Hey there, foodies and beach lovers! If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate dining experience where the ocean breeze and stunning views complement your meal, you’re in for a treat in Laguna Beach. This charming seaside town isn’t just famous for its beautiful beaches but also for its incredible oceanfront dining options. Here you can find some of the best spots where the views are as mouth-watering as the food!
My Favorite Oceanfront Restaurants in Laguna Beach!
I’m just your everyday food enthusiast who happens to have a soft spot for the ocean. My adventures often lead me to places where the food is as mesmerizing as the view, and that’s exactly how I stumbled upon the culinary paradise of Laguna Beach. From cozy brunches watching the waves to romantic dinners under the starlit sky, each dining experience here has been nothing short of magical. Now, I want to share with you some of my favorite spots where the aroma of delicious cuisine blends perfectly with the salty sea breeze.
Here you can see a quick snapshot of these restaurants:
Here is the updated table with the details for Oak restaurant:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Special Features | Location Detail | Must-Try Dish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Deck on Laguna Beach | Seafood, American | Casual, Oceanfront, Great for Sunsets | Right on the beach | Fish Tacos |
| Driftwood Kitchen | Seafood, American | Elegant, Upscale, Ocean Views | Right on the beach | Pan-Seared Scallops |
| Splashes Restaurant | Contemporary Coastal | Intimate, On-the-Water Dining Experience | Inside Surf & Sand Resort, ocean view | Brunch Specials |
| Las Brisas | Mexican Riviera | Panoramic Views, Classic Ambiance | Overlooking Main Beach | Guacamole and Margaritas |
| Mozambique Steakhouse | South African, Steaks | Rooftop Dining, Ocean Views | Slightly Inland | Peri-Peri Chicken |
| The Rooftop Lounge | Light Bites, Drinks | Rooftop Bar, Stunning Views | At the top of La Casa del Camino, ocean view | Cocktails |
| Larsen | Varied, American | Casual Elegance, Beach Vibe | Near the Ocean | Seafood, Burgers |
| The Cliff | Diverse Menu | Spectacular Ocean Vistas | Ocean view | Seafood, Pasta |
| Skyloft | BBQ, American | Rooftop Dining, Lively Atmosphere | Central Laguna Beach | BBQ Dishes |
| Lost Pier Café | American Beach Fare | Casual, Beachside Location | Right on the Beach | Breakfast Burritos |
| C’est La Vie Restaurant | French | Parisian-Style, Cozy | Near the Ocean | French Classics |
| Urth Caffé | Organic Coffee & Café Fare | Health-conscious, Cozy Atmosphere | Near the Ocean, Breezy Location | Organic Coffee, Smoothies, Pastries |
| Heidelberg Cafe & Bistro | Breakfast and Lunch | Cozy, Outdoor Seating | Ocean Peek | Omelets, Fresh Pastries |
| Oak | Modern Cuisine | Welcoming Atmosphere, Partial Ocean View | Second floor, near the ocean | Cocktails, Large Sandwiches |
The Deck on Laguna Beach
This is the place to be if you love a casual vibe with an unbeatable ocean view. The Deck offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a sunny afternoon or a romantic sunset dinner. Their seafood is fresh, and their cocktails are a must-try. Don’t forget to sample their famous fish tacos while you listen to the waves!
What I Liked About The Deck on Laguna Beach: I was really impressed with the steak and salmon at The Deck. It’s a delicious choice. The beautiful beachfront setting only added to the experience, making it a meal to remember. Whether it’s for the ocean views or the mouth-watering seafood, The Deck is definitely a spot I’ll return to.
The Deck Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 on Yelp.
Hours of Operation: Monday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Driftwood Kitchen
Want a side of elegance with your ocean view? Driftwood Kitchen is your spot. Located right on the water, this restaurant offers a sophisticated menu featuring fresh seafood and steaks. The ambiance here is just right for a special occasion or a fancy night out. Make sure to try their pan-seared scallops – they’re a crowd favorite!
What I Liked About Driftwood Kitchen: My visit to Driftwood Kitchen was nothing short of delightful. The standout for me was the steak, which was perhaps the best I’ve ever tasted. The freshness of the dinner, combined with the helpful and efficient service, made my experience memorable. The real cherry on top, though, was the dining room’s overlooking view of the Pacific Ocean, adding a serene and beautiful backdrop to an already fantastic meal.
Driftwood Kitchen Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
Splashes Restaurant
Nestled inside the Surf & Sand Resort, Splashes offers an almost ‘on-the-water’ dining experience. The menu boasts contemporary coastal cuisine with a focus on fresh and local ingredients. Whether you’re there for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the view of the surf and sand is spectacular. Their brunch is particularly famous, so consider starting your day here!
