Ten Must-Try Waterfront Restaurants in San Diego
San Diego has over 70 miles of coastline, giving it plenty of awesome locations for waterfront dining. Whether you’re enjoying the cashmere-soft sands in Coronado strolling by the quaint and charming seaside village of Cardiff, you’ll find lots of restaurants serving great food with amazing views.
Check out these must-try local favorites:
- The Marine Room
Known for its dramatic surf and turf dining experience, The Marine Room offers an elegant atmosphere where the waves crash against the windows during high tide. This iconic restaurant in La Jolla is often considered as the grand dame of San Diego waterfront dining. Since its inception in 1941, a recent addition is The Lounge, a luxury dining spot that offers oceanfront views, curated cocktails, a specially crafted menu, and more.
- George’s at the Cove
At George’s at the Cove, you can choose from three restaurants, all offering stunning ocean views. George’s California Modern features executive chef Trey Foshee’s innovative coastal cuisine, highlighting local farms and vistas of La Jolla Cove, the Torrey Pines cliffs, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Upstairs, the Ocean Terrace offers rooftop dining with handcrafted cocktails and gourmet SoCal casual dishes like fish tacos, kale salad, and pastas. The same menu is available at Level 2, where you can enjoy the ocean view while sipping a Sea3 margarita.
- The Fish Market
Situated on the waterfront near Seaport Village, The Fish Market serves fresh seafood with panoramic views of the San Diego Bay. The menu is a seafood lover’s dream, with everything from oysters on the half-shell to grilled seafood platters. Don’t miss the sushi bar for a fresh take on classic favorites.
- Island Prime (C-Level Lounge)
Located on Harbor Island, C-Level Lounge offers stunning views of the downtown skyline and San Diego Bay. The menu features a seafood and American classics mix, with popular dishes like lobster bisque and prime rib sliders. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch or a romantic dinner.
- Bali Hai Restaurant
A San Diego staple since 1953, Bali Hai Restaurant on Shelter Island offers Polynesian-inspired cuisine and sweeping views of the bay. Known for its legendary Mai Tais, this restaurant features dishes like spicy tuna poke and roasted Jidori chicken, perfect for enjoying in a tropical setting.
- Tom Ham’s Lighthouse
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse combines a historic landmark with a premier dining experience on Harbor Island. The restaurant offers impressive views of the bay and skyline and a menu that includes fresh seafood, prime steaks, and an extensive wine list. The Sunday brunch is a local favorite, featuring a variety of delectable dishes.
- Coasterra
Coasterra on Harbor Island provides a modern Mexican dining experience with unparalleled views of the San Diego skyline. The menu features creative dishes like duck confit empanadas and seared scallops with mole. Enjoy a cocktail on the outdoor terrace while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
- Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Located in the heart of Mission Hills, Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is known for its fresh, sustainable seafood. The casual, no-frills atmosphere is perfect for enjoying fish tacos, seafood salads, and grilled fish plates. The nearby waterfront offers a picturesque setting for a post-meal stroll.
- The Brigantine
The Brigantine in Point Loma offers fresh seafood and a relaxed, nautical-themed dining experience. With views of the San Diego Bay, the menu includes favorites like clam chowder, fish tacos, and grilled swordfish. It’s an excellent spot for a family meal or a casual date night.
- Peohe’s
Peohe’s offers spectacular views of the downtown skyline and Coronado Bay Bridge on Coronado Island. The menu features a blend of Pacific Rim and traditional seafood dishes, including coconut crunchy shrimp and miso-glazed sea bass. Enjoy a cocktail on the outdoor patio for a truly memorable dining experience.
Ready to Hit the Water?
After indulging in a meal at one of these fantastic waterfront restaurants, why not take your adventure to the next level? Rent a speedboat with Speed Boat Adventures and explore San Diego’s stunning coastline from the water.