Malibu is weird. It’s a string of multi-million dollar glass boxes perched precariously over the Pacific, separated from a roaring highway by nothing but some weathered cedar siding and a lot of ego. In the middle of this beautiful, chaotic stretch sits Little Beach House Malibu. If you’ve driven past Carbon Beach, you’ve seen it. Or rather, you’ve seen the discreet, sandy-colored facade that looks intentionally like nothing at all.
It’s the crown jewel of the Soho House empire. Honestly, calling it a "club" feels a bit formal. It’s more like a very expensive living room where the person sitting next to you is probably a showrunner or an Oscar winner pretending to answer emails while staring at the surf.
But here’s the thing: most people get the vibe totally wrong. They think it's all glitz and velvet ropes. In reality, it’s remarkably quiet. Sometimes, it’s even a little sleepy. Because the membership is so restricted—even by Soho House standards—the density of "famous for being famous" influencers is lower than at the West Hollywood or New York locations.
Why Little Beach House Malibu Malibu CA is Different
Most Soho Houses are massive. They have gyms, screening rooms, maybe fifty bedrooms, and several floors of bars. Not this one. This is the "Little" house for a reason. It’s intimate. It’s basically two levels of breezy, open-air luxury right on the sand.
The history of the building is actually quite cool. It used to be the Nikita restaurant, a project by Larry Ellison. When Soho House took it over, they didn’t want a sprawling complex. They wanted something that felt like a private residence. They succeeded. You walk in, and you’re immediately hit by that "Soho scent"—a mix of expensive candles and sea air—and the sound of the ocean hitting the pilings beneath your feet.
Membership here is a separate beast. If you have a standard Every House membership, you can’t just roll up to Little Beach House Malibu and expect a table. You need a specific Malibu add-on or a localized membership. This keeps the crowd small. It’s a "locals" club in a town where the locals happen to be some of the most powerful people in global media.
The Aesthetic: Forget What You Know About Luxury
If your idea of luxury is marble floors and gold leaf, you’ll be disappointed. This place is about texture. Think Belgian linens, distressed wood, hand-woven rugs, and ceramics that look like they were plucked from a boutique in Hydra. It’s "Quiet Luxury" before that became a TikTok buzzword.
The art collection is worth a mention, too. They focus heavily on California artists. You aren't seeing generic corporate prints. You’re seeing curated pieces that reflect the light and the grit of the coast.
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The outdoor terrace is the heart of the whole operation. It’s where everyone wants to be. It’s cantilevered over the beach. On a high tide, the spray almost hits your glass of rosé. There is no pool. There is no gym. There is just the ocean. That's the point. People come here to escape the hustle of the city, not to continue it.
The Reality of the "No Photos" Rule
Everyone knows Soho House has a strict no-photo policy. At the Little Beach House Malibu, they take it seriously. Like, really seriously. If you try to sneak a selfie with the sunset, a staff member will be at your elbow in roughly four seconds.
You might find this annoying. "I’m paying all this money and I can’t even show my followers?" Yeah, exactly. That’s the product. The product isn't the food (which is good, but not life-changing) or the drinks. The product is the fact that a famous actress can sit with her kids and eat a burger without being photographed.
It creates a specific kind of psychological safety. People actually talk to each other. They put their phones face down on the tables. You see actual human interaction. It’s refreshing, honestly. It makes the space feel like a sanctuary rather than a content farm.
What You’re Actually Eating and Drinking
Let's talk about the menu. It’s Soho House. You’re getting the Dirty Burger. You’re getting the Picante de la Casa (their version of a spicy tequila drink).
But the Malibu location leans into the "beach" thing. They have more seafood, more local produce, and lighter fare.
- The Ceviche: It’s usually incredibly fresh, citrus-heavy, and perfect for a 2:00 PM lunch.
- The Zucchini Fritti: A staple. You will eat the whole bowl and regret nothing.
- Local Greens: They source heavily from the Santa Monica Farmers Market.
Is it the best food in Malibu? Probably not. Nobu is right down the street if you want world-class sushi, and Broad Street Oyster Co. is better if you want a lobster roll that will change your life. But you don't go to Little Beach House for a culinary revolution. You go because you don’t have to wait for a table and the staff remembers how you like your coffee.
