Carole Terwilliger Meyers's Blog

Orcutt, California: Deja Vu Antique Mall; things to do

Deja Vu Antique Mall 315 S Broadway St., in Orcutt, (805) 314-2409.  Open daily.

Resembling a junkyard from the outside--but a manicured one--Deja Vu Antiques houses more than 35 central coast antiques stalls. Do take time to explore the diverse selection that includes everything from blue Mason jars to Tiffany lamp shades. I even saw a bouquet of cotton ball plant sprigs that looked to be straight from the fields. Some handicraft items and vintage clothing are also purveyed.
exterior of Deja Vu Antique Mall in Orcutt, California

outdoor stalls at Deja Vu Antique Mall in Orcutt, California


blue Mason jars at Deja Vu Antique Mall in Orcutt, California


Tiffany lamp shades at Deja Vu Antique Mall in Orcutt, California


cotton ball stalks at Deja Vu Antique Mall in Orcutt, California


new wind chimes at Deja Vu Antique Mall in Orcutt, California


Things to do in Santa Maria.
Ideas for exploring Northern California.  
  
images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Santa Maria, California: Riverbench Vineyard & Winery + Foxen Canyon Wine Trail; things to do

Riverbench Vineyard & Winery6020 Foxen Canyon Rd, Santa Maria, (805) 937-8340. Tasting $25.
winery sign at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California


Situated near the north end of the Foxen Canyon wine trail, the Riverbench Vineyard & Winery tasting room is inside a converted 1920s craftsman-style house. But in good weather, most tasters head for tables on the manicured lawn area for an outside tasting under mature, sheltering trees and with a view of the vineyards. Flowers are often blooming around the edges, and hummingbirds dart among them.
outdoor tasting area at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California



Jordyn sets up tasting at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California



flower garden at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California



Known for its Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, the winery also make sparkling wines. You can choose from several tasting experiences served in Riedel crystal glasses. I opted for the basic “Riverbench Tour,” which offers two Chardonnays and three Pinot Noirs. The starter was a 2021 Bedrock Chardonnay. A light wine aged in stainless steel, it is pretty in the glass and crisp on the palate. Then came a softer 2021 Estate Chardonnay that was aged in 20% new French oak and presented a creamier feel that I especially enjoyed, followed by a light 2023 Rose of Pinot Noir that was lovely and refreshing on the warm day I tasted. Next came a tasty and smooth 2021 Estate Pinot Noir made from100% Pinot Noir grapes that presented a light spiciness. The final wine was a delicious 2019 Clone 115 Pinot Noir that was more complex and a little spicier than the previous wine, made more special by being aged in 30% new French oak. Only a few wineries in the area make sparkling wines, so I pleased to taste a splash of the 2018 Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine. Made with all Chardonnay grapes, it has bright fruit notes and was a perfect finish to the tasting.
Riverbench Rose of Pinot Noir at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California


Riverbench Blanc de Blancs at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California

The Riverbench winery has local owner, and its vineyard consists of 115 acres of Pinot Noir and 15 acres of Chardonnay. Food pairings can be improvised with locally-made chocolate truffles or a picnic basket with crackers, prosciutto, and more, and live music is scheduled several times each month. And as with most wineries, becoming a wine club member provides special prices and offerings.
tasting room events board at Riverbench Vineyard & Winery in Santa Maria, California



Foxen Canyon Wine Trail This scenic route winds through 30 miles of rustic back country, from Los Olivos to Santa Maria. On this dedicated wine trail you can visit numerous wineries and taste wines from the oldest appellation in Santa Barbara County. The area is known for cool-climate varietals—Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.
map 




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images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Santa Maria, California: Shaw’s Steakhouse & Tavern; restaurant review

Shaw’s Steakhouse & Tavern 714 South Broadway, Santa Maria.  L &D M-Sat.

