California Restaurants Where the Ocean Is On The Menu

California’s coastline stretches over 800 miles, offering some of the freshest seafood in the country. From the rocky shores of Northern California to the sunny beaches of San Diego, restaurants along the coast celebrate the ocean’s bounty with creative dishes and stunning views.

Whether you’re craving Dungeness crab, local oysters, or just-caught fish, these dining spots serve up the best flavors the Pacific has to offer while giving you a true taste of coastal California living.

1. The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar – San Clemente

Perched right on the San Clemente Pier, this restaurant gives diners an unforgettable experience where waves crash below your feet. The menu changes with the seasons, featuring whatever local fishermen bring in that day. You might find wild California halibut one week and fresh rock cod the next.

The chef works closely with local fishing boats to ensure everything is caught sustainably. Their clam chowder has won awards, and the fish tacos use a secret family recipe passed down three generations. Large windows surround the dining area, so every seat offers stunning Pacific views.

Families love the casual atmosphere and kids’ menu, while seafood enthusiasts appreciate the daily specials board. The outdoor patio becomes especially popular during sunset when dolphins often swim past. Reservations fill up fast on weekends, so booking ahead is smart.

2. Duarte’s Tavern – Pescadero

Since 1894, this family-run tavern has been serving travelers and locals along Highway 1. Five generations of the Duarte family have kept traditions alive while sourcing ingredients from their own farm and nearby waters. Their famous cream of artichoke soup has appeared in countless food magazines.

Fresh Dungeness crab arrives daily during season, prepared simply to let the sweet meat shine. The cioppino bursts with clams, mussels, shrimp, and whatever fish looked best that morning. Everything feels homey and welcoming, like eating at your grandmother’s house if she happened to be an incredible cook.

The olallieberry pie, made from berries grown on the property, provides the perfect ending to any meal. Locals consider this place a community treasure, and visitors often make special trips just to eat here. Cash or check only, so plan accordingly before your visit.

3. Nobu Malibu – Malibu, CA

Nobu Malibu isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a scene. Perched right on Carbon Beach, this sleek spot delivers jaw-dropping views of the Pacific that are almost as famous as its miso black cod. Celebrities are regulars, but the real star is the sushi, flown in fresh and plated like edible art.

The open-air patio hugs the shoreline so closely, you can hear the waves crash beneath your table. It’s the kind of place where you sip sake while watching surfers ride the sunset. The menu blends Japanese tradition with Peruvian flair, offering dishes like yellowtail jalapeño and rock shrimp tempura.

Reservations are a must, and they book out weeks in advance – this is Malibu, after all. Dress to impress, but don’t be surprised if you spot someone in flip-flops next to a fashion editor. It’s California cool at its most delicious.

4. The Lark – Santa Barbara

This downtown Santa Barbara gem focuses on shared plates and community dining experiences. Chef Jason Paluska sources seafood from Santa Barbara Harbor and local fishermen who practice sustainable methods. The constantly changing menu reflects what’s freshest, with dishes designed for sharing among friends and family.

Sea urchin from local divers appears in pasta dishes that taste like pure ocean. Grilled octopus gets charred perfectly, served alongside seasonal vegetables from nearby farms. The restaurant occupies a restored 1920s building, giving it character and charm that modern spaces can’t replicate.

Wine pairings showcase Central Coast vineyards, creating a complete California experience on your table. The open kitchen lets you watch chefs work their magic, adding entertainment to your meal. Groups especially enjoy the communal tables that encourage conversation with fellow diners. Reservations are essential, especially during summer tourist season when Santa Barbara buzzes with visitors.

5. Sam’s Chowder House – Half Moon Bay

Bringing East Coast lobster shack vibes to the California coast, Sam’s has become a Half Moon Bay institution since opening in 2003. Lobsters fly in from Maine, but local Dungeness crab and rockfish represent the West Coast beautifully. The seafood bar displays the day’s offerings on ice, letting you see exactly what you’ll be eating.

Their lobster roll overflows with sweet meat, served Connecticut-style with warm butter or Maine-style with mayo. Clam chowder comes in both New England creamy and Manhattan tomato-based versions, satisfying all preferences. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of Pillar Point Harbor, where commercial fishing boats come and go throughout the day.