What I Liked About Splashes Restaurant: Splashes Restaurant truly left an impression on me with its fantastic combination of great food and an incredible ocean view. The Eggs Benedict was the best I’ve ever had, and the experience of dining outside with glass wind barriers was just perfect. The staff was attentive, enhancing the overall experience. And if you’re there for breakfast, the Banana French Toast is a delightful choice. It’s the kind of place where the ambiance and the flavors come together to create a memorable dining experience.
Splashes Restaurant Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Las Brisas
Overlooking Main Beach, Las Brisas is a Laguna Beach staple known for its Mexican Riviera-inspired cuisine. The views here are panoramic, offering a great vantage point of the coastline. Perfect for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, their guacamole and margaritas are a must-try.
What I Liked About Las Brisas: Las Brisas in Laguna Beach is a place that holds a special spot in my heart. The butter poached lobster tail is exceptional, and the views overlooking the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking, adding a lovely ambiance to the meal. I also like their Tres Leches cake which was super moist and delicious. The outdoor seating is a treat, allowing you to take in the beautiful surroundings while enjoying your food. It’s the perfect blend of great Mexican food and an incredible setting, making it an ideal spot for both romantic evenings and special occasions.
Las Brisas Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Mozambique Steakhouse
While not directly on the beach, Mozambique offers a rooftop dining experience with breathtaking ocean views. The menu features South African-inspired dishes, with their peri-peri chicken being a standout. It’s a great spot for a lively dinner or a weekend brunch with a view.
What I Liked About Mozambique Restaurant: Mozambique Restaurant in Laguna Beach offers a great experience. The rooftop dining is a standout feature, providing beautiful ocean views and a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset. The live music adds a vibrant touch to the atmosphere. The food is excellent, particularly the peri-peri prawns which are flavorful, although a bit messy to eat. It’s a great place for a fun, lively evening out, and the service is professional and efficient.
Mozambique Restaurant Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The Rooftop Lounge
Located atop La Casa del Camino hotel, this spot offers one of the best rooftop views in Laguna Beach. It’s more about the drinks and the view here, but they do serve light bites. It’s a fantastic place to catch a sunset and enjoy a cocktail.
What I Liked About The Rooftop Lounge: The Rooftop Lounge is a place that truly stands out for its spectacular views. Having dinner there was a nice experience. They do have a new menu though (since February, 2024) which is more casual. Not a lot of menu choices but I liked the street tacos, Linguine Alfredo and a fruity Sangria.
The service was friendly and professional, and the ambiance was just perfect for a laid-back, enjoyable meal. The combination of great food, amazing drinks, and the best views of Laguna Beach makes it a must-visit spot.
The Rooftop Lounge Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
Larsen
This is a hidden gem for those who love a blend of elegance and a laid-back beach vibe. Larsen’s menu is a delicious mix, offering everything from fresh seafood to hearty burgers. Their outdoor seating provides a beautiful view of the ocean.
What I Liked About Larsen: Larsen in Laguna Beach offers an unbeatably spectacular location with views that are perfect for people-watching. The day-long brunch menu has many tasty dishes. While the service is competent and friendly, the portions can be small. The scallop entrée, for instance, included just three scallops. Despite this, the ambiance and location make it a great place for a drink and some appetizers, particularly if you’re looking to enjoy the beachfront setting.
Larsen Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4/5 on Google and 4.5/5 on OpenTable.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The Cliff
Talk about dining with a view! The Cliff offers one of the most spectacular ocean vistas in Laguna Beach. It’s a great place for those who enjoy a variety of food options, as their menu is quite diverse, featuring seafood, pasta, and vegetarian dishes. The ambiance here is lively and welcoming, perfect for enjoying a meal while watching the surfers and sunset.
What I Liked About The Cliff Restaurant: The Cliff Restaurant is a place I enjoy for its incredible ocean view and relaxed dining. The diverse menu caters to all tastes. On my last visit, the fish tacos and grilled shrimp salad were perfectly prepared. The atmosphere is casual yet beautiful, making it ideal for enjoying with friends or family.
Their attention to service is great. It’s also a popular spot for events like weddings, where they’re known for their excellent catering services.
The Cliff Restaurant Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
Skyloft
If you’re looking for a place with not just great food but also a vibrant atmosphere, Skyloft is your go-to. Their rooftop dining area provides an amazing view of the Laguna Beach coastline. Known for their BBQ and American cuisine, they also have a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. It’s a fantastic spot for a fun evening out with friends or family.
What I Liked About Skyloft: Skyloft in Laguna Beach offers a memorable experience with its rooftop dining area that provides beautiful ocean views. The menu is varied, and the food is consistently well-prepared. I’ve always found the service to be friendly and attentive. I’ve had the veggie tower as an appetizer and grilled salmon which were both great.