entrance to Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California


Shaw’s steakhouse is known for its authentic traditional Santa Maria-style barbecue in which the meat is cooked over an open fire of slow-burning native red oak wood that imparts an aromatic smoky-sweet flavor to the meat. Most people come here for a barbecued steak with all the trimmings, but Shaw’s also offers other menu options including fish items and hamburgers. And a well-priced short wine list highlights local wines by the glass and bottle.
fire pit at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California



dining room at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California


bar at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California



The trimmings include a relish tray starter with black olives and crisp celery and carrots, a green salad, garlic bread, a baked potato with two big scoops of butter (or housemade soup), and salsa. Additionally, a side is included of unusual pinquito beans that are grown only on the central coast of California. These beans are about half the size of a regular pink bean and have plenty of flavor. I feasted on a top sirloin that was cooked to my medium specification, and I have enjoyed equivalent deliciousness only in Texas at the Big Texan Steak Ranch. I was hungry but still surprised I was able to eat so much of my meal. If I had been going right home after, I would have loved to have the leftovers the next day.
relish tray at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California



top sirloin plate at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California



pinquito beans at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California

This casual old-school steak house is equipped with comfy booths and large round tables. A full bar operates in a separate room. And the staff is pleasant and friendly. Get here between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. for the Early Bird Special.
lunch menu at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California



dinner menu at Shaw's Steakhouse & Tavern in Santa Maria, California



More things to do in Santa Maria.
Ideas for exploring Northern California.  
  
images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Malibu, California: Malibu Lagoon State Beach; things to do

Malibu Lagoon State Beach 23200 PCH, close to the Malibu Pier and across from Malibu Country Mart, (805) 488-1827. Parking $12 (all day); separate parking lots for the beach and the house.

In this wild and wonderful spot you can picnic as well as hike nature trails, explore tide pools, and watch surfers. Just north of the lagoon is Malibu Colony, an upscale gated residential enclave with celebrity residents.

view from trail at Malibu Lagoon State Beach in Malibu, California



view from trail at Malibu Lagoon State Beach in Malibu, California



handmade Malibu ceramic tile at Malibu Lagoon State Beach in Malibu, California



●Surfrider BeachP.C.H./Sweetwater Canyon Rd.
Tucked into a cove between the Malibu Pier and Malibu Lagoon State Beach, this is a popular surfing spot.


Malibu Pier sign in Malibu, California


● Adamson House  8am-sunset.  House tour Thur-Sat 11am-3pm; $7, 6-17 $2. Garden tour F at 10am; $7 (includes a house tour). Reservations not required.
The home of one of Malibu’s founding families, this historic Moorish-Spanish Colonial Revival-style house is famous for its lavish use of hand-painted ceramic tiles that were produced here in Malibu in the 1920s. The property is surrounded by an ornate brick fence, giving the property a castle-like appearance. Visitors can stroll the gardens on their own or take a tour.

Adamson House sign at Malibu Lagoon State Beach in Malibu, California


The Malibu Lagoon Museum adjoins the house. It tells the area’s history through artifacts and photographs and has a nice gift shop.


rustic fence around Adamson House at Malibu Lagoon State Beach in Malibu, California

More things to do in Malibu.

Things to do in nearby Santa Monica 
  
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images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Santa Maria, California: Historic Santa Maria Inn; hotel review

 101 South

Historic Santa Maria Inn  801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, (800) 462-4276, (805) 928-7777. 6-story tower; 182 rooms. Pool; hot tub; fitness room. 2 restaurants; 1 bar.


exterior of Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


A landmark since 1917, the Historic Santa Maria Inn attracted the Hollywood legends of yesteryear (Marilyn Monroe was among them), who often were stopping over on their way to Hearst Castle on the coast. Today it is perfect for a comfortable overnight rest stop off Highway 101. Larger rooms in the newer town are contemporary style, while rooms in the original wing are more atmospheric.
guest room at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California

Entry to the hotel occurs through a vintage revolving door as well as through regular doors, and check-in takes place at an antique desk in the spacious lobby. The property has a large pool area and an extensive mature rose garden. Motel-style outdoor parking is available along with more in an enclosed multi-level parking structure. Note that breakfast is not available in the hotel.

