These California Waterfront Restaurants Are Perfect For Date Night
California’s coastline stretches over 800 miles, offering some of the most romantic dining spots in the country.
Finding the ‘perfect’ spot for date night – that sweet intersection of ambiance, delicious food, and a view that truly elevates the moment – can often feel like a quest.
For my partner and me, some of our most cherished memories have been made at California’s waterfront restaurants.
There’s something inherently magical about dining with the ocean as your backdrop; it adds an effortless romance that other settings just can’t replicate.
That’s why I’m thrilled to share our curated list of 14 California gems.
We’ve sought out those places where the crashing waves serenade your meal and the views are as captivating as your company, ensuring your next date night is truly unforgettable.
1. George’s At The Cove
Perched high above La Jolla Cove, this three-level dining destination has been wowing couples since 1984.
The Ocean Terrace offers open-air seating where you can watch seals basking on the rocks below while enjoying California-inspired cuisine.
Chef Trey Foshee creates dishes that taste as stunning as the scenery looks.
The menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients that celebrate coastal flavors.
Reservations book up fast, especially for sunset times, so plan ahead if you want prime viewing spots.
The sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere makes everyone feel special without being stuffy.
Located at 1250 Prospect Street in La Jolla, this restaurant consistently earns praise from food critics and romantic diners alike.
Service is attentive, the drink list is extensive, and the views are absolutely unbeatable for a California date night.
2. The Cliff Restaurant
Dramatic waves crash against the rocks just feet from your table at this Laguna Beach treasure.
Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure every seat offers spectacular Pacific views, making it nearly impossible to have a bad spot.
The contemporary American menu focuses on premium steaks and fresh catches that arrive daily.
My partner and I celebrated our first anniversary here, and watching the sunset paint the sky orange while sipping champagne remains one of our favorite memories.
The staff went above and beyond, surprising us with a complimentary dessert.
Romance practically floats in the salty air at this location.
You’ll find this gem at 577 S Coast Highway in Laguna Beach, where the coastal setting feels both intimate and grand.
The combination of excellent food, impeccable service, and jaw-dropping views makes reservations worth securing well in advance for special occasions.
3. The Lobster
Right next to the famous Santa Monica Pier, this iconic spot has been serving seafood lovers since 1923.
The name says it all-lobster dishes dominate the menu, prepared in creative ways that honor traditional flavors while adding modern twists.
Large windows frame stunning beach and pier views that change beautifully throughout the evening.
Fresh oysters, buttery lobster rolls, and perfectly grilled fish fill the menu alongside premium steaks for non-seafood fans.
The upscale-casual vibe strikes a perfect balance between fancy and comfortable, so you can dress up without feeling overdressed.
Live music on weekends adds an extra layer of ambiance.
Located at 1602 Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, this restaurant offers easy access to post-dinner beach walks.
The combination of history, quality cuisine, and prime waterfront location makes it a date night winner every single time.
4. Moss Beach Distillery
Legends of a friendly ghost named the Blue Lady add mysterious charm to this historic establishment built during Prohibition.
Perched on coastal bluffs, the restaurant offers sweeping ocean views that stretch for miles on clear days.
The menu blends classic American favorites with creative seafood preparations that highlight California’s coastal bounty.
Sunset here is pure magic, with the sky transforming into brilliant shades of pink and purple over the Pacific.
The outdoor patio gets chilly, so bring a jacket if you want those primo ocean-facing tables.
Inside, cozy fireplaces and maritime décor create warmth and character.
Find this enchanting spot at 140 Beach Way in Moss Beach, about 20 miles south of San Francisco.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the romantic atmosphere and spectacular scenery will definitely haunt your memories in the best possible way.
5. Poseidon Restaurant
Your toes could practically touch the sand at this laid-back beachfront beauty in Del Mar.
Named after the Greek god of the sea, Poseidon delivers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a California twist.
The casual atmosphere welcomes flip-flops and sundresses, making it perfect for relaxed romantic evenings.
