14 California Coastal Seafood Spots Perfect For A Day Out
California’s coastline stretches over 800 miles, offering some of the freshest and most delicious seafood you’ll ever taste. From bustling harbors to quiet beach towns, I’ve discovered incredible restaurants where ocean views meet mouthwatering dishes.
Whether you’re craving fish tacos, clam chowder, or grilled lobster, these coastal gems deliver unforgettable meals that make any day trip special.
1. Dukes Huntington Beach
Imagine dining on Hawaiian-style seafood while watching surfers ride the legendary Huntington Beach waves. This restaurant brings island flavors to the California coast with dishes like macadamia nut crusted fish and Hula Pie for dessert. The tropical atmosphere transports you straight to Waikiki.
I’m always impressed by their commitment to sustainable seafood practices. Every dish comes with a story about where the fish was caught. The staff knows their menu inside and out.
Sunset dining here is particularly special with tiki torches lighting up the patio. Their mai tais are strong and perfectly balanced. Make reservations because this popular spot books up quickly, especially during summer months.
2. Old Port Lobster Shack – San Diego
Who says you need to fly to Maine for authentic lobster rolls? This San Diego gem brings East Coast flavors to the West Coast with rolls so stuffed with lobster meat they barely fit in the bun. I’ve tried both the warm butter version and cold mayo style, and honestly, both are phenomenal.
The casual counter-service setup keeps things simple and affordable. You order at the window, grab your food, and find a picnic table nearby. Their clam strips are crispy and addictive.
Located near the waterfront, it’s easy to combine lunch here with harbor walks. They also serve excellent New England clam chowder. The portions are generous, so come hungry and ready to feast.
3. The Reel Inn – Malibu
This no-frills seafood shack has been serving Malibu locals and visitors since 1986, and nothing about it feels fancy or pretentious. You pick your fish from the display case, choose your cooking style, and they grill it to perfection. I appreciate the straightforward approach to great seafood.
The outdoor seating area has a fun, beachy vibe with picnic tables and umbrellas. Seagulls might try to steal your fries, but that’s part of the coastal charm. Their tartar sauce is homemade and tangy.
Prices are surprisingly reasonable for Malibu standards. The swordfish here tastes incredibly fresh and meaty. Bring cash because they prefer it, though cards are accepted too.
4. Brophy Bros. – Ventura Harbor
Overlooking the working harbor, this restaurant lets you watch fishing boats unload their daily catch while you eat some of that same fresh seafood. Their clam chowder has achieved legendary status among locals, and I understand why after my first spoonful. It’s thick, creamy, and loaded with tender clams.
The upstairs deck offers the best views of harbor activity and Channel Islands in the distance. I recommend the grilled halibut or their famous steamer clams. Service is friendly without being overbearing.
Expect a wait during peak hours because this place doesn’t take reservations. The bar serves excellent local craft beers that pair perfectly with seafood. Their cioppino is another standout dish worth trying.
5. The Lobster – Santa Monica
Perched right above the Santa Monica Pier, this upscale restaurant offers elegance without stuffiness. I love starting with their famous lobster bisque, which is velvety smooth and intensely flavorful. The dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing endless ocean views.
Their namesake lobster comes prepared multiple ways, from classic steamed to thermidor style. Everything tastes incredibly fresh and expertly prepared. The wine list features excellent California selections.
Dress codes are relaxed but most diners dress smart casual for the atmosphere. Sunset reservations are highly coveted and book weeks in advance. Their oyster bar serves a rotating selection of West Coast varieties. Prices reflect the premium location and quality, but it’s worth the splurge for special occasions.
6. The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar – San Clemente
Right on the San Clemente Pier, this spot gives you stunning ocean views while you enjoy your meal. I love how the waves crash beneath your feet as you savor perfectly grilled mahi-mahi or their famous fish and chips. The salty breeze adds something magical to every bite.
Families appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and kid-friendly menu options. You can watch surfers catching waves between courses, making it entertainment and dining combined. The sunset views here are absolutely breathtaking.
Try arriving early on weekends because this place fills up fast. Their clam chowder has won local awards for good reason. It’s creamy, loaded with clams, and served piping hot in a sourdough bread bowl.
7. Scoma’s – Sausalito
Situated right on the water in charming Sausalito, this family-owned restaurant has been serving incredible seafood since 1965. Their Dungeness crab dishes showcase the best of Northern California’s prized crustacean. I always order it cracked and served cold with drawn butter and lemon.
The views across the bay toward San Francisco create a postcard-perfect dining backdrop. Their cioppino is a tomato-based seafood stew packed with generous portions of fish, shellfish, and crab. Service feels old-school and attentive.
Reservations are essential, especially for window tables with the best views. Their sourdough bread comes warm and perfect for soaking up sauces. The restaurant’s history gives it an authentic, timeless quality that newer places can’t replicate.