revolving door entry at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California

antique front desk at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California

lobby at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


antique wood phone booths at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


swimming pool area at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


More things to do in Santa Maria.
Ideas for exploring Northern California.  
  
images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Santa Maria: Historic Santa Maria Inn; hotel review

 101 South

Historic Santa Maria Inn  801 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, (800) 462-4276, (805) 928-7777. 6-story tower; 182 rooms. Pool; hot tub; fitness room. 2 restaurants; 1 bar.


exterior of Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


A landmark since 1917, the Historic Santa Maria Inn attracted the Hollywood legends of yesteryear (Marilyn Monroe was among them), who often were stopping over on their way to Hearst Castle on the coast. Today it is perfect for a comfortable overnight rest stop off Highway 101. Larger rooms in the newer town are contemporary style, while rooms in the original wing are more atmospheric.
guest room at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California

Entry to the hotel occurs through a vintage revolving door as well as through regular doors, and check-in takes place at an antique desk in the spacious lobby. The property has a large pool area and an extensive mature rose garden. Motel-style outdoor parking is available along with more in an enclosed multi-level parking structure. Note that breakfast is not available in the hotel.

revolving door entry at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California

antique front desk at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California

lobby at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


antique wood phone booths at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


swimming pool area at Historic Santa Maria Inn in Santa Maria, California


More things to do in Santa Maria.
Ideas for exploring Northern California.  
  
images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Santa Maria, California: My Place Coffee and Juice; restaurant review

My Place Coffee and Juice  525 South Broadway, Santa Maria, (805) 478-1600. B-L, M-Sat.
interior of My Place Coffee and Juice in Santa Maria, California


My Place Coffee and Juice serves a simple selection of breakfast and lunch items. Breakfast burritos, bagels, and avocado toast are on the menu, along with muffins, cookies, and Danish--all made in house. Drinks include an extensive coffee menu, a delicious chai prepared with fresh hand-ground spices, and a selection of fruity smoothies as well as fresh-squeezed lemonades--a simple lavender version or a more exotic Purple Dream version topped with color-changing blue jasmine tea. 
menu boards at My Place Coffee and Juice in Santa Maria, California


breakfast sampling at My Place Coffee and Juice in Santa Maria, California


In addition to inside seating, an outdoor deck provides umbrella-shaded seating. This Christian-based business offers free meals and services to the homeless on Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m.


juice menu board at My Place Coffee and Juice in Santa Maria, California


coffee flight menu board at My Place Coffee and Juice in Santa Maria, California



More things to do in Santa Maria.
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images ©2024 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Sedona, Arizona; Guest Post: Discovering Sedona and the Arizona Desert: A 3-day itinerary

Guest Post

DiscoveringSedona and the Arizona Desert: 
A 3-day itinerary

story and images by Iris Miller Stetson

vista and rocky trail at beginning of hike on Airport Loop in Sedona, Arizona

Day 1

For years, I’ve heard how beautiful Sedona is.  I recently saw it for the first time with mylife-long friend Susan, who I came to visit in Tucson.  She picked me up at the Phoenix Airport andwe drove the 119 miles from there on to Sedona, which is quite a bit shorterthan the 232 miles from Tucson.

As we approached Sedona, we saw red rock formations on the side ofthe road and knew we were near.

Thoughit was a Tuesday afternoon, cars were backed up for miles. While we were amazedby the beauty around us, we were horrified by the invasion of tourists. Sedonahas about 10,000 residents, but it gets over 3 million tourists a year. Welater learned from locals that Sedona is always overrun by visitors.

The Arizona Department of Transportation installed 12roundabouts in the busiest part of town where most of the shops, art galleries,and restaurants thrive. It turns out they make it more challenging behind thewheel. Patiently, Susan kept us on the right road heading to the SedonaSouthwest Inn, where we were booked for two nights.

