It won't be long until we stay again at The Ranch Malibu, California's luxury health and wellness retreat. Before my first trip, I was worried about what to wear at The Ranch Malibu. I followed the suggested packing list, but I was curious about a few things. Should I bring two pairs of hiking shoes? Do people really wear sweatpants to dinner? Should I pack tights, shorts, or both?
When we first visited The Ranch Malibu, the weather was unusually warm and dry. It was perfect fall hiking weather on the California coast. When I returned to The Ranch Malibu six months later, the weather had completely changed. The weather has become much cooler with heavy rain and some hail. I don't know what the weather will be like on my next trip, but after experiencing two extreme conditions, I know what to pack. Here are some suggestions and links to some of my favorite items to help you decide what to wear at The Ranch Malibu.
hiking shoes and socks
shoes
The Ranch recommends two pairs of hiking shoes, and I agree. You can use the in-room shoe dryer if your feet get wet, but having a replacement shoe is less stressful. Additionally, if you get blisters, wearing different shoes is a good option.
I love the Salomon Speedcross 6 trail running shoes. I have run mountain 1/2 marathons and hiked on several continents in these extremely comfortable trail shoes. Available in men's and women's sizes.
Before you pack your shoes, plan on hiking and walking in them. The Ranch recommends one month of use. That's the bare minimum to me. Luckily, I was able to avoid blisters at The Ranch because I had already hiked in shoes and my socks fit well.
socks
Ranch Malibu recommends “3 pairs of hiking shoes or running socks that are not too thick and 2 pairs of liners.” I have never used a liner, but I wear double layer Wright socks and they are fantastic. I bring at least five pairs of socks and put them in my hiking boots to save space in my suitcase.
hat
Wide-brimmed sun hats are the most popular option among Ranch guests. If you don't have a wide-brimmed hat, you can purchase one at The Ranch Gift Shop. Since I travel with carry-on luggage, I usually wear Lululemon's baseball style hat. It's made of quick-drying fabric when it rains, provides adequate protection from the sun, and packs completely flat. Regardless of your preference, the sun hat will be a great addition to your Ranch wardrobe.
hydration system
Water is essential for the four-hour hike. The Ranch recommends a comfortable hydration backpack that can hold 100 ounces (converted) of water. I bring 3 liters of water with me on my Gregory MAYA 16, and often drink it all on long, warm hikes.
hiking jacket
I pack a variety of jackets when I visit The Ranch Malibu. If the weather is warm, I'll bring a Patagonia rain jacket and windbreaker. This is because mornings can be cool, especially near the sea, and the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. If the weather is expected to get cooler, I'll add a lightweight down jacket like this one from Peak Performance. The Ranch Malibu provides raincoats to guests.
Plus, I'll take some quarter zippers for hiking. Hoodies are great for early morning stretching classes and when the weather gets chilly in the evening.
hiking and exercise
shorts and stockings
Shorts or tights work well for hiking, yoga, and ranch work. I prefer Lululemon tights that have side pockets to keep sunscreen and my phone handy. I'm excited to try Lulu's new Cargo High Rise Hiking Tights on my upcoming trip. I usually pack three pairs of tights/yoga pants. Laundry service is provided daily for ranch guests, so there's no need to pack too many workout clothes. But there are three classes a day (morning stretching, strength training, yoga) and a hike, and you're encouraged to change between workouts.
I love hiking shorts with deep pockets. These Mountain Hardwear shorts are my current favorite shorts. I usually pack two or three pairs of shorts when I visit The Ranch Malibu.
t-shirt
A sunshirt is an excellent choice for daily hiking. I love this sun protection shirt from Mountain Hardwear.
Tank tops, sports bras, workout t-shirts and hoodies are perfect for strength training and yoga classes. We recommend 3-5 tank tops or t-shirts.
swimsuit
If the weather is nice, bring a swimsuit as water exercise is often done during the week. There are also hot tubs and cold plunge pools, which are popular post-hike recovery options. I packed a competitive one-piece swimsuit on my first visit to The Ranch. It used to be comfortable during water workouts, but now I add a bikini to it for lounging poolside.
evening wear
There is no need to dress up at The Ranch, and most guests wear comfortable clothes for a family-style dinner. I pack leggings, a cozy midi dress, a variety of shirts, and a long cardigan or sweater. Pack enough evening wear so you don't need to wash it during your stay at The Ranch Malibu.
Good to Know and Travel Tips – What to Wear at The Ranch Malibu
- Comfort is your top priority when hiking, stretching, exercising and dining at The Ranch Malibu. You don't need to get dressed at all. It's about health, wellbeing and mood.
- If you're flying into LAX, the Ranch team can arrange private transportation upon request or you can use UBER. You can take a van to LAX upon departure, or you can book a private ride if you have an afternoon flight and want to stop in Malibu to do some shopping.
- If you fly commercially, you might appreciate this post on how to get through airport security.
I participate in the Lululemon and Salomon affiliate programs. If you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a small commission. There are no additional costs. As always, I won't recommend places or products I don't use or like.