15 Coastal California Restaurants With Extraordinary Views (And Even Better Food)

California’s coastline offers some of the most breathtaking views in America, and clever restaurateurs have capitalized on this natural advantage. Incredible eateries serve up delicious food alongside stunning ocean panoramas.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving seafood with a side of scenery, these fifteen restaurants deliver unforgettable dining experiences where the views rival the cuisine.

1. Coasterra Modern Mexican (San Diego)

Coasterra Modern Mexican (San Diego)
© San Diego Union-Tribune

Perched majestically on Harbor Island, Coasterra delivers a one-two punch of spectacular San Diego skyline views and innovative Mexican cuisine. The sleek, multilevel design ensures every table offers a stunning vista of twinkling city lights reflecting off the bay.

I still remember gasping when I first walked in—the panorama literally stopped me mid-sentence!

Their ceviche with bay shrimp and blue crab pairs perfectly with sunset cocktails, creating a sensory experience that’s pure California magic.

2. George’s at the Cove (La Jolla)

George's at the Cove (La Jolla)
© georgesatthecove

Ocean Terrace, the rooftop dining area at George’s, hovers dramatically above La Jolla Cove’s turquoise waters. Sea lions bark in the distance while diners savor locally sourced seafood crafted by celebrated Chef Trey Foshee.

The restaurant’s three distinct levels offer different dining experiences, from casual to fine dining, but all share that jaw-dropping coastal panorama.

Their blackened fish tacos have reached legendary status among locals who know that timing your visit for sunset pays delicious dividends.

3. Kincaid’s (Redondo Beach)

Kincaid's (Redondo Beach)
© Tripadvisor

Situated on the horseshoe-shaped Redondo Beach Pier, Kincaid’s floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Pacific Ocean like living paintings. Waves crash below while fishing boats and occasional dolphins glide past.

The restaurant strikes that perfect balance between upscale and approachable, with crab-stuffed shrimp that’ll make you close your eyes in appreciation.

Their affordable lunch specials make this gem accessible even for casual outings—a rarity among California’s premium view restaurants.

4. One Pico (Santa Monica)

One Pico (Santa Monica)
© Santa Monica

Nestled inside the elegant Shutters on the Beach hotel, One Pico exudes coastal sophistication with its nautical blue-and-white dining room. Through massive windows, Santa Monica Bay stretches endlessly, dotted with surfers and sailboats.

The first time I dined here for my anniversary, our table faced directly west—perfect for the cotton candy sunset that developed during our main course.

Their lobster risotto deserves its reputation, creamy and decadent without overwhelming the sweet lobster meat.

5. Seaside on the Pier (Santa Monica)

Seaside on the Pier (Santa Monica)
© Seaside On The Pier

Claiming prime real estate on Santa Monica’s iconic pier, Seaside offers 270-degree ocean views alongside fresh seafood that travels mere miles from boat to plate. The festive atmosphere combines beachside casual with gourmet sensibilities.

Seagulls soar past as diners tuck into grilled mahi-mahi and gourmet burgers, while the Ferris wheel spins lazily nearby.

Their beer-battered fish tacos have achieved cult status, perfectly crunchy outside while remaining flaky and moist inside.

6. Neptune’s Net (Malibu)

Neptune's Net (Malibu)
© Chrissi Hernandez

This legendary roadside seafood shack on Pacific Coast Highway has achieved immortality through appearances in “The Fast and the Furious” and countless Instagram posts. Picnic tables scattered outside offer unobstructed ocean views where motorcyclists and surfers mingle with tourists.

Don’t expect white tablecloths here—plastic baskets overflow with fried seafood treasures while waves crash across the street.

Their classic fish and chips remain the standout, simple but executed perfectly with crisp batter and tender fish.

7. Geoffrey’s (Malibu)

Geoffrey's (Malibu)
© www.geoffreysmalibu.com

Occupying a Richard Neutra-designed space on a Malibu bluff, Geoffrey’s terrace hangs dramatically over the Pacific. Dolphins frequently make cameo appearances, breaching beyond the restaurant’s edge while diners sip champagne.

I once spotted a pod of migrating whales during Sunday brunch here—a moment so perfect it felt staged!

Their seafood paella bursts with local bounty, including mussels, clams, and shrimp nestled in saffron rice that absorbs the ocean’s essence without ever seeing a drop of water.

8. Moonshadows (Malibu)

Moonshadows (Malibu)
© The Infatuation

Suspended between sky and sea, Moonshadows’ open-air deck literally hovers above crashing waves. The chic, buzzy atmosphere attracts celebrities and locals alike, especially for sunset cocktails that match the sky’s changing colors.

