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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Dana Point

American food with nice views

Familiar American dishes feel more significant when enjoyed alongside a clear, expansive view.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
Monarch Bay Beach Club image 1
Monarch Bay Beach Club image 2
Monarch Bay Beach Club image 3
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Seafood restaurant

Private beach club offers serene oceanfront setting with gorgeous coastal views and patio heaters for comfort. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, attracting a mix of ages enjoying the peaceful vibe. Amenities include wheelchair access and shuttle service, enhancing convenience for guests.

Spicy fried chicken sandwich stands out alongside chicken wings and tuna nachos. Desserts include lemon meringue pie and cheesecake, with an espresso martini available as a drink option.

Oceanfront setting offers gorgeous views that create a relaxed atmosphere. The spot combines beautiful scenery with food and drink for a pleasant experience.

People are saying

"The food here is unbelievable with incredible ocean views."

"The ocean views here are truly extraordinary."

"I loved the American food and beachy club atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Access to Monarch Bay Beach Club is restricted to members or Waldorf Astoria guests.

2

Dining is only available for guests of the Waldorf Astoria; no outside guests allowed.

3

Payment is only accepted via room charge; cash and cards are not accepted.

02
Sunsets Bar image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill with oceanfront deck offers a chill atmosphere and great music. Outdoor seating provides stunning Pacific views ideal for watching sunsets. TVs and pool tables add to a casual, relaxed vibe.

Big plates of nachos come loaded with lots of meat. A version called totchos swaps corn chips for tater tots. Happy hour offers $5 mai-tais alongside these fabulous nachos.

Offers amazing ocean views and a clear sunset panorama. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the impressive Doheny State Beach scenery while dining or sipping cocktails.

People are saying

"I watched the beautiful sunset from here."

"I enjoyed the great ocean view."

"You have to try the nachos; they're huge and loaded with meat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with great drink specials.

2

Four large beers and a huge plate of nachos cost $30 during happy hour.

3

The bar doesn't allow kids, making it an adult-only venue.

03
Turk's Dana Warf Restaurant image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Cozy dive bar on the harbor with real anchor chains in booths and vintage photos decorating the walls. Lively, beach-town vibe blends relaxed energy with a fun, social atmosphere. Offers amazing bay views and a full bar with good music and many TVs for sports fans.

Clam chowder stands out as a delicious and frequently praised dish here. The Thanksgiving specials include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a classic American meal.

Views of the harbor and bay stand out with beautiful ocean sights and a cozy dive bar vibe. The setting includes the smell of the sea, adding to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I had the best fish and chips I've ever had."

"I loved the nice view of the ocean and the harbor."

"The American Food, especially the clam chowder, was delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the waterfront location.

3

The restaurant charges extra for coffee refills; no free refills available.

04
Youngโ€™s Beach Shack image 1

Cafe sits on the edge of a clean beach with panoramic ocean views and crashing waves creating a tranquil atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes shaded areas and a large lawn for groups, with dog-friendly policies and shuttle services for convenience. Music plays softly, and the vibe balances relaxed beach energy with casual dining.

Lobster Rolls come on a perfect brioche bun and taste fresh, priced at MP $38. Clam chowder stands out as very good, while the hamburger and fries are crispy and delicious.

Panoramic ocean views stretch from the edge of the beach, creating a stunning backdrop. Tables face the water, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy sunsets and the beach atmosphere.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice view of the ocean and the beach."

"I had a really great breakfast burrito here."

"The American Food here is awesome, right on the beach."

Good to know

1

The place is open until sunset.

2

You have to park and make a short walk to the beach.

3

The menu is kid-friendly with options for all ages.

05
The Point Restaurant & Sports Bar image 1

Indoor and outdoor seating surround numerous screens for sports in a lively, social atmosphere filled with live music that can be very loud. The space offers pet-friendly accommodations and a relaxed vibe with plenty of activities and views from the outdoor area.

Huge super-loaded steak nachos stand out as a signature dish. The clam chowder is smooth, not gritty or salty, and the buffalo chicken sliders and wings offer solid American bar food options.

Ocean views stand out here, visible from the seating on the right and throughout the sports bar. The water can be seen from a distance, adding to the overall nice views.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are great for watching live sports."

"The American Food clam chowder wasn't too clammy or salty."

"I enjoyed the nice views of the ocean from here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and available nearby.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

06
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Fine dining restaurant

Outdoor setting offers 360-degree ocean views with a lively vibe and live music providing background ambiance. Seating is casual and first-come, first-served, with hard chairs that may affect comfort. Atmosphere suits enjoying light bites and cocktails while watching the sunset.

Surf and turf tacos stand out with a tasty mix of flavors. Kids enjoy the classic hamburger and fries. The lobster grilled cheese costs $40 and tastes okay.

Breathtaking ocean views dominate the scene, offering a stunning look at the Pacific and beach. The setting shines with scenic sunsets and a lively outdoor vibe that enhances the experience.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are truly amazing."

"The food here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

"The American Food here, especially the tacos, tasted so fresh."

Good to know

1

Seating is first come, first serve, so arrive early for the best views.

2

Valet parking costs $10; there is no self-parking available.

3

No reservations are accepted, so expect to wait during peak times.

07
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 1

Restaurant offers beautiful harbor views and a warm, cozy atmosphere with tasteful decor. Seating includes cushioned booths and a patio with heaters and fire pits. The vibe is casual yet upscale, attracting diners looking for a relaxed but refined experience.

Fried chicken and maple bacon Brussels sprouts stand out here. The Wagyu cheeseburger comes with garlic Parmesan fries, and clam chowder arrives with house-made chips.

Tables next to the harbor offer a lovely view of the boats and the ocean. Outdoor patio seating provides a beautiful harbor view that enhances the dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good."

"The American Food here is amazing, and the service is great."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 PM with great food and drink options.

2

Parking is available outside the restaurant, but can be limited during peak times.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.

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Dana Point, California

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