 

Overnight Lodging in SedonaSedona Southwest Inn 

It was a challenge to find reasonable prices forlodging that provided two beds. During my online search I learned that mostrooms were $600/night and up. We were pleased to find something that lookeddecent at $300/night. Located about a 10-minute drive from the center of town, ourinn was quiet and the beds were comfortable, but I can only give it 3.5 stars(out of 5). It had a worn and tired feeling, was motel-like, and our room wasnot tidied after the first night.  But theprice included breakfast and, though nothing special, it was adequate. 

           

Shopping in SedonaTlaquepaqueArts and Shopping Village 

Once settled in our room, we ventured out to the nearbyTlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. Though very touristy, I appreciated thatthis large outdoor mall is decorated in the style of its surroundings. But theprices were shocking. A visitor sitting outside a candy shop who was eating asmall ice cream scoop pointed to the shop and exclaimed, “Their prices areridiculous! Over $5 for this little scoop!!" I went into the candy shopbut saw nothing that looked good enough or special enough to splurge. We then wanderedinto a shoe store and a few other shops and the prices reminded me of back homein California where everything is over the top. A lot of the shops atTlaquepaque are nice, but nothing stood out. However, the weather was great soit offered a pleasant place to sit, browse, and walk around.

 

Dinner in SedonaAmerican Creekside Bistro 

Owned by the same folks who run the Mesa Grill,another well-known Sedona eatery, the American Creekside Bistro can be quitebusy. Book dinner reservations in advance. Since we arrived early, I had timeto wander around the Creekside Plaza where the bistro is located. It’s fullof shops catering to those who come to Sedona for the vortexes. Sedona has lotsof tours and stores just for those who visit in search of crystals,spirituality, and the promise of renewed energy from the assumed magic of avortex. 

Like most of the places we went to, The AmericanCreekside Bistro is very casual and the food is good. We shared an appetizer ofAhi Tuna Nachos made with spiced wonton chips, spicy aioli duo, mango, freshginger, and avocado. The main course was Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast withlemon caper butter, asparagus, whipped potatoes, and dessert was a huge warm PeachCobbler with caramel ice cream and whipped cream--this was one of the raretimes that I couldn't finish something sweet. Overall, the food wasplentiful and tasty, and since we shared everything the tab was extremelyreasonable.

Peach Cobbler dessert at American Creekside Bistro in Sedona, Arizona

Day2

Ahike in SedonaSedona Airport Loop Trail   

After breakfast the following morning, we took road89A to the Airport Road. This takes you to the Airport Vista Parking Lot whereyou can park for $3, cross the road and gaze out to incredible views from theAirport Scenic Overlook. 

Susan doesn’t hike but I do, so she sat at the lookoutwhile I crossed back to the parking lot and found what I thought was thebeginning of the Airport Loop Trail. I viewed a map but couldn’t determine howlong the hike would be. I was wearing new hiking shoes with a good grip, my sunhat, jeans, a T-shirt, and light jacket. I had my phone and some cough dropsbut not much else. It was 11 a.m., and the temperature was in the 60s with ahigh expected in the low 70s. I’m used to walking 4 to 5 miles each day and, inmy excitement to walk on the red earth and see the Sedona I came for, Ifoolishly took off without any water or knowledge of the trail. 

The day and scenery couldn’t have been more beautiful.At first, I passed a lot of people going the opposite way, and a very nicewoman asked if I wanted my picture taken, so I posed.

Thetrail began along the road, and as soon as it veered off I saw incredible redrock formations but realized I had to also watch the path since it was sorocky. I knew I couldn’t capture this kind of beauty in a photograph, but Ikept stopping to shoot pictures anyway. The vistas were breathtaking. 

red earth in Sedona, Arizona

Icalled Susan to let her know I didn’t see any markers and did not know how longI would be. When I got to what I suspected to be the halfway point, there weremarkers. I stopped and rested, gazing at the incredible mound of red earth and formationsbefore me. Many fellow hikers were doing the same thing.

