malibu wine safari closed

Follow Eater LA online:

• Follow Eater LA on Twitter
• Follow Eater LA on Facebook
• Follow Eater LA on Youtube
• Follow Eater LA on Instagram

Site search

• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Philadelphia
• Portland, OR
• San Francisco
• Twin Cities
• Washington DC
• Neighborhoods

Filed under:

Malibu Wine Safari Accused of Booking Tours During Pandemic and Pocketing the Money

Plus, Lettuce Feast’s GoFundMe, more on Hollywood’s plant-based meatballs, and inside the Apple Pan’s coronavirus changes

If you buy something from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy .

Share this story

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: Malibu Wine Safari Accused of Booking Tours During Pandemic and Pocketing the Money

A number of customers have begun to accuse beach-adjacent day-drinking stop Malibu Wine Safari , known for its upscale wilderness appeal and actual giraffe named Stanley, of failing to follow through on booked and paid-for wine tours over the past year or so. In short, these customers say that the Saddlerock Ranch company that runs the safari wine excursion took money for bookings that never happened, in part because of the pandemic, and have yet to offer customer refunds when asked.

ABC-7 located dozens of people who purchased wine tasting-wildlife packages, even though the grounds were closed throughout the pandemic. ABC-7 reports that one person booked a wine safari in July for a September bachelorette party, but was offered a voucher for a hike or bike tour. She spent $900, but says she cannot get a refund from company. Numerous Yelp reviews show numerous customer complaints who bought tours in March 2020, who also say they cannot secure a refund.

Malibu Wine Safari’s troubles extend beyond the refunds. The Semler family — who owns both Malibu Wine Safari and Saddlerock Ranch — has also had their famous giraffe seized by California Department of Fish and Wildlife; Stanley is being held “in place” because of the logistical challenges of transporting a giraffe. The agency alleges Malibu Wine Safari never obtained the required county permits to operate a business with wild animals.

In other news:

• The Los Angeles Times captured the Apple Pan’s transition during the pandemic, including the use of credit cards for the first time in its 74 year history.
• Restaurant Dive interviewed Lucques Group co-founder Caroline Styne about California’s state and local response to the coronavirus pandemic.
• Los Angeles Magazine profiled Sardinia-born Mauro and Sergio Corbia on their new plant-based restaurant on Sunset near Vine, Brothers Meatballs . The brothers also co-founded Mauro’s Cafe at Fred Segal on Melrose and co-own Fabiolus Cucina .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brothers Meatballs (@brothersmeatballs)

• Coastal city Carpinteria is recovering well from the economic impact of COVID-19. According to KEYT , local residents supporting local businesses was a key factor.
• Massimo Bottura’s Beverly Hills Gucci Osteria has reopened for lunch and dinner service. Most of the restaurant is situated on an outdoor terrace, and there’s some new menu items available.
• Popular food truck Lettuce Feast launched a GoFundMe after the truck caught fire on March 6. The entire structure was destroyed, and owners Willie Perrymon and Eva Cannon hope to open a brick-and-mortar or a second truck with the funds. So far, the pair raised almost $45,000. Meanwhile longtime Black-owned bar the Living Room has also started a GoFundMe to try to stay afloat after having been closed for more than a year.

Save The Living Room from closing due to covid as they're the oldest standing bar around. https://t.co/u4oBZycm4w — MAINTAIN THE MYSTERY (@DeMarcoSmith) March 21, 2021

More From Eater LA

Sign up for the newsletter eater la.

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for signing up!

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

• LA Pop-Up Restaurants

Cool Food Events and Pop-Ups to Check Out This Week in Los Angeles: May 17

An AAPI market, twice-fried Korean fried chicken, and more

• Something for the Weekend

4 Restaurants to Try This Weekend in Los Angeles: May 17

Your handy guide on where to eat from the editors at Eater LA

Everything to Know About ‘Vanderpump’ Stars Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney’s Sandwich Shop Opening Next Week

A New Restaurant Brings Pre-Hispanic Indigenous Food to Mercado La Paloma

Every Table Comes With an Ocean View at Redondo Beach’s New Mexican Cantina

Get a Fiery Taste of ‘Hot Ones’ Delivered Right to Your LA Doorstep

• abc7 investigations

Stanley the giraffe seized as evidence as dozens fight for refunds at Malibu Wine Safaris

MALIBU, Calif. (KABC) -- Stanley the giraffe of Malibu Wine Safaris is at the center of two pending criminal trials and has been "seized in place" as evidence by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Stanley, famous for his selfies with celebrities and a cameo in "The Hangover Part III" is for now, still located at the sprawling Saddlerock Ranch in Malibu where he's lived since 2015 among other animals like zebras, water buffalos, camels and llamas.

But Eyewitness News has learned that members of the Semler family, who own the ranch and Malibu Wine Safaris , have never held the required county permits to operate a business with wild animals.

"Right now, they're in unlawful possession of a giraffe," says Capt. Patrick Foy of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, who explained that Stanley was "seized in place" because it's no easy task to move an 18-foot tall giraffe.

Dakota Semler, owner and CEO of Malibu Wine Safaris, is facing misdemeanor criminal charges of "maintaining an animal facility or a wild animal without a license."

Ron Semler is Dakota's father and owner of Stanley the giraffe. He is facing misdemeanor criminal charges of providing false information on his application for Stanley's "restricted species" permit with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Both Ron and Dakota Semler have pleaded not guilty to the charges and both declined to speak with us for this story.

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, no animal facility license has ever been issued to any member of the Semler family or Malibu Wine Safaris.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife cited Ron Semler in June of last year for falsely certifying on his state restricted species permit applications that he was in compliance with all county laws.

"The department notes that your facility has never been licensed by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control," says a letter issued by CDFW to Ron Semler.

"One of those criteria for being authorized via a permit is they cannot be in violation of any local ordinances," Capt. Foy tells Eyewitness News.

We asked why CDFW didn't verify that the Semlers had the proper county permits.

"The fact of the matter is we rely on the honesty of the permittee, the applicant, to tell us the truth," says Capt. Foy.

The June 2020 letter gave Ron Semler 30 days to either transfer Stanley to a permitted facility, move the giraffe out of state, humanely destroy Stanley -- or face having the giraffe seized by the state. A case supervisor later stated that CDFW has no plans to destroy the giraffe.

Ron Semler is appealing CDFW's denial of his permit and has argued that he is not legally affiliated with Malibu Wine Safaris, and that neither Fish and Wildlife nor County Animal Care and Control ever raised the issue before the Woolsey Fire tore through his property in 2018.

But that's not true. Eyewitness News found reports dating back to 2015 that ordered Malibu Wine Safaris to apply for a license with Animal Care and Control. What's odd is that even though county animal control officers did regular inspections at the ranch for years, they did not take action on the lack of licenses until after the Woolsey Fire.

