Beautiful and social place to get away for an afternoon. Beautiful views and places to walk. Gardens and buildings are lovely.

Amazing place of meditation and awesome landscapes and view over Malibu! It all started in 1802; the vast Rancho Malibu land is super huge and encompasses100,000 acres, and is situated from the Pacific Ocean to the Santa Monica mountains ( north/south) and Topanga Canyon to Port Hueneme ( east/ west). I went through fires and devastation! But in 1942, the Franciscan friars monks, looking for a property to set up their seminary, looked at the abandoned huge mansion and property at the hilltop site, and were offered the " right" price to purchase the beautiful Rindge estate for this seminary: $50,000 for 26 acres. Since then, the Serra retreat has hosted many retreats and events with potential stay in their lodging facilities and kitchen with cooks! It offers a great way to rest and meditate. read more

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I've gone to Serra Retreat for my parish's young adult retreat for most years since 2016. Its location is tucked away in the Malibu mountain and it really is such a serene environment that helps you concentrate and meditate. The staff are incredibly kind (shout out to the kitchen staff with the excellent food combos!). My favorite parts are definitely the look-out point and all the random benches where I have been able to sit, breathe, and write. As far as the retreatant bedrooms --- I mean, sure, it's not like a 5 star hotel. But, it gives you the basics: a bed, bedding, towels, shared bathroom. Because of COVID, I had my own room and bathroom for the first time ever. Different, but comfortable. Lots of parking. And a little over a mile away from the beach. I've also done a quick run before my retreat schedule for a run to the beach and back up to the Serra Retreat Center. No matter what, Serra Retreat will always have a special place in my heart. read more

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I took a small group for a meditation retreat. Staff were very kind and accommodating upon arrival. They can be, at times, slow replying to email but nothing that made me concerned about the status of the trip. The center itself is quite historic. One of the oldest areas being behind the Rindge Room. Kinda creepy but neat to see the original tiles and structure. Views are great everywhere. We also had lunch which was well prepared with a good selection and portion. There's a small gift shop with prayer cards, medallions, and books. I'll definitely be taking my group back there. read more

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Lovely Peaceful Kind people Gorgeous views Pleasant facilities A labyrinth for walking meditation Library and chapel read more

Serra Retreat is a gorgeous magical place full of lovely nature and touches my heart every time. There were a couple of issues that did come up and that's why I'm giving the retreat center itself 3 stars. 1) The first day at the retreat center when I went for lunch, we were all supposed to eat outside because of the covid-19 which makes sense. It was rather cold outside and Jenny, the person who I booked this Retreat through said that they would have heat lamps. They Did have a heat lamp by the table I was going to be sitting at. So I asked the manager of the retreat center if he could put on the heat lamp and he immediately seemed very annoyed that I was asking even though there was a heat lamp there in plain eyesight by my table. he actually asked me if I could go back to my room and get a sweater....Really? That was so rude. I'm a paying customer at The Retreat Center. Why are you getting annoyed and not doing your job? 2) In the cafeteria in order to get our food, we went in there with masks and using sanitizer which was great. But the Priests and Friars would sit IN the cafeteria congregating for lunch WITHOUT masks IN AN INDOOR PLACE and it was exposure to the customers that were staying there, like myself and others in regards to the covid-19. I complained about it and nothing was ever remedied. The Priests and Friars could have had arranged times to come for breakfast lunch and dinner at an Earlier time then the patrons would avoided exposure. 3) The Retreat Center is a place that needs to be quiet and peaceful for people to drop-in and regenerate from daily life. There was continuous yelling outside by the workers yelling in Spanish nonstop for HOURS. I complained to Jenny and yet nothing changed. At one point I yelled outside of my window at the retreat, "please keep it down." And finally they shut up. 4) Lastly, The Retreat Center wanted the customers to change the bed sheets and put fresh bed sheets for the next customer. With covid-19, that's not a good idea. That's not a clean way to do things. The housekeeper should do that. I didn't do that because I don't feel it is sanitary. I just feel that the retreat center needs to tighten up on their covid-19 regulations as well as the noise problem and also the lack of customer service with the heat lamps. read more