Skyloft Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.0/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Lost Pier Café
For a more casual and authentic beachside experience, Lost Pier Café is a must-visit. This quaint café is right on the beach, offering a laid-back vibe with classic American beach fare. Their breakfast burritos and fish tacos are local favorites. It’s a perfect stop for a quick bite after a morning swim or surf session.
What I Liked About Lost Pier Cafe: Lost Pier Cafe is a delightful beachside spot with an unbeatable atmosphere. I was really impressed with their avocado toast and the breakfast burrito. The cafe offers a casual and relaxed setting right on the beach, making it perfect for a laid-back lunch. Service is quick and efficient, and the food is delicious. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a meal with the sound of the waves in the background.
Lost Pier Cafe Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 9:00 AM until sunset.
C’est La Vie Restaurant
This restaurant brings a touch of French cuisine to the Laguna Beach oceanfront. C’est La Vie is known for its Parisian-style outdoor seating and cozy atmosphere. Their menu features French classics along with a great selection of wines. It’s a romantic spot, ideal for those who want to enjoy a quiet dinner with a beautiful ocean backdrop.
What I Liked About C’est La Vie Restaurant: C’est La Vie Restaurant in Laguna Beach has a beautiful decor and nice view right by the ocean. The ambiance is cozy and romantic, making it a great spot for a special date night. It’s the perfect blend of fine French dining and the relaxed Laguna Beach vibe. I liked the seafood fettuccine pasta, slice of cake and an espresso. Espresso was small, a couple sips only.
Lost Pier Cafe Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.0/5 on Yelp.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Urth Caffé
Urth Caffé is not right on the ocean, but close enough to feel that cool sea breeze. It’s the go-to spot for awesome organic coffee and fresh eats. Perfect for grabbing a cup with friends and soaking up that Laguna Beach chill.
What I Liked About Urth Caffé: Urth Caffé in Laguna Beach is a true gem. I love their focus on organic and healthy options. The coffee is some of the best I’ve ever had, rich and flavorful, and their selection of teas is impressive. It’s not just the drinks that are great, though; their food menu is fantastic too. I particularly enjoy their Tostada, Bread Pudding, Grilled Chicken Pesto sandwich, and Avocado Toast. The atmosphere at Urth Caffé is laid-back and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a casual meet-up with friends or a relaxed solo lunch. Plus, being so close to the beach, I often take my coffee to go and enjoy a walk at the Heisler Park.
Urth Caffé Ratings and Reviews: Rated 3.2/5 on Yelp.
Hours of Operation: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and longer on weekends.
Heidelberg Cafe & Bistro
Heidelberg Cafe & Bistro is a cherished destination in Laguna Beach for those seeking a delightful breakfast or brunch experience in a laid-back setting. Known for its classic offerings such as pancakes, omelets, burritos, burgers, and salads.
What I Liked About Heidelberg Cafe & Bistro: This place is great for a quick breakfast or lunch, with options to sit inside or outside. I read that it’s been around for 20 years, but their website doesn’t offer much background information, such as who currently owns it or the story behind its name. There’s no “About” page on the website as of now (February, 2024).
Outside seating is a bit limited, but I managed to find a small table. The service was quick, and my order of eggs with sausage and a mimosa was served fast. When you sit outside, you can catch a glimpse of the ocean. The food was really good, and I plan to go back. Next time, I want to try their lattes.
Heidelberg Cafe Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.2/5 on Yelp.
Hours of Operation: M-F 6:30-2:00 pm, Sat-Sun 7:00-3pm.
Oak Restaurant
Oak Restaurant in Laguna Beach is a great place for those seeking a modern restaurant that offers a welcoming atmosphere that pairs perfectly with its innovative menu.
What I Liked About Oak Restaurant: I had lunch there and I liked that the sandwiches were quite large. Also, my Lagunarita cocktail was delicious.
The outdoor seating area provides a lovely setting with a partial view of the ocean. The service was attentive and friendly.
Oak Restaurant Ratings and Reviews: Rated 4.5/5 on various review platforms.
Hours of Operation: Open Monday-Tuesday closed. W-Th 11:00 – 9 pm. F-S 11:00 AM to 10:00 pm. Sunday 10:00 – 10:00 pm.
Wrapping up my food adventures in Laguna Beach, I’ve got to say, each spot was its own kind of awesome. From chill beach vibes to cool rooftop views, every meal was more than just food – it was a whole vibe. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or a local, these places are worth visiting.
Heidelberg cafe in Laguna beach is a must! Great breakfast n lunch menus n great service!!
Thanks for the recommendation! I just went there for lunch and it was great. Service was fast and the food was good. I added it to the list here.