In the aftermath of that fire, social media erupted when people learned that Stanley and most other animals on the ranch were not evacuated.

"Stanley was sheltered in place as per our evacuation plan," Dakota Semler said in an interview with ABC News at the time, adding that Stanley was moved into an area with no fuel around it.

But the uproar focused renewed scrutiny of the ranch and may have pressured county and state animal control officers to finally crack down on the lack of permits.

Eyewitness News repeatedly reached out to Dakota and Ron Semler and received no response. Jesse Harbison, general manager of Malibu Wine Safaris, spoke with our producer briefly by phone, but declined to comment on the permit issues because of "ongoing litigation."

Eyewitness News began digging into Malibu Wine Safaris after viewers reached out to complain that they'd booked safaris either before or during the pandemic and cannot get refunds.

"I just thought it would be beautiful to spend my birthday in Malibu with, you know, a giraffe and sipping on wine with the family," says Britney Boyd, one of seven would-be safari guests ABC7 spoke with who say they have yet to receive refunds for canceled wine safaris.

Dozens more are venting their frustrations about the lack of refunds on Facebook and Yelp . The Better Business Bureau has 41 similar complaints about Malibu Wine Safaris. A BBB spokesperson says Malibu Wine Safaris has not responded to the complaints.

Britney booked her safari in July, thinking that Malibu Wine Safaris was open, but they were not. She's out $400 and says they've refused to give her a refund.

"We're not giving you a refund, we're holding onto your money," says Britney. "They knew they were closed, yet they're still allowing people to book tickets and, you know, reserve and take their money."

Maureen Rigogne also booked a wine safari in July for a September bachelorette party. She's out $900. Maureen, like all of the women we spoke with, was offered a voucher instead for hike or bike tours.

"I was already 32 weeks pregnant at the time," says Maureen. "And I was like, I'm not doing a bike tour in the heat 32 weeks pregnant."

"I'm not sure what they're doing with the money at this point," Maureen tells Eyewitness News. "They're literally taking it in. So, what are they doing with it?"

Andrea McAdams booked a wine safari for a group of twelve friends from a "Meetup" group in Orange County. She's still trying to get her $1,200 back.

"The last time I heard from them was in July," Andrea tells Eyewitness News. "I haven't heard anything since. I mean, it's been complete radio silence."

Jessica LaCour booked her safari in March of last year when the Malibu Wines Safari still appeared to offer refunds. Their website now says, "no refunds may be submitted."

"I only purchased two tickets, luckily. So, I'm out $200," says Jessica. "This is no way to run a business - what you are doing is stealing from people's pockets."

Harbison of Malibu Wine Safaris told Eyewitness News by phone that they have "every intention of processing the refunds," but it's taking longer than anticipated. Harbison said they've already processed "thousands" in refunds, but did not follow up on his promise to share proof of that and stopped returning calls and emails.

So, are the Semlers too short on cash to give the refunds? Records show that Malibu Wine Safaris' LLC "Bucket List Experiences" received a PPP or Paycheck Protection Program loan of $630,762 in April of last year.

Ron Semler's Saddlerock Ranch has been assessed at more than $12 million, according to Los Angeles County property records. That assessment is far under market value given that the ranch was purchased decades ago and Proposition 13 keeps the base value low.

In a 2009 civil court case, Ron Semler stated that his net worth was " in excess of $100 million. "

"Just do the right thing," says Andi McAdams. "Literally, that's all we're asking is just to do the right thing... you know, it's been since July. What's going on?"

Ann Reyes booked a safari in March of last year for a July bachelorette party. She and her friends initially postponed it to August due to the pandemic, but then asked for a refund.

Anne was especially persistent and finally got an email promising her a refund. That was back in July and so far, no refund.

"There's five of us and it cost me $570 in total," says Ann Reyes.

Decades before Ron Semler got into the business of wine at the ranch, he made much of his money in a family business supplying military parts to the government. In 1987, Ron and his brother were charged with illegally selling 87 American helicopters to North Korea, which violated the Trading with the Enemy Act. Ron and Barry Semler both pleaded guilty to lesser charges in 1988 as part of a plea deal. Ron was sentenced to three years in federal prison.

Another convicted felon associated with the ranch is animal trainer Rick Nyberg. Nyberg has been listed in various documents as Stanley's trainer and Nyberg held a CDFW "restricted species" permit for the giraffe for some period of time.

In 2018, Nyberg was charged with three counts of misdemeanor child molestation. He pleaded no contest to one count in a plea deal that required him to register as a sex offender , stay away from the victim and not possess weapons or ammunition.

In 2019, Nyberg was charged with two counts, including felony unlawful possession of ammunition. He pleaded no contest to one felony count. Within months, he violated probation after a tip led probation officers to Nyberg's home where they recovered a hunting bow, arrows, a hunting knife and a sword, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office.

Despite the felony conviction, Nyberg is still listed on Ron Semler's "Emergency Action Plan" as one of the people qualified to use a firearm in the event of an animal escape. That plan, dated September of 2020, was submitted to Ventura County officials as part of possible plan to move Stanley to a property near Moorpark College.

Nyberg did not respond to our requests for comment.

Stanley is in legal limbo for now. Because he's been "seized in place" by the Department of Fish and Wildlife, he remains at the Malibu Ranch for now.

"This is an unusual case," says Capt. Foy. "I think what ultimately will force the decision on finding a new home for the giraffe is to let the criminal court cases play out."

Got a tip? Email ABC7 Eyewitness News Investigative Producer [email protected]

Related Topics

• PETS & ANIMALS
• LOS ANGELES COUNTY
• ABC7 INVESTIGATIONS
• WOOLSEY FIRE

Abc7 Investigations

Activist still behind bars, facing felony charges for alleged violence

Leah Remini lawsuit against Scientology to survive first hurdle

Former Sheriff Villanueva fined for 2018 campaign finance violations

ABC7 Investigates: Has LA made progress in battling homeless crisis?

Top stories.

Victim and suspect are ID'd after UPS driver is fatally shot in Irvine

• 6 minutes ago

Diddy seen kicking, dragging Cassie in surveillance video: Report

Actor Dabney Coleman, known as sexist boss in '9 to 5,' dies at 92

'The Beach Boys' reunite for upcoming documentary on Disney+

• 11 minutes ago

Chase ends in wrong-way crash on 405 Freeway

Big Bear Lake at highest level in more than a decade

• 2 hours ago

California's water tunnel to cost $20 billion, officials say

Are 'vampire facials' safe? Doctors weigh in

• 35 minutes ago

• Watch ABC7 newscasts on demand Full Story
• ABC7 Bay Area 24/7 live stream Watch Now
• abc7 investigations

Stanley, L.A.'s most famous giraffe, is evidence in two criminal trials

MALIBU, Calif. -- Stanley the giraffe of Malibu Wine Safaris is at the center of two pending criminal trials and has been "seized in place" as evidence by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Stanley, famous for his selfies with celebrities and a cameo in "The Hangover Part III" is for now, still located at the sprawling Saddlerock Ranch in Malibu where he's lived since 2015 among other animals like zebras, water buffalos, camels and llamas.

