Top 5 Laguna Beach Waterfront Restaurants

Situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach has a tropical climate with 340 days of sunshine a year. Its location means many Laguna Beach restaurants sit on the Pacific Coast, and offer salty air and photo-worthy sunsets. As one of the most popular vacation spots in California, dining out is a must, especially for travelers who want to relax. If rich flavors paired with ocean scenery appeal to the senses, read about the top Laguna Beach waterfront restaurants.

Laguna Beach Waterfront Restaurants for Memorable Dining

Order French at Studio

Studio offers a beachfront dining experience and mixes classic French cuisine with modern California nuances, bringing changing a la carte menus and chef’s specials. Panoramic views welcome guests to sit indoors or outside under umbrellas. Diners praise their expansive wine list and stellar service, and many enjoy this fine-dining restaurant for special occasions.

Chef Craig Strong also works with local organic farmers, ensuring diverse and fresh menu options. For the main course, try seared swordfish or La Belle Farms duck breast.

Pick a Spot at The Cliff

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Cliff is a favorite oceanside spot with multilevel decks overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The large open-air patio ranks as a top spot to sip cocktails with a special someone or friends. On Thursday through Saturday nights, enjoy live music, and free rides are available from 5 p.m. to close on these nights as well.

The Cliff’s menu features American favorites with California style, and is known for delicious crab dip. Specialties include prime pork chop, filet mignon and macnut chicken, to name a few.

Let Las Brisas Treat You

Mexican food lovers will want to dine at Las Brisas, one of southern California’s landmarks, as it’s been around since the 1970s. Mexican recipes mixed with local ingredients and seafood create unique dishes for those who like it hot, mild, or sweet.

Open for meals anytime of the day, Las Brisas is a favorite spot for breakfast and brunch. In addition, they offer a weekday breakfast buffet. Dinner options range from sea to land, and chef specialties include snapper, king crab and shrimp.

Make a Date at The Deck

The Deck also sits on the waterfront, making it a top spot for ocean views. Open for lunch and dinner, diners enjoy fresh seafood options that pair well with creative cocktails. Popular menu options feature fresh oysters, fish tacos and Laguna Cioppino, a platter full of seafood favorites.

Located adjacent to The Deck is Driftwood Kitchen, another top among the best Laguna Beach waterfront restaurants. Driftwood Kitchen focuses on using local, seasonal ingredients. The dinner menu features calamari, Hawaiian big-eye tuna, lobster and much more.

Sit Low at Splashes

Sit by an open window or on one of the palm-shaded patios at Splashes. The restaurant is located only 25 feet above sea level, providing up-close views. Chefs prepare dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and the reverse happy hour is an extra treat. That’s right, drink specials from 7 to 10 p.m. Dinner entrees range from Maine lobster to short ribs and grilled lamb loin. Perfect for small groups, guests also rave about breakfast and brunch options.

Find fun things to do in Laguna Beach to complete your trip! For a full list of where to eat, check out these Laguna Beach restaurants.

Need a little romance? Plan a Laguna Beach couples trip.