Onemarker indicated .6 mile to the end, so I called Susan again to let her know, thatgiven the terrain, I expected to be back in an hour or so. It was noon.

As Ijourneyed on, the trail seemed to get rougher and more precarious in a numberof places where the edge narrowed. There were slanted, slippery-looking rocksthat I had to cross so I slowed down on those and carefully moved on.

cacti along Airport Loop Trail in Sedona, Arizona

I metmany trailblazers. There were parents with children, and people with dogs onleashes.  I was often asked how I (a 76-year-old)was doing. I felt cared for by my fellow nature lovers. At various points, I’dask people if they knew how much farther the trail went but no one did. Maybewe were all lost? And I kept thinking, “How on earth could I start outwithout water and not knowing how long this would take?" Then, I met thenicest woman with her husband and two boys. They offered me food and water. I acceptedthe water, and the woman said they’d be behind me. Somehow, I lost them, but inbetween calls to Susan I’d stop to look at the cacti and take short breaksunder small trees that offered a little shade, where I’d drink a few sips of myprecious water.

rocky trail at beginning of hike on Airport Loop Trail in Sedona, Arizona

At one point, I was a little worried that I might belost, but then I crossed paths with a woman who told me to look for a wirefence that led to the end and that it wasn’t far. I came close to two femaledeer and a very large buck. I’m used to deer and knew they’d run away from me,which they did. After that, I saw a slight fork in the road and came upon thewire fence. Soon, I heard people talking and saw houses on the other side ofthe fence. There was no marker, but I noticed a small gravel path that led upto a road. I followed it and found myself near the Airport Scenic Overlook,right across the street from Susan, who was waiting in her car. It was 1 p.m.

After gratefully rejoining my friend, and sitting fora few minutes and drinking more water, I visited a convenient porta-potty inthe parking lot. On the way, I ran into the wonderful woman who hadoffered me food and water. We hugged as she exclaimed, “You made it!”There were so many guardian angels on the trail that day, all seeming to watchout for each other.

summit of hike on Airport Loop Trail in Sedona, Arizona

I know some people venture out on the Airport LoopTrail to see the sunset.  If you do, beprepared with flashlights, good directions, warm clothes, good shoes, food, andwater. Rattlesnakes don’t come out until the end of April, and I didn’t see anylizards or jack rabbits, but make sure you’re well equipped.

Since my adventure, I’ve researched the trail.  I have found varying lengths, but I think itwas about 4 miles, including that .6 mile which is the back end of the loop.I’ll never forget this experience. I was never scared—it’s too beautiful anddemanding for that--though I am sorry to have alarmed my friend. If you visit, takein as much of the magnificence as you can, but don’t forget to pack along somewater!

 

Lunch in Sedona Indian Gardens Café and Market  

After my adventure, we headed to the Indian Gardens inOak Creek, a lovely neighborhood away from the center of Sedona. It has a verypleasant outdoor patio, and the lunch menu offers sandwiches, salads, and othertypical cafe fare. We shared a vegetarian sandwich and salad. The food was goodand the prices reasonable. After, we visited the shop next door, Garland’sIndian Jewelry, where we browsed a wealth of beautifully crafted NativeAmerican baskets, jewelry, leather goods, vases, Kachinas, and etc.  

 

Jeep tour in SedonaArizonaSafari Jeep Tours

We scheduled a jeep tour at 5 p.m. Though the SedonaPink Jeep tours were sold out, we found a tour with Arizona Safari Jeep Tours.All their tours have ratings, like rugged, easy, etc., so we bookedappropriately. Our tour from 5 to7 p.m. gave us a chance to see the colorchanges that come to the canyon at sunset. 

