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Malibu Chili Cook-Off Weekend: Chasing the Last Days of Summer

By: / Aug 21, 2026
3 friends enjoying the party

As summer winds down, there's still time to make the most of sunny days and warm nights in Malibu and Calabasas. From the annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off to poolside afternoons and fire pit evenings, Labor Day weekend is the perfect excuse to squeeze in one more Southern California getaway — and Cambria Hotel Calabasas - Malibu is where to base it.

Set in the hills just above Malibu, Cambria Hotel Calabasas - Malibu puts you close to the area's beaches, canyons, and seasonal events, with a resort-style pool, fire pit lounges, and California-inspired dining at Malibu Canyon Bar & Grill waiting for you back at the hotel.

Savor the Malibu Chili Cook-Off

Held September 4 through 7, the Malibu Chili Cook-Off is a beloved Labor Day tradition that brings together food, entertainment, carnival fun, and community spirit for one of the area's most anticipated end-of-summer events. Spend the day exploring the festivities, sampling chili from local favorites, catching live entertainment, and soaking up the atmosphere that makes this annual tradition a can't-miss. For tickets, hours, and this year's full lineup, check the official Malibu Chili Cook-Off site before you go - admission is sold in advance only.

Whether you're visiting with family or friends, make Cambria Hotel Calabasas - Malibu your home base for the weekend - it's an easy drive to the festival grounds, and you'll have a comfortable retreat waiting when the day winds down.

Unwind Poolside and Fireside at the Hotel

You don't have to leave the property to soak up the season. Spend your afternoon at our resort-style pool, then as the sun sets, settle into one of our fire pit lounges - the perfect spot to unwind with a drink after a day at the Chili Cook-Off or exploring the coast. It's the kind of low-key, high-comfort evening that makes a weekend feel like a real escape.

Dine at Malibu Canyon Bar & Grill

A pool with chairs and umbrellas

Our on-site restaurant, Malibu Canyon Bar & Grill, is reason enough to stay in for the evening. Stop by for Taco Tuesdays, catch live music on Fridays, or slow down with a Sunday brunch before you head home. With California-inspired dishes and scenic views, it's a great way to bookend your days of beach-hopping and canyon exploring without ever getting back in the car.

Make the Most of a Malibu Getaway

Of course, you don't need a special event to enjoy Malibu. Spend the day exploring the coastline, relaxing on the beach, taking in ocean views, shopping at local boutiques, or discovering the area's dining scene. Malibu Pier is about 11 miles away, with Malibu Creek State Park and King Gillette Ranch even closer for a quick outdoor escape , all easily reachable from Cambria Hotel Calabasas - Malibu.

After a day of exploring, return to the hotel and settle into a comfortable, design-forward guest room. Premium bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities create a relaxing retreat between adventures.

One More Summer Escape

Labor Day weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, but there's still time to make a few more memories under the California sun. Whether you're heading to the Malibu Chili Cook-Off, relaxing by our pool and fire pits, or catching a meal at Malibu Canyon Bar & Grill, Cambria Hotel Calabasas - Malibu is the perfect home base for your end-of-summer getaway.

Right now, our Semi-Flex Rate offers 5% off your stay with the flexibility to change your plans if you need to — a low-risk way to lock in this last-summer trip. Book your stay or explore the Semi-Flex Rate to start planning your Labor Day weekend in Malibu.

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