Malibu has captured the world’s imagination since the early days of Hollywood and the rise of surf culture in the 1950s. Today, Malibu is a picturesque coastal town renowned for its laid-back vibe, scenic beaches, and charming ambiance. It’s a well-loved destination for celebrities, offering utmost privacy, a variety of breathtaking beaches, excellent eateries, and quaint boutiques. Here’s the ultimate guide for a relaxed day in Malibu. Bookmark this guide for tips on where to eat, shop, and things to do while you’re in this seaside city!

Sunrise at Zuma Beach and Hike Point Dume 

Start your day with an awe-inspiring sunrise at Zuma Beach, one of Malibu’s most beautiful stretches of sand. Zuma Beach boasts 1.8 miles of beachfront, offering abundant space for people to relax and enjoy the sunrise. This beach is also visited for swimming, surfing, and spotting gray whales making their winter migration. Moreover, Zuma Beach features several amenities, such as volleyball nets, plenty of parking, clean bathrooms, food trucks, and beach wheelchairs for rent. After soaking in the gorgeous sunrise, go for a moderate hike on Point Dume, which offers panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Zuma Beach.

Grab Breakfast at Malibu Farm Cafe and Take a Walk on the Malibu Pier 

Malibu Farm Cafe is a casual counter-service restaurant at the end of the Malibu Pier. This rustic eatery offers classic American and Mexican breakfast dishes in a picture-perfect setting. Order ​​Malibu Farm Cafe’s Breakfast Burrito, Fried Egg Sandwich, Surfers Rancheros, Multi-grain Pancakes, Baked French Toast, or Salmon Scramble, and you will not be disappointed. The Malibu Farm Cafe is a great option for a budget-friendly breakfast. After your breakfast, take a stroll along the Malibu Pier, a historic landmark. Constructed in 1905, it’s frequented by locals and tourists for fishing, people-watching, and enjoying the views of the Pacific Ocean.

Shopping at Malibu Village Mall

Then, make your way to the Malibu Village Mall for some retail therapy. This outdoor mall boasts a mix of local boutiques, high-end retail, and bustling restaurants. My favorite stores at Malibu Village include Malibu Village Books, the Alcove, Teressa Foglia, Third Space, Saje Wellness, Surfing Cowboys, Res Ipsa, and Marine Layer. For a coffee break, drop by Marmalade Cafe or Broad Street Coffee Co. Both spots serve delicious coffee concoctions. 

Lunch at Neptune’s Net

Established in 1956, Neptune’s Net is a Pacific Coast Highway institution offering a casual beachfront dining experience. With its picnic-style seating and spectacular ocean vistas, it’s the perfect eatery to indulge in fresh seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and refreshing beers at good prices. At Neptune’s Net, I ordered the Fried Chicken Burger ($15.50), which was one of the best chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had. It features a crispy, golden-brown exterior that gives way to juicy, tender chicken, perfectly balanced by tangy pickles, creamy slaw, and a soft, buttery bun. I highly recommend Neptune’s Net for its stunning location, scrumptious food, and friendly service.

Sunset at El Matador State Beach

El Matador State Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in Malibu. It boasts majestic cliffs, rock formations, and tide pools. The tide pools feature a range of marine life, such as vibrant fish, crabs, and sea stars. El Matador State Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of a Southern California sunset!

Dinner at Mastro’s Ocean Club

Mastro’s Ocean Club is a fine-dining eatery celebrated for its prime steaks, fresh seafood, and impeccable hospitality. Known for its chic interiors, lively ambiance, and unobstructed vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Mastro’s offers a truly memorable dining experience. This eatery’s Herb Roasted Chicken, Rack of Lamb, Bone in Ribeye, Sauteed Shrimp, Lobster Bisque, Caesar Salad, and Norwegian Salmon are crowd favorites. I ordered the Lobster Bisque ($20), a smooth creamed soup flavored with cognac and lobster. The soup was flavorful and hit the spot. I was very impressed by how unusual yet delicious the soup was.

Nightcap at Moonshadows Malibu

End your fun-filled day in Malibu at Moonshadows, an award-winning,  beachfront restaurant and bar. Moonshadows’ cocktail menu comprises delectable classic concoctions and innovative beverages. At this gastro bar, I ordered the Peach Martini ($16), made using Absolut Peach, fresh peaches, grapefruit, and prosecco. The cocktail was perfectly balanced and packed a punch. At Moonshadows, grab a table by the window and wind down with the jaw-dropping vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

Photo courtesy of Neptunes Net.