20 Best Beachside Restaurants In LA
Like many major cities, Los Angeles is home to busy nightlife, renowned restaurants, and world-class museums. However, its coastal location allows LA to stand apart from the competition. From Manhattan Beach to Malibu, the Los Angeles coast is scattered with amazing eateries that range from casual beach shacks to fine dining establishments with ocean views. Of course, seafood is the star of the show at most oceanside restaurants, but you'll also find elevated steakhouses, modern Italian joints, and even farm-to-table cafes.
Whether you're an LA local looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, or an out-of-town visitor hoping to live the California dream with an ocean view and glass of wine in hand, there are plenty of places to explore along the coast. That said, get ready to hop in the car, cruise down PCH, and take in the epic views. We've rounded up the best beachside restaurants in LA.
Geoffrey's
Geoffrey's is a Malibu institution that sits right along Pacific Coast Highway. The outdoor terrace hovers just above the Pacific Ocean on a picturesque cliff, providing unbeatable ocean views that stretch as far as the eye can see. If you're looking for a romantic date night in Malibu, it doesn't get better than Geoffrey's.
Considering the oceanside setting, a seafood-forward meal seems most fitting. Start with the Ahi tuna tartare and seasonal oysters. If raw oysters are too outside of your comfort zone, the spicy fried oysters are worth trying. After your appetizers, finish things off with one of the many fish dishes Geoffrey's has. From herb-crusted salmon to grilled Pacific swordfish, each dish is cooked to perfection and paired with complementing sides such as artichoke heart purée and wild arugula.
Sandpiper
Oceana is a luxury hotel situated right on Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. Until recently, the on-site restaurant was exclusive to hotel guests, but now, Sandpiper is officially open to the public. The beautiful and warm restaurant features blue walls that are adorned with beautiful, beachy photos. Guests who sit in the main dining room are able to enjoy a peak of the ocean from their table as the large windows look straight out onto Palisades Park.
The Mediterranean-inspired menu uses farm-fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations to create a dynamic array of dishes. The toasted baguette with the house-made lavender butter is a must-order, as is the nori-crusted seared rare tuna. For your main course, don't skip the Maine lobster tortellini, and be sure to order a side of the charred sugar snap peas.
Nobu
Everyone from tourists to celebrities can't get enough of Nobu. The Malibu location sits right in the heart of the affluent beach town and is just steps from the pier. The breathtaking patio sits right over the ocean and is the ultimate place to do some celebrity scouting while sipping on a lychee martini. A reservation is pretty much required, so it's best to plan as far in advance as possible.
Though you can't go wrong with pretty much anything at Nobu, there are definitely some can't-miss items that first-timers need to try. The toro tartare, yellowtail sashimi, and tuna with crispy rice are all solid picks, but when it comes to cooked dishes, the Wagyu beef tacos are the star of the show. Some other highlights include the creamy, spicy snow crab and miso Chilean sea bass.
Malibu Farm
Located right on the pier, Malibu Farm is a must for those wanting healthy yet delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks. The Malibu Farm Cafe is located at the very end of the pier, and you can order everything from a fried egg sandwich to a vegan burger. Malibu Farm Cafe is best for more casual and quick meals, while the Malibu Farm Restaurant is more of a formal, sit-down experience. The specialty cocktails are fresh and fun, relying on vibrant and real ingredients such as watermelon, papaya, and cucumber.
The food is pretty light across the board, and, as the name suggests, the menu centers around farm-fresh and seasonal ingredients. Start off with the coconut cod ceviche or seasonal hummus before indulging in the zesty soy ginger hanger steak.
The Penthouse
The Penthouse at The Huntley Hotel offers some of the most breathtaking views in Santa Monica. After admiring the views during your glass elevator ride from the lobby, snag a window-side booth during sunset for the ultimate show. Even the bathrooms have an epic ocean view that is worth checking out. If you're visiting with a small group, sip on an extra dirty martini while nibbling on a signature seafood tower. The crispy rice with truffle Wagyu steak tartare is another solid appetizer that you don't want to miss.
When it comes to mains, both the Ora King salmon and center-filet mignon with Yorkshire pudding come out on top. That said, the lobster truffle mac and cheese is a luxe side that takes decadence to a whole new level.
Coast
Located at Shutters On the Beach, Coast is a beachfront cafe that locals and hotel guests both love. The cafe-style menu is approachable without being basic, making Coast a solid spot for drinks and bites between beaching. Though the outdoor patio is most popular, the dining room offers an inviting and nautical space to unwind in during a leisurely afternoon. If you visit during brunch, kick things off with the green detox drink that is made from locally sourced veggies and fruit.
The Eggs Benedict is a classic brunch entrée, but the pastrami hash is a hearty option that comes with Napa cabbage and two sunny-side-up eggs. During dinner, start with the hamachi crudo before ordering the Mediterranean octopus or buttery lobster roll.
