Are you looking to indulge in the finest seafood that California has to offer? Then make your next stop on the beautiful coastline of this sunshine state. With its abundance of fresh fish and delectable crabs, there's always something for everyone to enjoy!
From local joints to renowned restaurants, uncover some of the best seafood spots around California's coast. Then, retreat to your luxury vacation rental, Wander Anchor Bay, and enjoy 180° beach views from your hot tub as the sun sets over the Pacific.
Ada Fish House
Photo from Ada's Fish House’s FB Page
Address: 558 Price St. Pismo Beach, CA
Contact number: 805-556-3077
Operating hours: 11:30 am - 9:30 pm, Sun to Thurs / 11:30 am - 10 pm, Fri & Sat
Website: Ada Fishouse
Ada Fish House in Pismo Beach is perfect for getting good seafood and enjoying ocean views. Known for its daily, fresh catches and classic coastal cuisine inspired by the East Coast, a visit to this restaurant is all worth it. They offer both heated patio seating and indoor options – but don't forget to bring a jacket just in case!
For a comforting warm meal, their Seafood Pasta is a perfect choice. Featuring clams, mussels, fish, scallops, and shrimp in a creamy tomato sauce over linguini pasta, it's sure to hit the spot. And if you’re looking for their crowd-favorite, try their renowned Scallops and Halibut — we heard it’s to die for!
Ada also offers excellent beers, wines, and cocktails to match your craving. Plus, they provide take-out and curd-side delivery, including drinks. So whether you’re looking for a place to have an intimate meal or just want to hang out with friends over some grub, this is the perfect spot!
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Photo by @the.choy.story on SBSC FB Page
Address: 230 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Contact number: 805-966-6676
Operating hours: 11 am - 9 pm, Mon to Sun
Website: Shellfish Co.
Since its founding in 1980, Santa Barbara Shellfish Company has been a seafood lover's paradise. Located in one of the most picturesque settings on California's Central Coast, visitors can savor the stunning ocean views while they dine al fresco on the outdoor patio.
The restaurant specializes in fresh-caught shellfish from local waters, and its menu includes crowd favorites like Crab Cakes, Calamari Sandwiches, Lobster Rolls, and Shrimp Scampi, to name a few. But what sets them apart is that they’re the only restaurant in Santa Barbara to offer Box Crab on the menu!
A quick tip: When you swing by, and the weather is perfect, sit outside and bask in the incredible view of Sterns Warf at sunset.
The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar
Photo from The Galley’s FB Page
Address: 899 Embarcadero, Morro Bay, CA 93442
Contact number: 805-772-7777
Operating hours: 11:30 am – 8:30 pm, Wed to Mon
Website: The Galley
Upholding their philosophy that premium seafood is best served “naked,” The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar offers the finest in-season ingredients from the ocean and their local farm. To guarantee premier quality every time, they only source pesticide-free farm fresh produce from their head chef's family farm in Los Osos Valley.
Not only do they offer sumptuous appetizers, lobster dishes, and their signature Surf and Turf – their friendly staff provides top-notch service that is sure to make your dining experience even better.
What’s more, the team even went above and beyond to source only premier wines from France that are kept in a specially designed vault – sounds impressive!
Pismo's Coastal Grill
Photo from Pismo’s FB Page
Address: 7937 N. Blackstone Ave. Fresno, Ca 93711
Contact number: 559-439-9463
Operating hours: 11 am – 9 pm, Sun to Tues/ 11 am – 9:30 pm, Wed to Thurs/ 11 am – 10 pm, Fri to Sat
Website: Pismos.com
If you're looking for a restaurant with great food, an incredible ocean view, and charming coastal décor, look no further than Pismo's Coastal Grill! Located on Pacific Coast Highway, this joint offers mouth-watering American cuisines such as Fish and Chips or Lobster Mac & Cheese that perfectly match the breathtaking sea views.
