16 California Coastal Seafood Spots Perfect For A Laid-Back Day Trip
Salt air has a way of sharpening appetites and slowing the pace at the same time. The sound of waves, the sight of boats pulling into harbor, and the smell of something sizzling nearby all signal that a good meal is close.
Along the Pacific edge of California, seafood is not just something you eat. It is part of the setting, the rhythm, and the reason people linger a little longer at the table.
These coastal stops invite diners to pull up a chair without rushing, whether that chair sits beside a weathered dock, on a sunlit patio, or steps from the sand.
Here, seafood arrives fresh and uncomplicated. Fish and chips are meant to be eaten with your hands.
Oysters taste better when the ocean is in view. Crab feels more satisfying when boats and gulls provide the background noise.
The atmosphere stays relaxed, welcoming everyone from road trippers to locals who return week after week. A day spent chasing coastal seafood becomes more than a meal.
It turns into a mini escape, stitched together by scenic drives, salty breezes, and plates that reflect the water just beyond the table.
1. The Marshall Store
Perched over Tomales Bay, this historic establishment has welcomed travelers since 1948, offering a front-row seat to one of California’s most productive oyster-growing waters.
The Marshall Store is located at 19225 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940, where Highway 1 curves along the eastern shore of the bay.
Outdoor seating on the wooden deck provides panoramic views of the water, with sailboats drifting by and herons wading in the shallows.
Raw oysters arrive on ice, briny and cold, while grilled versions come bubbling with garlic butter and herbs. Smoked fish platters showcase local salmon and trout, paired with crackers and tangy spreads.
The atmosphere stays casual and unhurried, with families, couples, and solo travelers all finding a comfortable spot.
Weekday visits tend to be quieter, though weekends bring a steady flow of visitors who don’t mind waiting for a table.
Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the building. The rhythm here is slow, the setting timeless, and the seafood consistently fresh.
2. Nick’s Cove
Nestled along the quiet shores of Tomales Bay, this waterfront spot combines coastal charm with a menu built around local catches and seasonal ingredients.
Nick’s Cove is situated at 23240 CA-1, Marshall, CA 94940, where the bay stretches wide and the landscape feels both wild and welcoming.
The dining room features large windows that frame water views, while the outdoor patio offers direct access to the salty air and gentle sounds of lapping waves.
Oysters are a highlight, sourced from nearby farms and served raw or grilled with creative toppings. Clam chowder arrives thick and creamy, loaded with tender clams and smoky bacon.
Fish preparations change based on what’s available, with grilled halibut and pan-seared rockfish appearing frequently. The pace here is relaxed, with service that feels attentive without being rushed.
Sunset visits are particularly popular, as the light shifts across the water and the sky turns shades of pink and orange. Parking is available on-site, and reservations are recommended during peak times.
3. Dillon Beach Coastal Kitchen
Located in a small coastal community where the Russian River meets the Pacific, this spot serves seafood with a focus on simplicity and freshness.
Dillon Beach Coastal Kitchen is found at 1 Beach Ave, Dillon Beach, CA 94929, just a short walk from the sandy shoreline and rolling dunes.
The interior is bright and airy, with nautical touches that nod to the surrounding landscape without feeling overly themed.
Fish tacos are a standout, featuring lightly battered or grilled fish tucked into soft tortillas with crisp cabbage and tangy sauce. Clam strips come golden and crunchy, served alongside fries and house-made tartar sauce.
Daily specials often highlight local catches, from salmon to halibut, prepared with minimal fuss to let the quality shine through.
Seating includes both indoor tables and a small outdoor area where the ocean breeze drifts in. The vibe is friendly and low-key, appealing to beachgoers and locals alike.
Parking is limited but generally manageable, especially on weekdays. Portions are generous, and the overall experience feels welcoming and unpretentious.
4. Tony’s Seafood
Situated along the Tomales Bay shoreline, this family-run market and eatery has been serving fresh seafood for decades, earning a loyal following among locals and visitors.
Tony’s Seafood is located at 18863 Shoreline Hwy, Marshall, CA 94940, where the highway hugs the water and the scenery shifts between calm bays and rolling hills.
The setup is straightforward, with a market counter displaying the day’s catch and a casual dining area where meals are served on disposable plates.
