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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Dana Point's best

Fish spots

A fish dinner that highlights the catch of the day without burying it in heavy sauces or unnecessary garnishes.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point image 1
Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point image 2
Left Coast Sportfishing Dana Point image 3
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Fishing trips offer high catch rates with species like Calico Bass and bluefin. Boats are clean and comfy, featuring bean bag seating for relaxation. Captains share deep ocean knowledge, creating a respectful atmosphere focused on efficient, enjoyable fishing.

Captains consistently put anglers on varied fish species like Calico Bass, Mackerel, rock fish, bluefin, and yellowtail. Fishing trips yield high catch numbers, with over 40 fish caught on some outings.

People are saying

"You'll have a fun trip with knowledgeable and welcoming people."

"Captain Matt is a knowledgeable and personable guide for fishing."

"I felt like the captain just wanted to catch fish, not make sure we did."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure your spot on the fishing charter.

2

Captain Chris is known for his extensive knowledge of local fishing spots.

3

Expect a clean and comfortable boat with well-maintained equipment.

02
The Point Restaurant & Sports Bar image 1

Enjoy fish and chips that are top-notch north of San Diego alongside a lively, sports-filled atmosphere with many screens. Outdoor seating offers great views and a pet-friendly vibe, all set to loud live music that keeps energy high.

Fish and chips stand out with unmatched quality north of San Diego. The menu also features grilled fish tacos with diced mango in the cole slaw and an Ahi Burger that pairs well with other seafood options.

People are saying

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

"The Thai wings are crispy and flavorful during happy hour."

"The fish and chips here are the best I've had."

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.

03
Hook & Anchor - Dana Point image 1

Coastal setting with upscale decor offers a relaxed, salty vibe. Fresh, wild fish shines in light fish and chips and lobster rolls. Chef-crafted dishes pair well with carefully crafted cocktails for a calm, refined meal.

Fresh fish of the day stands out with wild, not farmed options. The fish and chips are very light and not greasy, paired well with clam chowder and lobster rolls.

People are saying

"I found the lobster roll to be excellent and worth the money."

"The crab cakes here are served by a super friendly and knowledgeable staff."

"I had some of the best fresh fish I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table.

2

Happy hour offers limited appetizers and drinks until 5:00 PM.

3

Expect to spend about $50 per person, possibly more with drinks.

04
Turk's Dana Warf Restaurant image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Cozy dive bar offers amazing bay views and a lively beach-town vibe. Fish and chips feature large servings of moist fish that taste delicious. Vintage photos and real anchor chains create a fun, social atmosphere perfect for sports fans with many TVs.

Fish and chips come with large servings of light, moist fish that tastes delicious. The restaurant features live fish displayed in the ceiling.

People are saying

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

"It's a cool dive bar with a great view of the harbor."

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

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.

05
Whitestone Restaurant & Bar image 1

Elegant coastal decor and a stunning fireplace create a classy yet low-key vibe. Seafood shines with crispy fish tacos and top-rated fish and chips. Quality cocktails and wine at the bar round out a menu full of unique dishes perfect for celebrations or intimate meals.

Fish dishes feature crispy, moist, and tender textures with a light, thin flour tortilla for the tacos. The fish and chips stand out with a reputation for being one of the best around.

People are saying

"The fish tacos and appetizers at Happy Hour are delicious."

"The seafood here is incredible; I loved every bite."

"I found the fish tacos to be solid choices."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

2

Reservations are accepted and recommended for larger groups.

3

Happy hour lasts until 7:30 pm with discounted appetizers.

06
Gelson's Dana Point image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store blends fresh fish selection with a wine and tapas bar for a unique vibe. Neighborhood bar feel meets custom sandwiches and a pristine layout. Fish, meat, and cheese displays stay fresh and inviting.

Fresh fish comes in a great selection with excellent cuts. The fish counter pairs well with the meat and cheese displays, all kept fresh and beautifully presented.

People are saying

"I found this grocery store to be the best market I visited."

"The deli staff here is incredibly friendly and helpful."

"I found the selection of fresh fish to be great."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices compared to other grocery stores in the area.

2

The market offers a great selection of fresh fish and seafood.

3

The deli counter features a variety of ready-to-go meals and salads.

07
Maki Yaki OC image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy spot with fresh sushi and a family-run vibe. Fish quality is high, though some pieces have less fish. Offers vegan options in a quiet, welcoming space perfect for quick or leisurely meals.

Fish is fresh and of high quality here. Sushi rolls have an even amount of fish on both sides, though some pieces contain very little fish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and flavorful."

"You'll find great vegetarian options here, even for vegans."