But Eyewitness News has learned that members of the Semler family, who own the ranch and Malibu Wine Safaris , have never held the required county permits to operate a business with wild animals.

"Right now, they're in unlawful possession of a giraffe," says Capt. Patrick Foy of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, who explained that Stanley was "seized in place" because it's no easy task to move an 18-foot tall giraffe.

Dakota Semler, owner and CEO of Malibu Wine Safaris, is facing misdemeanor criminal charges of "maintaining an animal facility or a wild animal without a license."

Ron Semler is Dakota's father and owner of Stanley the giraffe. He is facing misdemeanor criminal charges of providing false information on his application for Stanley's "restricted species" permit with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Both Ron and Dakota Semler have pleaded not guilty to the charges and both declined to speak with us for this story.

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, no animal facility license has ever been issued to any member of the Semler family or Malibu Wine Safaris.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife cited Ron Semler in June of last year for falsely certifying on his state restricted species permit applications that he was in compliance with all county laws.

"The department notes that your facility has never been licensed by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control," says a letter issued by CDFW to Ron Semler.

"One of those criteria for being authorized via a permit is they cannot be in violation of any local ordinances," Capt. Foy tells Eyewitness News.

We asked why CDFW didn't verify that the Semlers had the proper county permits.

"The fact of the matter is we rely on the honesty of the permittee, the applicant, to tell us the truth," says Capt. Foy.

The June 2020 letter gave Ron Semler 30 days to either transfer Stanley to a permitted facility, move the giraffe out of state, humanely destroy Stanley -- or face having the giraffe seized by the state. A case supervisor later stated that CDFW has no plans to destroy the giraffe.

Ron Semler is appealing CDFW's denial of his permit and has argued that he is not legally affiliated with Malibu Wine Safaris, and that neither Fish and Wildlife nor County Animal Care and Control ever raised the issue before the Woolsey Fire tore through his property in 2018.

But that's not true. Eyewitness News found reports dating back to 2015 that ordered Malibu Wine Safaris to apply for a license with Animal Care and Control. What's odd is that even though county animal control officers did regular inspections at the ranch for years, they did not take action on the lack of licenses until after the Woolsey Fire.

In the aftermath of that fire, social media erupted when people learned that Stanley and most other animals on the ranch were not evacuated.

"Stanley was sheltered in place as per our evacuation plan," Dakota Semler said in an interview with ABC News at the time, adding that Stanley was moved into an area with no fuel around it.

But the uproar focused renewed scrutiny of the ranch and may have pressured county and state animal control officers to finally crack down on the lack of permits.

Eyewitness News repeatedly reached out to Dakota and Ron Semler and received no response. Jesse Harbison, general manager of Malibu Wine Safaris, spoke with our producer briefly by phone, but declined to comment on the permit issues because of "ongoing litigation."

Eyewitness News began digging into Malibu Wine Safaris after viewers reached out to complain that they'd booked safaris either before or during the pandemic and cannot get refunds.

"I just thought it would be beautiful to spend my birthday in Malibu with, you know, a giraffe and sipping on wine with the family," says Britney Boyd, one of seven would-be safari guests ABC7 spoke with who say they have yet to receive refunds for canceled wine safaris.

Dozens more are venting their frustrations about the lack of refunds on Facebook and Yelp . The Better Business Bureau has 41 similar complaints about Malibu Wine Safaris. A BBB spokesperson says Malibu Wine Safaris has not responded to the complaints.

Britney booked her safari in July, thinking that Malibu Wine Safaris was open, but they were not. She's out $400 and says they've refused to give her a refund.

"We're not giving you a refund, we're holding onto your money," says Britney. "They knew they were closed, yet they're still allowing people to book tickets and, you know, reserve and take their money."

Maureen Rigogne also booked a wine safari in July for a September bachelorette party. She's out $900. Maureen, like all of the women we spoke with, was offered a voucher instead for hike or bike tours.

"I was already 32 weeks pregnant at the time," says Maureen. "And I was like, I'm not doing a bike tour in the heat 32 weeks pregnant."

"I'm not sure what they're doing with the money at this point," Maureen tells Eyewitness News. "They're literally taking it in. So, what are they doing with it?"

Andrea McAdams booked a wine safari for a group of twelve friends from a "Meetup" group in Orange County. She's still trying to get her $1,200 back.

"The last time I heard from them was in July," Andrea tells Eyewitness News. "I haven't heard anything since. I mean, it's been complete radio silence."

Jessica LaCour booked her safari in March of last year when the Malibu Wines Safari still appeared to offer refunds. Their website now says, "no refunds may be submitted."

"I only purchased two tickets, luckily. So, I'm out $200," says Jessica. "This is no way to run a business - what you are doing is stealing from people's pockets."

Harbison of Malibu Wine Safaris told Eyewitness News by phone that they have "every intention of processing the refunds," but it's taking longer than anticipated. Harbison said they've already processed "thousands" in refunds, but did not follow up on his promise to share proof of that and stopped returning calls and emails.

So, are the Semlers too short on cash to give the refunds? Records show that Malibu Wine Safaris' LLC "Bucket List Experiences" received a PPP or Paycheck Protection Program loan of $630,762 in April of last year.

Ron Semler's Saddlerock Ranch has been assessed at more than $12 million, according to Los Angeles County property records. That assessment is far under market value given that the ranch was purchased decades ago and Proposition 13 keeps the base value low.

In a 2009 civil court case, Ron Semler stated that his net worth was " in excess of $100 million. "

"Just do the right thing," says Andi McAdams. "Literally, that's all we're asking is just to do the right thing... you know, it's been since July. What's going on?"

Ann Reyes booked a safari in March of last year for a July bachelorette party. She and her friends initially postponed it to August due to the pandemic, but then asked for a refund.

Anne was especially persistent and finally got an email promising her a refund. That was back in July and so far, no refund.

"There's five of us and it cost me $570 in total," says Ann Reyes.

Decades before Ron Semler got into the business of wine at the ranch, he made much of his money in a family business supplying military parts to the government. In 1987, Ron and his brother were charged with illegally selling 87 American helicopters to North Korea, which violated the Trading with the Enemy Act. Ron and Barry Semler both pleaded guilty to lesser charges in 1988 as part of a plea deal. Ron was sentenced to three years in federal prison.

Another convicted felon associated with the ranch is animal trainer Rick Nyberg. Nyberg has been listed in various documents as Stanley's trainer and Nyberg held a CDFW "restricted species" permit for the giraffe for some period of time.

