’s hippie interiors and exterior charm. The van itself is a conversation starter and photo magnet, making this a fun, light-hearted way to explore Malibu’s highlights.

Value & Practical Considerations

At $195 per person, many feel this tour offers good value, considering the combination of transportation, guided scenery, and wine tasting. It’s a relaxed experience, so don’t expect a fast-paced, exhaustive tour — rather, it’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy Malibu at a leisurely pace, with plenty of beautiful photo opportunities and a touch of wine indulgence.

What to Keep in Mind

• The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• You must be at least 21 years old for the wine tasting component.
• The experience is suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, vintage aesthetics, and casual wine tasting.
• Small groups or private options are available, which can enhance the personalized feel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back, visually engaging day in Malibu. It’s perfect if you love vintage vibes, coastal scenery, and wine — without the fuss of large group tours or overly structured itineraries.

It’s particularly well-suited for people who enjoy photo opportunities and want to feel like they’re on a classic California road trip, with the bonus of tasting local wines in a cozy setting.

Note: If you prefer a fast-paced tour with multiple stops or more in-depth historical commentary, this might not satisfy your curiosity. But if your priority is savoring the scenery, snapping photos, and unwinding with wine, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 4 hours, with flexible starting times depending on your booking.

Where does the tour start and end?
You can choose between two starting points at the Santa Monica Pier or another designated location. It ends back at the same meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a flight of four local wines, along with a cheese, salami, and cracker plate. The scenic transportation, stops at key points, and guide services are also included.

Are small groups or private tours available?
Yes, you can opt for private or small group experiences, which tend to offer a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for children or those under 21?
No, the wine tasting component is only for guests aged 21 and over. Children or minors cannot participate in the tasting.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, especially for the wine tasting. Comfortable shoes for walking and a camera for photos are also recommended.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How scenic is the drive?
The drive along the Pacific Coast Highway is renowned for its stunning views, cliffs, and ocean vistas, making it a highlight on its own.

Can I take my own drinks or food?
Outside food and drink aren’t included, but the tour provides a snack plate at the wine tasting. Feel free to bring your camera for photos.

This Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing and Wine Tasting Tour offers a relaxed, visually engaging way to explore one of California’s most iconic coastlines. The combination of vintage charm, scenic vistas, and quality local wines makes for a memorable outing that appeals to those who prefer a laid-back, authentic experience over a fast-paced sightseeing checklist.

Guided by friendly experts, you’ll get to see Malibu’s top spots, enjoy fantastic photo opportunities, and indulge in some of California’s best wines — all in a fun, vintage setting. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to capture the essence of Malibu while enjoying a leisurely, intimate tour.

If vintage vibes, coastal scenery, and wine tasting sound like your ideal mix, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a charming way to spend a few hours soaking in California’s laid-back, scenic lifestyle — with plenty of great photos and new tastes to remember it by.