It's a magnificent setting up on a hill in Malibu! Incredible fresh food! Close to wonderful historic venues! Run by Jesuit priests! They are just wonderful! The grounds are filled. With local fauna. There's a beautiful walk down to the beach or the pier! These a coffee shop and other shops! Down the street is a wonderful restaurant on the beach! It's Paradise Cove! With-eating there you get sone time in comfy chairs on the beach! read more

This is a spiritual retreat center run by a Catholic religious order. I have been there at leas once a year for the last three years. It has amazingly beautiful grounds and the staff is so friendly and caring. It is a great place to unwind and feel like you are being touched by a high power. But it is also great cause they have some of the upgrades I would need. They have wireless internet because although I was on vacation I can never be far from work. The food is amazingly good for a retreat center and although the rooms are a bit aged they aren't damaged or dirty (I am a bit of a clean freak). I continue to look forward to going there and hope to someday be able to participate in one of the retreats they put on. Also keep your eye out for the sweet dog that roams the grounds he belongs to one of the Friars who runs the place. read more

Serra Retreat - A View of the Chapel - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Malibu, California

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This is a great retreat house, very quiet and a beautiful view. The food is excellent and the accommodations comfortable. These are old buildings, but that lens itself to part of the ambience of the place. I loved my experience here. read more

My husband and I are thoroughly enjoying our time here in Malibu. From the impecable landscape to the gorgeous views, to the delicious meals, everything was truly more than I ever thought this place could be. The rooms are just that...rooms. Who really cares if they're almost like college dorm rooms! These rooms are just made for sleeping. The beauty and overall charm is found outside, not in the rooms. As far as the ambiance is concerned, it really isn't a place for babies or children because the entire facility is geared to treasure God's natural gifts in peace. There's a lot of places to sit and meditate. Plenty of locations to reflect and savor life's little joys. If life has been crazy and you're looking/seeking for life's pause button, then the Malibu Serra Retreat is worth the drive. Bring tennis shoes as there are plenty of well maintained nature trails. Oh and don't be alarmed when the bell is rung, it's just a friendly reminder of something fun about to happen. My husband and I look forward to coming here again!!!! Thank you Fr. Michael for your hospitality. Glad to be a part of the 70th Anniversary!! read more

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This place is in the Bu! I went for a family-personal retreatment that was life-changing. I believe the beautiful setting overlooking Malibu & the ocean really made a difference to my sense of awareness. The religious center is a great setting to recharge & focus on yourself! For deep times, deep duty calls...otherwise just get a room somewhere in Malibu. read more

Serra Retreat - View from top of the hill - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Malibu, California

This review is for the grounds ONLY. What an amazing view from the top of the Santa Monica Mountains. You can see for miles with a fantastic panorama of the ocean beaches. There are benches to sit and relax. Parking can be dicey. read more

Serra Retreat - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Malibu, California

Tranquility ... with a view Serenity ... for the soul Peace ... with a purpose Serra Retreat is a 23-acre quiet escape on a knoll above Malibu for anyone seeking tranquility, serenity, and peace. Few know about this hidden Catholic hideaway ... and that's what makes Serra Retreat a special place. You can turn down the volume knob on life, sit still, and listen to the whispers in the breeze. * The grounds are open Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. * No reservation required for personal prayer or relaxation * Weekend visits to the grounds are by appointment only; Call to plan ahead * It is nestled in a housing community of Malibu elite not far from the Malibu Pier * At the gate off PCH to the community, let the guard know you are going to Serra * Parking is free, but a pass from the gate is required to drive the mile road * Real Franciscan Friars have run Serra Retreat since it was founded in 1943 * The retreat is named for Junipero Serra who founded the first 9 missions in CA * Group retreats and workshops are hosted on the site at reasonable rates * Non-profit, profit, church, and school organizations all can reserve the retreat * Weddings and Memorial Services are also popular at Serra Retreat * The buildings and site are surrounded with paths and park benches * Serra has two conference rooms (100 or 30 people) plus 2 meeting rooms * A round chapel (up to 100 people) has large windows for panoramic views * 64 furnished bedrooms can accommodate 120 people. * The on-site dining room serves a view of the Pacific Ocean with meals * Wi-Fi is available in many of the buildings * The grounds are manicured and maintained to instill a sense of stillness * A path near the Retreat is lined with white statues of the stations of the cross * A rock garden circle maze is laid out nearby * A giant cross rises above a grassy promontory against the ocean view backdrop Junipero Serra is quoted as stating, "Always go forward, never turn back." To do so, sometimes you need to stop, meditate, and find peace. Visit Serra Retreat and spend some quiet quality time with yourself. read more