In 2018, Nyberg was charged with three counts of misdemeanor child molestation. He pleaded no contest to one count in a plea deal that required him to register as a sex offender , stay away from the victim and not possess weapons or ammunition.

In 2019, Nyberg was charged with two counts, including felony unlawful possession of ammunition. He pleaded no contest to one felony count. Within months, he violated probation after a tip led probation officers to Nyberg's home where they recovered a hunting bow, arrows, a hunting knife and a sword, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office.

Despite the felony conviction, Nyberg is still listed on Ron Semler's "Emergency Action Plan" as one of the people qualified to use a firearm in the event of an animal escape. That plan, dated September of 2020, was submitted to Ventura County officials as part of possible plan to move Stanley to a property near Moorpark College.

Nyberg did not respond to our requests for comment.

Stanley is in legal limbo for now. Because he's been "seized in place" by the Department of Fish and Wildlife, he remains at the Malibu Ranch for now.

"This is an unusual case," says Capt. Foy. "I think what ultimately will force the decision on finding a new home for the giraffe is to let the criminal court cases play out."

Got a tip? Email ABC7 Eyewitness News Investigative Producer [email protected]

Related Topics

• PETS & ANIMALS
• LOS ANGELES COUNTY
• WILD ANIMALS
• ABC7 INVESTIGATIONS
• ANIMAL NEWS
• WOOLSEY FIRE

Abc7 Investigations

EXCLUSIVE: Inside Alameda Co. DA Pamela Price's closed-door meeting

Compton mayor shares harrowing experience during traffic stop

Bikram yoga founder in hot water as empire crumbles

Maui look-alike from Disney's 'Moana' admits to swindling fans

Top stories.

State Department issues travel alert for LGBTQ people, events abroad

Diddy seen kicking, dragging Cassie in surveillance video: Report

Actor Dabney Coleman, known as sexist boss in '9 to 5,' dies at 92

Man sentenced to 30 years for attacking Nancy Pelosi's husband in SF

• 2 hours ago

Bay to Breakers 2024: SF road closures, route

California's water tunnel to cost $20 billion, officials say

Police: Officer dragged trying to stop Scottie Scheffler's car

TV chef faces eviction over tens of thousands in unpaid rent

• Beverly Hills
• Griffith Park
• Hollywood Hills
• Laurel Canyon
• Pacific Palisades
• Santa Monica
• Sherman Oaks
• Studio City
• Topanga Canyon
• West Hollywood
• Woodland Hills
• Political Crimes
• On the Industry
• St. John’s Confidential File
• Star Gazing
• Theatrical Musings
• Event Listing
• Health & Fitness
• Gardening With Tony
• Miller Time
• Secret Summers
• Not Fake News
• Toni Says Medicare
• Classifieds
• Coverage Areas
• Declaration of Principles
• Advertising
• Publish DBA
• Name Change
• Legal Filing
• Current Specials
• Staff Application

Malibu Wine Safari Facing Scrutiny

MALIBU—Malibu Wine Safari, is a luxurious wine excursion that houses a wide collection of wild animals, including the famous Stanley the Giraffe. The establishment has  come under scrutiny for pocketing money from customers and is facing a misdemeanor criminal charge for “maintaining an animal facility or a wild animal without a license.”  

Located in Saddlerock Ranch and owned by the Semler family, the safari received dozens of negative reviews on Yelp from customers who have not received refunds during weeks of closure in March 2020 due to the pandemic. One review on Yelp of September 29, 2020 wrote:  

“Like many others here, I am down $700 because this company never indicated they were closed on their website…They have not responded to any of my emails regarding a refund, and they probably never will.”  

There has been no  comment by the Semler family about the situation. Malibu Wine Safari  recently deleted and suspended all of their social media accounts. ABC 7 reported that the Semler family received a $630,762 loan from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in April 2020, but no refund has been indicated by the use of the loan. They also reported several emails between angry customers and the company where they indicated offering customers vouchers instead of a full refund.  

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has “seized in place” Stanley the Giraffe from the company for illegally detaining the animal without any permit. Even though CDFW has complications with transporting an 18-foot tall giraffe, the Semler family is facing a citation and misdemeanor charge for not being issued a permit to house a wild animal, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control.  

The Malibu Wine Safari is currently shut down as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic and  pending charges the owners face. All of the wild animals are no longer under the care of the Semler’s or their business.  

Banana Yellow (112)

Anya baroff wins grant for tree planting efforts, beach, pismo st crash kills 2, injures 2 in san luis..., “kingdom of the planet of the apes” is epic.

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Chenin Blanc
• Pinot Grigio
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Shiraz/Syrah
• Tempranillo
• New Zealand
• South Africa

• Wine of The Week
• DJ Sessions

Black Wine Club Wine Library

Why is malibu wine safari closed.

• June 23, 2023

The Malibu Wine Safari seemed to be the perfect combination of wine, nature, and fun, so imagine our surprise when we heard it was closed! If you're a wine enthusiast or a fan of exploring unique experiences, you might be wondering why this popular destination has shut its doors. We've got all the answers for you – so join us as we dig into the story behind the Malibu Wine Safari closure and what might lie ahead.

Why Is Malibu Wine Safari Closed Table of Contents

The malibu wine safari: the pure essence of fun and wine, reasons behind the closure, what's next for the malibu wine safari.

The Malibu Wine Safari, based in the rolling hills of Malibu, California, has attracted wine lovers from all around for its one-of-a-kind experience. A safari truck took you through the picturesque vineyards, stopping along the way to offer tastings from the region's best wineries. However, the real stars of the show were the animals – including exotic animals like zebras and alpacas that you could interact with and even feed on your tour.

Unfortunately, the Malibu Wine Safari has been closed due to a series of unfortunate events that impacted the venue and its operations. First and foremost, the Woolsey Fire in 2018 caused significant damage to the area, destroying some of the land and elements of the safari.

Do You Want to Win a Free Bottle of Wine?

Don't miss out on the opportunity to win a free bottle of wine every week.

Enter our weekly prize draw today!

Environmental Impact and Concerns

As the fire burned through the area, there were concerns about the welfare of the animals and how the business was treating them. Some of the exotic animals were relocated from the western area of the land due to the fires but were still under threat of the danger. Animal welfare activists criticized the ordeal, asserting that the business failed to protect its animals adequately and may have violated animal welfare laws. Additionally, there were concerns about the environmental impact of the safari due to the fire and surrounding damage.

These events ultimately resulted in legal challenges. The family who owned the Malibu Wine Safari was hit with multiple lawsuits. In response to the lawsuits, the owners decided to close the Malibu Wine Safari. This decision was not taken lightly, as this business has brought great joy and unique experiences to many wine enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.

As of now, it's uncertain whether or not the Malibu Wine Safari will make a comeback. The challenges and damage faced by the venue have put the future of this unique experience into question. However, the Malibu Wine Safari's owners have not given up hope.