Barbecued oysters are a specialty, grilled over open flames until the edges crisp and the centers stay tender and juicy.
Dungeness crab is available seasonally, cracked and ready to eat or sold whole for taking home. Clam chowder is rich and satisfying, with chunks of clam and potato in every spoonful.
The atmosphere is relaxed and unfussy, with picnic tables offering views of the bay and the occasional passing boat.
Service is friendly and efficient, and the focus remains squarely on quality seafood without unnecessary frills.
Parking is available in a small lot, and the location makes it easy to combine a meal with a scenic drive along Highway 1.
5. Monterey Fish House
Tucked into a quiet neighborhood away from the bustling waterfront, this restaurant has built a reputation for serving some of the freshest seafood in the Monterey area.
Monterey Fish House is located at 2114 Del Monte Ave, Monterey, CA 93940, a short drive from the famous Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The interior is cozy and unpretentious, with wooden tables, dim lighting, and a warm, welcoming vibe that feels more like a neighborhood gathering spot than a tourist destination.
The menu changes based on what’s available, with daily specials written on a chalkboard and servers happy to explain the options.
Grilled fish is often the star, whether it’s salmon, swordfish, or local rockfish, all prepared with simple seasonings that highlight natural flavors.
Cioppino, a traditional seafood stew, arrives brimming with clams, mussels, shrimp, and chunks of fish in a rich tomato broth.
Reservations are highly recommended, as the space fills quickly, especially on weekends.
The service is attentive and knowledgeable, and the overall experience feels authentic and grounded. Parking is available on the street, and the location offers easy access to other Monterey attractions.
6. Sea Harvest
Positioned near the working waterfront in Moss Landing, this casual spot offers a no-frills approach to fresh seafood, with a focus on quality and generous portions.
Sea Harvest is located at 2420 CA-1, Moss Landing, CA 95039, where fishing boats dock and seals lounge on the nearby pilings.
The setting is simple, with outdoor seating that overlooks the harbor and the daily comings and goings of the local fleet.
Fish and chips are a popular choice, featuring thick fillets of cod or rockfish encased in crispy batter and served with a mountain of hot fries.
Clam chowder is creamy and loaded with clams, while calamari rings come tender and lightly breaded. Daily specials may include grilled salmon, fish tacos, or shrimp baskets, all prepared fresh to order.
The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with seagulls circling overhead and the scent of salt water in the air. Service is straightforward and efficient, and the prices remain reasonable for the portion sizes.
Parking is available in a small lot, and the location is ideal for a quick stop during a coastal drive or a leisurely afternoon by the water.
7. Fisherman’s Cove
Located in the heart of Bodega Bay, this waterfront restaurant offers sweeping views of the harbor, creating a scenic backdrop for a seafood meal.
Fisherman’s Cove is situated at 1850 Bay Flat Rd, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, where the Embarcadero bustles with activity and the waterfront feels alive with boats, birds, and visitors.
The dining area features large windows that frame the bay, and outdoor seating allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the coastal setting.
The menu includes a wide range of seafood options, from clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls to grilled fish platters featuring salmon, halibut, or snapper.
Shrimp scampi arrives garlicky and buttery, while fish tacos come topped with fresh salsa and creamy sauce.
Daily specials highlight seasonal catches and chef’s preparations. The pace is leisurely, with service that accommodates both quick lunches and longer, more relaxed meals.
Sunset visits are especially popular, as the light shifts across the water and the rock glows in warm tones. Parking is available in nearby public lots, and the location is easily accessible from Highway 1.
8. Broad Street Oyster Co.
Situated in the heart of San Francisco, this oyster bar and seafood spot brings coastal flavors inland, offering a menu centered around fresh shellfish and sustainable catches.
Broad Street Oyster Co. is located at 900 North Point St Suite #K201, San Francisco, CA 94109 in a walkable downtown area filled with shops, cafes, and historic architecture.
The interior is modern and casual, with a marble-topped oyster bar, communal seating, and a vibe that feels both relaxed and energetic.
Oysters are the main attraction, sourced from various West Coast farms and served raw on ice with mignonette and hot sauce.
The selection rotates based on availability, giving guests the chance to try different varieties and flavor profiles.
Clam chowder is creamy and well-seasoned, while fish sandwiches and shrimp rolls provide heartier options.