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I've been here twice. The first time it was the setting for an annual board of directors meeting and brainstorming session for a national organization. I enjoyed it so much the first time, that I've flown cross country another time to do a few days of personal reflection here. Highly recommend. The center, run by the Franciscans, sits atop the Malibu hills overlooking the Pacific and the beautiful countryside. I don't remember the food being spectacular; the food may be amazing, but I just can't remember. The grounds and the surrounding area are amazingly beautiful and peaceful. Each time, I would wander about, exploring the countryside and would even hike down to the Pacific to dip my toes. We all need to recharge the batteries. This unconventional vacation destination can be a blessing in disguise. read more

I stayed at this retreat center for a couples' Engagement Encounter weekend, and was a bit apprehensive because there seems to be no photos or reviews of this place online! Hopefully my thoughts will be useful to future researchers... The location itself is amazing -- on a hill overlooking the Malibu coastline, hills and valleys. It's isolated enough that it's very quiet and peaceful, but you can still see gawk at the surrounding Malibu estates and count the cars speeding along PCH. The facility itself is Spanish-style with lots of simple gardens, plants, fountains and statues. There is a Stations of the Cross walk, a very basic labyrinth and chapel if you want to tap into your spiritual side, and also walking paths and a horseshoe pit if you'd like to be active. The buildings are definitely showing their age...seems as though this place hasn't been remodeled since the 60s or something. The dorms are drab and a bit dusty (think ghetto dorm room or bachelor apartment), and the walls are thin. There was no housekeeping during our stay, and on the morning we left, we were given a set of fresh bedsheets and told to make our own beds ready for the next visitor! The common areas are also a visit through the way back machine. Think Naugahyde seating and heavy dark wood furniture, oak paneling, tired-looking floors and even a hallway phone booth. The cafeteria is surprisingly bearable (think buffet-style Olive Garden or Applebee's quality food), with a fresh salad bar at lunch and dinner and veggie and fruit options. All in all, it's probably not the place to go if you want to relax and be pampered. But if you're willing to rough it a little bit to enjoy a very peaceful, spiritual- and nature-focused environment, it might be a good fit. read more

The Serra Retreat is a serene oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. My dad brought our family to visit many times after attending a retreat here in the 90s. Come here to take a breather and meditate; I promise you will leave feeling calm and refreshed. read more

If you need a breath of fresh air, to escape for a bit, need to clear your mind, Serra Retreat is definitely worth checking out. read more

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They have re-opened! Just returned from a personal retreat there and it was lovely. The staff was very well versed in covid procedures and did everything properly, temperature checks, distancing, hand washing/sanitizing, wrapping meals (which were delicious), you name it. Tom went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed during our stay. The rooms were cleaned well, and their beautiful peaceful grounds made it an enjoyable place to rest and reflect, read, walk in the gardens, and enjoy a time of solitude. Would highly recommend this retreat center, and will plan to go again soon. read more

Serra Retreat Center is the place to go for a private or group retreat with its incredible, expansive gardens of tranquility where you can walk or sit as you meditate over the Pacific Ocean. The chapel has panoramic glass panels so nature and the sea are one with the inner sanctuary. We were welcomed wonderfully by the friar community of quiet, holy men who banter gently, laugh quietly, and listen intently. The food was delicious, the praying was intimate. Thank you Fr. Ray and Fr. Mel and the whole community. Our stay was too short but our love for you is long. Karina B., Paso Robles read more

