Dining Near Zuma Beach
Whether you're planning a casual beach picnic or seeking a memorable dining experience, the Zuma Beach area offers delightful options to satisfy every craving. From fresh seafood caught daily to family-friendly restaurants with stunning ocean views, this coastal paradise provides culinary adventures that perfectly complement your beach day.
🏖️ Beach Dining Options
Picnic Paradise: Many visitors find that bringing their own feast creates the perfect beach experience. Pack your favorite sandwiches, fresh fruit, and plenty of water, then supplement with treats from the convenient food concessions located right along the beach. These stands offer classic beach fare including hot dogs, chips, cold sodas, and ice cream—perfect for those moments when hunger strikes while you're enjoying the sun and surf.
🦞 Seafood Destinations
Neptune's Net: This legendary Pacific Coast Highway institution has been serving fresh seafood since 1958, making it a true Malibu landmark. Located at 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Neptune's Net draws both locals and visitors with its no-frills atmosphere and exceptional fried seafood. Their menu features everything from crispy shrimp baskets and clam strips to fresh crab cakes and classic tuna melts. The restaurant's beachside location and relaxed vibe make it the perfect stop after a day of swimming and sunbathing.
🍽️ Family-Friendly Restaurants
Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar: For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Spruzzo offers upscale yet family-friendly cuisine in a beautiful Malibu setting. Located at 29575 Pacific Coast Highway, this restaurant is renowned for its generous portions and welcoming atmosphere. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Spruzzo provides the perfect setting for lunch after your beach adventures or dinner while watching the sunset. For reservations or inquiries, call (310) 457-8282.
Kristy's Village Cafe: Discover this hidden gem offering healthy, fresh meals with one of the most spectacular views in Malibu. Perched overlooking Zuma Beach, Kristy's specializes in wholesome cuisine made with fresh ingredients, creating dishes that nourish both body and soul. The cafe's location provides breathtaking views of Malibu's famous sunsets, making it an ideal spot for early dinner or late lunch. Open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, this casual yet refined establishment focuses on quality ingredients and beautiful presentation.
🌮 Trancas Canyon Area
The nearby Trancas Canyon area has blossomed into a dining destination featuring several excellent restaurants within walking distance of each other. This charming area includes The Sunset Restaurant, known for its ocean views and fresh California cuisine, and Malibu Seafood, offering sustainably sourced fish and shellfish. Paradise Cove Beach Cafe provides another oceanfront dining option, where you can enjoy your meal with sand between your toes and waves as your soundtrack.
💡 Dining Tips for Beach Visitors
Timing Your Visit: Popular restaurants can get busy, especially during peak summer months (July through September). For the best experience, consider dining during off-peak hours or making reservations when possible.
Parking Considerations: Most restaurants offer their own parking, but arriving early in the day ensures the best spots. If you're already parked at Zuma Beach (remember, it's $0.25 per 10 minutes, about $8 for the day), many restaurants are within walking distance.
Sunset Dining: Malibu is famous for its spectacular sunsets. Time your dinner between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM during summer months to enjoy this natural light show while you dine.
🎯 Plan Your Perfect Day
Combine Activities: Make the most of your Zuma Beach visit by combining dining with other activities. Start with morning surfing (best between 6-8am), enjoy lunch at one of our featured restaurants, then explore wine tasting tours or rock climbing at Point Dume in the afternoon. Our activities guide provides detailed timing and seasonal recommendations to help you plan the perfect beach day.
📍 Original Local Favorites
All people love their food, and picnics are the best choice for Zuma Beach. Bring your own, supplement with hotdogs and chips and sodas from the Food concessions along the beach, or walk out to the Trancas Market Shopping Center which is recently renovated and houses several restaurants.
Also try the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) Fresh Seafood restaurant with lots of locals enjoying the fried or called "Neptune's Net".
Just along the road south towards the city you will find Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar an upscale family friendly restaurant in Malibu with generous portions. Phone: (310) 457-8282