Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Dana Point

Spots with a nice view and outdoor seating

You want to pair your meal with a view that actually matters. If you are going to sit outside, you expect the scenery to be worth the effort.

Based on 899 Opinions
+896
User
User
User
Updated
01
180blu image 1
180blu image 2
180blu image 3
View all

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.

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.

All seating is outdoors with a breathtaking ocean view. The vibe stays lively and casual throughout.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are truly amazing."

"The outdoor seating offers a breathtaking ocean view."

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.

02
Doho Cafe image 1
Doho Cafe image 2
Doho Cafe image 3
View all

Beachfront setting offers stunning ocean views and live music with a classic Southern California vibe. Outdoor seating includes propane fire pits and a draft beer station, creating a relaxed atmosphere with ocean breezes. The crowd enjoys casual dining and drinks while watching sunsets and surfers.

Stunning ocean views and beachfront setting create a great atmosphere. Plenty of seating offers options in both sun and shade, complemented by refreshing ocean breezes.

Outdoor seating offers excellent views near the sand with a patio reserved for guests. The space includes a draft beer station, welcomes dogs, and features live music.

People are saying

"You get a beautiful ocean view right on the sand."

"The outdoor seating offers beautiful ocean breezes and scenic views."

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.

03
Proud Mary's Restaurant image 1
Proud Mary's Restaurant image 2
Proud Mary's Restaurant image 3
View all

Waterfront setting offers beautiful harbor views and a comfortable outdoor area with space heaters. Atmosphere feels lively and homey, with friendly people and playful energy from teenagers. Music plays softly, and pets receive water bowls, adding to the welcoming vibe.

Ocean and marina views dominate the scene, especially from the patio with glass enclosures and space heaters. The waterfront and harbor views create a spectacular backdrop for meals and walks.

Outdoor seating offers great views of the harbor and boats. The patio has glass enclosures and space heaters for comfort, and a walkway option helps avoid wait times.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always good."

"I loved the outdoor seating with its beautiful harbor views."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available.

2

The restaurant allows pets in the outdoor boat area.

3

Expect a relaxed atmosphere with no rush during meals.

04
Sunsets Bar image 1
Sunsets Bar image 2
Sunsets Bar image 3
View all

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.

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.

Plenty of outdoor seating with umbrellas lines the street, offering clear views of the ocean. Watching the sunset from outside creates a beautiful, relaxing atmosphere.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great ocean view."

"I loved the outdoor seating for watching the sunset over the ocean."

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.

05
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel image 1
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel image 2
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel image 3
View all

Hotel perches atop a seaside bluff with breathtaking ocean views and access to a private beach. Atmosphere blends luxury and intimacy, with lively evening parties on the lawns and serene sunset vistas. Amenities include a top-tier spa, pool with bar, and shuttle service connecting to the beach.

Views from Raya and 180blu rank among the most stunning worldwide. The balcony offers a mesmerizing Pacific Ocean sight with breathtaking sunsets, and the fitness center also features an unmatched ocean view.

Panoramic views of the ocean and surfers fill the outdoor dining lounge. The outdoor bar area offers a beautiful and relaxing setting under a clear blue sky.

People are saying

"I experienced spectacular ocean views and amazing sunsets."

"The outdoor seating offers spectacular ocean views."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during events, especially on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during event weekends.

3

Parking can be limited during events; consider using valet service.

06
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 1
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 2
Jimmy's Famous American Tavern - Dana Point image 3
View all

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.

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.

Giant open windows and a patio with a harbor view create a dining atmosphere that feels like eating outside. The design allows air circulation under a roof, blending outdoor freshness with shelter.

People are saying

"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.

07
Capistrano Surfside Inn image 1
Capistrano Surfside Inn image 2
Capistrano Surfside Inn image 3
View all

Resort hotel offers oceanfront balconies with beach access just across the street. Atmosphere stays relaxing and peaceful despite occasional road and train noise. Amenities include clean pool and jacuzzi, free trolley rides, and bike rentals with beach equipment.

Rooms offer large spaces with beautiful ocean views. Balconies face the beach, letting in the sounds of waves.

Covered and spacious patio offers a great spot to relax or work outdoors. Outdoor grill and BBQ facilities complement the heated pool and hot tub area, enhancing the outdoor experience.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean view from my deck."

"The staff here are so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Access to the beach is just across the street from the inn.

2

Free parking is available on site for guests.

3

The inn charges a resort fee at check-in, not during online booking.

08
Stella's image 1
Stella's image 2
Stella's image 3
View all

Cozy Italian restaurant with an ocean view and an enclosed patio that sometimes feels like a greenhouse. Atmosphere blends family-like warmth with a romantic, upscale vibe enhanced by live saxophone and acoustic music. Location in a strip mall contrasts with the otherwise European-style relaxed dining experience.

Ocean views dominate the enclosed patio and corner spots, offering a gorgeous sunset backdrop. The patio area pairs well with jazzy guitar sounds and a quiet atmosphere for lunch or gatherings.

Ocean views stand out on the enclosed patio and the corner patio spot with live jazz guitar. Some seating options include a sidewalk table near a dentist's office, and the patio can feel chilly at times.

People are saying

"The food and drinks at this Outdoor Seating were very good."

"You get a gorgeous ocean view, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The Margherita pizza costs $13, and bruschetta is $8.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

09
Olamendi's Inc image 1
Olamendi's Inc image 2
Olamendi's Inc image 3
View all

Open patio overlooks the Pacific Ocean and beach, creating a colorful authentic Mexican vibe with outstanding specialty margaritas. Atmosphere is lively, especially outdoors where traffic noise can be noticeable. The setting suits enjoying sunsets and tequila in a beachfront environment.

Outdoor seating offers a view of the ocean and a beach with a train track running through it. Sunsets and the overall ambiance add to the experience.

Open patios offer ocean views and a relaxed vibe. Seating overlooks the beach and nearby train tracks, creating a scenic backdrop for meals and drinks.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the gorgeous ocean view from the outdoor seating."

"The outdoor seating has beautiful ocean views."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using nearby public lots.

2

The restaurant does not allow dogs on the patio, only service animals.

3

Expect higher prices for menu items, especially for add-ons like rice and beans.

Discover more

Dana Point, California

Area guide