This Is Why We Live in California, Right?

After a gray and gloomy start to the summer, sunshine and clear skies are right around the corner! One of the biggest draws to Los Angeles is its breezy coastal location. From Manhattan Beach to Malibu, the LA coastline is home to several waterfront restaurants that have fresh seafood, creative cocktails and, of course, a breathtaking backdrop. Whether you want high-rise views from the top of a hotel or your toes in the sand while you chow down, we’ve rounded up the absolute best ocean-view restaurants in LA!

 

Kassi Rooftop

Venice Beach’s most famous rooftop is feeling fresh these days, thanks to Kassi Rooftop and its Aegean-inspired makeover. Perched above the boardwalk at Hotel Erwin, it’s where California sunshine meets Greek island ease. The menu leans into coastal flavors — think za’atar-dusted hand-pulled flatbread with whipped avocado, lamb meatball skewers drizzled in pomegranate molasses and tender beef with red chermoula and mint. Seasonal California produce keeps each plate vibrant, while the cocktail list makes it impossible to order just one. Try the clarified Honeydew Thyme Paloma for something crisp and refreshing, or go for the Oracle of Delphi, a layered mix of tequila, lemon, watermelon, Mazzura, cucumber and za’atar. With DJs spinning Thursday through Sunday and an unbeatable ocean backdrop, Kassi Rooftop turns every visit into a sunlit, sea-kissed escape.

Location: Venice

 

Shoreside

Craving an oceanside hangout where brunch, live music, and sunsets come standard? Steps from the sand, Shoreside offers relaxed yet refined coastal dining with sunlit interiors, a Pacific-facing terrace and a lively poolside bar. Breakfast brings avocado toast or a hearty burrito, while afternoons feature lobster rolls, ahi tuna sandwiches and seafood platters stacked with oysters, shrimp, lobster tail and snow crab. Evenings turn indulgent with prime filet mignon, pan-seared salmon and lamb chops alongside signature cocktails like the Margarita Botanico or sparkling Flores De Verano. Golden Hour hits Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m., Fridays cue live music from 5–8 p.m. and Sundays pour bottomless mimosas with brunch and live tunes. Ocean breezes carry the scent of grilled seafood through the terrace, adding to Shoreside’s lively, coastal celebration.

Location: Santa Monica

 

Surfer Girl

Looking to follow your beach walk with an oceanfront brunch? Set along the Hermosa Beach Strand, Surfer Girl  pairs sun-soaked charm with an oceanfront menu worth lingering over. Start the day with crab Benedict topped with avocado hollandaise or swing by later for fish tacos, seafood rolls and a loaded raw bar. Part of the newly reimagined Sea Sprite Beach Club, it’s the property’s first restaurant and a fresh addition to this South Bay landmark. A cozy rooftop terrace makes the perfect perch for sunset views and laid-back coastal vibes.

Location: Hermosa Beach

 

California Surf Club 

On the Redondo Waterfront, California Surf Club  is a 21,000-square-foot coastal escape from the founders of BeachLife Festival. Two buildings, the public North Grill and members-only South Club, are linked by a sunset deck and garden with sweeping harbor views. Inside and out, the space mixes fireside lounges, private dining and a music courtyard with water sports rentals. The North Grill serves SoCal favorites like the Beach Club Caesar, Baja fish tacos, and Storyteller Rum Butterscotch Budino, plus frozen margaritas and mai tais at happy hour. It’s part restaurant, part hangout, and all about that easygoing beach lifestyle.

Location: Redondo Beach

 

Din Tai Fung 

Just steps from the Pacific, Din Tai Fung’s Santa Monica location blends coastal cool with the legendary Taiwanese flavors that made it a global icon. Founded in 1958 in Taipei, the family-owned restaurant has earned international acclaim for its handcrafted Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) and warm hospitality. The menu highlights delicate chicken dumplings, crisp cucumber salad and the must-try shaved snow with fresh mango, available for dine-in only.

Location: Santa Monica

 

SALT Restaurant & Bar 

Framed by sweeping marina views, SALT Restaurant & Bar makes every meal feel like a seaside getaway. Its breezy patio, complete with cushioned seating, umbrellas and fire pits. Try seasonal dishes like seared scallops, grilled branzino, and decadent surf & turf. Brunch brings Maine lobster bisque and avocado hummus, while the Del Rey Lounge offers happy hour, Whiskey Wednesdays and $2 oysters with $12 martinis. Add live music on Thursdays and Fridays, and SALT is your go-to for polished waterfront dining with laid-back charm.

