Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting

A Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting: A Genuine Look

If you’re looking for a relaxed way to soak in some stunning views of Malibu’s coastline, this vintage VW bus tour could be just what you need. For $199 per person, you get approximately four hours of scenic cruising along the Pacific, with stops at iconic spots like Point Dume and Malibu Pier, complemented by a visit to a local winery. The tour begins at Santa Monica Pier, a lively hub of Southern California charm, and takes you on a laid-back ride through what many consider some of the most postcard-worthy scenery on the coast.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the authentic vintage vibe of the VW bus, which adds a playful, retro feel that’s hard to replicate on more traditional tours, and the beautiful vistas that are visible from high points like Point Dume. The inclusion of wine tasting at a Malibu winery is a nice touch for those who enjoy a glass with their ocean views.

However, one potential snag is the limited commentary during the drive, which might leave those craving detailed historical or geographical insights wanting more. The tour is quite casual and doesn’t focus on guided narration, making it better suited for relaxed sightseeing rather than in-depth learning.

This experience best suits travelers who prioritize fun and scenic views over detailed tour commentary, especially those fond of vintage vehicles and casual wine tasting. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a lighthearted, photo-friendly jaunt along the coast.

Key Points

• Vintage Charm: Traveling in a classic VW bus adds a playful, nostalgic element to your Malibu experience.
• Stunning Vistas: Stops at Point Dume and Malibu Pier offer picture-perfect views of the Pacific and surrounding landscapes.
• Casual Wine Tasting: A visit to a local Malibu winery provides a relaxed setting for wine enjoyment and ocean views.
• Limited Guide Commentary: The driver is friendly but doesn’t provide detailed info about the area, leaning more toward a fun ride.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of six travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience, though this might limit social interactions.
• Mixed Reviews on Value: Some find the drive fun but feel the description and inclusions are misleading, especially regarding alcohol and information.

The Experience in Detail

Starting at Santa Monica Pier

The tour kicks off at the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Here, you’ll hop into a colorful vintage VW bus, instantly setting a playful tone. The vehicle’s open-air design is perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze, even if it means a bit of sun exposure – packing sunscreen is a good idea.

The Scenic Drive Along the Pacific Coast Highway

The route along Pacific Coast Highway is where the real magic begins. We loved the way the driver took us past gorgeous mountain terrains and oceanfront vistas, giving us ample opportunities for photos. The scenery here is what makes this tour worthwhile: cliffs dropping to the sea, signature Malibu homes, and views of Santa Catalina Island on clear days.

The driver was friendly and approachable, but notably, they didn’t provide much commentary. As one reviewer pointed out, “The driver was friendly but did not give info about area along the way like a tour guide.” So, if you’re expecting detailed history or local stories, this might not satisfy.

Stop at Malibu Pier

The first official stop is Malibu Pier, where you get about 15 minutes to take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains. This spot is perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the maritime atmosphere. The pier itself offers a classic California scene — surfers, fishermen, and those simply enjoying the view.

Visit to a Malibu Winery

Next, the group heads to a local Malibu winery for a 20-minute stop. Here’s where things get a little complicated based on reviews. Some travelers noted that alcohol was not included in the price, and the winery failed to charge them directly, which was a surprise. The tour description states that alcohol is included, but at the winery, it seems you pay separately unless the provider covers the cost behind the scenes — which they apparently do, but it’s not clear beforehand.

This stop offers a chance to taste local wines with ocean views as a backdrop. The stunning scenery combined with good wine is something many find enjoyable, especially those who appreciate a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Final Views and Return

The tour wraps up by returning to Santa Monica Pier, giving you a full but manageable chunk of coastal exploration. The entire experience lasts around four hours, making it suitable for a morning or early afternoon outing.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Transportation: Traveling in the vintage VW bus creates a memorable, photo-worthy experience, but the open-air design means you’ll want sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Group Size: Max six travelers, which feels intimate but might limit the social aspect.
• Pricing & Value: At $199 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option, but the vintage vehicle, scenic stops, and wine tasting add tangible value. Still, some reviews question the “all-inclusive” feel, especially regarding alcohol.
• Duration & Timing: Four hours gives enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, but the limited commentary means you might want to supplement the experience with your own research.
• Weather Dependence: As an outdoor activity, poor weather might lead to cancellations or less enjoyable experiences. The provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who love casual, scenic adventures and are excited about vintage vehicles. If you’re after stunning coastal views and a relaxed vibe, this is a solid choice. However, if you prefer detailed commentary or a more structured tour, you may find this experience somewhat lacking. It’s ideal for small groups looking for a fun, informal outing, especially those happy to pay a premium for the vintage vibe and scenic stops.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Malibu tour offers a lighthearted escape in a classic VW bus, perfect for capturing memorable photos and enjoying the natural beauty of the coast. The scenic views at Point Dume and Malibu Pier are genuinely impressive, and the wine tasting complements the experience with a touch of indulgence. That said, the lack of detailed narration and some confusion around alcohol inclusions might leave certain travelers feeling a bit underwhelmed.

It’s a good choice for those who value fun and authentic vintage charm over a comprehensive guided experience. If you’re ready for a relaxed, photo-worthy journey with a small group, this could be just the outing you need to add a splash of California cool to your trip.

FAQ

Is alcohol included in the tour?
While the tour description suggests that alcohol is included, at the winery stop, it appears that you might need to pay separately. The provider states they cover this expense, but it’s best to be prepared for potential additional costs.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, making it a manageable outing that fits easily into a day of sightseeing.

What stops are included?
You’ll visit Malibu Pier and enjoy a drive along Pacific Coast Highway with scenic views, plus a wine tasting at a Malibu winery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for most travelers, including those with service animals. However, the open-air vehicle and alcohol stops mean it’s best suited for adults or children comfortable with short rides.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended due to outdoor exposure. Snacks are included, but bottled water isn’t, so consider bringing your own.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of six travelers ensures an intimate experience but also means booking early is wise.

Are there any hidden costs?
Aside from the tour price, you may need to pay for wine at the winery if you choose to purchase more than a tasting. The tour provider states they cover the costs for the wine, but clarify beforehand if you’re concerned.

If you’re after a fun, photo-friendly coastal jaunt with a vintage twist, this tour offers genuine charm. Just keep expectations in check regarding commentary and inclusions, and you’re likely to have a memorable Malibu outing.