Oceans Cafe and Grill
Oceans Cafe and Grill is situated right along El Segundo's pristine beach bike path. Grab your food before hitting the sand for a laid-back beach picnic complete with burgers, BLTs, and fish tacos. Since Oceans Cafe and Grill is open for breakfast, it is the ideal spot to start your day with a breakfast quesadilla or burrito before taking a leisurely walk along the coast. If you prefer something sweet, go for the New Orleans-style beignets that are served alongside a rum butter sauce.
That said, Oceans Cafe & Grill is most popular in the afternoon, and its convenient location makes it the perfect place for a sunset beach feast. Rather than a classic fish and chips, oot for the shrimp and chips or the fish sandwich.
The Albright
Though you'll find plenty of tourist traps and cheesy chains on the Santa Monica Pier, The Albright stands out as a quality restaurant that serves tasty seafood in a picturesque setting. In fact, it has been around since 1977, proving that it has been a consistent and local favorite for nearly 50 years. The casual counter ordering allows you to kick back and relax after a day of carnival games and roller coaster riding.
If you want a couple of dishes to share with the table, consider ordering the Baja ceviche and crispy calamari. Of course, nothing beats some fresh oysters with an oceanside breeze. The Connecticut-style lobster roll is a timeless classic, but we recommended ordering a whole Dungeness crab from the freshwater tanks.
Elephante
Elephante is one of the hottest and most happening dinner spots on the Westside. If you plan on having a full sit-down dinner, you'll definitely want to make a reservation in advance, no matter what day of the week you plan to visit. The tables at the back of the restaurant offer a solid peak of the ocean along with a more private and intimate space for dinner dates.
However, Elephante is also great for late-night drinks or a gal's night out, and the cocktails are well worth exploring. If you like all things fruity and tart, The Elephante is a passion fruit-forward cocktail that can be made with the spirit of your choice, but the Mezcalera is a smokey and citrusy combination that tantalizes the taste buds.
Mastro's Ocean Club
Looking to enjoy a luxe steak dinner by the sea? Mastro's Ocean Club is a Pacific Coast Highway staple that is best reserved for special occasions and dinners. Like most high-end steakhouses in Los Angeles, the price point at Mastro's is pretty high, but you're paying for unbeatable ocean views and premium cuts. Simply valet your car and then get ready for one of the most elevated meals of your life. Keep in mind that Mastro's does have a dress code, and beach attire is not acceptable.
The shrimp cocktail is a steakhouse classic, but the sautéed sea scallops are incredibly juicy and succulent. When it comes to entrées, you of course can't go wrong with a filet, but if you prefer seafood over steak, the Norwegian salmon never fails to impress.
The Strand House
Whether you're a local or a beach-goer hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of Santa Monica, The Strand House remains one of the best restaurants in Manhattan Beach. In addition to killer eats The Strand House also serves up breathtaking ocean views, a modern ambiance, and live music and DJ performances throughout the week. The Heat of Passion cocktail is a spicy and passion fruit-forward libation that is perfect for seaside sipping, but the wine list is also worth peaking at.
For food, the buttermilk Parker House rolls with whipped sweet cream butter is both savory and sweet, while flavorful crab cakes never get old. The pizzas are perfect for sharing, while the chilled seafood section showcases beloved favorites like shrimp cocktails, caviar service, and tuna tartare.
Moonshadows
Looking for an upscale restaurant with panoramic ocean views? Pull over on PCH and dine at Moonshadows Malibu. This moody and timeless eatery serves up a refined ambiance and elevated seafood, resulting in the ideal combo for some seaside dining. If you can, request a table right by the window so that you can watch the waves crash against the restaurant without interruption. Though Moonshadows is beautiful all day long, nothing beats dinner at sunset.
Kick off your meal with the light and thin octopus carpaccio, spicy tuna tartare, and freshly shucked oysters with ponzu mignonette. The clam chowder is also one of the best in Malibu and brings a true taste of New England to the West Coast. For your main course, consider ordering the tiger shrimp rigatoni or braised short ribs.
The Sunset Restaurant Malibu
The Sunset Restaurant is a locally-loved restaurant that provides the ideal beachside setting. The white wooden building sits right on the sand across from the waves, making this Malibu staple a must-visit for brunch, lunch, and dinner. The fun and vibrant bar area is perfect for grabbing a drink at sunset or enjoying a mimosa for Sunday Funday, while the upstairs dining area offers a more quiet and intimate setting.
Enjoy sipping on a cold glass of chardonnay as you watch the waves roll on Westward Beach. The menu is pretty diverse and features global influences, ensuring that there is something for every kind of diner. From Wagyu meatballs to zesty Brussels sprouts, the appetizers never disappoint. However, the fish tacos are a Sunset Restaurant staple that has locals coming back over and over again.