Location: Marina del Rey

 

Nigel’s 

Looking for a waterfront spot that feels like summer year-round? Nigel’s channels vintage South Beach glamour with California coastal cool, complete with pink-and-green accents, art deco curves, plush cabanas and floating booths. Menu standouts include ahi tuna tartare topped with creamy avocado, rich truffled mushroom risotto, and lobster rolls served on buttery brioche. Brunch favorites like the lobster Benedict or bananas foster French toast are best enjoyed with a crisp glass of Champagne by the fire pit. Whether you arrive by land or dock right outside, Nigel’s makes every visit feel like a celebration.

Location: Long Beach

 

Dear Jane’s

Overlooking the boats in Marina del Rey, Dear Jane’s revives the golden age of American seafood houses with a polished, midcentury-inspired menu. Michelin-starred chef Josiah Citrin and restaurateurs Hans and Patti Röckenwagner serve classics like oysters Rockefeller, trout amandine and tableside shrimp Louie alongside modern favorites like whole branzino and surf ‘n turf. With caviar service, retro elegance and marina views, Dear Jane’s makes dinner by the water feel timeless.

Location: Marina Del Rey

 

Playa Provisions

Just steps from the sand in Playa del Rey, Playa Provisions is where panoramic ocean views meet the culinary vision of Top Chef winner Brooke Williamson and co-owner Nick Roberts. This 7,000-square-foot coastal retreat packs four unique dining experiences under one roof—sunny breakfasts and laid-back lunches at King Beach café, an intimate dinner of California coastal fare at Dockside, a pint of house-made ice cream from Small Batch and a hidden sip of whiskey at Grain. Inspired by the city’s classic country marts, each space flows seamlessly into the next, making spending the whole day here easy. Playa Provisions turns beachfront dining into a choose-your-own-adventure, from lobster rolls on the patio to late-night cocktails by the shore.

Location: Playa del Rey, CA

 

Mar’sel

Perched high on the Palos Verdes Peninsula at Terranea Resort, Mar’sel is where ocean views and coastal sophistication meet. Chef Fabio Ugoletti transforms garden-fresh produce and local catches into artful plates—think lobster risotto, Alaskan halibut with citrus vanilla sauce and Angus beef filet with black truffle. Sunday brunch is a coastal indulgence, and the curated wine list, spanning California to France, makes every meal feel like a special occasion. With its sunlit terrace, artful presentations and a setting where ocean meets sky, Mar’sel delivers coastal sophistication at its finest.

Location: Rancho Palos Verdes

 

Geoffrey’s

Looking to plan a fancy date night in Malibu? Geoffrey’s is an iconic eatery located right off Pacific Coast Highway. The spacious patio is adorned with romantic string lights and offers unparalleled views of the Pacific. Guests are able to enjoy fine wine and refreshing cocktails as they sit just over the edge of the ocean, listening to the roaring waves below. Start off with freshly shucked oysters and some jumbo coconut shrimp to share. For the main course, get the best of both worlds with Geoffrey’s surf and turf. 

Location: Malibu

 

1 Pico

1 Pico is the beachfront restaurant located at the beloved Shutters on the Beach. This bright and airy restaurant has mastered the art of coastal California cuisine, with local favorites being the focaccia and local burrata, lobster spaghetti and seared Hokkaido scallops. However, if you’re really looking to go all out on an indulgent date night, order the Tomahawk for two. Need to quench your thirst? The Royal Espresso Martini is perfectly balanced, but the gin-forward Sage Advice cocktail matches the airy and floral vibe of the restaurant. 

Location: Santa Monica

 

Nobu

There’s no better place (and no denying) for sushi by the ocean than Nobu. Whether you’re going celebrity scouting or celebrating a special occasion, dining at Nobu is a pricey yet unforgettable experience that every visitor and local needs to have at least once. From the famous Wagyu tacos to the endless array of fresh sashimi and nigiri, it’s best to order several dishes for the entire table to share. Also, the lychee martini is a can’t-miss cocktail. No matter when you plan to visit, definitely make a reservation in advance. 