"The fish here is superb, fresh, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant only offers takeout service.

3

There is no restroom available for customers.

08
Doho Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Beachfront spot boasts stunning ocean views and a laid-back vibe with live music and fire pits. Crispy battered fish tacos shine among seafood choices. Outdoor seating and a draft beer station make it perfect for casual dining and sunset watching.

Battered fish tacos stand out with their crispy texture and appeal even to those who usually avoid fish. Fish and chips offer a classic flavor, while calamari adds variety to the seafood options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and fresh."

"I loved relaxing on the beach with food, drinks, and live music."

"You've got to try the battered fish tacos; they're excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at Doho Cafe runs from 4pm-6pm daily.

2

Doho Cafe is the only food option at Doheny State Beach.

3

Dogs are allowed at Doho Cafe, with shaded areas available.

09
Cali Costa Restaurant & Cantina image 1

Enjoy fish tacos that shine on Taco Tuesday with birria and margaritas. Lively sports bar vibe fills the indoor-outdoor space with big screen TVs and a dog-friendly patio featuring fire pits. Nostalgic coastal charm meets energetic crowds focused on sports and music.

Fish tacos stand out here, especially during Taco Tuesday with options like birria and margaritas. The spot serves solid, flavorful fish tacos consistently.

People are saying

"The tacos and margaritas here are really tasty."

"It's a great spot for live sports with tons of TVs."

"You should try the fish tacos, they're a solid spot."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature tacos for only $3.99 each.

2

Happy hour includes discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly and has a patio for warm weather.

10
Dana Kai image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot offers a chill vibe with a spacious dining area and fresh sushi featuring large raw fish pieces and thin rice layers. Enjoy a draft Asahi beer deal that boosts the relaxed mood. Every bite highlights fresh fish quality and generous portions.

Freshness stands out with every bite of fish served. Large raw fish pieces and generous portions highlight the quality, while thin or no rice lets the fish flavor shine clearly.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, you can taste it in every bite."

"This is the best Japanese Food I've ever tasted."

"I thought the fish here was the best sushi I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Each sushi roll costs between $16 to $18 and includes 8 pieces.

2

The California roll is priced at about $8 plus tax.

3

They offer brown rice as an alternative for sushi.

11
Station Craft Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Open, lively spot with dog-friendly patio and large TVs for sports. Fish dishes shine with house-made tartar sauce and fresh slaw, offering a Mediterranean twist. Craft beers and live music boost the energetic vibe.

Crispy fish stands out with house made tartar sauce and fresh cucumber slices plus cabbage slaw. Fish tacos, fish and chips, and salmon salad all deliver solid flavors with a Mediterranean influence.

People are saying

"I loved their beer; it was refreshing and delicious."

"I thought the smash burger was the best in town."

"The fish and chips were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Sundays from 2 to 4 PM.

2

Half off pizza is available on Mondays.

3

The brewery offers a separate vegan menu upon request.

12
Youngโ€™s Beach Shack image 1

Cafe offers panoramic ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere with soft music and casual dining. Enjoy locally caught fish in fish tacos and ceviche at fair prices. Outdoor seating includes shaded spots and a large lawn, perfect for groups and dog-friendly visits.

Locally caught fish shines in the fish and chips and fish tacos. Ceviche also stands out, with generous portions served at reasonable prices.

People are saying

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

"I had a really great breakfast burrito here."

"I loved their fish and chips."

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.

13
Tide Pool and Aquarium image 1

Small tanks display guitar fish and leopard sharks alongside interactive tide pools with shark eggs and sea urchins. Kids enjoy hands-on exhibits in a family-friendly setting. Free entry near the beach makes it a quick, casual stop.

Small tanks showcase guitar fish, leopard sharks, and sea stars. Kids can see eels, lobsters, sea urchins, and shark eggs in a tide pool setup.

People are saying

"The aquarium is small, with only a few tanks and taxidermy."

"It's a fun spot for kids to look at fish and exhibits."

"It's a fun spot for kids to look at fish."

Good to know

1

The aquarium is free to enter, making it an attractive visit.

2

Expect a short visit of about five minutes to walk through the small aquarium.

3

The aquarium is located at the entrance to Doheny State Beach.

14
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 1

Enjoy fresh local fish with a unique tartar sauce in a cozy spot boasting harbor views. Seating options include cushioned booths and a heated patio with fire pits. Casual yet upscale vibe suits diners seeking a relaxed refined experience.

Locally sourced fish tastes fresh in every bite. The fish and chips come with a special tartar sauce that stands out from the usual. Both the fish and the fried options are delicious.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here have great food and friendly service."

"The fish and chips were good and tasted fresh."

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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