The Pacific Coast Highway isn’t just famous for its breathtaking ocean views and winding cliffs—it’s also home to some of the best seafood in California.
From casual beachside shacks to elegant waterfront restaurants, there’s a spot to satisfy every craving along this iconic coastal route.
Whether you’re craving fresh fish tacos in Southern California, award-winning clam chowder in the Central Coast, or classic cioppino in Pescadero, these 16 seafood restaurants are must-stops for any PCH road trip.
Malibu Seafood (Malibu, CA)
Perched along the shimmering Pacific, Malibu Seafood is a quintessential stop for seafood lovers. This beloved roadside shack offers a laid-back atmosphere where the ocean’s whispering waves accompany your meal. From freshly caught fish to savory tacos, the menu is a testament to the bounty of the sea.
A highlight of this establishment is its classic fish & chips, a dish that attracts locals and travelers alike. The crispy golden batter encasing the tender fish delights the palate, while the accompanying fries offer a satisfying crunch. Dining on the patio, guests are treated to panoramic views that enhance the flavor of every bite.
The charm of Malibu Seafood lies in its simplicity and authenticity. While the establishment itself may appear humble, the quality of food served is anything but ordinary.
It’s a place where the freshness of the ocean is celebrated, making it a worthy detour for anyone cruising the PCH.
Neptune’s Net (Malibu, CA)
Neptune’s Net stands as a cultural landmark along the PCH, drawing in a diverse crowd ranging from bikers to beachgoers. This lively establishment offers a no-frills dining experience where the focus is squarely on the food. Known for its fried seafood classics, it’s a place where tradition meets taste.
The menu features a variety of options, from crispy calamari to succulent shrimp baskets. Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring that the flavors are both robust and satisfying.
Patrons often enjoy their meals picnic-style, enhancing the community feel of the restaurant.
The buzzing atmosphere of Neptune’s Net is part of its allure. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, the welcoming environment makes everyone feel at home. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that captures the essence of coastal dining.
Paradise Cove Beach Café (Malibu, CA)
Nestled directly on the sand, Paradise Cove Beach Café offers an escape into a world where the ocean breeze and savory aromas blend seamlessly. This Malibu gem is renowned for its relaxed vibe, providing a perfect backdrop for enjoying classic seafood dishes.
The menu is a delightful mix of favorites, including buttery lobster tail and creamy clam chowder. Each dish is crafted to perfection, reflecting the rich flavors of the sea. Dining here feels like a casual beach picnic, with the added comfort of friendly service and stunning views.
Guests are often found lounging in beach chairs, savoring the sun while indulging in their meals. Paradise Cove is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination where the beauty of the coast is celebrated with every bite.
This beachside haven is a detour worth taking for those seeking tranquility and taste.
Pacific Coast Grill (Cardiff, CA)
Located near the surf, Pacific Coast Grill in Cardiff offers a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The restaurant’s design takes full advantage of its oceanfront location, with large windows framing the endless blue horizon.
The menu is inspired by local flavors, featuring dishes like ahi poke and grilled salmon. Each plate is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully paired to elevate the dining experience. Diners often find themselves lingering over meals, savoring the view as much as the food.
Evenings at Pacific Coast Grill are particularly magical. As the sun sets, the ambiance shifts to one of relaxed elegance, with the ocean’s gentle lull providing the perfect soundtrack to a delightful meal.
This Cardiff eatery is a must-visit for those seeking a harmonious blend of taste and tranquility.
Pacific Hideaway (Huntington Beach, CA)
Pacific Hideaway in Huntington Beach is a vibrant reflection of the coastal culture it calls home. This chic restaurant offers a menu that captures the spirit of the sea, with dishes that are as inventive as they are delicious.
The culinary offerings include seafood-forward creations like tempura-fried fish and ceviche, each plate a testament to the chef’s creativity and skill. The restaurant’s atmosphere is equally captivating, with a modern design that complements the lively beach town vibe.
Dining here is a dynamic experience. The staff exudes warmth and hospitality, ensuring that each guest feels welcome.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Pacific Hideaway offers a taste of Huntington Beach that is both authentic and unforgettable. It’s a detour well worth the journey for those exploring the PCH.
Duke’s Huntington Beach (Huntington Beach, CA)
Duke’s Huntington Beach is a vibrant homage to the spirit of Aloha, offering Hawaiian-inspired seafood dishes in a lively oceanfront setting. This beloved establishment captures the essence of its namesake, Duke Kahanamoku, legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic champion.
The menu features a delightful array of choices, from fresh catch specials to the ever-popular fish tacos. Each dish is infused with tropical flavors, transporting diners to the shores of Hawaii with every bite. The lively atmosphere adds to the experience, making each meal feel like a celebration.
With its prime location and engaging environment, Duke’s is more than just a restaurant. It’s a gathering place where good food and great company create lasting memories.
For those cruising the PCH, a stop at Duke’s offers a taste of the islands right in the heart of Huntington Beach.
Calico Fish House (Huntington Beach, CA)
Calico Fish House in Huntington Beach offers a refreshing take on casual seafood dining. This unpretentious spot is perfect for those seeking approachable yet flavorful dishes in a relaxed setting.
The menu is straightforward but satisfying, featuring options like fish tacos and seafood platters. Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring that the natural flavors of the sea are at the forefront. The ambiance is inviting, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking a laid-back dining experience.
What sets Calico Fish House apart is its emphasis on quality and simplicity. There’s no pretense here, just good food served with genuine hospitality.
For those journeying along the PCH, it’s a delightful detour that offers a true taste of Southern California’s coastal cuisine.