The atmosphere is lively, with a mix of college students, locals, and travelers filling the space throughout the day.
Service is friendly and knowledgeable, with staff happy to offer recommendations and explain the oyster selection.
Parking is available in nearby public lots, and the location makes it easy to combine a meal with exploring the surrounding downtown area.
9. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Perched at the end of Stearns Wharf, this casual seafood spot offers front-row seats to the Santa Barbara coastline, with views stretching from the harbor to the Santa Ynez Mountains.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is located at 230 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93109, where the wooden pier extends into the Pacific and the ocean breeze is constant.
The setup is simple, with counter service, picnic tables, and a laid-back atmosphere that encourages lingering.
Clam chowder is a signature dish, served steaming hot in sourdough bread bowls that soak up every drop of the creamy, clam-rich broth.
Fish and chips feature flaky white fish in crispy batter, while shrimp cocktails come chilled and fresh. Grilled fish tacos and calamari are also popular, with portions that satisfy without overwhelming.
Seating is mostly outdoors, where seagulls hover and the sound of waves provides a natural soundtrack.
The vibe is casual and family-friendly, with visitors of all ages stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.
Parking is available in a paid lot at the base of the wharf, and the location is ideal for combining a meal with a stroll along the beach or exploring the nearby waterfront.
10. Quality Seafood
Located in the working harbor of Redondo Beach, this market and eatery has been serving fresh seafood since 1953, maintaining a no-nonsense approach that prioritizes quality and value.
Quality Seafood is situated at 130 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277, where fishing boats dock and the daily catch is unloaded just steps away.
The setup includes a bustling fish market on one side and a casual dining area on the other, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Shrimp cocktails arrive piled high with plump, chilled shrimp and tangy cocktail sauce, while fish and chips feature thick fillets of cod or halibut fried to golden perfection.
Clam chowder is rich and hearty, and grilled fish plates showcase whatever is freshest that day. The market side offers everything from whole fish to crab legs, all displayed on ice and ready to take home.
The atmosphere is lively and unpretentious, with a steady stream of regulars and first-time visitors alike. Service is efficient, and the focus remains on delivering fresh seafood without unnecessary frills.
Parking is available in nearby lots, and the location makes it easy to enjoy a meal while watching the harbor activity unfold.
11. Fish.
Nestled in the Venetian village of Sausalito, this small seafood spot emphasizes sustainability and simplicity, sourcing fish from responsible fisheries and preparing it with minimal fuss.
Fish. is located at 350 Harbor Dr, Sausalito, CA 94965, where the waterfront bustles with activity and the views of San Francisco Bay are nothing short of stunning.
The setting is casual, with counter service, communal tables, and a relaxed vibe that feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a tourist trap.
Fish tacos are a standout, featuring grilled or blackened fish tucked into soft tortillas with fresh toppings and zesty sauces. Fish and chips come with sustainably sourced cod, fried until crispy and served with hand-cut fries.
Daily specials often include grilled salmon, seared tuna, or seasonal preparations that highlight the best available catches.
The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, with locals and visitors mingling at shared tables and the staff offering helpful recommendations.
Outdoor seating provides views of the marina and the bay beyond, with seagulls and sailboats adding to the coastal ambiance.
Parking can be limited, but the location is easily accessible by foot from downtown Sausalito or via the ferry from San Francisco.
12. Johnny’s Harborside
Positioned along the harbor in Santa Cruz, this waterfront eatery offers a menu built around fresh seafood and a setting that captures the essence of coastal California.
Johnny’s Harborside is located at 493 Lake Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, where the harbor comes alive with fishing boats, sea lions, and the constant motion of the Pacific.
The dining area features large windows and outdoor seating, both offering clear views of the water and the daily rhythm of the working waterfront.
Clam chowder is a favorite, thick and creamy with plenty of clams and a hint of smokiness. Fish and chips arrive hot and crispy, while grilled fish options range from salmon to swordfish, all prepared with simple seasonings.
Shrimp scampi and seafood pasta dishes round out the menu, providing heartier options for those seeking something beyond fried fare.
The pace here is relaxed, with service that feels attentive without being rushed. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with a mix of locals and visitors filling the tables throughout the day.
