Serra Retreat sits in Eastern Malibu near Malibu Mart, one of the few commercial centers of a mostly-rural Malibu.  It is a small secluded community in the hills of lower Malibu Canyon. The enclave gets its name from the Serra Retreat Center, a Catholic retreat and conference center operated by Franciscan Friars. The grounds of the center occupy one of the hills in the neighborhood.  There are only two ways to enter into Serra Retreat – both are guarded gates. One is located to the right of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and the other across Malibu Creek via Cross Creek Road. The community has roughly one hundred oversized lots.

The majority of Serra Retreat homes lot sizes are less than one acre, but some are over four acres.  Serra Retreat has many sweeping estates and equestrian properties.  This neighborhood is known for diverse architecture and amazing views of the Pacific.  Hillside homes have views of the Pacific Ocean, Malibu Lagoon, and Malibu Pier. The remaining houses are tucked into the rural flats of Lower Malibu Canyon, under the canopies of sycamore and eucalyptus trees.