
Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 491 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes worth booking?
Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes is a 2-hour experience in Santa Monica, United States, from $31 per person. It scores 90 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 491 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 90 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (491)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $31 per person
Discover the beauty of Malibu on this 2-hour open-air sightseeing tour along California's legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH.). Departing from Santa Monica, you'll enjoy breathtaking ocean views as you cruise past famous beaches, celebrity homes, luxury oceanfront estates, and some of Southern California's most spectacular coastal scenery. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share entertaining stories about Malibu's history, Hollywood filming locations, famous residents, and local landmarks. Highlights include the historic Getty Villa and exclusive Carbon Beach—also known as "Billionaire's Beach." Enjoy a 30-minute stop at the iconic Malibu Pier to stroll the pier, browse the shops, grab a drink or snack, take incredible photos, and soak in the relaxed Malibu lifestyle before returning along the coast. Begins and Ends at Santa Monica Visitor Center & Cafe.
What you get
About this experience
Discover the beauty of Malibu on this 2-hour open-air sightseeing tour along California's legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH.). Departing from Santa Monica, you'll enjoy breathtaking ocean views as you cruise past famous beaches, celebrity homes, luxury oceanfront estates, and some of Southern California's most spectacular coastal scenery. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share entertaining stories about Malibu's history, Hollywood filming locations, famous residents, and local landmarks. Highlights include the historic Getty Villa and exclusive Carbon Beach—also known as "Billionaire's Beach." Enjoy a 30-minute stop at the iconic Malibu Pier to stroll the pier, browse the shops, grab a drink or snack, take incredible photos, and soak in the relaxed Malibu lifestyle before returning along the coast. Begins and Ends at Santa Monica Visitor Center & Cafe.
What's included
Included
- Open-Air Sightseeing Van
- Only Malibu Sightseeing Tour
- Malibu Celebrity Homes and Filming Locations
Not included
- Meals
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Santa Monica
Welcome aboard, everyone! Today we'll be taking one of the most beautiful drives in Southern California. We'll depart from Santa Monica and head north along the world-famous Pacific Coast Highway, following the coastline all the way to Malibu. Along the way you'll enjoy incredible ocean views, pass some of California's most famous beaches, and see landmarks like the Getty Villa, Carbon Beach, Surfrider Beach, Malibu Pier, and Point Dume. We'll make a 30-minute stop at the iconic Malibu Pier before making our way back to Santa Monica. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride—this is California at its best!
Pass by without stopping
Pacific Coast Highway
We're now driving along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, officially known as California State Route 1. This is one of the most scenic highways in the world, stretching more than 650 miles along California's coastline. The section we're traveling between Santa Monica and Malibu is especially famous for its breathtaking ocean views, beautiful beaches, and luxurious beachfront homes. It's been featured in countless movies, TV shows, commercials, and road trip adventures, making it one of Southern California's most iconic drives.
Pass by without stopping
Malibu
Drive through Malibu visiting celebrity homes, filming locations, city landmarks, and more in Hollywood's #1 celebrity beach-side town.
Pass by without stopping
Leo Carrillo State Park and Beach
Take in the beach of this iconic Malibu Beach
Pass by without stopping
The Getty Villa
See The Getty Villa in Malibu
Pass by without stopping
Malibu Pier
You've made it to Malibu! For the next 30 minutes, enjoy one of Southern California's most iconic destinations. Walk out to the end of the pier for breathtaking Pacific views, visit the shops, grab a coffee or a bite at Malibu Farm, or simply relax and soak up the laid-back Malibu vibe. We'll meet back here in 30 minutes—have fun, and don't forget your photos!
30 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Santa Monica
Meet at Santa Monica Cafe; look for the sign "Santa Monica Cafe" in front of the shop. Check in, grab a coffee, and get ready to go to Malibu.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Meet at Santa Monica Cafe; look for the sign "Santa Monica Cafe" in front of the shop. Check in, grab a coffee, and get ready to go to Malibu.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Surf City Tours LLC
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 491 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
3 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
491 verified traveler reviews for Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour!
Vanessa was able to show us quite a few celeb homes, very informative, loved the open top! Would recommend.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We're thrilled you enjoyed exploring celebrity homes with Vanessa and taking in LA from our open-air bus! We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to her. Thanks for recommending us, and we hope to see you again for another Hollywood adventure! 🩵🚌
via Viator
The Malibu tour was a...
The Malibu tour was a relaxing open bus tour. Will and Megan had a tremendous amount of knowledge and kindly showed us the ins and outs and ups and downs of Malibu. They were pleasant and the tour was worth it.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so happy you enjoyed cruising through Malibu with Will and Megan! Their knowledge and great energy make the experience even more special. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back for another coastal adventure! 🩵🚌
via Viator
Book it now!
Megan are your guide was awesome. Incredible tour. Not to be missed. Very informative and fun. Amazing views. Lovely bus.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the amazing review! We're thrilled Megan made your tour so fun and memorable! Between the incredible views and her entertaining stories, it sounds like you had a fantastic LA adventure. We'll be sure to share your kind words with her. Hope to see you again soon! 🩵🚌
via Viator
Tour cancelled last minute.
Unfortunately this trip never took place. We didn't find out about it until 10 minutes before departure. We were very disappointed and couldn't quite understand how in 2026 it wasn't possible for the tour operators to inform us about this cancellation.
Response from the operator: We’re truly sorry to hear about your experience and understand how disappointing this must have been, especially with such short notice. This is certainly not the experience we want for our guests. We would love the opportunity to make things right and invite you back for a complimentary tour. Please email us at reservations@hollywoodbustoursla.com so our team can assist you. We hope you'll give us another chance! 🩵🚌
via Viator
Tour no longer exists, do...
Tour no longer exists, do not book. No communication from your company that this no longer runs and we were only told when we went to pick up spot specified in the confirmation email (wrong spot) to go to another pickup spot where we were told the company went out of business and the tour no longer runs.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We sincerely apologize for the confusion and frustration you experienced. 🩵 Hollywood Bus Tours recently merged with Surf City Tours, and unfortunately, some guests were affected during the transition. We're truly sorry for the lack of communication and the incorrect meeting information you received—that's not the experience we want anyone to have. We would love the opportunity to make this right. Please email us at reservations@hollywoodbustoursla.com, and we'd be happy to offer you a complimentary tour so you can experience Los Angeles the way it was meant to be. We hope to have the chance to welcome you back and earn your trust.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $31 to $39
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 172
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 90
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Santa Monica.
How much does Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes cost?
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Prices start at $31 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Santa Monica usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Santa Monica is not rushed.
Is Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 90 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 491 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Santa Monica, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes?
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Around 172 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Santa Monica can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Santa Monica and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Santa Monica within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Santa Monica?
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Santa Monica is where most LA coast tours start: beach bike and e-bike rides to Venice, surf lessons, food walks on Third Street and open-top runs up Pacific Coast Highway. On Outty we rank every Santa Monica experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Best of Los Angeles Guided City Tour with 4 Stops and Free Time, Half Day Best of Los Angeles City Tour from Santa Monica, Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Santa Monica?
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March to May and September to November, dodging the June marine layer. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Santa Monica?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes?
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Included: Open-Air Sightseeing Van; Only Malibu Sightseeing Tour; and Malibu Celebrity Homes and Filming Locations. Not included: Meals; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes?
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Meet at Santa Monica Cafe; look for the sign "Santa Monica Cafe" in front of the shop. Check in, grab a coffee, and get ready to go to Malibu. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Malibu Open-Air Tour from Santa Monica with Celebrity Homes?
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Across 491 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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