I once watched dolphins swim past during brunch here, and the experience felt almost dreamlike against the sound of crashing waves.
Fresh fish tacos, grilled octopus, and lemony pasta dishes burst with bright, coastal flavors.
The outdoor patio offers unobstructed beach views that feel like dining in a postcard.
Located at 1670 Coast Boulevard in Del Mar, this restaurant captures Southern California beach culture perfectly.
Arrive early for sunset seating, order something seafood-forward, and prepare to fall in love with both the food and the scenery around you.
6. Chart House
Overlooking Dana Point Harbor, this upscale chain location stands out for its premium position and consistently excellent seafood.
Sailboats bob gently in the marina below while you enjoy perfectly prepared steaks, lobster, and fresh fish.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality has made it a reliable choice for special occasions since 1961.
Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the harbor’s beauty, especially magical during the golden hour when sunlight dances on the water.
The famous hot chocolate lava cake dessert is worth saving room for-trust me on this one.
Service is polished and professional without feeling stiff.
You’ll discover this Dana Point gem at 34442 Street of the Green Lantern, where harbor views meet culinary excellence.
The combination of reliable quality, stunning scenery, and romantic ambiance makes it a safe bet when you absolutely need dinner to impress someone special.
7. Rusty Pelican
Newport Harbor sparkles like scattered diamonds when viewed from this sophisticated waterfront restaurant.
The Rusty Pelican specializes in fresh seafood and prime steaks, served in an elegant setting that balances upscale dining with coastal comfort.
Panoramic windows ensure nearly every table enjoys spectacular water views.
The menu features creative preparations like macadamia-crusted mahi-mahi and lobster mac and cheese that elevate familiar favorites.
A well-curated drink list complements the seafood-forward offerings beautifully.
Weekend evenings fill up quickly, so reservations are essential for romantic waterfront seating.
Located at 2735 West Coast Highway in Newport Beach, this restaurant offers front-row seats to one of California’s most beautiful harbors.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or creating a new memory together, the combination of delicious food and stunning views delivers date night perfection every time.
8. Tavern House Kitchen + Bar
Contemporary American cuisine meets Newport Harbor views at this stylish bayside destination.
The outdoor patio features cozy fire pits that add warmth and romance to cooler evenings.
Chef-driven dishes showcase seasonal ingredients with creative twists that surprise and delight adventurous eaters.
My date once ordered the Brussels sprouts here as a joke, expecting boring vegetables, but they arrived caramelized to perfection with bacon and balsamic.
Sometimes the simplest dishes become the most memorable.
The craft cocktail program is equally impressive, with mixologists creating Instagram-worthy drinks that taste as good as they look.
Find this modern gem at 333 Bayside Drive in Newport Beach, where the vibe is upscale-casual and welcoming.
The combination of innovative cuisine, creative beverages, and beautiful bayside scenery creates an experience that feels both trendy and timeless for romantic evenings out together.
9. Sea Salt At The Beach
Huntington Beach’s surf culture meets refined dining at this oceanfront seafood specialist.
The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability means every fish on your plate comes from responsible sources.
Large windows frame Pacific Ocean views, while the relaxed-yet-polished atmosphere makes date night feel special without being pretentious.
The raw bar sparkles with fresh oysters, clams, and shrimp that taste like the ocean in the best way possible.
Wood-fired preparations add smoky depth to fish dishes, while creative sides showcase California’s agricultural abundance.
The menu features refreshing drinks perfect for coastal dining.
Located at 18751 Pacific Coast Highway, Unit 3, in Huntington Beach, this restaurant captures Orange County’s beach-meets-sophistication vibe perfectly.
Whether you’re local or visiting, the combination of ocean views, sustainable seafood, and welcoming atmosphere makes every meal feel like a special occasion worth celebrating together.
10. Louie’s By The Bay
Casual elegance defines this Newport Harbor favorite where boats drift past your table.
The menu focuses on Mediterranean-influenced dishes that pair beautifully with the coastal setting.
