I have fond memories about most of the time I have spent in Southern California, however one of my most enjoyable CA days was spent at the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe.
I grew up with a mother who idolized Johnny Carson. I remember her staying up for his monologues on the Tonight Show each and every night. She soaked up his descriptions of California life like a plant drinks in water. The Ventura Freeway, Mulholland Drive and most importantly, living in Malibu. When we finally went to LA when I was a teenager, it nearly put her over the edge, she was so happy. Prior to my last LA trip, I did some research and found a fun place to hang out there, the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe.
Malibu is a gorgeous drive away - straight up Route 1/Pacific Coast Highway which is easily accessed from Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, among other points of entry. Just keep driving north. Enjoy the views. Open your windows or better, if you have a convertible, drop that top! The mountains, the water, some surfers, a few lucky beach residents... those are the only things you'll see for about 20 minutes.
Once you get to Malibu, just watch for the sign that says "Paradise Cove." You will take a left turn and go down a short winding road. At the end, is the restaurant.
Visiting the cafe is like stepping back in time. It's very much like a fisherman's wharf restaurant. The decor isn't much and the food is just OK, but it's worth the trip. Why? Go out back and you'll see.
The beach cafe has tables set up right on the beach, as a number of awesome, old-fashioned wooden beach chairs, umbrellas and cocktail tables. Sink your toes into the sand, order a beer and some nachos, and just enjoy the view. You'll be steps from the ocean without a care in the world.
To be honest, the food isn't anything fancy and the service can be spacey as the servers are usually Pepperdine students or aspiring actors, but at least they have been friendly during my visits. Points for that.
Extra credit for the beach chairs. I can't wait to go back and watch for Johnny Carson.