Though the safari remains closed, the Semler family has continued hosting small wine tastings at their estate. Despite the challenges they have faced, they still desire to share their passion for wine and the beauty of their property with the public.

Why Is Malibu Wine Safari Closed Example:

Imagine a group of friends looking to spend a day touring a beautiful vineyard, sipping on delicious wines, and taking selfies with exotic animals. These friends head over to the Malibu Wine Safari website to book their tour only to find that it's closed. They wonder what could have caused such an exciting venue to shut down and stumble upon our article. This is where they find the answers they're looking for – from the environmental concerns to the lawsuits – all detailed and laid out in an engaging and informative manner.

It's no doubt that the closure of the Malibu Wine Safari has left many wine enthusiasts and animal lovers disheartened. However, we must remember that challenging times can lead to new opportunities and amazing comebacks. We hope this article shed light on the reasons behind the closure and what might lie ahead for the venue. If you found this information interesting, be sure to check out our other guides on wine, unique tasting events, and more at the Black Wine Club's website. Don't forget to share this article to help spread the word and bring awareness to the ever-growing community of wine and nature lovers!

Related Posts

Mastering the Art of Breaking In Doc Martens: Your Ultimate Guide

• July 27, 2023

Continue reading

Zalto Wine Glasses Where To Buy

• June 24, 2023

Woman How To Hold A Wine Glass Elegantly

• October 20, 2023

Winking Owl Wine Where To Buy

Wine When Breastfeeding

Wine Should Be Stored At What Temperature

Wine Opener How To Use

Wine In Fridge How Long

Wine For People Who Dont Like Wine

Wine For People Who Don't Like Wine

• June 26, 2023

Wine Decanter How To Use

Why Use Wine Decanter

Malibu Wine Safaris: Stanley the Giraffe is OK

MALIBU, Calif. (FOX 11) - Rumors about the safety of Malibu Wine Safari's Stanley the Giraffe sent his fans - including celebrities like Khloe Kardashian and Lance Bass - into a frenzy as wildfires closed in on the area around the facility.

Thankfully, according to an Instagram post late Friday, Stanley was safe and being cared for by trainers and management at the of the winery attraction .

In the post on @a_giraffe_named_stanley on Instagram , the caption on a blurry, nighttime photo of the giraffe said, in part, the park lost "a considerable portion" of its barns and facilities and there were a few animals that were unaccounted for.

The post came after photos purported to show Stanley with smoke and flames of the fire rapidly approaching him from the hills in the background.

In a post on Stanley's Instagram Stories, park management said they have the situation "under control" and reports that Stanley was in any danger were incorrect.

Malibu Wine Safari CEO Dakota Semler tod FOX 11 LA's Sandra Endo Saturday, "It's been tough. We've been, there's been water shortages. Water has been turned off in the area. We don't have any utilities. So we've been running off of generators and backup water supplies."

Malibu Wine Safaris

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Malibu Wine Safaris - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Malibu Wine Safari - Closed

Recent buzz posts, featured local partners, outdoor activities, malibu surfing.

Malibu Beaches

Malibu Biking

Malibu Hiking

Malibu Campgrounds

Sadly, the Malibu Wine Safari has closed, but that doesn't mean there aren't other great things to do for a unique and fun experience.

Cielo Farms

If you're looking for a great wine centric experience, try Cielo Farms . Cielo Farms offers a wine bar and trail tasting , wellness experiences , wedding and event hosting , breathtaking wedding proposal locations , a wine club , and filming locations . When you reserve an experience at Cielo Farms , let them know All Things Malibu sent you!

Discovery Malibu

Looking for some adventure? Discovery Malibu can help you find what you're looking for. Signature Wine Tours , Sightseeing Tours and Adventure Tours . Don't worry about driving - just have a great time!  Let them know All Things Malibu sent you for preferred pricing!

Other Malibu Adventures

Take a look at some of our other available Malibu tours and experiences here .

Malibu Wine Safari

Featured in the 12 of the Best Things to do in Malibu!

Tucked in the beautiful hills of Malibu lives one of the best-kept secrets in all of Los Angeles County. Located on a 1,000 plus acre vineyard and ranch property, the Malibu Wine Safari provides a unique experience distinct from any other wine tasting venue.

Malibu Wine Safaris takes you on a ride throughout the property on their custom designed, stadium seated vehicles to enjoy the magnificent scenery, interact with their exotic animals, and of course enjoy their wine which is made from grapes from local vineyards. Some of the animals you can expect to see are water buffalo, bison, zebras, camels, alpacas, Stanley the giraffe, and many more. The tours allow you to get up close and personal with the animals (if you so choose) to feed them their liking of carrots, pellets, and bananas. The Safaris also take you to scenic spots throughout the property and allow time to explore and take pictures. Pictured below is one of the landmarks on the property which is also a crowd favorite on the tour. Wine or not, Malibu Wine Safari provides a fun-filled afternoon with friends and family alike.

A community resource, local business platform and showcase for Malibu artists, artisans, and events. Partnered with the Malibu Chamber of Commerce .

stay in the loop

By subscribing you agree to our Terms & Conditions .

more Information

© All Things Malibu 2024 | All Rights Reserved

Website provided by Alisha Rosen and The Business Agency

Malibu Wine Safaris

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

MALIBU WINE SAFARIS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Malibu Wine Safaris

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Malibu Wine Safaris - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• Destinations
• Winery Directory

Where To Go Wine Tasting in Malibu California

Top Wine Tasting Experiences in Malibu for 2024

For Winetravelers keen on wine and waves, Malibu is the place to go. What’s more, you’ll have opportunities for celebrity spotting, surfing, beachcombing, hiking, cycling, yoga, and of course wine tasting.

Malibu Wine Hotels

Classic vw bus malibu wine tour or 4×4 vineyard tour, malibu rocky oaks estate vineyards, malibu farm pier cafe, malibu wine tasting travel guide.

If you’re picturing vineyards and wineries along the beach, you’re in for a surprise. Tucked away in the Santa Monica Mountains between the Pacific Ocean and the Mulholland Highway lies the Malibu Coast AVA. This 46 miles long and eight miles wide terrain rises to above 3000 feet and is home to 198 acres of vineyards and 52 vignerons. While the Woolsey Fire burned many of Malibu’s vineyards, this is still a robust and beautiful wine touring area.

The Malibu Coast was granted AVA status in 2014, but wine grapes have grown in the area since 1824. Interestingly enough, before Prohibition, Los Angeles County was California’s largest wine producer. The first contemporary vineyard was planted in 1985 by restaurateur Michael McCarty, under one of California’s most respected wine professionals, Dick Graff of Monterey’s Chalone Vineyard.

Fun Fact: Much of the Malibu AVA sits on highly coveted red lava soil formations. This is similar to deposits on the Sonoma Coast, making the soils of the two regions nearly identical.