I visit this tranquil venue yearly for spiritual renewal high up in the Mountains above Malibu with views of the Pacific Ocean. Walking the labyrinth is a wonderful meditative exercise for contemplation of where I am in life, and what I need to receive or give as I move through the labyrinth holding these thoughts and intermittently releasing them to hear from God. I love the fellowships, the sharing and friendships made through the years in this very special quiet retreat from the cares of the world that empowers me to start afresh. Thank you Serra and staff. read more

Beautiful! Our group recently held a weeklong retreat here. The grounds are beautiful. There are several little walkways. It is something like 26 acres but it is on a mountain in the canyons so you can't really walk on a lot of it. You can walk down into the neighborhood which is very nice. Lots of expensive houses and some horses. The meals were ok - not great but there were some tasty ones (cafeteria style). All the staff is very nice and there are resident friars. The rooms are adequate--minimalist . Bring your own hairdryer, soap, shampoo, etc. The only complaint I have about the rooms are the jack and jill bathrooms are sort of noisy. I would wake up when the next door person went in there. I am not sure if there are any rooms with private bathrooms. Overall very nice for a retreat. Nice hidden treasure in Malibu. read more

Another outstanding experience and a vision and feast for the eyes. Since I have been on a trek lately exploring some of the beauty and history of Los Angeles, Malibu did not disappoint. I am grateful my boyfriend brought this to my attention because we were so fortunate to come see this beautiful place on a weekday. The weather was perfect. With a serene, peaceful spirit this place allows you to take in the history of this gorgeous mission and the spiritual experience. The tile work, smell of the wood and it's age, the scripture and statues, cross' everywhere and the furniture that has been preserved was like going back in time. It was truly beyond beautiful and tranquil. I wish it was tucked further away from the sounds of civilization though... read more

I was really fortunate to have experienced this Malibu hideaway over the weekend. It lies on a quiet residential hill overlooking the ocean. Ambiance: The Spanish style retreat is adorned with greenery, fountains, and statues of saints. Several park benches are situated overlooking the hills or the ocean. Coupled with sunny weather, the place becomes absolutely tranquil. I couldn't stop saying how beautiful it was the moment I stepped out of the car. Rooms: The retreat has about 100 rooms so you are sharing the space with other groups. At the time, we shared the space with a theatre group and a 12-step group. The sleeping accommodations are OK. Each room includes 1 or 2 twin beds and a shared bathroom with the adjoining room. The rooms and bathrooms are at least clean. Yes, you do need to make your own beds (just like any other retreat). It definitely isn't the greatest but come on - it's not the Hyatt, it's a spiritual retreat. Food: Thank you lord, the food was better than expected. For breakfast, they served pancakes, potatoes, sausages, bacon, and eggs. For lunch, they served enchiladas, rice, beans, and cheesecake. For dinner, they served ribs, baked potatoes, and creme caramel flan. The coffee was eh but that's the coffee snob and cranky morning person in me talking. Needless to say, everyone including the staff was in a friendly and peaceful mood. I highly recommend this place if you need a time out from your busy lives. It is open to the public during weekdays. However, you'll need to call first if you want to stop by during the weekend. read more

Serra Retreat - Rooms - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Malibu, California

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It was a treat to really enjoy a nonprofit club board meeting that I went here for. Impressive vista outlooks over the ocean and mega million dollar homes below, fun hikes to enjoy, and plants galore. Really enjoyed the real Mexican food for lunch and beef ribs at dinner. My husband came with me, and he appreciated the food as it is all you can chow down. He loved the great access to the net. This is a hidden gem, no doubt. I miss their sister retreat in Azusa, CA. Funny, it was BOYWine. But it leads to more spiritual awakening I guess. read more