Fresh ingredients shine in simple preparations that let quality speak for itself rather than hiding behind complicated sauces.
The outdoor deck offers the best seats in the house, especially during sunset when the sky puts on a free show.
Heaters keep things comfortable when ocean breezes pick up after dark. Service strikes a friendly balance between attentive and relaxed.
You’ll find this harborside gem at 2801 West Coast Highway in Newport Beach, where the water views never get old.
The combination of reliable quality, beautiful scenery, and approachable elegance makes it perfect for both first dates and anniversary celebrations.
Just remember to request waterfront seating when booking your reservation for maximum romantic impact.
11. The Cannery
History and romance blend seamlessly at this converted cannery building overlooking Newport Harbor.
The nautical-themed décor pays homage to the building’s seafood-processing past while maintaining upscale elegance.
Fresh catches dominate the menu, prepared with classic techniques that have stood the test of time.
During a memorable visit, our server shared stories about the building’s history, adding depth to the dining experience beyond just food.
The cellar is impressive, with selections that complement seafood beautifully.
Harbor views from the dining room create a peaceful backdrop for intimate conversations.
Located in Newport Beach, this restaurant offers a unique blend of history and culinary excellence.
The combination of waterfront location, interesting backstory, and consistently delicious seafood makes it a standout choice.
Whether you’re history buffs or just appreciate good food with a view, this spot delivers on all fronts.
12. HQ Gastropub
Who says date night requires white tablecloths and fancy silverware? This elevated gastropub proves casual can be romantic too.
The extensive craft drink selection pairs perfectly with gourmet pub fare that goes way beyond typical bar food.
Ocean views from the patio add California coastal charm to the relaxed atmosphere.
Burgers here are legendary, stacked high with creative toppings that somehow all work together perfectly.
The truffle fries disappear faster than you can say “I’ll just have one.”
Weekend brunch offers bottomless mimosas and ocean breezes-a winning combination for daytime dates.
Find this Huntington Beach favorite at 155 5th Street, Suite F-183, where the vibe is friendly and unpretentious.
Sometimes the best dates happen when you’re not trying too hard, and this spot captures that perfectly.
Great food, cold drink, and ocean views create memorable evenings without breaking the bank.
13. Pelican Isle Restaurant and Bar
Beachfront dining doesn’t get more literal than this Huntington Beach institution.
The outdoor patio sits so close to the sand you can hear waves crashing between bites.
Tropical-inspired cocktails and fresh seafood capture that California beach vacation feeling, even if you’re just out for the evening.
The laid-back atmosphere welcomes everyone from surfers to dressed-up couples celebrating special occasions.
Sunset transforms the restaurant into something magical, with the sky painting itself in brilliant colors.
Live music on weekends adds energy without overwhelming conversation.
Located at 16400 CA-1 in Huntington Beach, this restaurant embodies Southern California beach culture perfectly.
The combination of prime beachfront location, tropical vibes, and relaxed-romantic atmosphere makes it ideal for couples who prefer flip-flops over fancy shoes.
Sometimes the best date nights are the ones where you can wiggle your toes in the sand afterward.
14. Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge
Elevate your date night literally and figuratively at this stunning rooftop venue.
Nine stories above Pacific Coast Highway, panoramic ocean views stretch endlessly in every direction.
The contemporary lounge atmosphere feels sophisticated and trendy, perfect for couples wanting something different from traditional restaurant dining.
Craft drinks steal the show here, with mixologists creating artistic drinks that taste as good as they photograph.
Small plates and shareable bites encourage intimate dining and conversation.
Fire pits and cozy seating areas create romantic pockets throughout the space.
You’ll discover this sky-high gem at 21100 Pacific Coast Highway in Huntington Beach, where the views are absolutely unbeatable.
Sunset reservations book up fast, so plan ahead if you want to watch the sun melt into the Pacific.
The combination of elevated views, creative drinks, and stylish atmosphere makes it perfect for impressing someone special.