The perfect aesthetics stretch beyond the beach, too. The Getty Villa—the original home of the Getty Museum, which opened in 1974—focuses on Ancient Greek and Roman Art (admission is free, but you need to make a reservation). For more contemporary, beachy masterpieces, check out the 30 historic surfboards on display, some dating back to the 1910s, at the Surf Museum at Pepperdine University’s Payson Library. And for wearable art—and perhaps to spot one of the local celebs—browse the shops at the Malibu Country Mart and Malibu Lumber Yard, two upscale retail centers located next to one another.
Afterward, grab a bite at one of the many eateries along the water. Malibu Farm Restaurant is an organic café and restaurant that sits right on the pier, and Duke’s Malibu, which honors pioneering surfer and Duke Kahanamoku, delivers Hawaiian cuisine along with indoor/outdoor seating and excellent water views. Or browse the fresh catches—and try one of the famed ahi tuna burgers—at Malibu Seafood, where you can enjoy your meal at a picnic table, breathing in the salty sea air and soaking in the stunning coastline views.