Sunset visits are particularly popular, as the light shifts across the harbor and the sky fills with color. Parking is available in nearby lots, and the location is convenient for exploring the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and surrounding attractions.
13. Wildfish
Located in the heart of Pacific Grove, this upscale yet approachable restaurant focuses on seasonal seafood and locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that feel both refined and comforting.
Wildfish is situated at 545 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, in a charming downtown area filled with galleries, shops, and historic Victorian architecture.
The interior is warm and inviting, with wood accents, soft lighting, and a layout that balances intimacy with openness.
The menu changes regularly based on availability, with fresh fish grilled, seared, or roasted to highlight natural flavors. Cioppino is a signature dish, brimming with clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish in a rich tomato broth.
Oysters are available raw or grilled, and daily specials often feature unique preparations that showcase the chef’s creativity.
Service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff eager to explain the sourcing and preparation of each dish.
The atmosphere is relaxed yet polished, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.
Parking is available on the street and in nearby public lots, and the location is within walking distance of the Monterey Bay coastline and the scenic 17-Mile Drive.
14. Duke’s Malibu
Perched on the Pacific Coast Highway with direct views of the Malibu coastline, this beachfront spot combines fresh seafood with a relaxed, surf-inspired atmosphere.
Duke’s Malibu is located at 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, where the ocean stretches wide and the sound of waves is ever-present.
The dining area features floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor seating, and a décor that pays tribute to Hawaiian surf culture and the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku.
The menu includes a variety of seafood options, from fish tacos and coconut shrimp to grilled mahi-mahi and macadamia nut-crusted fish.
Clam chowder is creamy and satisfying, while daily specials highlight seasonal catches and chef’s preparations.
Portions are generous, and the flavors lean toward tropical influences without straying too far from California coastal traditions.
The vibe is casual and welcoming, with families, surfers, and beachgoers filling the tables throughout the day. Service is friendly and efficient, and the overall experience feels laid-back and unpretentious.
Parking is available in a lot adjacent to the restaurant, and the location is ideal for combining a meal with a day at the beach or a scenic drive along the coast.
15. San Pedro Fish Market
Situated in the bustling Port of Los Angeles, this expansive seafood market and restaurant has been serving fresh catches and family-style meals since 1956.
San Pedro Fish Market is located at 706 S Harbor Blvd, San Pedro, CA 90731, where the working waterfront hums with activity and the scent of grilled seafood fills the air.
The setup is casual and communal, with long tables, counter service, and a lively atmosphere that feels more like a festival than a traditional restaurant.
The signature dish is the seafood tray, a heaping platter of shrimp, fish, clams, mussels, and crab legs all grilled together with garlic butter, spices, and vegetables.
Fish and chips, shrimp cocktails, and clam chowder are also popular, with portions designed for sharing.
The market side offers fresh fish, live lobsters, and a variety of shellfish, all displayed on ice and ready to take home.
The vibe is energetic and family-friendly, with a mix of locals and tourists filling the space throughout the day. Service is fast-paced, and the focus is on delivering generous portions at reasonable prices.
Parking is available in a large lot, and the location is convenient for exploring the nearby USS Iowa, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, and other San Pedro attractions.
16. Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant
Located in the coastal town of Eureka, this combination fish market and restaurant offers a direct connection to the local fishing industry, with seafood that often arrives the same day it’s caught.
Sea Harvest Fish Market & Restaurant is situated at A The, 100 Crossroads Blvd, Carmel, CA 93923, where the Humboldt Bay waterfront provides a scenic backdrop and the fishing fleet is never far away.
The setup is straightforward, with a market counter displaying the day’s catch and a casual dining area where meals are prepared fresh to order.
Fish and chips are a standout, featuring thick fillets of rockfish or cod fried to crispy perfection and served with tartar sauce and fries.
Clam chowder is rich and loaded with clams, while grilled fish options include salmon, halibut, and whatever else is fresh that day.
The market side offers whole fish, fillets, crab, and shellfish, all sourced locally and displayed on ice. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with a focus on quality seafood and friendly service.
The location makes it easy to combine a meal or market visit with exploring the Eureka waterfront, the nearby Redwood National and State Parks, or the charming Victorian architecture of Old Town Eureka.
Parking is available on-site, and the overall experience feels authentic and community-oriented.