Carbon Beach Club
Carbon Beach Club at the Malibu Beach Inn gets diners up close and personal with the Pacific. The restaurant sits on a stunning patio that overlooks the ocean and sits right above the sand, and the hotel is just a short walk away from the pier, which is also within view of Carbon Beach Club.
Since you'll be able to eat alongside the sound of crashing waves and a gentle sea breeze, seafood is a no-brainer. The chilled Alaskan King crab legs are incredible, but if you're dining with three or more people, it's more worth it to order the entire seafood tower. The whole branzino is a popular entrée, but the plant-based bolognese is a perfect main course for vegans dining at Carbon Beach Club.
The Lobster
As the name suggests, The Lobster in Santa Monica is a prime spot for all things shellfish. From juicy lobster tails to lobster mac and cheese, this classic restaurant is a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to dine in the heart of the city. The Lobster has great views of the Santa Monica Pier, allowing you to enjoy some amazing people-watching as you dine. If you can't make it in for dinner, consider stopping by for lunch.
The Maine lobster cocktail is an innovative take on the shrimp cocktail, and for $30, it's actually a pretty good deal. Of course, the Maine lobster salad is light and refreshing, but lobster roll lovers will adore the unique rendition with Japanese mayo and pickled cucumbers. Be sure to order a side of the Dungeness crab fried rice to share.
1 Pico
Also located at Shutters on the Beach, 1 Pico is a more upscale and fancy restaurant compared to Coast. The romantic patio sets a stunning backdrop for a special dinner and the restaurant specializes in coastal California cuisine. Looking to enhance your Sunday Funday? 1 Pico hosts a Bubbles and Jazz Brunch every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and guests are able to enjoy groovy tunes and Champagne on the patio.
The focaccia and burrata is a must-order appetizer as are the grilled blue prawns. Pasta lovers won't want to skip on the lobster spaghetti which is cooked in garlic and saffron, but when it comes to mains, the Wagyu filet mignon is worth the splurge. However, those who prefer to share will love the Tomahawk for two.
The Pier House
The Pier House in Venice is home to a stylish and modern atmosphere along with fresh and innovative bites that pair wonderfully with the signature cocktails. This trendy restaurant serves coastal California cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and is open seven days a week. If you're craving something tropical, sip on the Piña Blu which is made Luxardo bianco, coconut, lime, pineapple, and Combier Blue Curacao. There are also plenty of draft beers to explore along with sake and wine.
The Thai ceviche is zesty and light, but there are plenty of chilled seafood dishes that will help you beat the heat. From oyster shooters to Peruvian scallops, the options are endless. That said, the seared salmon with shiso chimichurri and ponzu is a must-order entrée.
Paradise Cove Beach Cafe
Soak up the sun and feel your toes in the sand when you dine at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe. This Malibu eatery is tucked away down a private drive and sits on one of the most beautiful beaches in Los Angeles. Come for the private beach club but stay for some fruity drinks and fried seafood. Though the interior has a rustic and beachy charm, the outdoor patio is exactly where you'll want to post up with a rum-filled coconut in hand.
Even on a hot day, the award-winning clam chowder is a must, but if you want to balance it out with something more refreshing, opt for the Ahi poke bowl or jumbo shrimp cocktail. The macadamia coconut shrimp is a local favorite, and though a lot of the food is fried, you can also enjoy fresh Atlantic salmon, Ahi tuna, or swordfish.
Mar'sel
Looking for an upscale dinner spot in Palos Verdes? Mar'sel sets the scene for a romantic and intimate evening along the coast at the Terranea Resort. Though it is a bit outside of the city, this cliffside restaurant is the ultimate spot for a sunset dinner and is well worth the drive. You can also come for Sunday brunch if you're hoping to soak up some sunshine on the picturesque terrace. Most of the ingredients used at Mar'sel are locally sourced and menu items change with the seasons, ensuring that freshness and sustainability remain at the forefront of priorities.
There is also an on-site sommelier so that guests may enjoy the best of the best when pairing their food with world-class wines. The entire menu has a wow factor, but the Colorado lamb chop and lobster paccheri are both standout dishes.
Neptune's Net
Caught a craving for both fresh and fried seafood? Neptune's Net offers the best of both worlds in a laid-back, coastal setting. The iconic Malibu restaurant sits right on Pacific Coast Highway and is known for being a biker hotspot. You'll always find tons of motorcyclists cracking open a beer and enjoying a basket of fried shrimp on the weekends, and it's the perfect spot to unwind with comforting seafood, simple drinks, and killer views.
Order a beer or a Bloody Mary along with some fried scallops before heading over to the other counter for fresh seafood. From King crab legs to ice-cold oysters, the fresh seafood is just as tasty as the fried goods. However, the shrimp basket is a Neptune's Net winner that deserves to be tried at least once.