Burgers By The Beach In 12 Oceanfront Joints Along California’s PCH

There’s something magical about biting into a juicy burger while ocean waves crash nearby. California’s Pacific Coast Highway offers the perfect backdrop for this delicious experience, with countless beachfront burger spots dotting the scenic route. I’ve spent years hunting down the tastiest patties with the best views, and I’m thrilled to share my absolute favorites where sand, surf, and sizzling beef create unforgettable meals.

1. Crystal Cove Shake Shack

Perched on a bluff overlooking Crystal Cove, this historic 1940s roadside stand serves up nostalgia alongside its famous date shakes and burgers. The patties here aren’t fancy; just good old-fashioned American comfort food that tastes somehow better with salt air.

Locals know to arrive early to snag the coveted outdoor tables. Nothing beats munching on their signature Ruby Burger while watching dolphins play in the sparkling Pacific below.

2. Bear Flag Fish Co.

Surprising burger purists since 2007, Bear Flag’s fish-market-meets-grill concept delivers an unexpected contender: their Baja Burger topped with fresh pico de gallo and house-made guacamole. The ocean-facing patio practically kisses the shoreline.

Fresh seafood might be their claim to fame, but trust me; their beef deserves equal billing. Grab your burger to go and picnic on the nearby beach for the ultimate coastal dining experience.

3. The Deck

Sand literally beneath your feet, The Deck serves up gourmet patties mere steps from Laguna’s crashing waves. Their signature Deck Burger arrives with caramelized onions and aged white cheddar on a brioche bun that somehow stands up to the juicy perfection inside.

Cocktails here are legendary too; try the spicy margarita alongside your burger. Sunset timing is crucial; arrive an hour before the golden hour for prime seating at this hidden gem tucked behind Pacific Edge Hotel.

4. Malibu Farm Café

Celebrity sightings are common at this chic, organic café perched at the entrance of Malibu Pier. Their grass-fed burger comes adorned with arugula, aioli, and tomato marmalade; simple ingredients that sing together in perfect harmony.

What makes this spot magical is the wraparound pier location. Ocean surrounds you on three sides while you dine! Morning fog often creates a mystical atmosphere, making their breakfast burger with fried egg an experience that feels almost otherworldly.

5. Malibu Pier Restaurant & Bar

Housed in a historic building at the pier’s end, this elegant eatery elevates the humble burger to art form. Their signature offering features local beef, house-made pickles, and a secret sauce that I’ve tried, unsuccessfully, to recreate at home for years.

Waves literally crash beneath your feet as you dine. The white tablecloth experience contrasts beautifully with the casual burger fare. Splurge on the seafood tower alongside your burger for the ultimate surf-and-turf indulgence that defines California coastal cuisine.

6. Neptune’s Net

Made famous by countless movies, this Malibu institution draws an eclectic mix of surfers, bikers, and celebrities. Their no-nonsense cheeseburger comes wrapped in paper; nothing fancy, just perfectly executed beach food served with a side of attitude.

Weekends bring massive crowds, but that’s part of the charm. Order at the counter, then snag a picnic table overlooking County Line Beach. The rumble of motorcycles mixed with crashing waves creates the soundtrack for what might be the most authentically Californian burger experience on the PCH.

7. Big Dean’s Ocean Front Café

Tucked beneath the Santa Monica Pier, this unpretentious beach shack has been serving hungry beachgoers since 1970. The Dean Burger arrives piled high with classic fixings, served alongside their legendary curly fries that somehow maintain crispness even in the humid ocean air.

Beach volleyball players from nearby courts make this their regular refueling station. The outdoor patio sits so close to the beach that occasional sand drifts between tables; the ultimate seasoning for your perfectly charred patty and cold beer.

8. PierBurger

Amid the carnival atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier stands this unassuming burger stand creating hand-formed patties that would make any gourmet chef proud. Their signature offering comes topped with homemade thousand island dressing that perfectly complements the ocean panorama.

Seagulls hover hopefully nearby as you unwrap your prize. Take your burger to the pier railing for unobstructed Pacific views. The contrast between quality ingredients and amusement park surroundings makes this spot uniquely satisfying; serious food in a wonderfully frivolous setting.

9. Hinano Café

Jim Morrison’s favorite watering hole still serves what many locals consider Venice’s best burger. This cash-only dive bar grills simple quarter-pounders with American cheese that somehow taste transcendent after a day of surfing or skateboarding.

Pool tables and sawdust-covered floors create zero pretension. The burger comes wrapped in paper with minimal toppings; just the essentials done right. Located just steps from Venice Beach, this institution represents the area’s bohemian spirit perfectly, serving burgers that haven’t changed since the 1960s.

10. The Pocket Burger Shack

Hidden in a literal pocket-sized space in Sunset Beach, this local secret serves burgers that rival establishments triple its size. Their signature Pocket Burger comes loaded with grilled onions, mushrooms, and a tangy house sauce that complements the ocean air perfectly.

Seating consists of a few outdoor tables mere steps from the sand. Regulars include professional surfers who guard this hidden gem jealously. Arrive with sand still on your feet; the casual vibe welcomes beach-goers exactly as they are, serving up burgers that fuel epic wave sessions.

11. Good Stuff

Boasting panoramic views from Palos Verdes’ dramatic cliffs, Good Stuff elevates the humble burger to match its spectacular setting. Their avocado-topped Garden Burger perfectly represents Southern California cuisine; fresh, health-conscious yet indulgent.

Morning fog often creates a mystical dining experience as it rolls across the nearby shoreline. The patio seating offers whale-watching opportunities during migration season. Health-conscious options abound, but don’t miss their classic cheeseburger; a testament to doing simple things exceptionally well while enjoying million-dollar ocean views.

12. Paradise Cove Beach Café

The only restaurant in Southern California where you can literally eat with your toes in the sand, Paradise Cove serves their famous Paradise Burger on actual beach tables. The 10-ounce patty comes topped with melted jack cheese and ortega chilies that add the perfect kick.

Beach attendants offer full service directly to your lounge chair. Parking costs are steep, but savvy visitors know the fee is reimbursed with purchase. For the ultimate splurge, rent a private beach bed and make a day of it; burgers and cocktails delivered beachside represent California dining at its most indulgent.