A Boutique Hotel in Malibu

I had been wanting to visit the Surfrider, a boutique hotel in Malibu since they opened with great fanfare four years ago. The thing about LA is that if you live on the Eastside, going to the beach can feel like a trek. Not only are you fighting traffic, but you’re fighting (or paying a lot) for parking. And then there’s the problem of the public restrooms; They’re not exactly chic. So really, the best way to visit the beach even when you live in LA is to stay the night. You’re going to pay for it, but it’s totally worth the splurge every now and then.

Surfrider Beach had it’s heyday in the 50s and 60s, considered to be the golden era of surfing, inspiring the beloved Gidget, which ultimately changed Malibu into the popular spot it is today. Even now, great hotels are limited, but the renovation of the Surfrider brought to life a Californian beach house that feels luxurious, yet intimate.

My best friend moved from LA to New York during the pandemic, so when she popped in for a weekend visit, we decided to treat it like a staycation that felt more like a getaway.

I’ll meet you on the private rooftop. This is the Surfrider Malibu, and it’s my next Stylish Stay.

What I Loved: The location, despite being across the street from the ocean, still felt plenty convenient to get to the sand. I loved the California decor—it feels very Jenni Kayne, like you want to snuggle up in a cotton sweater while holding your coffee with both hands. The rooftop was amazing, but more on that in a minute.

Suite Dreams: My friend and I each booked our own room (you know you’re old when…) and they do not come cheap during high season (my room was $800/night, my friend paid more). While you tend to only see their Ocean View Suites in press photos, my room was ground level overlooking the parking lot (everything else was booked). A for effort for hiding the cars as much as possible with the plants. We had Parachute robes and Grown Alchemist products and the sheets felt luxurious. Having Netflix (and not having to log in to my own account) felt like a bonus.It would have felt small if Dave had been with me, but alone, it was the perfect size.

Something to Know:  I would definitely request a room away from housekeeping. The housekeeping closets and trolleys were always open and blocking the hallways, which made it feel like we were seeing too much behind the scenes. When you’re paying these prices, it’s an extra detail that matters.

Cool Factor: The private rooftop (meaning for guests of the hotel only) is reason enough to book this hotel. When we weren’t on the beach, we were on the rooftop. They served breakfast, lunch and dinner, which was phenomenal. The staff was incredibly accommodating—letting us invite more than the allotted two outside guests per room since they were slow that night.

Hero Shot:  On the rooftop at sunset, holding a cocktail.

Bonus Tip: They have lots of activities you can book (sound bath, anyone?!). I highly recommend beach yoga and a beach picnic (see photos below!).

Surfrider Malibu is located directly across the street from the Malibu Pier. Malibu Farm is a great place for brunch or cocktails. Don’t miss One Gun Ranch for their selection of Bamford products that I discovered years ago on a trip to London.