Malibu: Vintage VW Bus and Vineyard Tour — A Fun and Flavorful Ride Through California’s Wine Country
If you’re looking to combine classic California scenery with a touch of nostalgia and a sip of local wine, the Malibu: Vintage VW Bus and Vineyard Tour offers just that. For around $125 per person, you’ll hop into a cheerful vintage Volkswagen bus and cruise through the hills surrounding Saddlerock Ranch and a private vineyard estate. Lasting about two hours, this tour is small (up to six people per bus), making it intimate enough to chat easily with the lively guide and fellow travelers.
What really makes this experience stand out are the scenic stops that you won’t find on standard tours — picture-perfect vistas perfect for photos, plus the chance to taste delicious wines in a relaxed setting. The tour also features a lively soundtrack on the vintage radio, adding a fun, nostalgic vibe. We especially love the personalized feel of being driven in a classic VW, which makes the experience feel more authentic than a typical bus or car tour.
A potential consideration? The duration of two hours might be a bit short for those wanting a more in-depth vineyard experience, but for a quick taste of Malibu’s wine country, it hits the sweet spot. This tour suits wine lovers, vintage car enthusiasts, and anyone craving a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of fun.
Key Points
- Small-group experience with up to 6 guests per vehicle, ensuring a personalized vibe
- Scenic vistas and photo opportunities you won’t find on larger tours
- Wine tasting and snacks included, with stops at Saddlerock Ranch and private vineyards
- Lively tour guide and nostalgic soundtrack that enhances the fun atmosphere
- Private tour options available for a more immersive 3-hour experience
- Free cancellation makes it a low-risk activity
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What to Expect from the Malibu Vintage VW Bus and Vineyard Tour
This tour is designed to give you a taste of Malibu’s countryside and vineyards in a relaxed, fun way. Starting at 32111 Mulholland Hwy, you’ll be greeted and quickly settle into your vintage VW bus — a cheerful, open-air vehicle that sparks smiles before even hitting the road.
The itinerary takes you through the rolling hills of Saddlerock Ranch and a private vineyard estate, with multiple stops along the way. These are not just quick photo ops; each stop offers a chance to soak in stunning views of the Malibu landscape and capture memorable photos. As you ride along, you’ll be grooving to tunes on the vintage radio, adding a nostalgic soundtrack to your journey. The overall drive isn’t challenging — the roads are described as manageable, and the scenery surrounds you with wide vistas and beautiful landscapes.
Wine tastings are a core part of the experience. The tour includes stops where you’ll sample a variety of wines, and the reviews highlight the delicious and unique wines — a real treat for those seeking quality and variety. Some travelers mentioned that the wines are paired with snacks or small bites, which complements the tasting experience nicely.
The Stops and Highlights
The first highlight is the drive through Saddlerock Ranch, famous for its iconic Hollywood Hills views and star-studded history. While the tour doesn’t specify visiting famous celebrity homes, the scenery itself is enough to impress.
Next, you’ll visit a private vineyard estate where you’ll get to see the vineyard up close, learn about the local wine production, and enjoy tastings. The guide, described as passionate and knowledgeable, adds a layer of genuine enthusiasm and interesting tidbits, making the experience educational as well as leisurely.
Authenticity and Fun
Many reviews praised the guide’s personality and knowledge, with one reviewer noting that “the tour guide was fantastic,” making everyone feel comfortable and engaged. The lively atmosphere created by the music, laughter, and scenic stops makes this more than just a wine tasting — it’s a lively, memorable outing.
Photographers will love the numerous “picture-perfect” backdrops, with reviewers mentioning they captured stunning shots of Malibu’s landscape and the charming VW bus itself.
The Private Tour Upgrade: More Time, More Wine
For those wanting a more immersive experience, the private tour option extends to three hours. You get to book the whole vehicle, which means more stops, tastings, and time to enjoy the vineyard surroundings. It’s a good choice if you want to spend more quality time or celebrate a special occasion in style.
Price and Value Consideration
At $125 per person, the tour offers a good balance of fun, scenery, and wine in a small-group setting. You get the benefit of personalized attention, scenic vistas, and quality tastings, making it a worthwhile outing for those interested in Malibu’s wine culture without a hefty price tag. The included snacks and the intimate vehicle make the experience feel more special than a larger bus tour.
Practical Tips
- Book in advance — the tour is popular and usually booked 19 days ahead on average.
- Consider the weather — the tour is outdoors and relies on good weather for the best experience.
- Arrive on time at the meeting point, as the tour lasts approximately two hours and ends back at the start.
- Group size is limited to six, so it’s a cozy, friendly environment.
- Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, offering peace of mind.
Authentic Experiences and Authentic Scenery
This tour is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Malibu’s wine country combined with a dash of vintage charm. The guides’ enthusiasm and the scenic stops resonate strongly with previous travelers, with many calling it an “amazing experience” and “exceptional wine ride in the countryside.”
The small group size makes it ideal for families, couples, or friends wanting a more personal touch. The visual backdrop of Malibu’s hills, combined with the fun atmosphere of the VW bus, creates a memorable outing that’s both Instagram-worthy and genuinely enjoyable.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits wine enthusiasts looking for a casual, guided tasting in a scenic setting. It’s perfect for those who enjoy vintage vehicles and want a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. If you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy light-hearted, scenic adventures, you’ll find this tour a delightful way to spend a couple of hours.
It’s less suited for travelers seeking longer, more in-depth vineyard explorations or those who prefer independent wine tastings. But if your goal is a fun, scenic ride with tasting opportunities in Malibu, this tour delivers on both counts.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since wine tasting is involved, it’s mainly for adults. The tour’s relaxed pace is suitable for families with older children, but not recommended for very young kids.
How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including all stops and tastings. Longer private options are available for those wanting more time.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265.
Are snacks included?
Yes, wine and snacks are included, enhancing the tasting experience.
What’s the vehicle like?
You’ll ride in a cheerful vintage VW bus that seats up to 6 guests, providing a fun, open-air ride with a nostalgic feel.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option.
Is this tour suitable for groups larger than 6?
Multiple vehicles can be booked for larger groups, so it’s flexible for events or family reunions.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor activity; layers are recommended as weather varies.
Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers to operate, but if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How do I book?
You can book in advance, usually 19 days ahead, through the provider’s website or Viator.
Final Thoughts
This Vintage VW Bus and Vineyard Tour in Malibu offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, vintage charm, and wine tasting in a small-group setting. The friendly guides, stunning vistas, and relaxed atmosphere make it a wonderful choice for wine lovers, vintage enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of Malibu’s countryside without a long commitment.
While it’s not a deep dive into wine production, it’s a perfect quick escape that delivers authentic scenery and fun in equal measure. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable outing, this tour balances value, intimacy, and entertainment in a way that most visitors will appreciate.
In summary, if you’re after a small, scenic, and fun Malibu experience with quality wine tastings and a vintage vibe, this tour should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s ideal for those who value authenticity over extravagance, and who want to enjoy Malibu’s landscape in a relaxed, memorable way.