It’s not as though surf-capital Malibu wasn’t already full of mahalo vibes—it’s just that none of its restaurants give a nod to Hawaii quite like Duke’s. Built right on the water and sporting a surf motif (all a nod to father-of-surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku), this restaurant is breezy, fun and feels borderline tropical, with items like coconut shrimp with lilikoi chili; macadamia-crusted fish of the day; sashimi; banana-leaf–steamed seafood; and the best fish tacos in Malibu. Stop by on Tuesdays for their $14 two taco deal with a view of the waves crashing and just try to tell us you’re not having fun.

Nestled right on the water’s edge along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Duke’s Malibu is more than just a restaurant—it’s a full-on escape to the islands. Inspired by the legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku, the restaurant embodies the laid-back, welcoming vibes of Hawaii while celebrating Malibu’s rich surf culture. From the moment you walk in, the sound of the waves, the ocean breeze, and the warm “mahalo” atmosphere set the tone for a relaxing coastal experience.
One of Duke’s biggest draws is its prime waterfront location. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious deck give diners uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean. On sunny days, you can watch surfers carving waves just yards away, while sunsets paint the sky in brilliant hues of gold and pink. Whether you’re inside soaking up the coastal décor or sitting outdoors with the sea spray in the air, the view is pure Malibu magic.
Duke’s menu blends fresh Californian seafood with the bold, tropical tastes of Hawaii. Highlights include:
Coconut Shrimp with Lilikoi Chili Sauce – Sweet, spicy, and perfectly crispy.
Macadamia-Crusted Fish of the Day – A nutty, buttery crust over tender, flaky fish.
Banana-Leaf–Steamed Seafood – A true island-style preparation that locks in moisture and flavor.
Fresh Sashimi – Simple, fresh, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Famous Fish Tacos – Especially tempting on Tuesdays with their $14 two-taco deal.
Pair your meal with one of their tropical cocktails—think Mai Tais, Coconut Mojitos, or Pineapple Margaritas—for the full Hawaiian experience.
If you need an excuse to visit midweek, Taco Tuesday at Duke’s is legendary among locals. For just $14, you can grab two generous, flavorful tacos and enjoy them with the ocean as your backdrop. It’s casual, fun, and the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring Malibu.

Duke’s isn’t just a nod to its Hawaiian namesake—it’s a celebration of surfing itself. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with surfboards, vintage photos, and memorabilia, creating a museum-meets-beach-hut vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can almost imagine Duke Kahanamoku himself walking in with a board under his arm.
Whether you’re planning:
A romantic sunset dinner,
A family gathering,
A laid-back lunch with friends, or
A solo treat after a surf session,
Duke’s Malibu delivers a setting that’s both relaxed and upscale. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is inviting, and the location is simply unbeatable.
Since Duke’s is located right on Pacific Coast Highway, it’s a perfect stop before or after visiting some of Malibu’s other highlights:
Malibu Pier – Just minutes away, great for strolling and whale watching.
Surfrider Beach – Legendary waves for surfers and beautiful sandy stretches for sunbathers.
Carbon Beach (“Billionaire’s Beach”) – A quieter, scenic shoreline perfect for a walk.
Few places capture the essence of Malibu quite like Duke’s. It’s where California surf culture meets Hawaiian hospitality, all wrapped in a spectacular oceanfront package. Whether you’re coming for the food, the views, or the aloha spirit, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve been on a mini tropical getaway—without ever leaving the mainland.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation for a sunset seating—you’ll thank us when the sky lights up over the Pacific.