Seal Beach Fish Company (Seal Beach, CA)
Seal Beach Fish Company offers a serene dining experience that contrasts beautifully with the bustling surf towns nearby. This smaller establishment is a hidden gem, providing fresh seafood and approachable dishes in a tranquil setting.
The menu is crafted with care, featuring options like grilled fish and seafood pasta. Each dish highlights the quality and freshness of the ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, offering a respite from the busy coastal highway.
For those seeking a quieter alternative to the more crowded eateries, Seal Beach Fish Company is an excellent choice.
It’s a place where the simplicity of coastal dining shines, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the PCH.
Quality Seafood Inc (Redondo Beach, CA)
Quality Seafood Inc, located in Redondo Beach, offers a unique dining experience that bridges the gap between market and restaurant. This bustling establishment is a favorite among locals for its fresh fish sandwiches and clam chowder.
The market-style setting allows diners to witness the freshness of the seafood firsthand. From lobster tanks to fish fillet stations, the energy is lively and engaging.
The menu offers a variety of options, each dish prepared with ingredients sourced directly from the market.
Quality Seafood Inc is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. The vibrant atmosphere and commitment to freshness make it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. For those traveling the PCH, it’s a culinary stop that promises both flavor and fun.
Captain Kidd’s Fish Market & Restaurant (Redondo Beach, CA)
Captain Kidd’s Fish Market & Restaurant in Redondo Beach offers a casual, yet memorable dining experience that delights seafood lovers. Known for its fish & chips and seafood bowls, this establishment provides a taste of oceanic freshness in a laid-back setting.
The charm of Captain Kidd’s lies in its dual nature as both a market and a restaurant. Guests can choose their seafood directly from the market, ensuring that every dish is as fresh as possible.
The laid-back atmosphere creates a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.
This establishment embodies the spirit of coastal dining, where simplicity and quality come together. It’s a perfect spot for a quick meal that leaves a lasting impression, making it a worthwhile detour for those exploring the PCH.
Parkers’ Lighthouse (Long Beach, CA)
Parkers’ Lighthouse in Long Beach offers a refined dining experience, where polished service meets exceptional seafood. With its waterfront harbor views, this restaurant provides a breathtaking backdrop for a memorable meal.
The menu boasts classic entrées like lobster bisque and grilled sea bass, each prepared with finesse and attention to detail. The setting is elegant, with an ambiance that shifts from lively to romantic as the sun sets over the harbor.
Dining at Parkers’ Lighthouse is both a visual and culinary delight. The combination of exquisite food and stunning views creates an experience that is second to none.
For travelers along the PCH, it’s a stop that promises sophistication and satisfaction.
Berth 55 Fish Market & Seafood Deli (Long Beach, CA)
Berth 55 Fish Market & Seafood Deli in Long Beach offers a vibrant dining experience that is both fresh and flavorful. This deli-style seafood spot is loved for its variety of fresh market fish and delicious sandwiches.
The atmosphere is lively, with diners enjoying their meals amidst the bustling market setting. The menu features a diverse selection of seafood options, from hearty fish sandwiches to savory snacks, all prepared with market-fresh ingredients.
Berth 55 captures the essence of coastal dining, where quality and freshness are paramount. It’s a place where the sea’s bounty is celebrated with every bite, making it a delightful detour for those journeying along the PCH.
Rusty Pelican (Newport Beach, CA)
Rusty Pelican in Newport Beach is a longtime coastal favorite known for its fresh seafood and elegant presentations. With its stunning bay views, the restaurant provides a picturesque setting for a delightful meal.
The menu showcases a variety of options, from succulent lobster to delicate scallops, each dish crafted with care and creativity. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with an emphasis on hospitality and customer satisfaction.
Dining at Rusty Pelican is a sophisticated experience that highlights the best of coastal cuisine.
The combination of exquisite food and beautiful views creates a memorable dining adventure that is well worth the detour for those exploring the PCH.
Cannery Seafood of the Pacific (Newport Beach, CA)
Cannery Seafood of the Pacific offers a refined dining experience that emphasizes the fresh flavors of the sea. Located in Newport Beach, this restaurant features seasonal Pacific seafood dishes that are both beautiful and delicious.
The menu is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, with options like grilled swordfish and crab cakes. Each dish is artfully plated, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to quality and presentation.
The modern ambiance enhances the dining experience, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere.
Cannery Seafood is a destination for those seeking a taste of the Pacific with a touch of elegance. It’s a culinary jewel on the PCH, offering a dining experience that is both flavorful and refined.
Duarte’s Tavern (Pescadero, CA)
Duarte’s Tavern in Pescadero is a historic Highway 1 staple, offering a taste of local tradition and flavor. Known for its cioppino and fresh crab, this charming establishment is a beloved stop for both locals and travelers.
The tavern’s rustic charm is evident in its wood-paneled walls and cozy atmosphere. The menu features dishes that highlight the region’s bounty, from hearty crab cioppino to seasonal vegetable sides. Each meal is a delightful exploration of local ingredients and culinary heritage.
Duarte’s Tavern captures the essence of Pescadero’s rich history and community spirit. It’s a place where the past and present come together over a shared love of food.
For those traveling the PCH, this tavern is a detour that promises warmth and tradition.
Splash Café (Pismo Beach, CA)
Splash Café in Pismo Beach is famed for its award-winning clam chowder, served in a sourdough bowl. This lively café is a must-stop for anyone seeking a taste of one of the coast’s iconic dishes.
The bustling atmosphere of Splash Café creates a sense of excitement as diners indulge in the rich, creamy chowder.
The menu offers additional seafood options, but the chowder remains the star, attracting people from all over to savor its rich flavors.
With its vibrant setting and celebrated dishes, Splash Café embodies the essence of coastal dining. It’s a place where food and fun intersect, offering a delightful detour for those exploring the PCH.