A true gem of the coast, the Getty Villa is a reconstructed Pompeian villa and Mediterranean garden with views out to the Pacific. Like the famed Getty Center in Los Angeles, California, the Getty Villa boasts a world-class collection of antiquities from oil tycoon J. Paul Getty. If you enjoy Greek and Roman aesthetics in an immersive museum experience of a Roman country home, you'll love it here. If hunger strikes, grab a bite at the museum café.

Malibu's historic pier juts out into the Pacific, offering postcard views of surfers and sunsets. But you'll be here for delights of another kind: a coffee or brunch at Malibu Farm Café. This casual offshoot of the Malibu Farm restaurant offers the same chic ambiance, local farm-to-table ingredients, and alfresco dining with casual counter service.
To find the café, walk to the end of the pier, marked by its famous dual white towers. If interested, the Ranch at the Pier can help you try your hand at fishing with rod rentals and bait on hand. No permits are needed.

Stop in at another coastal abode with a completely different history. The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum is the epitome of a classic Spanish Colonial Revival home. Built in 1929, this magical estate oozes charm, from its hand-carved doors to its colorful tiles.
It is easy to understand how the residence has become a National Historic Site, a California Historical Landmark, and a California State Park. Take a docent-led tour of the house, explore the lush, manicured grounds, or learn about Malibu's history from the time when the Chumash lived here at the adjoining Malibu Lagoon Museum. You'll come away inspired.

It is said that there is no better way to experience a city and its life rhythm than to have a delicious meal in one of the squares. So, see how Malibu residents shop, dine, and play at Malibu Country Mart and Malibu Village. This high-end malls boast epicurean eateries, high fashion brands, and upscale boutiques. But the real fun here is people watching the Malibu crowd.
If you're a seafood lover, then you should check out Broad Street Oyster Co. in Malibu, California. Founded by Christopher Tompkins, this quirky, nautical-themed restaurant is the ultimate seafood destination, serving up classics like the famous Lobster Roll, as well as natural wine and beer to accompany your meal. And with a cozy, homey atmosphere and a terrace to enjoy the California sunshine, it's the perfect place to kick back and relax.

No visit to Malibu, California is complete without a stop at the beach, and there are a few to choose from. El Matador Beach is a real hidden gem. The parking lot is small, but if you can snatch a spot, you'll be treated to picturesque cliff views and a long stretch of sand, sea caves, and massive rocks to explore below.
Given the steep staircase down to the beach, this is not well suited to anyone unstable on their feet. If you are looking for a classic sandy beach with surfers and sunbathers, try Zuma Beach, just around the corner.

Although perched on the coast, Malibu, California is actually a ranch town, filled with horses and horse people (who happen to live in very, very nice homes.) See this side of the colony with a drive into Cornell, a historic canyon hamlet with a feel from a simpler time.
Here, visit the Old Place, an authentic relic of Old California, offering up "humanity, history and good meals."
Note: This is a small, family-run operation with frequent changes in availability and schedules. It is best to contact the restaurant to ensure they are offering full service for your visit. If they do, you are in for a real treat.