With 20 miles of coastline and scores of acres devoted to hiking, Malibu is an ideal destination for those looking to be alone in nature. But it is also a city with a wonderful sense of community, friendly to both neighbors and visitors. And nowhere is that sense of community more apparent than at a Malibu farmers market, with locals and tourists perusing both produce and ready-to-eat options, jarred pantry staples, and even crafts from area artisans.

There’s a real sense of pride here, a celebration of California’s natural bounty (the state produces a third of the country’s vegetables and an eye-popping three-quarters of the country’s fruits and nuts) that even draws celebrities and local chefs – look closely, and you might see people from Carbon Beach Club, the signature restaurant of Malibu Beach Inn, checking out what’s fresh. Looking for what to do in Malibu? Spend a weekend enjoying both the bounty of the land and the good nature of the city’s residents at these favorite Malibu farmers markets:

An artisan selling a handmade bag to a man at a Malibu farmers market.

Friday

The best place to start the weekend might be in a parking lot along Topanga Canyon Boulevard. It’s here, every Friday morning, that farmers, restauranteurs, and other vendors set up shop for the Topanga Farmers Market, which has been alive with the spirit of community since its revival in early 2024. It’s considered one of Southern California’s most picturesque markets, nestled in Topanga Canyon (along one of our favorite scenic drives)

Alongside the farmers, an artisan market inside the community center hosts a variety of sellers, including producers of handbags, soaps, and art.

Buying fresh tomatoes and vegetables at a Malibu farmers market.

Saturday 

Not every farmer sets up a single stall in a parking lot to peddle their wares, however. One of the joys of driving around Malibu is stumbling across a roadside fruit vendor, a craftsperson with bushels of produce, or a local farm welcoming hungry visitors.

On Saturday’s, one of Malibu’s most popular farmers markets is at Thorne Family Farm, ten miles west on the PCH from Malibu Beach Inn. Featuring produce grown on-site, it has the small-town feel that’s hard to replicate in the country’s second-largest metropolis. Jars of jam and homemade pickles bear the first names of their makers. Farm-fresh eggs nestle alongside wooden crates filled with seasonal vegetables. A stand of flowers greets shoppers as they make the short walk up the dirt road from Bonsall Drive, and baked goods from Varsity Bakers are on offer as well.

Best of all, it’s a transportive setting – close your eyes, take in the sounds and smells, and you could be in the middle of farmland anywhere. It’s a getaway within a getaway.

Sign saying Grown Not Flown Local Flowers with a basket of spinach.

Sunday

The main event of Malibu’s farm-to-table culture comes on Sunday morning along Civic Center Way. The Malibu Farmers Market brings together dozens of farmers, restaurateurs, and vendors to create a one-stop shop that is a favorite way for locals to spend a lazy Sunday.

The diversity of wares on display at the market makes it a must-visit. Of course, local veggies and fruits are the stars of the show, with farms from down the road sharing space with those from just up the road in Ventura County and even further flung. But there’s also an array of take-home dishes available: gluten-free mini-cakes, crepes, Greek dips, avocado toast. Local tea blenders offer free samples, musicians create a live soundtrack to the festivities, and vintage clothiers showcase racks of finds.

Most importantly, though, the community shows up. Families, couples, people perusing the pet adoption booth – all walks of Malibu life make an appearance. After spending time connecting with the town’s natural beauty, it’s a chance to connect with its human beauty, as well.