Malibu Seafood

There’s a certain magic that happens when you combine ocean views, fresh-off-the-boat seafood, and zero pretension. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Malibu Seafood, a weathered roadside institution that’s been feeding hungry beachgoers for over four decades. This no-frills fish shack sits right on PCH, run by actual local fishermen who know their catch better than anyone.

The menu here is refreshingly straightforward—seafood done simply and done right. Whether you’re craving something deep-fried and golden (their fish and chips are legendary, with a housemade tartar sauce that’s worth the trip alone) or lighter fare like steamed mussels and peel-your-own shrimp, everything arrives impeccably fresh. The whole red snapper with two sides is practically a steal for this zip code, and the calamari rivals anything you’d find at a high-end LA restaurant.

What sets Malibu Seafood apart from the flashier spots along the coast is the complete lack of scene. You order inside from someone who’d rather be fishing, grab a seat on one of three ocean-facing patios, and wait for genuinely excellent food to arrive on paper plates. No reservation headaches, no trying to look good for Instagram, just good honest seafood in one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in California.

If you’re planning a beach day in Malibu and want to eat somewhere that values quality over hype, put this place at the top of your list. It’s the kind of spot locals have kept close to their chest for years—casual, affordable, and serving some of the best seafood you’ll find anywhere along PCH.