Cherish Her Soul
A Sacred Retreat

Serra Retreat is a Retreat and Conference Center that provides the space, in a beautiful setting, for peace, serenity and reflection. It is located between the mountains and the ocean in Malibu, California with stunning views.
The Serra Retreat Story begins in 1802, the year Joseph Tapia, a Spanish subject, was granted permission by the commander in Santa Barbara to graze cattle on Rancho Malibu. Since then many a story to be told.

In 1942, the Franciscan Friars purchased the 26-acre property with an abandoned hilltop mansion and began hosting Catholic men's retreats. In the 1970s, Serra Retreat began to offer women's retreats as well as men's. Examples of pride and belonging are everywhere: the various shrines, the Stations of the Cross, the fountains, the individual rooms, and the priceless beauty. The Franciscan Friars continue the tradition for welcoming groups and personal retreats, as well as meetings, conferences, and workshops.

The view, through the arched windows of the dining room, offers a panorama of the winding creek from Malibu Canyon joining the Pacific Ocean. This juncture forming a natural lagoon is a state bird sanctuary and park. The locations of the retreat offers outstanding views of the mountains and water, and the buildings are surrounded by gardens, secluded resting places and walking paths.

As a place of refuge from the busyness of city life nearby, it offers a place of peace and rest to those who come to its doors. The Franciscans combine their ministry of hospitality and inspiration with the natural wonder of sky, gardens and beautiful weather. Your visit is sure to leave you renewed and refreshed