Only recently has Los Angeles County permitted the combination of vineyards and wineries, so “at the vineyard” tasting rooms are relatively few. Compared to larger California wine regions like Napa or even Santa Ynez, you can’t really bike from one winery to another or walk through the front door of a Malibu winery’ tasting room.

In fact, a Malibu winery is not necessarily the best place to sample Malibu wines. Instead of driving to visit the handful that does, head to Cornell Winery & Tasting Room , an Old West-themed wine bar on Mulholland Highway. Although initially planned as a winery, zoning laws couldn’t be changed, so it’s a retail and wine tasting hub featuring almost all wines in the Malibu wine scene. Here you can order Malibu wine tasting flights, wine by the glass, or purchase a bottle of wine to take away. You can also check in to the neighboring Old Place Restaurant next to Cornell, a legendary Malibu restaurant hangout.

As Malibu evolves from celebrity sand and surf local into an A-list wine region, you don’t have to look far for activities to pair with its wines. Hiking, cycling, yoga, al-fresco movie-going, and of course, beachfront wine tasting are all part of Malibu wine country’s one-of-a-kind personality.

RELATED: Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit, Tastings & Tours This Year

Travel Logistics

Flying into LAX (Los Angeles International Airport) is your best bet to get as close to Malibu as possible. You can browse current flight deals on Kayak , but book soon as prices are rising quickly in 2022. Rent a car , and then make the convenient 15-minute drive on the N9 highway for the best way to discover Malibu Wine Country. It connects US 101 at Malibu Junction in Agoura Hills and ends at California SR 1 ( Pacific Coast Hwy ) in the Point Dume region of Malibu. At Approximately its midpoint, the N9 intersects The Mullohalland HWY; this is the heart of the Malibu Coast AVA, and from here, you can start exploring.

Looking for a hotel?  For one of the most upscale and immersive experiences in the Malibu region, stay at the opulent yet relaxed Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club .  It’s conveniently located near both the mountains, beaches, vineyards, and one of the drop off / pick up points for one of our favorite wine tour operators we mention below. It’s also just several minutes away from some of the most trendy restaurants in the area.

Malibu Wine Tours, Hikes & Wine Tasting Experiences

If you’re not sure how to get around the Malibu area or you simply don’t feel like driving, there are a number of local, very well-accredited tour operators that offer a number of fun wine experiences that make for perfect day and weekend trips.

Malibu Vineyard Hike

Take a vineyard hike through the rolling hills of the region, witness the amazing scenery looking out over the Pacific, and even see old Native American cave paintings. This 2.5 mile hike is perfect for any Winetraveler. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with kids in tow, it’s a great guided way to taste some local wine and get to know the outdoors scene in Malibu.

Prices start at $49.00 per person.

Schedule a Wine Tour with Malibu Wine Hikes

Scenic Malibu Electric Mountain Biking Tour

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Malibu on an invigorating e-mountain bike tour , expertly operated by LifeRush Adventures. Catering to riders of all skill levels, this exhilarating journey is customized by your experienced guide to match your route preferences and cycling pace.

• A tailored journey suitable for riders of all skill levels, guided by experienced professionals
• State-of-the-art electric pedal-assist mountain bike technology, allowing you to adjust your workout intensity
• Insightful knowledge of the diverse flora, fauna, and local ecosystem shared by your private guide
• Included high-quality helmet, protective gear, and a top-of-the-line electric mountain bike for safety and comfort

Prices start at just $169, with a Lowest Price Guarantee

Book your Malibu E-Mountain bike Tour with LifeRush Adventures

Malibu Wineries Private Tour

For those looking for something more private and personalized, take a Malibu full-day wine tour with our expert partner guide from ExperienceFirst and immerse yourself in Malibu’s captivating wine culture:

• Delve into the diverse wines produced in the Malibu Coastal Region’s wineries
• Benefit from the expertise and passion of our dedicated culinary and wine guide
• Enjoy the convenience of pick-up at your hotel or preferred location
• Travel in style and comfort through Malibu’s stunning wine country aboard a luxury vehicle

Price varies by group size.

Schedule a Private, Customizable Wine Tour with ExperienceFirst

If you’re rolling with a group, for a vintage and fun experience, cruise with super accredited Malibu Wine Hikes in a California classic VW Bus and go vineyard hopping while jumping off at various hiking trails. For a more rugged yet equally as fun time, look into booking a wine excursion in a 4×4 offroad vehicle (operated by the same company). 

Best Malibu Wineries

Cornell winery & tasting room.

Cornell Winery & Tasting Room (mentioned above.) Here the action revolves around a dark wood bar and a communal area with picnic tables and benches. This enchanting destination embraces the rich heritage of California winemaking, showcasing a meticulously curated selection of small-production, artisanal wines from the region’s most distinguished vineyards. As you sip and savor each exquisite pour, delight in the warm and inviting ambiance of this rustic haven, adorned with vintage decor and exuding an unmistakable air of charm. Cornell Winery & Tasting Room invites you to experience the true essence of California’s winemaking tradition in a setting as unforgettable as the wines it celebrates.

Malibu Wines at Saddlerock Ranch

31727 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

(818) 578-4140

This property offers a relaxed environment to enjoy Semler and Saddlerock wines; reservations are strongly recommended on Saturdays and Sundays. Malibu Wines is also known for its ‘Wine Safaris,’ where you can tour the property in an open-top vehicle, check out the vineyards overlooking the Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Plus, mingle with a giraffe, a water buffalo, llamas, and other exotic animals. But there’s more! You can also take a Wine Hike or a Bike Tour, with all tours concluding wine tastings.

The Barn at Cielo Farmers Winery and Tasting Room

This Tuscan-style stone barn on a hilltop with picnic tables and sweeping views of the vineyards. It’s the perfect place for a Malibu wine outing. You can also enjoy an afternoon of yoga and mindful movement amongst the vines. If you want to taste wine and picnic, take a winery tour or participate in a yoga class, Cielo requires you to make an appointment.

Rosenthal Malibu Estate Vineyard Wine Bar and Patio

18741 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

(310) 456-1392

Located at the top of Kanan Dume Road, but their tasting room is located just across from the beach right on PCH in Malibu proper near Topanga Canyon Blvd. 

Located in Westlake Village, NABU features wines made from fruit grown in Malibu and Napa Valley (thus NABU!) Excellent tasting room experience here.

The Tasting Room – Four Seasons

Also in Westlake Village offers a comprehensive selection of Malibu wine in an elegant, sophisticated setting.

Nestled atop the breathtaking Malibu hills, Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards offers an unforgettable wine-tasting experience. With its stunning 360-degree panoramic views, this mountaintop gem specializes in limited-production, estate-grown wines, including Viognier, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Note that Malibu Rocky Oaks is not currently open to the public, you’ll need to schedule a visit well in advance.

