Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting

Discover Malibu in a Vintage VW Van: A Scenic and Delicious Adventure

Imagine cruising along California’s iconic coastline in a 1972 vintage VW camper van, feeling the ocean breeze and catching breathtaking views at every turn. For about $195 per person, this 4-hour tour from Santa Monica offers a chance to explore Malibu’s stunning beaches and celebrity homes while enjoying a wine tasting at a local vineyard. Led by friendly guides, this experience combines nostalgic travel with tantalizing tastes and picture-perfect moments.

What we love most about this tour is the unique vintage vibe of the camper van, which turns a regular sightseeing trip into a memorable photo opportunity, and the beautiful coastal scenery that you’d have a hard time replicating on your own. The wine tasting at Rosenthal, with four local wines paired with cheese and salami, adds a touch of leisure to the day.

A potential consideration is that some reviews mention the experience can be inconsistent—from guides who might be less engaging to weather or road conditions that could limit certain stops. That said, this tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy casual sightseeing, vintage charm, and scenic indulgence rather than a highly structured or deeply educational experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, visually stunning, and uniquely Californian way to spend part of your day in Malibu, this tour might be perfect. It’s especially ideal for those who want a blend of coastal beauty, vintage fun, and local wine without the hassle of planning it all themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Vintage Charm: The iconic 1972 VW camper van offers a truly unique photo background and fun driving experience.
• Coastal Views: Expect plenty of scenic stops at Point Dume, Malibu Pier, and other coastal spots.
• Wine Tasting: Enjoy four local wines paired with cheese and salami, adding a leisure element to the trip.
• Guided Experience: Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, though some reviews suggest varying levels of insight.
• Flexible Options: Tours can be private or small groups, with flexibility in meeting points and cancellation.
• Authentic Malibu Experience: See celebrity homes, secluded beaches, and surf spots that showcase Malibu’s character.

Exploring the Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing and Wine Tasting Tour in Depth

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off at the Santa Monica Pier, a lively hub perfect for snapping photos of the charming vintage VW camper van that will be your mobile lookout for the next few hours. Once everyone’s aboard, your guide takes the wheel, and the adventure begins with a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway—a route famous for its stunning views and celebrity sightings.

Your first stop is at a viewpoint where you can take in the coastline, the Santa Monica Mountains, and perhaps even spot surfers riding the waves at Surfrider Beach. This pause is perfect for photos, especially with the hippie-style van as the backdrop. We loved the way this van adds a nostalgic, playful element to the scenery, making your photos stand out.

Next, the tour heads toward the north end of Malibu, where celebrity homes and secluded beaches lie behind gates, but you’ll only see them from the outside. The highlight for many is the stop at Point Dume, a spectacular promontory with towering cliffs and panoramic ocean views. Here, you can walk along the cliffs, breathe in the salty air, and capture stunning pictures of the rugged coastline.

Following this, a visit to Malibu Pier offers a classic California scene—fishermen, surfers, and waterfront cafes. It’s an ideal spot to stretch your legs and snap some photos with the pier or the waves. The pier also adds a lively, authentic touch to the experience, contrasting with the more secluded vistas.

The drive continues along the scenic coast, with the guide pointing out surf spots and explaining Malibu’s surfing culture. Watching surfers ride the waves at Surfrider Beach is a highlight, and you’ll love the uninterrupted views of the Santa Monica Mountains framed by the ocean horizon.

The Wine Tasting Experience

The final part of the day is at the Rosenthal tasting room, where you’ll settle in for a flight of four local wines. This stop is more than just a wine tasting—it’s an opportunity to relax and savor Malibu’s wine scene in a friendly, casual setting. The tasting is complemented by a cheese, salami, and cracker plate, making it a perfect way to wind down after a scenic drive.

Several reviewers have praised this segment, noting that the wine selection was excellent and that the ambiance at Rosenthal was enjoyable. One guest mentioned, “The wine tasting at Rosenthal was a nice experience complete with music and a cool ambiance.” This part of the tour offers good value, especially considering that the wine itself is included in the price.

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The Realities of the Experience

While many travelers find this tour delightful, some reviews highlight potential downsides. For instance, one reviewer noted that recent wildfires impacted the experience, leading to road closures and a rushed winery visit. Another pointed out that guides can sometimes be less engaging or informative, which can detract from the overall experience.

Plus, some travelers have expressed concerns about vehicle comfort and safety. One review mentioned that not enough seatbelts were available for all passengers, and the vehicle occasionally stalled, which could be unsettling for those expecting a smooth ride. It’s advisable to clarify these details if comfort and safety are top priorities.

Transportation, Group Size, and Flexibility

The tour’s vintage VW camper van is part of the charm, but it’s a relatively small vehicle, meaning group sizes are kept intimate, especially with private or small-group options. This setup fosters a friendly environment, but it also means that comfort can vary depending on the number of guests and the vehicle’s condition.

The tour duration is around four hours, with options available in the morning or afternoon. Meeting points are flexible but may vary depending on your booking. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering some peace of mind when planning.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $195 per person, this experience offers a good mix of scenic sightseeing, vintage fun, and wine tasting. For many, the value lies in the authenticity of the vintage van, the beautiful coastal views, and the relaxed atmosphere. However, if you’re expecting a highly detailed tour with extensive historical commentary, you might find the guide’s insight somewhat limited.

Many travelers consider this a fun, Instagram-worthy outing rather than an in-depth educational tour. It’s well-suited for those wanting an easygoing, picturesque day in Malibu, especially if you enjoy wine and vintage vehicles.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best for lovers of vintage style and scenic drives. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, social experience with plenty of opportunities for photos. It’s a good fit for small groups or private outings and travelers who appreciate local wines paired with light snacks.

However, if you’re expecting a deep dive into Malibu’s history or celebrity culture, or prefer luxury comfort and high-end wineries, this might not meet your expectations. It’s also worth noting that adverse weather or road conditions could impact the experience, so flexibility is key.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided drive in a vintage VW camper van, wine tasting of four local wines, and a cheese, salami, and cracker plate.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, generally in the morning or afternoon, depending on your booking.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is typically at the Santa Monica Pier, but it may vary based on your reservation.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No, participants must be at least 21 years old to participate due to the wine tasting.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are private or small groups available?
Yes, the tour offers options for private or small group experiences, making it more personalized.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for age verification. Comfortable clothing and camera are recommended.

Is there enough safety equipment?
Some reviews mention concerns about seatbelts and vehicle safety, so it’s advisable to ask about safety features when booking.

Final Thoughts

This Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing and Wine Tasting tour offers a charming and relaxed way to see some of Malibu’s most scenic spots. The vintage vehicle adds a playful and nostalgic touch, and the wine tasting provides a leisurely finish to the day. It’s especially suited for photo enthusiasts, wine lovers, and those seeking a casual, authentic experience.

While it may not satisfy those craving in-depth commentary or luxury comfort, it delivers a fun, scenic, and memorable outing. The combination of coastal views, vintage charm, and local wines makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a lighthearted glimpse of Malibu’s best.

If you’re ready to skip the crowded tourist spots and enjoy a laid-back, picture-perfect adventure in a classic camper van, this tour has plenty to offer. Just be prepared for the possibility of variable weather or guide engagement—and you’ll be in for a genuinely enjoyable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: