VIBE

Diverse collection of high-end shops, restaurants, spas, and galleries housed in two rustic-accented campuses (walk easily from Malibu Country Mart to next-door Lumber Yard) twisted through with gardens and courtyards. Specialty designer boutiques like Maxfield, Intermix, Madison (great blend of designers like Marni, Missoni, Stella McCartney, and Chloe, among others), J.Crew, and James Perse abound, while the eateries run the gamut from low-key Crumbs Bake Shop or Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf to sceney Nobu Malibu. The verdant outdoor spaces filled with thought-provoking sculpture displays provide refreshing spots to take a break from the stresses of shopping.

USE A PURCHASE FROM HERE FOR

Wardrobe enhancement; a gift

WHY WE LIKE IT

The open shopping/dining setup makes for a lovely all-in-one day out–a nice change from the maddening traffic-jammed experience of LA. We’d start with a wander through the shops, followed by a posh drink and nibble at one of the onsite cafés or restaurants.

GOOD TO KNOW

Although they’re located side-by-side, Malibu Country Mart and the Lumber Yard are actually two separate malls. And just in case you need another incentive to come scope them out, parking here is free. Also, there’s a children’s playground and a public picnic area on site.

CLOSEST COMPS

Sunset Plaza (Los Angeles)

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