Fly & Drive guide
Fly into LAX, drive to Malibu
Your route
LAX
Los Angeles International Airport
Malibu
About 41 min · 23 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
01Flights to LAX
Compare fares into Los Angeles International Airport.
Find flightsPartner link · Aviasales · Photo: formulanone · CC BY-SA 2.0
02Car at LAX
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Malibu. Compare rental companies in one search.
Compare rentalsPartner link · EconomyBookings · Photo: JustAnotherCarDesigner · CC0
03Store extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
Find storagePartner link · Radical Storage · Photo: abdallahh from Montréal, Canada · CC BY 2.0
04 · First night near Malibu
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
04Hotels near Malibu
Compare hotels and lodges on the way in, with free-cancellation filters.
Search ExpediaPartner link · Expedia · Photo: w_lemay · CC BY-SA 2.0
04Cabins & homes near Malibu
Whole homes and cabins for families or groups who want a kitchen and space.
Search VrboPartner link · Vrbo · Photo: NPS · Public domain
Before you land
Reservations
Coastal Access and Mountain Trail Reservations
Access to state beaches like El Matador is generally first-come, but parking is limited and requires a daily fee. Historic sites like the Adamson House require specific tour bookings. Always verify seasonal trail closures with California State Parks or the NPS before arrival.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
April – October
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Malibu?
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from LAX to Malibu?
Roughly 41 min (about 23 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Malibu?
Access to state beaches like El Matador is generally first-come, but parking is limited and requires a daily fee. Historic sites like the Adamson House require specific tour bookings. Always verify seasonal trail closures with California State Parks or the NPS before arrival.