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Navigating the Membership Hurdles
Getting in is hard. It’s not just about having money. In fact, if you lead with "I’m very rich," you’re almost guaranteed a rejection. They want "creative souls."
The committee looks for people who contribute to the "vibe." Are you an architect? A writer? A director? A chef? That’s your ticket. They have a specific U27 membership (Under 27) which is significantly cheaper, aimed at capturing the next generation of talent before they become too jaded.
If you are just visiting, you need a member to bring you. There are no "day passes." Even if you stay at other Soho House bedrooms in the city, like the Holloway House or Soho Warehouse, it doesn't automatically grant you access to the Malibu location. It is the most guarded gate in the entire Soho House portfolio.
The Neighborhood Context
Location matters. Little Beach House Malibu sits on "Billionaire's Beach." This is Carbon Beach, a stretch of sand where the houses are packed tight but cost more than some small islands.
Parking is a nightmare. Always valet. Don't even try to find a spot on PCH; you'll spend forty minutes walking past Ferraris just to get to the front door. The valet at the club is efficient, but PCH is a fickle beast. One accident in Topanga Canyon and you're sitting in traffic for an hour.
Common Misconceptions About the Club
One: That it's a party house. It isn't. If you want a party, go to the rooftop at Soho Warehouse in DTLA. Malibu is for Sunday brunch, quiet afternoon reading, or a sunset dinner that ends by 10:00 PM.
Two: That the staff is snobby. Honestly? They’re usually great. They deal with some of the most demanding people on earth, so they have a level of unflappable calm that is almost meditative. If you’re nice to them, they’re incredibly helpful.
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Three: That it's overpriced. Okay, the membership dues are high. But once you're in, the food and drink prices are surprisingly reasonable compared to other high-end Malibu spots. A cocktail isn't $35. It's more like $18-$22, which, for this zip code, is practically a bargain.
Logistics and Practicalities
If you are lucky enough to get a guest invite or a membership, here is the "insider" way to do it.
Don't go on Saturday at 1:00 PM. It’s a zoo. Go on a Tuesday at 3:00 PM. The light coming off the water is incredible, the house is half-empty, and you can actually hear the waves. It’s the closest you’ll get to feeling like you own a beach house without the $50 million mortgage.
Dress code is "beach chic," but don't overthink it. Flip-flops are fine if they’re nice ones. Linen is your friend. Avoid suits. You’ll look like you’re there for a deposition, and nobody wants that energy.
Actionable Steps for the Aspiring Guest or Member
If you’re serious about experiencing Little Beach House Malibu, you need a strategy. This isn't a place you just stumble into.
- Find a Proposer: You need current members to vouch for you. Not just one, but usually two. Reach out to your network in the creative industries.
- The "Malibu Plus" Membership: If you're already an Every House member, look into the Malibu-specific upgrade. It’s an additional fee, but it’s the only way to ensure you can get in whenever you want.
- Respect the Privacy: If you do get in as a guest, don't be "that person." Don't stare at the celebrity in the corner. Don't pull out your phone. Just sit back, order a Picante, and watch the tide come in.
- Check the Calendar: They host "House Events"—intimate concerts, book signings, and talks. These are often the best times to visit because the crowd is focused on a shared experience rather than just "seeing and being seen."
Ultimately, the appeal of this place is simple: it’s a quiet corner in a loud world. It offers a version of California that feels both exclusive and oddly grounded. Just don't forget where you parked.
Key Takeaways for Your Visit
- The Vibe: Low-key, residential, and focused on the ocean view.
- The Access: Highly restricted; requires specific Malibu membership or a member guest.
- The Rule: No photos, no phone calls, no exceptions.
- The Best Time: Weekdays during the "golden hour" before sunset.
- The Location: 22716 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265.
To make the most of your time in the area, consider pairing a visit with a walk at the nearby Malibu Pier or a hike in Tuna Canyon. Both offer a different perspective on the landscape that makes this specific stretch of the coast so coveted.