A handcrafted boat adds to this open-air atmosphere's charm and rustic ambiance as you enter. There are booths and bar counter seating, making it perfect for any occasion. And if you're after the most recent catch of the day, Pismo's Fish Market is your go-to spot. They are open from 11 am to 8 pm daily, so you can get the freshest seafood fillet daily.
To make your night extraordinary, head to Pismo for a spirited evening! Their bar boasts an impressive array of cocktails, liquors, and beers. Plus, the bartenders behind the counter are some of the best around – they'll make sure you have a fantastic time with every sip – cheers!
Phil's Fish Market & Eatery
Photo from Phil’s FB Page
Address: 10700 Merritt Street, Castroville, CA 95012
Contact number: 831-633-2152
Operating hours: 10 am – 7:00 pm, Sun to Wed / 10 am – 8:00 pm, Thu to Sat
Website: Philsfishmarket.com
Initially opened in 1982 as the Fish Market at Moss Landing, Phil's Fish Market & Eatery has since earned its name for serving the freshest seafood dishes from Monterey Bay. With its stunning location and menu options, it is no surprise that this restaurant is now renowned as one of California's best seafood joints – locals and tourists flock here throughout the day!
If you find yourself in the vicinity, be sure to drop by and sample their signature Rock Shrimp Pasta and Cioppino – a delectable experience you won't regret!
The Crab Cooker
Photo from The Crab Cooker’s FB Page
Address: 2200 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Contact number: 949-673-0100
Operating hours: 11 am – 9 pm, Daily
Website: thecrabcooker.com
The Crab Cooker in Newport Beach is a California coast classic, offering Clam Chowder, Pacific-caught Crabs, and more. This family-run and operated restaurant has been a community staple since it opened in 1951.
You will be greeted with a unique and welcoming atmosphere as you enter. The historical photos displayed on the walls are a solid reminder of what has made this place special for years – while an inviting warmth fills the space and makes it feel like home.
Treat yourself to Crab Cookers' signature Mesquite Broiled Seafood and enjoy the fresh flavors. For decades, locals whole have been visiting the restaurants can't stop raving about their Cracked Crab with Romano potatoes & slaw, Smoked Albacore, Shrimp & Scallops, and King Crab!
Monterey Fish House
Photo by Pausqualina Shands on FB
Address: 2114 Del Monte Ave., Monterey, CA 93940
Contact number: 831-373-4647
Operating hours: 11:30 am – 2 pm & 5 pm – 8:30 pm, Daily
Website: Montereyfishhouse.com
Located in Monterey Bay, Monterey Fish House serves up some of the freshest seafood platters you’ll find in California. From lightly battered Calamari and well-seasoned Cioppino to perfectly cooked Ceviche dishes. For a real treat, enjoy the local vibe and watch their chefs in action as they shuck massive oysters right in front of you!
Aside from serving savory meals, they also offer an array of decadent desserts like Crème Brûlée, Ice Cream, Cheesecakes, and traditional cakes.
Fun fact: Did you know Monterey's was featured on an episode of Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins & Dive? On the show, they cooked two of their classics: Oak Grilled Oysters and Sicilian Holiday Pasta – totally one for the books!
Geoffrey's Malibu
Photo by @sharonkenya on Geoffrey’s FB Page
Address: 27400 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
Contact number: 310-457-1519
Operating hours: 11 am – 8:30 pm, Sun to Thurs / 11 am – 9 pm, Fri / 10 am – 9 pm, Sat
Website: Geoffreysmalibu.com
Geoffrey’s Malibu is a beachfront restaurant that offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean – the perfect ambiance for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays. Located in Malibu, California, Geoffrey’s Malibu is renowned for its fresh seafood dishes, upscale atmosphere, and world-class service.
The menu at Geoffrey's Malibu boasts classic dishes with a modern twist, such as their delicious Ahi Tuna Tartar appetizer and signature Grilled Pacific Swordfish entree.
