Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $567

Standard/Professional

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Fender Malibu". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 23, 2026.

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Description

Step into the spotlight with the Fender Malibu, a beautifully crafted instrument that harmonizes classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Designed for musicians who crave a blend of style and sound, this steel-string acoustic guitar offers a resonant voice with a punchy, articulate tone. The body is meticulously crafted from sapele, while the top is made of solid spruce, delivering a bright and clear sound. Its nato neck, finished in satin urethane, offers a comfortable playing experience, complemented by a slim "C" profile that fits snugly in your hand.

The Malibu's walnut fingerboard is adorned with white dot inlays and a 400mm (15.75") radius, making it an ideal choice for both strumming and intricate fingerpicking. A standout feature is the Graph Tech NuBone nut, which enhances sustain and ensures precise intonation. Vintage style nickel machine heads and a modern Viking bridge add to its visual and functional charm.

For those who love to perform, the Malibu is equipped with built-in electronics that include volume and tone controls, along with a push tone knob for phase control, allowing you to tailor your sound to any venue. Complete with a 3-ply tortoiseshell pickguard and strung with Fender Dura-Tone 880L Coated 80/20 strings, this guitar is as durable as it is delightful.

Key Features:

  • Body: Sapele
  • Top: Solid Spruce
  • Neck: Nato with Satin Urethane Finish
  • Fingerboard: Walnut with White Dot Inlays
  • Fingerboard Radius: 400mm (15.75")
  • Nut: Graph Tech NuBone
  • 20 Frets
  • Controls: Volume, Tone, Push Tone Knob for Phase Control
  • Pickguard: 3-Ply Tortoiseshell
  • Bridge: Modern Viking
  • Machine Heads: Vintage Style Nickel
  • Strings: Fender Dura-Tone 880L Coated 80/20, .012-.052 Gauges
  • Finish: Poly lacquer

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model Malibu
Finish Black, Natural, Sunburst
Year 1965 - 1971
Made In United States
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Black, Natural, Orange, Tan
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Fender Malibu
Neck Material Maple
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Fender Vintage CBS Era
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the Fender Malibu's body?

The Fender Malibu features a body made from mahogany for the back and sides, and a spruce top, providing a balanced and resonant tone typical of dreadnought acoustic guitars.

Is the Fender Malibu suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Fender Malibu is suitable for beginners due to its shorter 24-inch scale length, which makes it easier to play, especially for those with smaller hands.

Does the Fender Malibu have an active preamp or pickups?

No, the Fender Malibu does not have an active preamp or pickups, making it a purely acoustic instrument ideal for unplugged performances.

What is the neck material of the Fender Malibu?

The neck of the Fender Malibu is made from maple, which contributes to its bright tonal characteristics and smooth playability.

How many frets does the Fender Malibu have?

The Fender Malibu has 20 frets, offering a sufficient range for most acoustic guitar playing styles.

What are the finish options available for the Fender Malibu?

The Fender Malibu is available in Black, Natural, and Sunburst finishes, providing aesthetic options to suit different player preferences.

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Video thumbnail for Fender Malibu Player Guitar Demo by jimlaabsmusic

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Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Malibu.

Build quality

  • The neck profile is appreciated by some, but others find the strat neck less ideal for an acoustic guitar.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Malibu has a unique heart-shaped soundhole, which some users find aesthetically pleasing despite its compact size impacting sound quality.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Many owners consider it more of a collector's item due to its increasing resale value and limited production.

    Source

User experience

  • Users describe the guitar as "hilariously small," likening it to a toy, and note that it is best suited as a display piece.

    Source
  • The Malibu is described as having playability similar to Fender electric guitars, making it comfortable for electric players transitioning to acoustic.

    Source
  • A user found the guitar hard to put down at a Guitar Center, indicating a high level of engagement and enjoyment during play.

    Source
  • Owners report that Yamaha guitars, even older models, remain durable and playable over decades, suggesting a long lifespan despite frequent use.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Malibu feels toy-like and lacks the robust sound and build quality seen in higher-end Yamaha models, impacting its suitability for serious play.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Upgrading to Elixir strings significantly improves the sound, though it remains a lesser instrument compared to higher-end acoustics.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners note that their other guitars, like Taylor and PRS models, outperform the Malibu in both sound and build quality.

    Source
  • Yamaha guitars in the same price range are suggested as alternatives, implying similar value and functionality.

    Source
  • The Malibu's smaller body is notably more comfortable for petite players compared to a dreadnought like the Yamaha FG800, which may feel cumbersome when seated.

    Source
  • The Yamaha FG800 is preferred for its consistent build quality and reliability, unlike Fender acoustics, which often face quality control issues at lower price points.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's noted as a fun guitar to play, suggesting it may inspire beginners to practice more frequently.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender Malibu Review — Powder for Angelina

powderforangelina.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
asperochra

i'm actually in love

the first really serious guitar I bought. it is suitable for all genres in general, now I generally use it for shoegaze

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Harry Styles uses Fender Malibu

Harry Styles

Singer, Guitarist

One Direction

...
Verified via Photo

Harry Styles is seen with a black Fender Malibu adorned with stickers, as shown in a photo on his Instagram.

See how Alex G uses Fender Malibu

Alex G

Singer, Guitarist

The Skin Cells

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube video, Alex can be seen using this guitar. There is a chance this may be a Fender Del Mar, but these are very similar guitars and the Del Mar is not listed online.

See how Dwight Yoakam uses Fender Malibu

Dwight Yoakam

Composer

Buzzin' Cousins

...
Verified via Photo

On Dwight's official Instagram, you can see him playing what appears to be a 60's Fender Malibu acoustic guitar alongside Bob Weir and friends.

See how Melissa Bonny uses Fender Malibu

Melissa Bonny

Singer

Evenmore

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Melissa Bonny can be seen playing her Fender Artist Design Series Alkaline Trio Malibu.

See how John Edmond uses Fender Malibu

John Edmond

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

John's main guitar. Name is clearly visible on the cover of Troopiesongs.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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