Discover Malibu in a Classic VW Camper Van with Wine Tasting

This Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting offers a unique way to explore California’s coastal beauty in a charming 1972 VW camper van. Priced at $195 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, the tour departs from Santa Monica and combines scenic drives with a relaxed wine tasting experience. It’s perfect for those who love vintage vehicles, stunning ocean views, and the laid-back Malibu vibe—though recent reviews highlight some inconsistencies in the experience.

From the iconic Point Dume to the bustling Malibu Pier, this tour promises memorable photo moments and a chance to enjoy local California wines. Guides are generally friendly and engaging, making the journey enjoyable despite some reviews mentioning occasional communication issues or logistical hiccups. Overall, it’s a scenic, fun adventure that balances sightseeing with a taste of Malibu’s wine culture, suitable for those prepared for a relaxed pace and some surprises along the way.

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Key Points

Vintage VW Experience in a 1972 camper van with hippie vibes
Includes a wine tasting of 4 local California wines
Visits iconic spots like Point Dume and Malibu Pier
Scenic drive along the Malibu coast with ocean and mountain views
Group size can be private or small, with flexible meeting points
Ages 21 and up only, with a focus on a relaxed, scenic atmosphere

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Starting Point at Santa Monica Pier in a Vintage Van

The tour begins at Santa Monica Pier, where the classic VW camper van awaits. This is a fun photo opportunity, as the van’s vintage charm and hippie style make it a visual highlight. Once everyone is ready, the guide leads the group along the coast toward Malibu, setting the tone for a laid-back, nostalgic adventure. This meeting point is convenient and iconic, perfect for stepping into the Malibu experience right from the start.

Cruising Along the Famous Malibu Coastline

The journey takes you north along one of California’s most recognizable coastlines. The drive in the vintage VW van offers a relaxed, open-air feel, with panoramic views of the ocean and coastal cliffs. This segment of the tour emphasizes the scenic beauty of Malibu’s shoreline, with stops at viewpoints where the group can capture photos with the van and the stunning landscape behind.

While the drive is mostly along the Pacific Coast Highway, recent reviews point out that some routes may involve interstate sections, which might be less picturesque. However, the overall vibe of the VW van adds a nostalgic touch, making the travel part of the experience rather than just transportation.

Exploring Point Dume and Its Breathtaking Views

One of the tour’s key highlights is a visit to Point Dume, famed for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. This stop offers ample opportunities to take photos and appreciate Malibu’s rugged coastline. The guide provides insights into the area’s natural beauty and history, though reviews suggest some guides may vary in the depth of commentary. Still, the views alone make this a worthwhile stop, especially for photography enthusiasts.

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The Malibu Pier and Seaside Walks

Next, the tour includes a walk around Malibu Pier, a classic spot for enjoying the seaside atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the pier and snap photos of the surf breaks at Surfrider Beach. Watching surfers ride the waves offers an authentic Malibu scene, and the pier provides a relaxed setting to soak in the coast’s charm. This stop blends sightseeing with leisure, making it a favorite part of the tour despite some operational hiccups noted by some reviews.

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Wine Tasting at Rosenthal in Malibu

The final segment of the tour takes place at the Rosenthal Wine Tasting Room, where a flight of four local wines is served. The tasting includes a cheese, salami, and cracker plate, allowing for a leisurely finish to the experience. Visitors typically enjoy the ambiance, which is often accompanied by music, adding a lively or relaxed vibe depending on the day.

Some reviews mention that the wine tasting occurs at the end of the tour, particularly on morning schedules, giving guests a chance to unwind after the scenic drive. While most find the selection enjoyable, a few feel the experience might be rushed or not as engaging as expected, especially given the price point.

Practical Details: Group Size, Meeting Points, and Flexibility

The tour can be tailored to private or small groups, with flexible meeting points that may vary based on booking options. The live English-speaking guide keeps the group informed and entertained, although some reviews suggest that communication quality can vary. It’s recommended to bring passport or ID and be prepared for a minimum age of 21 due to alcohol service.

The experience lasts about 4 hours, with options available in both the morning and afternoon. The tour includes wine tasting and a snack platter but does not cover additional water or gratuities.

Challenges and Considerations from Recent Reviews

While many travelers praise the fun vintage VW van and beautiful Malibu spots, some recent reviews highlight issues. One reviewer describes a disorganized experience with a stalled vehicle and an overwhelming exhaust smell, emphasizing the importance of confirming the vehicle’s condition beforehand. Another mentions a lack of guide engagement and poor communication about the itinerary, which could affect overall enjoyment.

It’s worth noting that wildfires have impacted some routes and winery availability, so weather or natural events may influence the experience. Guests should be open to some unpredictability, especially with alternate stops or wineries.

The Value of the Malibu Vintage VW Tour

At $195 per person, this tour offers a combination of scenic drives, photo opportunities, and wine tasting. Many find this to be good value, particularly for the unique experience of cruising in a vintage VW camper and visiting iconic Malibu locations. However, some reviews suggest that the experience might feel rushed or overpriced compared to renting a car and visiting wineries independently.

The tour’s nostalgic charm, beautiful scenery, and relaxed pace appeal most to vintage car lovers, casual sightseers, and those wanting a light-hearted Malibu outing. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a casual, scenic adventure with some wine indulgence, rather than a highly detailed touring experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Malibu VW Sightseeing Tour?

This experience attracts those who appreciate vintage vehicles and the California coastal vibe. It’s ideal for small groups or private bookings, offering a relaxed atmosphere and photo opportunities. While the wine tasting enhances the experience, it’s more of a leisurely addition rather than a serious wine tour.

Guests should enjoy scenic drives, ocean views, and casual exploration. The tour’s pace is relaxed, making it perfect for those who want to avoid rushed itineraries but should be prepared for some variability in the stops and guide engagement.

Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing and Wine Tasting: Final Highlights

This tour offers a distinctive way to see Malibu in a vintage camper van with beautiful coastlines and local wines. Despite some recent operational issues, the core experience remains appealing for vintage vehicle enthusiasts and coastal scenery lovers. It’s a fun, relaxed outing that emphasizes photo moments and casual sightseeing, making it a memorable addition to a Malibu or LA trip for those valuing quirky charm and scenic views.

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Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the vintage VW van comfortable for long drives?
The van is designed for sightseeing, but comfort levels may vary depending on personal preferences. It offers a nostalgic, open-air vibe, not the modern amenities of newer vehicles.

Are food and additional drinks included?
No, only the wine tasting and snack platter are included. Guests should bring water if needed.

Can I customize the meeting point?
Yes, the meeting point may vary depending on the booking option, offering some flexibility for convenience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, guests must be at least 21 years old to participate due to the wine tasting.

What happens if there are wildfires or road closures?
The tour may be affected; alternate stops or routes might be offered, but some flexibility is advised.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including sightseeing and wine tasting.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Malibu?
Guide quality can vary; some reviews mention limited commentary, while others praise friendly and engaging guides.

What is the overall value?
While some view it as a fun, unique experience, others feel it may be overpriced or not as refined as expected. It’s best suited for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day with vintage charm.

This Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting provides a quirky, scenic way to enjoy California’s coast, with the right balance of nostalgia, beautiful views, and wine—perfect for relaxed explorers and vintage lovers alike.