Welcome to Serra Retreat
A secluded sanctuary steps from downtown Malibu
Serra Retreat is a luxurious hidden gem tucked in the heart of downtown Malibu, and across from the iconic
Malibu Pier and
Surfrider Beach.
This lush, exclusive enclave boasts immaculate landscapes and beautiful large estates situated on park-like properties with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Mature sycamore trees and eucalyptus groves line the winding roads of this beautiful community. Homes here range from grand estates and equestrian properties to small, cozy abodes in a range of styles such as Moorish and Spanish.
Serra Retreat is a wooded canyon area known for its unique architecture, stunning views, and privacy—it’s one of the only guard-gated communities in Malibu, accessible via only two roads. Many celebrities and high-profile Los Angeles elites call Serra Retreat home due to its exclusivity.
Originally planned as the home of Malibu's Rindge family, Serra Retreat was sold to the Franciscans in 1942. One of the most unique highlights of this neighborhood is the
Serra Retreat Center, a spiritual retreat run by Franciscan friars, adding to the tranquil and charming atmosphere.
What to Love
- Utmost privacy and tranquility
- Close proximity to downtown Malibu
- Stunning views
- Guard-gated community
Local Lifestyle
While residents of Serra Retreat value the privacy offered by this hidden oasis, the community is just a short walk or bike ride to downtown Malibu and its world-class amenities. The community is ideal for the discerning nature lover and anyone seeking a peaceful and private retreat close to the center of Malibu.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Serra Retreat is close to the
Malibu Cross Creek, an upscale shopping, fine dining, and entertainment mecca. Locals are likely to recommend
Taverna Tony for authentic Greek cuisine, or
Lucky's for sumptuous steaks, chops, and seafood.
Tra Di Noi is known for its wide array of fresh pasta dishes. Other notable restaurants include
Broad Street Oyster Company,
John’s Garden,
Howdy’s,
Blue Bottle Coffee,
Sunlife Organics,
Ollo, and
Bui Sushi.
More shopping and wonderful cuisine await at
Malibu Lumber Yard, which boasts unique boutiques and brands such as James Perse and Maxfield. It’s also home to eateries like local favorite
Café Habana.
Things to Do
Home to pristine beaches, parks, and scenic trails, it’s no wonder Serra Retreat is favored among outdoor enthusiasts.
For an easy hike along the beach, head to
Malibu Lagoon State Beach, which boasts a beautiful lagoon, the historic
Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum, and Surfrider Beach—one of the first places where modern surfing culture developed. It’s also home to a resting and feeding estuary for more than 200 species of migrating and native birds.
The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum offer a glimpse into old California and its rich history. Built in 1929, this Spanish Colonial Revival-style estate contains the best surviving examples of decorative ceramic tile produced by Malibu Potteries. It was once the home of Merritt Huntley Adamson and Rhoda Rindge Adamson, daughter of Frederick Hastings Rindge and May Knight Rindge—the last owners of the Rancho Malibu Spanish grant. Today, visitors flock to this historical site to marvel at the idyllic oceanfront overlooking the Malibu Lagoon and Surfrider Beach.
Serra Retreat is a stone’s throw from the
Malibu Pier, an iconic landmark known for its sweeping views of the coast and saltwater fishing. With a storied past dating back to 1905, the pier is famous for its excellent restaurants, shopping, and dolphin spotting.