Our tour guide took us into Boynton Canyon. Heexplained how the red rock and earth of Sedona comes from the rust,or iron oxide, that formed from over 300 million years of volcaniceruptions and weathering of the elements. There is a highamount of iron oxide in the Sedona soil, which produces the red color. When combinedwith large deposits of quartz, this creates an enormous amount of magneticenergy in the area, and many people believe that this kind of energy iscentered in the vortexes. Our guide stopped the jeep and used metal rods thatbent down when they were hovering above an iron oxide and quartz rock, demonstratingthe magnetic pull. It was fun and, as the sun began to set, we saw the redhills change to a beautiful golden hue.

 

Arizona Safari Jeep Tours in Boynton Canyon in Sedona, Arizona

Dinner in Sedona

Saltrock Southwest Kitchen    

After our jeep tour, we headed to dinner at SaltrockSouthwest Kitchen at the Amara Resort & Spa. It’s upscale, but people dresscasually. We sat outside, hoping for a clear evening to look up at the stars. Butit was chilly. The accommodating staff brought us a heat lamp and warm blanketsto wrap up in. There were no stars, but the excellent food included Blue CrabEmpanadas, a Tiger Shrimp Tamal, and a fantastic Poblano Relleno.Again, sharing made the price for such good food and service quite reasonable. Tryto eat here during the day when you’ll enjoy a fantastic view.

 

Day3

Jerome, Arizonaglorious sky and Susan Eisen in Jerome, Arizona 

We left Sedona the next day and headed to nearbyJerome. Once a booming copper-mining town, its population now is about 450, andit’s sometimes referred to as a ghost town. The sky here is glorious; it is rightup there with the best sky I ever saw in New Mexico.  Streets wind around on hills filled withshops that remind me of the hippie days. Parking is difficult, so we wound upheading back to Tucson for lunch.

Iris Miller Stetson on Airport Loop Trail in Sedona, Arizona

IrisMiller Stetson lives in Oakland, California. An avid nature lover, she enjoysgardening and daily hikes. Iris is the author of “The Voice of Acceptance: A True Story About Abuse, Disability, and the Pursuit of Happiness”.

More places to visit in Arizona.

Moreideas for exploring the U.S.

Malibu, California: Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe; restaurant review

Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe  

25653 P.C.H., 1.5 miles north of PepperdineUniversity, (310) 456-3430.  Daily 11am-8:30pm.  

overview of Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

Founded in 1972, Malibu Seafood is owned andoperated by commercial fishermen.  Theowners have been quoted as saying, “The reason we don’t serve breakfast iswe’re out catching lunch.” Watch for thestreet-side sign and be ready to make a quick exit into the free parkingarea.  

menu at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

fresh seafood counter at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

Nicknamed the hut” by locals, thismodest spot serves fresh local fish prepared to order.  Fish and chips and ground ahi burgers are popular,and prices are fair.  Get in line, orderat the counter inside, pick up at the window outside, and select a seat at anocean-view picnic table.  Or take it to gofor a picnic on the beach. 

open-air seating at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

fish & chips at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

Things to do in nearby Santa Monica 
  
More ideas for travel adventures in California and the U.S. and around the world. 

images ©2023 Carole Terwilliger Meyers 

Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe 25653 ...

Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe  

25653 P.C.H., 1.5 miles north of PepperdineUniversity, (310) 456-3430.  Daily 11am-8:30pm.  

overview of Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

Founded in 1972, Malibu Seafood is owned andoperated by commercial fishermen.  Theowners have been quoted as saying, “The reason we don’t serve breakfast iswe’re out catching lunch.” Watch for thestreet-side sign and be ready to make a quick exit into the free parkingarea.  

menu at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

fresh seafood counter at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

Nicknamed the hut” by locals, thismodest spot serves fresh local fish prepared to order.  Fish and chips and ground ahi burgers are popular,and prices are fair.  Get in line, orderat the counter inside, pick up at the window outside, and select a seat at anocean-view picnic table.  Or take it to gofor a picnic on the beach. 

open-air seating at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

fish & chips at Malibu Seafood cafe in Malibu, California

Things to do in nearby Santa Monica 
  
More ideas for travel adventures in California and the U.S. and around the world. 

images ©2023 Carole Terwilliger Meyers