If you’re planning a day in Malibu, this itinerary has everything you could want: ocean views, incredible food, charming boutiques, artisan shops, beach stops, and that laid back California vibe that makes you want to stay just a little longer.

Whether you’re visiting Malibu for the first time or looking for a fun day trip from Los Angeles, here’s an itinerary that’s easy to follow and packed with some of my favorite stops.

Malibu at a Glance

If You’re Looking For…	Go Here
Best Coffee	Pantry at Madhappy
Best Shopping	Malibu Country Mart
Hidden Gem	Surf Canyon
Artisan Shopping	Casita Basqueria
Best Lunch	Malibu Farm
Sweet Treat	Treats at Kith
Best Beach Stop	Paradise Cove
Waterfront Dinner	Nobu, Geoffrey’s or Duke’s

Stop #1: Malibu Country Mart

There’s no better place to start your day than Malibu Country Mart.

This outdoor shopping village is the heart of Malibu and has such a fun mix of shopping, cafés, restaurants, and beautiful outdoor spaces. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander without a plan because every corner has something worth stopping for.

Palm trees, fountains, outdoor seating, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere make it easy to spend a few hours here.

Start with Coffee at Pantry

The first stop should be Pantry, the café inside the new Madhappy store.

The coffee was excellent, but the matcha completely lived up to the hype. It’s the perfect way to ease into the morning before exploring the shops.

Shop Madhappy

The new Madhappy store is beautiful.

Even if you aren’t shopping, it’s worth walking through. The store perfectly captures that effortless California style with relaxed basics and a beautifully designed space.

Stop Into Kith Malibu

Just down the walkway is Kith Malibu.

Besides the clothing, don’t miss Treats, their dessert counter serving soft serve with all kinds of toppings. It’s such a fun little stop, especially on a warm Malibu afternoon.

Visit Cherry Malibu

One of the newest additions to Malibu Country Mart is Cherry.

They carry exclusive Malibu merchandise that makes for a fun souvenir or gift. If you love bringing home something unique from your travels, definitely pop inside.

More Shops Worth Exploring

One of the best things about Malibu Country Mart is how walkable everything is.

While you’re there, browse a few more favorites:

Stop #2: Explore Surf Canyon

Just a short walk from Malibu Country Mart is one of the coolest little shopping areas in Malibu: Surf Canyon.

It has a completely different feel than the Country Mart.

Instead of larger retailers, you’ll find charming cottages filled with artists, makers, designers, and locally owned businesses. The entire space feels creative, relaxed, and full of personality.

It’s one of those places where you naturally slow down and want to peek inside every shop.

Don’t Miss Casita Basqueria

One of the standout shops at Surf Canyon is Casita Basqueria.

Think beautiful handmade ceramics, artisan pantry staples, candles, cookbooks, linens, specialty foods, and thoughtfully curated home goods.

If you love discovering unique shops while traveling, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Stop #3: Lunch at Malibu Farm

After a morning of shopping, head over to Malibu Farm for lunch.

Located right on the Malibu Pier, it’s easily one of the prettiest places to eat in Malibu.

The views are incredible, the menu is fresh and seasonal, and you really can’t go wrong with anything you order.

If you need a recommendation, the broccoli quesadilla is an absolute must. Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.

Ally ordered the nachos and couldn’t stop talking about them.

After lunch, take a walk down the Malibu Pier and enjoy the views before heading to your next stop.

Stop #4: Relax at Paradise Cove

No Malibu day feels complete without a stop at Paradise Cove.

This iconic beach is exactly what you picture when you think of Southern California.

Rent beach chairs, put your feet in the sand, grab a drink, or simply enjoy the view.

The beachfront restaurant has been a Malibu favorite for decades and is a great place to slow down and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Even if you don’t stay for a meal, it’s worth stopping by just for the experience.

Where to Eat in Malibu

If you’re staying through dinner or planning another trip, here are a few more waterfront restaurants worth adding to your list.

Nobu Malibu

Probably Malibu’s most famous restaurant, Nobu pairs incredible sushi with one of the best oceanfront patios in California.

Geoffrey’s Malibu

Perched above the Pacific, Geoffrey’s is perfect for brunch, lunch, sunset cocktails, or a special dinner with unforgettable views.

Duke’s Malibu

A longtime Malibu favorite with a relaxed Hawaiian-inspired atmosphere and beautiful waterfront dining.

The Sunset Restaurant

Located near Zuma Beach, The Sunset Restaurant is another great option if you’re looking for dinner with ocean views.

Malibu Seafood

For something more casual, Malibu Seafood is a local favorite for fresh seafood, fish tacos, and picnic tables overlooking the water.

A Perfect Malibu Day Itinerary

9:00 AM
Coffee at Pantry

9:30 AM
Explore Malibu Country Mart

11:30 AM
Browse Surf Canyon and Casita Basqueria

1:00 PM
Lunch at Malibu Farm

2:30 PM
Walk the Malibu Pier

4:00 PM
Relax at Paradise Cove

6:30 PM
Dinner at Nobu, Geoffrey’s, Duke’s, or The Sunset Restaurant

Tips for Visiting Malibu

Why Malibu Is Worth the Trip

Malibu has a way of making an ordinary day feel memorable.

You can spend the morning sipping coffee, browse beautifully curated shops, discover local artisans, enjoy lunch overlooking the Pacific, and finish the afternoon with your toes in the sand.

Whether you’re visiting Southern California for a weekend or looking for an easy day trip from Los Angeles, Malibu is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.

If you follow this guide, you’ll experience some of the very best shopping, restaurants, beaches, and coastal views that make Malibu such a special place.

And if you take the trip to Malibu, let me know how you liked it and where you went!

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