Planning an evening in Malibu? Start at the Getty Villa and finish with sunset views at Point Dume. Here’s how to do it.
Explore Getty Villa
After immersing ourselves in the ancient world at the Getty Villa, our family’s adventure wasn’t quite over. With the sun beginning to dip lower in the sky, we decided to head up the coast to Malibu, where the promise of breathtaking views and a stunning sunset awaited us.
Hike Point Dume Trail
A short drive brought us to Point Dume State Park, one of Malibu’s most scenic spots. As we parked and began our walk, the beauty of the landscape immediately captivated us. Rugged cliffs towered above the ocean, with trails winding their way through wildflowers and coastal vegetation. The kids were excited to explore, and we set off on a leisurely hike, taking in the stunning vistas.
The highlight of our walk was reaching the top of Point Dume. From this vantage point, the view was nothing short of spectacular. The cliffs dropped dramatically into the Pacific Ocean below, where we could see waves crashing against the rocks. Far off in the distance, we spotted dolphins playing in the surf, adding a touch of magic to the moment.
As we stood there, the sun began its descent, casting a golden hue across the sky. The light danced on the water, creating a dazzling display that left us all in awe. It was one of those moments that felt almost too perfect to be real—a reminder of the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer.
Best Sunset Spots
Not wanting to miss a second of the sunset, we decided to make our way down to the beach. The trail led us through more of Point Dume’s scenic beauty, and soon we found ourselves standing on the soft sands of Zuma Beach, just as the sun began to touch the horizon.
The golden hour was nothing short of magical. The entire beach was bathed in warm, golden light, and the sky was painted with shades of orange, pink, and purple. The kids ran along the shore, their laughter mixing with the sound of the waves, while we took in the beauty of the moment.
As the sun finally dipped below the horizon, the sky turned a deep, rich blue, and we felt a sense of peace and contentment. Watching the sunset from the beach was the perfect end to our day—a quiet, reflective moment after the excitement of our earlier adventures.
A Night Drive Through Malibu: Lights of Santa Monica Pier
With the sun gone and the stars beginning to appear, we packed up and began our drive back to Los Angeles. The scenic Pacific Coast Highway was even more enchanting at night, with the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other.
As we passed through Santa Monica, the pier caught our eye, now illuminated with thousands of lights. The Ferris wheel spun slowly, its colorful lights reflecting off the water, creating a mesmerizing sight. We couldn’t resist one last look at the pier before heading back to our hotel, the perfect end to a day full of beauty and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to visit the Getty Villa?
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the galleries, gardens, and café. Entry is free with advance timed tickets.
Where is the best sunset spot in Malibu?
Point Dume is one of the best sunset spots in Malibu, offering panoramic views from the cliffs and nearby beach access.
Is the Point Dume hike suitable for kids?
Yes, the Point Dume trail is short, manageable, and family-friendly, making it ideal for children.
Do you need a car for this itinerary?
Yes, driving is the easiest way to move between the Getty Villa, Point Dume, and Santa Monica.
Is Zuma Beach good for families?
Absolutely. Zuma Beach is wide, clean, and perfect for families, especially during sunset hours.
Reflections on a Perfect California Day
Our day had been a blend of culture, nature, and pure joy. From the ancient treasures of the Getty Villa to the stunning cliffs of Point Dume, and finally, the golden sunset on Malibu Beach, it was a day that reminded us of why we love exploring California so much. As we settled in for the night, we knew we’d carry the memories of this day with us for a long time.
Thanks for following along! From iconic city views to breezy beach days, Los Angeles offers endless family-friendly fun and unforgettable memories. If you loved this guide, we’ve put together even more detailed experiences to help you plan the perfect LA adventure — whether you’re here for culture, food, sunset views, or star-studded sights.
✨ Explore more of LA:
👉 Take in the city energy with a visit to Crypto.com Arena and the famed basketball statues: https://travelfamilyblog.com/downtown-los-angeles-a-visit-to-crypto-arena-and-iconic-basketball-statues/
👉 Enjoy the stars above at Griffith Observatory: https://travelfamilyblog.com/griffith-observatory-a-stellar-experience-in-los-angeles/
👉 Discover the glitz and glam with our Beverly Hills guide: https://travelfamilyblog.com/beverly-hills-california-things-to-do/
👉 Walk among legends on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: https://travelfamilyblog.com/hollywood-walk-of-fame-guide-los-angeles/
👉 Ride the Ferris wheel and feel the ocean breeze at Santa Monica Pier: https://travelfamilyblog.com/santa-monica-pier-family-guide-los-angeles/
🌊 More cultural & coastal adventures:
👉 Explore art, history, and gardens at the Getty Villa: https://travelfamilyblog.com/getty-villa-los-angeles-family-museum-gardens/
👉 Combine sunshine and sunsets with our Point Dume Malibu itinerary: https://travelfamilyblog.com/getty-villa-point-dume-malibu-sunset-itinerary/
👉 See LA from above at Downtown City Hall’s observation deck: https://travelfamilyblog.com/downtown-los-angeles-city-hall-observation-deck/
👉 Have a perfect blend of city + surf with Downtown to Venice Beach: https://travelfamilyblog.com/from-downtown-to-venice-beach-a-perfect-day-in-la/
🎡 Hidden gems & local favorites:
👉 Enjoy sand and surf at Rodeo Beach: https://travelfamilyblog.com/rodeo-beach-family-day-trip-los-angeles/
👉 Visit the historic Apple Tower Theatre store downtown: https://travelfamilyblog.com/apple-tower-theatre-store-los-angeles/
👉 Dive into classic LA experiences at Angels Flight & Grand Central Market: https://travelfamilyblog.com/angels-flight-grand-central-market-downtown-los-angeles/
We hope these guides help you build your perfect LA itinerary! Don’t forget to share your own adventures with us — drop a comment below or tag @travelfamilyblog on social media. ✨🌴❤️
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