Families appreciate the relaxed atmosphere where kids can be kids without worrying about fancy table manners. The outdoor fire pits stay lit year-round, perfect for foggy coastal evenings. Weekend brunch adds eggs Benedict with crab to an already impressive menu.

6. Bluewater Grill – Newport Beach

Located right on Newport Harbor, this restaurant serves as both a dining destination and a working fish market. You can actually buy fresh fish to take home or stay and have the kitchen prepare it for you. The menu lists over 30 fresh fish varieties daily, depending on what local boats bring in.

Their mesquite-grilled preparations let the natural flavors shine without heavy sauces covering everything up. Oysters arrive from California, Oregon, and Washington, shucked to order at the raw bar. The upstairs dining room offers better harbor views, while downstairs keeps things casual and lively.

Kids receive crayons and activity sheets, making this a solid choice for family outings. Happy hour specials make trying multiple dishes more affordable, encouraging adventurous eating. The staff can explain the difference between various fish types, helping less experienced seafood eaters make confident choices. Parking can be tricky during busy summer months, so arrive early.

7. The Fish Market – San Diego

Part restaurant, part fish market, this San Diego landmark has operated on the bay since 1976. Downstairs, the market sells fresh catches to home cooks, while upstairs diners enjoy those same fish prepared by skilled chefs. The location on the G Street Pier puts you practically on the water, with boats cruising past constantly.

Their sushi bar features local yellowtail and albacore when in season, rolled fresh throughout the day. The simple grilled fish plates come with rice, vegetables, and your choice of dozens of fish varieties. Everything gets labeled with where it came from, so you know exactly what ocean your dinner swam in.

The Top of the Market upstairs offers more upscale dining with the same quality seafood but fancier preparations. Tourist-friendly pricing makes this accessible for most budgets without sacrificing quality. Parking is available in nearby lots, and the location makes combining dinner with a harbor walk easy and enjoyable.

8. Coasterra – San Diego, CA

Coasterra is where modern Mexican cuisine meets million-dollar views of the San Diego skyline. Located on Harbor Island, this architectural stunner juts out over the bay, giving diners front-row seats to sailboats, sunsets, and city lights.

The menu is bold and flavorful, with dishes like tequila-lime shrimp, duck carnitas, and a tableside guacamole that’s practically a performance. Their margarita list is legendary, featuring everything from spicy jalapeño to smoky mezcal blends.

The glass-walled dining room and expansive patio make every seat a good one, but sunset is when the magic really happens. It’s a popular spot for date nights, birthdays, and anyone who wants to feel like they’re on vacation, even if they’re just off work.

Parking is easy, and the vibe is upscale without being stuffy. Pro tip: grab a seat by the fire pit for post-dinner cocktails with a view. You’ll leave full, happy, and plotting your next visit.

9. The Cliff Restaurant – Laguna Beach, CA

The Cliff Restaurant is exactly what it sounds like: a breezy, open-air eatery perched on a cliff with panoramic views of Laguna Beach. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a mimosa while watching dolphins play in the surf below.

The menu is casual but satisfying, with favorites like coconut shrimp, ahi poke bowls, and fish tacos that taste like summer. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there’s no bad time to visit, especially with that salty ocean breeze in your hair. The vibe is laid-back and artsy, much like Laguna itself, and the restaurant shares space with local galleries and boutiques.

Live music often fills the patio, adding to the beachy charm. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and just plain friendly. Locals love it, tourists stumble upon it, and everyone leaves with a camera roll full of ocean shots. Just don’t forget your sunglasses, it’s bright up there.

10. Nick’s Cove – Marshall, CA

Nick’s Cove is a rustic seafood haven tucked along the quiet shores of Tomales Bay in Northern California. It feels like a secret coastal retreat, complete with cozy waterfront cottages and a dockside oyster bar. The restaurant itself is all wood beams, nautical charm, and windows that frame the bay like a painting.

Local oysters are the star here, served raw, grilled, or Rockefeller-style, and they’re as fresh as it gets. The Dungeness crab mac and cheese is a fan favorite, and the clam chowder warms you to your toes. You can dine inside by the fireplace or outside on the deck, where pelicans and kayakers drift by. It’s romantic, peaceful, and just a little bit magical.

Many guests make a weekend of it, staying overnight in the charming cottages. Whether you come for lunch or linger for days, Nick’s Cove is the kind of place that stays with you.