RELATED: Temecula Wine Country Weekend Itinerary: Wineries, Hotels, Trails & Activities

Nearby Restaurants that Pour Malibu Wines

Geoffrey’s, malibu.

27400 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

(310) 457-1519

Indulge in the captivating charm of Geoffrey’s Malibu, a hidden gem nestled atop a picturesque bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This iconic dining destination offers an exceptional blend of exquisite culinary delights and breathtaking panoramic views. Savor a delectable fusion of Californian and Mediterranean flavors crafted with the finest locally-sourced ingredients, as you dine amidst the soothing sounds of crashing waves. A true Malibu treasure, Geoffrey’s promises an unforgettable dining experience, seamlessly combining elegance, ambiance, and gastronomic excellence.

V’s Restaurant & Bar, Malibu

22821 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

(310) 456-3828

Step into the inviting embrace of V’s Restaurant & Bar, a delightful Malibu haven that seamlessly blends casual elegance with exceptional cuisine. This charming eatery entices patrons with its eclectic menu, highlighting the finest locally-sourced ingredients to create an unforgettable fusion of American and international flavors. Revel in the warm and welcoming atmosphere, accentuated by a stylish interior and the gentle hum of conversation. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed drink or an intimate meal, V’s Restaurant & Bar promises an engaging and memorable dining experience in the heart of Malibu.

Carbon Beach Club, Malibu

22878 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

(310) 460-7509

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Carbon Beach Club, a Malibu oasis nestled on the pristine shores of the famed “Billionaire’s Beach.” Revel in the captivating oceanfront setting as you indulge in an exceptional culinary experience, showcasing an innovative blend of seasonal California cuisine infused with Mediterranean influences. Savor each artfully crafted dish, skillfully prepared with locally-sourced ingredients, while the serene sound of the ocean and the gentle sea breeze caress your senses. Carbon Beach Club offers a truly remarkable dining adventure, epitomizing Malibu’s iconic coastal charm and culinary excellence.

23000 E Pacific Coast Hwy Building C, Malibu, CA 90265

(310) 456-8850

Discover the rustic charm of Malibu Farm Pier Cafe, a delightful oceanfront eatery perched on the historic Malibu Pier. Embodying the essence of farm-to-table dining, this charming cafe takes pride in serving fresh, locally-sourced, and organic ingredients that capture the vibrant flavors of California cuisine. Enjoy a relaxed alfresco dining experience, surrounded by panoramic ocean views and the soothing soundtrack of the Pacific waves. Malibu Farm Pier Cafe is a true embodiment of the laid-back Malibu lifestyle, offering a delightful culinary escape that will linger in your memories long after you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions about Malibu Wineries & Wine Tasting

What are the best malibu wineries to visit.

Some popular and highly regarded wineries in Malibu include: Rosenthal Winery: Known for its beautiful tasting room and patio with ocean views, Rosenthal offers a selection of estate-grown wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Malibu Family Wines: Set in the picturesque Malibu hills, this winery is home to the popular Semler and Saddlerock labels. With a spacious outdoor tasting area, they offer a range of varietals, including Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Grenache. Cornell Winery & Tasting Room: Showcasing a variety of wines from the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu Coast AVA, Cornell offers a rustic and charming tasting room experience. Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards: With stunning 360-degree views from its mountaintop location, Malibu Rocky Oaks specializes in limited production, estate-grown wines, including Viognier, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

What wineries are included on a Malibu wine tour?

Our partner wine tour operators may have a different selection of wineries on their itinerary. However, some popular choices include Malibu Family Wines, Rosenthal Winery, and Cornell Winery & Tasting Room. Also, many of the Malibu wine tours we recommend offer customizable itineraries, based on the kind of experience you’re looking to have. Read our guide for more details.

How long does a Malibu wine tour typically last?

The duration of a Malibu wine tour can vary depending on the number of wineries visited and the distance between them. Typically, tours can last anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, including transportation time to and from your pick-up location.

Are reservations required for wine tastings at Malibu wineries?

While some Malibu wineries welcome walk-in visitors for tastings, others may require or highly recommend reservations, especially during peak seasons or on weekends. Making a reservation ensures that the winery can accommodate your group and provide the best possible experience. We highly recommend contacting the wineries in advance to inquire about their reservation policy.

Are Malibu wineries family and pet-friendly?

Many Malibu wineries are family-friendly and offer outdoor spaces where children can safely enjoy the scenery while the adults partake in wine tasting. However, not all tasting rooms may be suitable for children. Regarding pets, some wineries welcome well-behaved dogs in their outdoor areas, but it is best to check with each winery beforehand to confirm their pet policy.

Fun Fact: Should you want the ultimate Malibu Wine Country souvenir, the entire Rosenthal–The Malibu Estate vineyard property is for sale for somewhere around $38 million!

More Vacation Ideas & Inspiration

15 Best Los Angeles Wine Bars & Restaurants to Wine and Dine

21 Top Things To Do in San Luis Obispo California

15 Best Restaurants in San Francisco To Wine & Dine

22 Best North Carolina Wineries & Vineyards To Visit

The Best Wineries To Visit in Bordeaux, France

14 Epic Bucket List Destinations in Argentina To Visit

10 Best Places To Visit In Portugal For Food, Wine, History & Nature

You are reading “Where To Go Wine Tasting in Malibu California” Back To Top

wineries near me, Malibu wine tasting, Malibu wine tours: best California wineries to visit

If you enjoyed this guide, consider joining the Winetraveler Facebook Group for additional insight, drink recommendations and travel inspiration around the world. You can also browse our latest articles and travel guides .

Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!

Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new travel guides and itineraries are published. It's free!

Email Address

Sign Me Up!

Login to view more Articles

Leave a comment, ask a question or share a review cancel reply, you might also like, best mornington peninsula wineries & wine tours for 2024, ultimate guide to visiting châteauneuf-du-pape’s best wineries in 2024, 16 best wineries to visit near rome in 2024, 15 best mclaren vale wineries & wine tours to try 2024, how to drive sonoma’s bohemian highway in ca this year, 10 top us national parks to visit during the winter, 11 seriously awesome u.s. road trips you can take right now, wineries nearby, weis vineyards, daou vineyards & winery, adelsheim vineyard, mazza vineyards, cheers to free membership.

Explore new paths. Travel expertise from locals and wine industry experts.

Get free access to all the goods:

• Exclusive articles
• In-depth itineraries
• …and more

Malibu Wine Safaris

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Malibu Wine Safaris - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

Malibu Family Wines and Safari: Feed Yaks & Zebras at a Malibu Winery

Located in the hills above Agoura Hills, lies a 1,000 acre winery that is home to one of the only wine safaris I have ever heard of. This is in addition to the fantastic outdoor seating area, and the atmosphere they have at their traditional wine tasting counter, which makes for fun half-day adventure in the Malibu Hills. I mean, when have you got to feed Yaks and Zebras on the same day that you tasted upscale wine? Here is all the information.