8. Mitch’s Seafood – San Diego
Located steps from the ocean in Point Loma, this casual spot serves what many consider San Diego’s best fish tacos. The fish is always fresh, lightly battered, and fried to golden perfection. I’m addicted to their smoked marlin tacos, which have a unique flavor you won’t find elsewhere.
The outdoor seating area fills up fast with locals who know good seafood when they taste it. Their ceviche tostadas are piled high with citrus-marinated fish and avocado. Prices are incredibly fair for the quality.
Don’t expect fancy ambiance or table service here. You order at the counter, grab your number, and wait for your food. Their homemade hot sauce adds the perfect kick without overwhelming the seafood flavors.
9. Splash Cafe – Pismo Beach
People drive from all over California specifically for the clam chowder at this unassuming beach cafe. I’ve tried countless chowders along the coast, and this one consistently ranks among the top. It’s so popular they ship frozen versions nationwide, but nothing beats eating it fresh and steaming hot.
The menu extends beyond chowder with fish and chips, calamari, and seafood sandwiches. Everything is reasonably priced and portions are generous. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from surfers to families.
Expect lines out the door during summer weekends, but they move quickly. You can also buy their chowder by the quart to take home. The location is perfect for grabbing lunch before exploring Pismo Beach’s famous pier and dunes.
10. Water Grill – San Diego
This upscale seafood restaurant in downtown San Diego takes freshness seriously with daily deliveries from their own seafood company. Their raw bar showcases an impressive selection of oysters from both coasts. I’m always amazed by how knowledgeable the staff is about every variety available.
The menu changes based on what’s freshest and in season, ensuring peak quality year-round. Their whole grilled fish presentations are show-stopping and delicious. The wine program features thoughtful pairings for seafood.
The atmosphere strikes a balance between sophisticated and welcoming, making it suitable for business dinners or celebrations. Prices reflect the premium quality and service. Their chocolate soufflé makes a perfect ending to any seafood feast, even though it’s not ocean-themed.
11. Monterey’s Fish House – Monterey
Hidden away from the touristy Cannery Row area, this local favorite serves some of Monterey’s best seafood in a casual, no-frills setting. Their mesquite-grilled fish has a smoky flavor that enhances rather than masks the natural taste. I’ve become a regular whenever I visit the area.
The menu features whatever’s freshest from local waters that day. Their calamari steak is tender and perfectly seasoned, nothing like the rubbery versions served elsewhere. Portions are huge, so consider sharing.
Reservations are highly recommended because this small restaurant fills up quickly with locals and informed visitors. The staff treats everyone like family. Prices are incredibly reasonable considering the quality and generous portions you receive.
12. Bluewater Grill – Redondo Beach
Built inside a historic red saltbox building on Redondo Beach’s waterfront, this restaurant offers harbor views and consistently excellent seafood. Their swordfish is my go-to order, grilled perfectly with just the right char. The location makes it ideal for combining dinner with a harbor walk.
They smoke their own fish in-house, and the smoked salmon appetizer is absolutely divine. The happy hour deals are fantastic, offering discounted oysters and appetizers. Service is attentive without hovering.
The upstairs patio provides the best views of boats coming and going. Their seafood chowder offers a lighter, tomato-based alternative to traditional cream versions. Kids eat free on certain nights, making it family-friendly and budget-conscious.
13. Pier Market Seafood Restaurant – San Francisco
Located at the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, this restaurant captures the essence of San Francisco seafood culture. Walking through their retail fish market to reach the restaurant reminds you how fresh everything is. Their whole roasted Dungeness crab is a San Francisco classic that I order every single visit.
The bustling atmosphere reflects the energy of the wharf outside. Their cioppino comes loaded with seafood in a rich tomato broth that’s perfect for dunking sourdough. Views of the bay add to the experience.
Tourists flock here, but locals come too because the quality justifies the crowds. Their clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is quintessentially San Francisco. Arrive early to snag a table with the best waterfront views.
14. The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific – Newport Beach
Overlooking Newport Harbor’s yacht-filled waters, this restaurant delivers both stunning views and exceptional seafood. I’m particularly fond of their seafood towers piled high with oysters, shrimp, crab, and lobster. Everything arrives on ice, incredibly fresh and perfectly chilled.
The atmosphere feels upscale yet comfortable, with large windows showcasing the harbor activity. Their daily catch specials highlight whatever’s freshest from local waters. The wine list is extensive and well-curated.
Sunset dining here is magical as the sky turns orange and pink over the harbor. Their New England-style lobster roll is surprisingly authentic for Southern California. Prices are on the higher end, but the quality, location, and service justify the cost for seafood lovers seeking a memorable experience.