Location: Santa Monica 

 

The Sunset Restaurant

Located on the northern end of Malibu near Zuma and Westward Beach, The Sunset Restaurant is a modern and locally loved destination. The two-story eatery has different vibes in each room: the upstairs is a bit more romantic and upscale while the downstairs and outdoor patio are more relaxed. The bar area also has a more fun aesthetic, complete with palm tree-leaf wallpaper and a neon “rosé all day” sign. From shrimp tacos to crispy Brussels sprouts, there’s something for every kind of diner on the menu. 

Location: Malibu

 

Elephante

Elephante is known for being an Instagram hotspot that is frequented by popular influencers and celebs alike. The restaurant sits high up and ocean view can be seen through the palms that line the Santa Monica coastline. The menu revolves around Southern Italian fare like Neapolitan-style pizzas and handmade pastas. The spicy vodka canestri pasta is a must-order, but don’t forget to start with Elephante’s famous whipped eggplant dip. Getting a reservation on a weeknight can be tough, but you always have the option to walk in and snag a spot at the bar. Some can’t-miss cocktails include the Elephante, which can be made with your choice of liquor, and the frozen Bold Sea slushie. 

Location: Santa Monica

 

Malibu Farm

Located on the iconic Malibu Pier, Malibu Farm serves up healthy yet tasty cuisine in a rustic, farmhouse-inspired setting. Considering the restaurant is literally hovering above the saltwater, the surrounding views are breathtaking. All you need is a mimosa and some sunshine to make the most of it. Though this farm-to-table eatery is best for dinner and is more of a sit-down place, the Malibu Farm Cafe at the end of the pier has counter service and is great for grabbing a quick bite and drink.

Location: Malibu

 

The Penthouse at the Huntley

Soar to the top of the Huntley Hotel in a panoramic glass elevator for upscale bites and craft cocktails at The Penthouse. Despite not being right on the water, The Penthouse offers stunning views of both the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding neighborhoods. This is the ultimate place to watch the sun go down with a dirty martini in hand. Best of all, you can catch happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Local Insight: The last stall in the women’s bathroom has one of the best views in the entire restaurant. 

Location: Santa Monica

 

The Strand House

Manhattan Beach might be a trek from most other neighborhoods in LA, but eating at The Strand House is well worth the trip. The contemporary atmosphere with sweeping ocean views matches the elevated, chef-driven menu, resulting in a fine-dining-esque experience in the heart of this typically laid-back beach town. The Heat of Passion mezcal cocktail is vibrant and fresh, but if you prefer a glass of vino, the wine list features wonderful vintages from Italy, France and beyond. Some food highlights include the wood-fired pizzas and Spanish grilled octopus. 

Location: Manhattan Beach

 

Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

Paradise Cove Beach Cafe is a secluded and private restaurant that sits on one of the nicest beaches in Malibu. The charming and quaint cove is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, but the cafe is perfect for quenching your thirst with an ice-cold beer and some classic fried seafood. Cocktails are served in everything from a watermelon to a coconut, and many of the outdoor tables sit right on the beach, allowing you to put your toes in the sand while you sip and savor. 

Location: Malibu

 

Gladstones

Caught a craving for clam chowder? Gladstones is an oceanfront restaurant that has maintained a loyal following since its opening in 1972. The seafood-focused menu is nostalgic and timeless, and the laid-back patio sits right above the big blue. Gladstones is the ideal place for a family gathering or group dinner. Though the clam chowder is legendary, Gladstones also serves plenty of fresh seafood, ranging from a seasonal ceviche to seared spice-crusted ahi tuna. When it comes to cocktails, set the scene with a tropical libation like the Gladstones mai tai or watermelon mojito.

Location: Malibu

 

Moonshadows

Also located on PCH, Moonshadows ensures that patrons feel as close to the ocean as possible whether they’re sitting inside or out on the patio. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room provide a panoramic peek at the Pacific. Meanwhile the patio offers an up-close-and-personal dining experience complete with a sea breeze and crashing waves. While Moonshadows is most popular for its dinnertime sunset experience, brunch is equally tasty. Sip on a Mexican Mule while you snack on octopus carpaccio, little neck clams and crispy calamari. 

Location: Malibu

 

The Lobster

If you’re looking to enjoy a classic surf-and-turf dinner at sunset, The Lobster should be at the top of your list. This historic establishment first opened in 1923 and has been a Santa Monica staple for a full century now. As the name suggests, lobster is the star of the show, but there are plenty of other seafood renditions. That said, don’t sleep on the butter-poached lobster mashed potatoes. In addition to the ocean, patrons of The Lobster also enjoy premium views of the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

Location: Santa Monica