Malibu Country Mart is a popular outdoor mall with a sunny, happy feel. An abundance of trees and picnic tables surround a colorful playground with sandpit and swings. Coyote sculptures and a red hammer-man statue add to the fun. Designer stores and cafes attract a ritzy crowd- everyone looks like a fashion model or actor, even the parents at the playground! There's a toy store called Toy Crazy with a train set outside in an attractive area with orange umbrellas and a joker fountain.

To the south, walk over to Malibu Lumber Yard Mall, a glorious area with palm trees swishing in the breeze over a hardwood deck and a wood stage with live music on weekends.
Across the street, there's a Starbucks with great views of the mountains, and a movie theater.
You can definitely spend a few hours at Malibu Country Mart people-watching, enjoying gourmet food, and taking in the happy California vibe.
Walk the bridge over Malibu Lagoon to see Adamson House, situated perfectly by the sea between Mallibu Pier and Malibu Lagoon. Stay a while on the lawn and soak up the sun.
Another mellow place to hang out is Malibu Colony Plaza, with restaurants and a Starbucks with outdoor seating by a Spanish fountain. While in Malibu, spend some time at Getty Villa (get your free tickets ahead of time on the internet) where you'll find Greek and Roman antiquities in a mediterranean paradise high above the ocean. For a more peaceful playground for your kids, check out Las Flores Creek Park, a brand new park with beautiful play equipment.
One of my favorite beaches in Malibu, 18 minutes drive north, is El Matador State Beach, with caves, rocks jutting out of the sea, and arches.

Directions

From Highway 1, turn toward the mountains on Cross Creek Rd. The mall is on your left and there is a parking lot. On the weekend you may have to wait a while for parking.
Toy Crazy, 23410 Civic Center Way, Malibu, CA 90265.

Click on map for interactive view