Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting

The Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting offers a fun and relaxed way to explore the stunning Malibu coastline. Priced at $199 per person, this 4-hour tour departs from Santa Monica Pier and features a vintage VW bus experience, scenic views, and a stop at a local winery. While it delivers picturesque scenery and a casual vibe, some aspects like the wine tasting experience and guide commentary may not meet all expectations. This tour is ideal for those seeking a laid-back, social outing with beautiful vistas rather than an in-depth guided adventure.

Key Points

• Vintage VW bus provides a unique, nostalgic transport experience.
• Scenic stops at Malibu Pier and Point Dume offer breathtaking views.
• A local winery stop includes wine tasting and snacks.
• Tour duration is around 4 hours, with a maximum of 6 travelers.
• Price is $199 per person, booked on average 23 days in advance.
• Some reviews highlight that the driver does not provide detailed area info and alcohol is not included at the winery.

Scenic Malibu Pier and Mountain Views

The tour begins at the Santa Monica Pier, where the vintage VW bus awaits to take you on this colorful ride along the coast. The first stop at Malibu Pier offers 15 minutes to enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with vistas of Point Dume and surrounding mountain terrain. The pier itself provides a perfect photo opportunity, with expansive ocean vistas and a sense of coastal charm.

From here, the journey continues along the famous Pacific Coast Highway, where the scenery shifts from lively shoreline to peaceful mountain landscapes. The route showcases ocean vistas and the rugged beauty of Malibu’s coastline, captivating anyone who appreciates nature’s artistry.

Point Dume Viewing and Coastal Landscapes

One of the key highlights is Point Dume, visible on clear days from Malibu Pier. The vantage point offers a sweeping vista of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and Santa Catalina Island, making it a favorite photo spot for many. The area is known for its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, providing a quintessential Southern California coast experience.

Travelers can enjoy a brief stop here, soaking in the views and capturing memorable photos. The scenery emphasizes Malibu’s rugged coast and mountain vistas, making it a highlight for those who appreciate natural beauty.

The Wine Tasting Experience at a Local Malibu Winery

Midway through the tour, the VW bus pulls into a local Malibu winery for a 20-minute visit. This stop features wine tasting and snacks, giving guests a chance to relax and enjoy a taste of California wine culture. However, it’s worth noting that alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price—guests are expected to pay separately at the winery.

The winery stop provides a casual atmosphere with scenic vineyard views, complementing the coastal scenery seen earlier. It’s a simple, no-frills experience focused on enjoying a drink in a beautiful setting.

The Unique Charm of the Vintage VW Bus Ride

A standout feature of this tour is the transport in a vintage VW bus, which adds a nostalgic, hippie vibe to the experience. The bus is small enough for a maximum of six travelers, fostering an intimate and social environment.

While the driver is friendly, the lack of detailed commentary about the area may be a disappointment for those seeking a more educational tour. Instead, the focus remains on enjoying the quirky transportation and scenic views.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from the Santa Monica Pier, a familiar and accessible location for many visitors to LA. It ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The small group size—limited to 6 travelers—ensures a personalized experience, but also means booking early is advisable, with bookings typically made 23 days in advance.

The tour is suitable for most people, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options available. However, participants should be prepared for outdoor elements, as sunscreen and bottled water are not provided.

The Experience in Context: What to Expect

This tour caters to those looking for a laid-back outing rather than a highly detailed guided experience. The scenic stops at Malibu Pier and Point Dume are the primary attractions, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. The wine tasting provides a relaxing break, although the lack of included alcohol and minimal guide commentary may leave some wanting more substance.

Given its affordable price and casual vibe, this tour is well-suited for families, friends, or couples who want a fun, social afternoon amidst beautiful scenery. It is less ideal for travelers seeking educational insights or extensive guided narration.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Considerations

At $199 per person, the tour offers a reasonably priced option for enjoying Malibu’s coast in a unique way. Booking is recommended approximately 23 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Weather plays a role, as the experience is dependent on good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

Limitations and Honest Insights

While the vintage VW bus adds charm, some may find the driver’s commentary limited. The wine tasting experience does not include alcohol, which could be misleading based on the tour description. Plus, the short duration at each stop means that the tour is more about experiencing the scenery than exploring in depth.

Participants should also remember to bring sunscreen and bottled water, as these are not included. The tour’s small group cap of 6 enhances intimacy but requires early booking.

Ideal Audience for This Malibu Coastal Tour

This tour suits those seeking a relaxed and social way to experience Malibu’s scenic beauty without the need for a detailed guided commentary. It’s perfect for fans of vintage vehicles, casual wine lovers, and anyone wanting a scenic, fun afternoon by the sea.

However, travelers expecting an educational or comprehensive tour may find it lacking. It’s an experience designed more for fun and photos than for deep insights into Malibu or its wineries.

Final Thoughts on the Vintage VW Hippie Tour

The Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting offers a quirky, scenic, and affordable way to enjoy California’s coastline. Its nostalgic bus ride, beautiful vistas, and casual wine stop make it a charming outing, especially for those who appreciate relaxed atmospheres and informal exploration.

Despite some limitations—like minimal guide narration and additional costs at the winery—the tour excels at providing memorable views and a fun vintage experience. It’s best suited for small groups and laid-back travelers eager to capture great photos and soak in Malibu’s coastal beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the wine tasting included in the tour price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the $199 price. Guests need to pay separately at the winery.

How long is the tour and where does it start?
The tour lasts about 4 hours and begins at the Santa Monica Pier.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring sunscreen and bottled water, as these are not provided.

Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed and most travelers can participate, making it family-friendly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What makes this tour different from other Malibu tours?
Its vintage VW bus and casual, social atmosphere set it apart, emphasizing fun, views, and a relaxed pace over extensive commentary or guided learning.