White daybeds on the patio invite lingering, turning lunch into an all-day affair as pelicans dive-bomb for fish just feet from your table.

Their miso-glazed black cod delivers umami perfection, while lobster linguine combines two luxuries: pasta and ocean views.

9. Santa Barbara Shellfish Company (Santa Barbara)

Santa Barbara Shellfish Company (Santa Barbara)
© The Taste Edit

Occupying the literal end of Stearns Wharf, this unpretentious eatery dangles over Santa Barbara Harbor. Weathered lobster buoys and fishing nets decorate walls while boats bob below, creating an authentic maritime atmosphere that can’t be manufactured.

The tiny kitchen produces remarkably fresh shellfish, often caught by boats visible from your table.

Dungeness crab claws arrive simply steamed with drawn butter—no fancy sauces needed when seafood this fresh speaks eloquently for itself.

10. Clark’s Oyster Bar (Montecito)

Clark's Oyster Bar (Montecito)
© The Infatuation

Ocean-blue tiles and brass accents create nautical elegance at this see-and-be-seen Montecito hotspot. The breezy patio hums with conversations of well-heeled locals while the Santa Barbara Channel glitters in the distance.

Their raw oyster selection changes daily, reflecting whatever’s freshest from both Pacific and Atlantic waters. Each arrives perfectly shucked on a bed of ice with house-made mignonette.

The lobster roll deserves its reputation—chunks of sweet meat barely bound with mayonnaise in a butter-toasted split-top bun.

11. The Jolly Oyster (Ventura)

The Jolly Oyster (Ventura)
© SFGATE

Unlike its glamorous coastal cousins, this weekend-only seafood shack at San Buenaventura State Beach embraces rustic simplicity. Picnic tables scattered near sand dunes offer unobstructed beach views while surfers ride waves nearby.

Owner Mark Reynolds farms his sustainable oysters in Baja, ensuring traceability from ocean to plate. Nothing here is fancy except the pristine ingredients.

Their grilled oysters with habanero butter deliver a perfect heat-fat-brine balance that makes you close your eyes involuntarily with each bite.

12. Sea Chest Oyster Bar (Cambria)

Sea Chest Oyster Bar (Cambria)
© Visit SLO CAL

This cash-only, no-reservations institution overlooking Moonstone Beach inspires devoted fans to line up before opening. The restaurant’s weathered wooden exterior matches its no-frills approach—focus on fresh seafood, not fancy amenities.

During my last visit, we arrived an hour early and shared wine with fellow diners in the parking lot, creating an impromptu pre-dinner party!

Their legendary cioppino arrives steaming hot, loaded with local rockfish, clams, mussels, and crab in spicy tomato broth.

13. Windows on the Water (Morro Bay)

Windows on the Water (Morro Bay)
© www.windowsmb.com

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame postcard-worthy views of Morro Rock and the working harbor at this aptly named restaurant. Fishing boats unload their daily catch just steps away, ensuring seafood arrives with impeccable freshness.

The second-story dining room provides elevation for optimal rock-watching while sunset paints everything golden.

Their Morro Bay halibut comes topped with heirloom tomato salsa—a simple preparation that highlights the pristine fish without overwhelming its delicate flavor.

14. Coastal Kitchen (Monterey)

Coastal Kitchen (Monterey)
© Tripadvisor

Hidden within the Monterey Plaza Hotel, this culinary gem offers ringside seats to Monterey Bay’s wildlife show. Sea lions bark on nearby rocks while pelicans dive-bomb for fish just beyond the windows.

Chef Michael Rotondo’s tasting menu changes seasonally, reflecting whatever’s thriving in local waters and farms. Each course arrives with a story connecting the ingredients to their source.

Wine pairings from nearby vineyards complete the experience, creating a comprehensive taste of central California’s bounty.

15. Sierra Mar (Big Sur)

Sierra Mar (Big Sur)
© STAY CLASSY ANASTACIA

Cantilevered dramatically above Big Sur’s rugged coastline at Post Ranch Inn, Sierra Mar offers what might be California’s most spectacular dining view. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal an endless expanse of Pacific, sometimes above fog that transforms the scene into a floating dreamscape.

The restaurant’s reclaimed wood and glass design disappears into the landscape, creating the illusion of dining in mid-air.

Their abalone tasting course features this local delicacy prepared multiple ways, honoring a traditional ingredient with modern techniques.