I attended a retreat at Serra Retreat. I never knew anything existed like this in Southern California. I felt like I was visiting a tropical paradise. It was so green and tranquil. There are gardens around the entire premises. I wish we had more time to explore on our breaks. The gift shop is cute. The lunch served was splendid. The freshest ingredients and a nice variety of vegetarian options. I'm not certain if they only serve vegetarian food however even as someone who enjoys a steak, I really loved the food. I would like to come back with my family just for a visit. The drive here was neat and once you get past the guard station, you will find yourself on a road with traffic consisting of horse riders. Pretty cool in my book. read more

If the friendly staff do these things, I'd host another event here: 1. Put blue recycling bins with signs in the cafe, outdoor areas and meeting rooms. I didn't see any bins so a lot of recyclables went in the trash. You can recycle these things in LA's blue bins: - All PLASTIC, METAL, GLASS. - Plastic BAGS & FILM - Clean Polystyrene (STYROFOAM™) Print your sign: http://lacitysan.org/solid_resources/recycling/curbside/what_is_recyclable.htm 2. Only use reusable foodware. They used a lot of disposable cups and plastic plates. 3. Avoid putting disposable cups in each bedroom. p.s. They cook flavorful vegan spaghetti squash and burritos. read more

I've been visiting regularly since 2011. This quiet, serene and spiritual place is my go to place for hiding out from the real world to recharge and renew. I love it! No phones, and no TV!! read more

I visited the Serra retreat center with men's south county group and it was amazing. I truly had one of the best times I've had in a while. Thank you! read more

I went here on a retreat with my church last weekend. Amazing food. Well kept grounds with 360 degree views of the Malibu hills and ocean. You can see the surf from the center. Friendly staff. I hope to go back. read more

WOW. This place is amazing. It overlooks the Malibu Canyon and you can see the ocean from the bluff. The grounds and gardens are beautifully kept, and there is always something surprising around every corner. I have to admit that the food in the cafeteria was mediocre but everything was fresh. Also the rooms aren't posh or anything. The ones I saw all had twin beds and Jack & Jill bathrooms but everything worked and was clean. If you come up here, you won't be pampered (you have to change your own bedding) but hey, it's run by the Franciscans. This is a great place to get some solitude and rest and reflect on the beauty of God's creation. Can't wait to go back. read more

I attended John and Mayin's wedding in May at the Serra Retreat in Malibu, CA. John is such a perfectionist. I should have known that it would have been a near perfect wedding. It was more than that. The Serra Retreat is one of the most beautiful wedding venues I have ever been to, with surrounding views the the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. The food was catered The Godmother of Malibu Catering Company, aka the Godmother Cafe. It was old world quality with an original flair. Service was superb and the overall experience was one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. read more

Serra Retreat is a great place to hold retreats. We have decided to hold our most popular AYP Retreat at Serra for the weekend of November 18-20, 2011 aypsite.com has been providing free yoga, meditation lessons for enlightenment or awakening and our LA Retreat has been so popular so far mainly due to the Serra Location that we selected read more

Lovely, peaceful setting. The outdoor Labyrinthe is an inspiring walking meditation tool. I've stayed at Serra for multiple retreats - the staff is warm and welcoming, the food is simple and yummy. I always leave Serra feeling replenished. read more

I used to go to Serra Retreat Center with a group. I am considering going on my own. Does anyone know how much it might cost to stay there on your own---with meals? The place is beautiful and very peaceful. The meals were not great when I was there before and the rooms were spartan; but that didn't bother me. I loved the views, the trees/plants and the architecture. It is worth a trip to visit if you feel drawn. You can visit without an appointment during the week--daytime hours. Check out their website for pictures of the place. The Getty Museum, featuring ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria is nearby. The ocean is close--maybe within walking distance. This area is often affected by the great fires in that area; one time when I was there we were forced to evacuate (I had ashes on my arms)--so check out the fire situation before you go. read more

I came here with 98 young adults (20s-30s) for the St Monica Young Adult Retreat. I didn't want to leave. The place is absolutely beautiful and you truly feel "away" from the rest of life. I can't really image many better retreat centers in the world considering the views, hospitality, and feel of escape. It's a place I guarantee you will go on and on about with your friends and family after even a short visit. read more