Best Places to Dine On the Beach in Southern California

Looking for a perfect spot to dine on the beach in Southern California? Look no further – we’ve covered you with the best options from Malibu Beach to Del Mar by the sea. Our list includes oceanfront restaurants steps from the sand that are perfect for a romantic dinner, special event, or casual brunch.

Paradise Cove Cafe

It’s best to make a reservation, especially if you want outdoor seating with an ocean view. Otherwise, expect a wait time of up to 90 minutes. The views are the main reason to visit Paradise Cove Cafe. You sit on the beach, steps from the pier; nothing is better than dining in the sand. Food and parking costs are expensive, but it’s worth it for a classic California experience with a chance to see a celebrity or two along the Malibu coast. 28128 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California. Website.

Duke’s Malibu

Duke’s is a chain of restaurants with six locations, three of which are in California: La Jolla, Huntington Beach, and Malibu. The Restaurant is named after Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaii’s most famous citizen, who is widely considered the initiator of surfing. Duke’s offers a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, but there is no direct access to the beach for a post-meal stroll. While the food and drinks are good, the main reason to dine at Duke’s is the stunning view. Valet parking is the only option unless you can find street parking along Pacific Coast Highway. 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, California. Website.

Moonshadows Malibu

Moonshadows is an upscale dining restaurant located right on the beach in Malibu. Although a small covered patio overlooks the ocean, most seating is indoors. Unfortunately, most beach sand has washed away in this part of Malibu. However, Moonshadows is still a great seafood spot by the water, making it an ideal place to celebrate special occasions or for a romantic date. The food and drinks are outstanding but have a price to match. Valet parking is available, but some free parking is also on both sides of the Pacific Coast Highway. Website.

Mastro’s Ocean Club Malibu

Mastro’s is a chain of upscale restaurants, and its Malibu location is just a few steps away from the Pacific Ocean. The Restaurant has a strict dress code, so dress appropriately to secure your seat. Mastro’s is known for its exceptional steak and seafood dishes. However, if you want a table with a view of the ocean, you must have a party of four or more. Therefore, consider another oceanfront dining spot if you’re just a couple. 18412 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, California. Website.

The Beach House Seal Beach

Located on a wide sandy beach, The Beach House boasts a prime location with refreshing ocean breezes and breathtaking views. The Restaurant serves delicious food, but the prices vary depending on your order. The portions are generous and can be shared. Indoor and outdoor seating options are available, but most diners choose the outdoor seating. The Beach House is open 7 am – 10 pm for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Address 15 1st St. Seal Beach, California. Reservations are accepted. Website.

Sandy’s Beach Shack Huntington Beach

Sandy’s is situated overlooking the beach and adjacent to the Huntington Beach Pier. They offer indoor and outdoor seating, with outdoor seating having longer wait times on sunny days. However, the patio offers unbeatable views. Outdoor dining is also dog-friendly. They even have a dog menu. The Restaurant offers a variety of dishes, mostly seafood, but also includes burgers and pasta. The prices are reasonable for a beachside location: address 315 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, California. Parking can be difficult on a busy summer day. Website.

Beachcomber Crystal Cove

The Beachcomber Café is on the sand at Crystal Cove Historic District beach between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach. The Restaurant offers gourmet food and stunning seaside views of the beach. Ocean waves are just a few steps away from where you are dining. The food and drinks are excellent, and the prices are fair, considering the location. There can be a long wait; reservations are recommended. After dining, you can stroll along the beach and dip your toes into the refreshing waters of the Pacific Ocean. Parking is available across the Pacific Coast Highway, and shuttles run every 15 minutes. 15 Crystal Cv Newport Beach, California. Website.

The Deck Laguna Beach

The Deck in Laguna Beach offers oceanfront dining on a waitlist basis without accepting reservations. The Deck is a great place to relax, watch the sunset, or enjoy an ocean-view lunch. The Deck is an outdoor restaurant with a great selection of food, drinks, and excellent service. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal while enjoying the fresh air. After your dinner, you can easily access the beach for a stroll. However, parking can be challenging, as only metered parking is available nearby. Alternatively, valet parking is also available if you prefer. 627 Sleepy Hollow Ln Laguna Beach, California. Website.

Lost Pier Cafe Aliso Beach

Lost Pier Cafe offers delicious food, breathtaking ocean views, and a pet-friendly environment. Open Daily from 8 a.m. to Sunset, Lost Pier Cafe is casual and welcomes guests in beach attire. Finding excellent service and fresh food at reasonable prices in Laguna Beach can be challenging, but you will find it at the Lost Pier Cafe. When you visit the cafe, you order and pick up your food before dining on the patio under the shade of an umbrella at one of the tables. One of the most popular dishes is the Wild Caught Lobster Roll. You can also rent a portable propane-powered fire pit at Lost Pier Cafe Aliso Beach. 31131 S Pacific Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, California. Website.

Fisherman’s Restaurant San Clemente

Fisherman’s Restaurant is located on the San Clemente Pier, providing breathtaking views of the Southern California coastline. This oceanfront restaurant offers daily specials and a Fisherman’s Feast for sharing a meal. There are two sections in this restaurant. The first section is the oyster bar, where a lighter menu and bar are offered. The second section is the main dining area. Both sections have outdoor seating right above the water and the beach. After dining, walk out to the pier’s end or stroll along the San Clemente Beach Trail. 611 Avenida Victoria San Clemente, California. Website.

Pacific Coast Grill Cardiff

Pacific Coast Grill features “Dine on the Beach” with an ocean view from every seat, with two levels of bars, decks, and patios on the beach. This restaurant’s location can’t be beat with incredible ocean views. We suggest reserving a window seat to enjoy the spectacular view. They offer various food options, including seafood and steak, and serve Lunch and dinner. Valet parking, or you can park at the state beach next door to the restaurant. After your meal, stroll along the shoreline and relish the refreshing ocean breeze. I’ll help you make the most of your beach experience! 2526 S Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, California. Website.

Chart House Cardiff

Chart House has a fantastic location on the beach in Cardiff, with incredible ocean views and easy beach access. This restaurant is an excellent spot for any occasion – a romantic dinner, special event, or casual brunch. Like most beachfront restaurants, requesting a window seat is best if you want the whole beach dining experience. The restaurant offers valet parking only, with limited availability. Street parking is available on PCH, with a short walk to the restaurant. 2588 S Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, California. Website.

Poseidon On The Beach Restaurant Del Mar

Brunch, Lunch, and dinner on the beach in Del Mar, California. Poseidon is an exceptional restaurant located by the beach, offering tasty seafood, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere. The food portions are generous, making it an excellent value for money. It is an ideal place for a romantic and relaxing dinner. In addition, the bar has a cool glass fireplace wall that adds to the restaurant’s ambiance. Sitting on the patio, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the beach and the Pacific Ocean. Guests can access the beach from the parking lot before or after dining. Food ranges from seafood to steak and chicken. They even have a kid’s menu for the little ones in the family. 1670 Coast Blvd Del Mar, California. Website.

Jake’s Del Mar

You will find Jake’s Del Mar in the heart of downtown Del Mar and next to Poseidon. The restaurant is situated on the beach and was originally a part of the 1910 Stratford Inn. Jake’s is a trendy restaurant known for its excellent food and stunning ocean views. The service is typically fast and friendly. You can enjoy your meal while enjoying the beautiful sights of the rolling waves from the comfort of the restaurant’s interior. There are two options for parking – valet parking or using the large paid city parking lot across the street. 1660 Coast Blvd Del Mar, California. Website.

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