• Wine Safari prices vary but start at $65 for 90 minutes (As of 2016)
• Busy on the weekends
• Also offer hiking tours as well
• Information as of 2016

When you arrive for the safari, you will be shown the awesome stadium-style seating jeep that you will be using for this adventure. They usher you onto the back property and then start the tour of the massive grounds.

The first animals we saw were the small herd of four buffalo that greet guests as they enter. I have always liked buffalo, so it was fun to see them up close.

Next, we went to the area where we got to interact with the animals and feed them. Our guides had a selection of carrots that we used to feed everything from alpacas and mini horses to yaks and zebras. It was great; here are some pictures.

I would have to say my personal favorite was the yak; he reminded me of my bulldog and seemed like a big teddy bear.

From there, the tour headed around the family’s house and past the giraffe, which was featured in Hangover 3, and a camel. We couldn’t interact with either of these, but they were still fun to see from afar.

The tour also has a few fun stops along the way, like the door to nowhere and a frame that “frames” one of the best views on the property.

About halfway through the tour, you will see a lake and a small house that we were told you could rent. This seems like it would be an enjoyable way to spend a night with friends on the property, and I might have to look into it more sometime in the future.

The bus continued to wind around the property until it stopped at a quaint little house that is one of the most used wedding spots on the property, and it is easy to see why.

The house has a bedroom and area for the bride and groom to get ready in it, and it overlooks the Conejo Valley.

Even the altar where the ceremony takes place is beautiful and minimalistic, making it perfect for a lovely wedding. Combine that with hills full of vineyards, and you have a great spot to get married or just to relax and take in the views.

This is where you will taste wine as well before heading back to the main area to taste the rest.

The Tasting Area

After heading back to the main area, we walked the ground to see some of the cool attractions they have here as well. One of the most famous is the wine sign that mimics the love sign in Pittsburg. It is heavily photographed, and you can see it at the top of this post.

They also have a wagon with a fish tank, lots of old cars and tons of seating, even an old school bus you can sit in.

The best part about it is that you can bring your own food in to have a makeshift picnic while on the grounds trying wine. It is by far one of the most fun wineries I have been to in a while.

All in all, Malibu Family Wines is a great way to get out of the city and spend a fun day with friends. I can’t wait to go again and would love to hear what you think in the comments.

Similar Posts

Pageant of the Masters 2018: Living Art in Laguna Beach

Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway: Celebrity Home Tour in Palm Springs (Closed)

Tecate Peak & A Trip to Mexico for the Tecate Brewery

Great Wall of Los Angeles

Tenaja Falls: 150 Foot Tiered Waterfall in Cleveland National Forest

Burgers and Brew in Chico

[email protected]

• 1 (818) 578-4077

• 4x4 Wine Tour
• VW Wine Bus Tour
• Private Tours & Events
• Malibu Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

General wine tour questions.

We have different types of tours, and they have varying lengths. 

• The wine hike tour covers about 2 miles in total, so make sure you have your walking shoes on. The duration of the tour will be 1.5-2 hours.
• The 4×4 Adventure Tour is 2 hours long and will include multiple stops during the tour.
• The VW Wine Bus Tour will take approximately 3 hours and includes 2-3 stops.

Yes, you can book a wine tour same-day up to an hour before the tour is scheduled to depart. You may book a tour as a walk-in guest, but tours are not guaranteed, as this depends entirely on staffing and scheduling.

If you arrive before dusk, you may see llamas, miniature donkeys, miniature horses, alpacas, and cows. Animals are put in their barns as the sun sets to deter nighttime predators. You will not be permitted to touch or feed the animals.

Yes, there is one midway restroom stop during the hiking tour and several stops with restrooms available while on the 4×4 tour. On the VW tour, there will be one restroom stop on the ranch and one more restroom available at the winery.

No, we do not offer additional wine for purchase UNLESS you become a wine club member. Talk to your tour guide for more details about joining the wine club.

Yes! We would absolutely love for you to request your favorite guide. You can do this by contacting us via email or phone.

No. Gratuity is not included on our wine tasting tours . Tour guides, just like waitstaff or bartenders, primarily work for tips. Most guides have Venmo, Zelle and Cashapp, and happily accept cash. Here is a breakdown of suggested gratuity:

Hike : $10-$20/person

4×4 : $50-$80/vehicle

VW : $80-$100/vehicle

If you feel that your tour guide has done an exemplary job, feel free to send them off with even more tip money!

What to Bring and What is prohibited

When checking the weather, check Agoura Hills temperatures rather than Malibu temperatures and dress accordingly.

For the hike, closed-toed shoes are highly suggested. 

Depending on the time of day and the season, 4×4 tours and VW bus tours may get VERY cold in the evening. Bring jackets and/or blankets.

You’ll likely work up not only thirst but also an appetite on your tour.  Guests can bring snacks but must be able to carry them on tour.

The Vineyard Hike Tour is all ages. The VW Bus Tour is 21 and over. All passengers on the 4×4 Tour and the VW Bus Tour must  be at minimum 57” tall or 9 years old.

As much as we love our fury friends, no pets are allowed on any of our tours or on the property.

No. You will be asked to remove all outside alcoholic beverages from the premises. However, there are a variety of places to eat and drink at in the Malibu Wine Country area once your tour is complete.

Cancellation & Other Policies

Cancellations made within 48hr of the scheduled tour will be refunded 50% of the total order. Cancellations made more than 48 hours from the scheduled hike will be charged a 20% service fee. 

We can reschedule your tour for NO cost as long as you notify us at least an hour before your scheduled start time.

We still run tours, rain or shine. Temperatures can climb into the 100s and drop into the 30s. Check Agoura Hills weather before booking. Standard rescheduling policy applies.

Fashionably late does not apply in this case. You must arrive on time for your tour. Please contact us if you are running late so we can make the necessary arrangements. 

We HIGHLY recommend arriving AT LEAST 15 MINUTES before the tour start time.

IF YOU ARRIVE LATE, WE CAN NOT WAIT FOR YOU, AND YOU WILL BE CHARGED 50% OF YOUR ORDER AMOUNT IN THE EVENT OF A CANCELLATION.

No. Access to the private estate is only allowed during your tour or when events are specifically scheduled ahead of time with the events coordinator.

Yes, you can book a tour same-day up to an hour before the tour is scheduled to depart. You MAY book a tour as a walk-in guest, but tours are not guaranteed, as this depends entirely on staffing and scheduling.

GET IN TOUCH

Join Us For A Tour

Have questions about our wine tours and experiences? Interested in a private tour or event rental space?

Our customer service is here to help you plan your trip or answer your questions. Reach out today.

(818) 578-4077

32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM PST (closed on Tuesdays)

Seasonal hours may affect tours available*

Join Our Email List