In addition to seafood offerings such as Wild Alaskan Halibut and King Crab Legs, they offer an extensive selection of local wines and craft beers to go perfectly with your meal. And when it comes to desserts, you can find everything from homemade Cheesecakes to classic Crème brûlée.
Old Fisherman's Grotto
Photo of Grotto’s Treasure of the Sea from FB
Address: 39 Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey, California 93940
Contact number: 831-375-4604
Operating hours: 11 am – 10 pm, Daily but may close earlier depending on the volume of business
Website: OldFisherMansGrotto.com
Since its opening in 1950, The Old Fisherman's Grotto of Monterey, California, has become a landmark seafood restaurant known for serving the finest dishes from the West Coast. Their flavorful meals, superb customer service, and vibrant atmosphere have gained them an excellent local and international reputation.
They have been on Monterey County Weekly & Monterey Herald's list for over a decade and were voted for having the “Best Clam Chowder.” Aside from their famous Cam Chowder, try out some of their signature dishes, such as Macadamia Crusted Halibut, Lobster Tail, and Dungeness Crab with Mushrooms, which are all worthy of a try! Don't forget to ask about seasonal items like Tuna with Pineapple if you're feeling adventurous, too!
To top it all off, this place has an unbeatable selection of wines and desserts that will leave your stomach with no room to spare!
Tadich Grill
Photo from Tadich Grill’s FB Page
Address: 240 California St., San Francisco, CA 9411
Contact number: 415-391-1849
Operating hours: 11 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Mon to Fri / 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Sat / Closed on Sundays
Website: TadichGrillsf.com
Tadich Grill, located in San Francisco, California, is the third oldest restaurant in the United States. Three Croatian immigrants started the restaurant in 1849, and it’s been a part of San Francisco's dining places ever since then.
The restaurant's warm atmosphere makes it the perfect place to gather and enjoy a delicious meal together. The walls are lined with photos from Tadich Grill’s long history, and the tables are adorned with crisp white tablecloths and candles.
They specialize in classic seafood dishes like Dungeness crab and fresh-caught fish. Its menu includes a variety of flavorful entrées, including Fish and Chips, Grilled Salmon, and its signature Cioppino. But for those looking to enjoy a bit of everything, you must try the Tadich Platter! This feast for two features delicacies such as salmon, trout, anchovies, oysters, calamari, and crab legs.
To top it off, Tadich offers an incredible selection of wines that pairs perfectly with their seafood dishes. From bold reds to crisp whites, there’s something for everyone. Bon appetit!
Spud Point Crab Company
Photo from Spud Point Crab Co. FB Page
Address: 1910 Westshore Rd. Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Contact number: 707-875-9472
Operating hours: 9 am – 5 pm, Daily
Website: spudpointcrabco.com
Located in Bodega Bay's quaint California coastal town, Spud Point Crab Co. is renowned for its fresh-caught California crab dishes. Tony and Carol Anello, a husband-and-wife duo, launched this family seafood restaurant in 2004, inspired by their love for the old Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Californian-inspired dishes like Cioppino Stew and Garlic Steamed Crab – all served with incredible views over the Pacific Ocean.
Be sure to try their award-winning White Clam Chowder when you're there – it's been awarded as the best in Sonoma County! For a quick bite, make your weekend even more special with the exclusive Crab Cakes - you won't regret it!
California's coastline always offers something interesting – no matter what type of experience you're looking for. Whether you’re up for a romantic weekend getaway or planning a spring break family vacation, there's a coastal town for you. Check out our luxury rentals in California to discover beachfront properties like Wander Anchor Bay, Wander Big Sur Point, or Wander Malibu Shores.
And with seafood restaurants like Ada Fish House and Pismo's Coastal Grill offering delicious dishes from the sea, you're sure to have an unforgettable time!
For more travel tips, insights, and reservations during your stay, text Wander Concierge, they'll be happy to help you out!
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