Best Schools in Malibu

Best Schools in Malibu

Malibu isn’t just famous for its stunning coastline—it’s also home to top-tier schools offering excellent academic standards, small class sizes, and progressive programs. Whether you're seeking traditional public schooling, faith-based education, or specialty private institutions, Malibu provides a rich tapestry of choices.


📚 Public Schools

Webster & Malibu Elementary Schools (K–5)

Malibu Middle School (6–8)

  • Holds an A-grade and ~15:1 student-teacher ratio, with ~78% reading proficiency—delivering solid preparation for high school .

Malibu High School (9–12)

  • The town’s lone public high school serves ~412 students; it's A-rated (Niche, GreatSchools), schools above-average in statewide academic metrics usnews.com+9homes.com+9usnews.com+9.

  • Offers AP courses, gifted programs, and a robust special education department .

  • Recognized for strong academic outcomes and high graduation rates (96% vs CA average 84%) niche.com+5schooldigger.com+5homes.com+5.


✝️ Private & Alternative Schools

Our Lady of Malibu School (PK–8)

  • A faith-based private school with ~115 students; it boasts an A+ on Niche and reviews averaging 4.7/5 homes.com+1niche.com+1.

Point Dume School (1–8)

  • A specialized private school, serving ~21 students, 100% acceptance, recommended for those needing tailored learning approaches and small cohorts privateschoolreview.com.

Sycamore School (K–8)

  • A boutique private school (~42 students, 5:1 ratio) praised on Yelp and Homes.com reviews for its close-knit environment .

MUSE Global School (PK–12, Malibu Canyon)

  • Founded by Suzy Amis Cameron, it’s the first vegan K–12 institution in the U.S., with ~178 students and a 6:1 ratio en.wikipedia.org.

  • Focused on sustainability, passion-based, student-driven learning .


🏫 Nearby Higher-End & Specialty Schools

These schools, while outside Malibu proper (mostly Calabasas/Santa Monica), are popular choices for Malibu residents looking for rigorous academics:


📝 Choosing the Right Fit

School Who It’s Best For Highlights
Public Schools Families seeking well-rounded, academically solid public education High proficiency rates, strong AP/gifted programs
Our Lady of Malibu Parents looking for faith-based, small-class PK–8 Strong community feel with A+ ratings
Point Dume Learners with special needs or requiring personalized attention Tiny class size, high flexibility
Sycamore School Families wanting intimate private schooling Boutique environment with low student ratio
MUSE Eco-conscious families seeking holistic, student-led learning Vegan ethos, sustainability focus
Crossroads/Viewpoint Families wanting elite academics with strong arts/sports Rigorous curriculum, wide extracurriculars

✅ Final Thoughts

Malibu offers a diverse range of top-tier educational opportunities. Public schools here are academically outstanding, while private and specialty schools provide alternatives tailored to different values, learning styles, and class formats. To choose the best fit:

  1. Visit campuses – see the culture and energy in person.

  2. Identify priorities – academics, class size, faith, special needs, or sustainability.

  3. Review metrics – academic ratings, student-teacher ratios, graduation rates, and parent feedback.

With so many excellent options in and around Malibu, families can find a school that aligns perfectly with their child's needs and aspirations.


Would you like help comparing a few of these schools side-by-side, or more information on admissions timelines and tuition?

Best Schools in Malibu
Best Schools in Malibu
Best Schools in Malibu

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