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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 110 Opinions
+107
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Updated May 2026
01
Doho Cafe image 1
Doho Cafe image 2
Doho Cafe image 3
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American restaurant

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

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

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

"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.

02
Blue Lantern Inn image 1

Hotel offers spectacular harbor and ocean views with a quiet, private setting that feels like a retreat. Spacious rooms include cozy amenities like fireplaces and bath salts, while a welcoming atmosphere extends to communal spaces and evening wine service.

Rooms offer spectacular ocean views and overlook the harbor and Pacific Ocean. Walking access to the Dana Point area complements the peaceful setting with a calming backdrop.

Easy access to the outdoor patio offers a nice spot to relax. An adorable neighborhood cat often hangs out there, adding charm to the space.

People are saying

"The harbor views here are spectacular and so peaceful."

"The breakfast here is hearty and homemade."

"The staff here are genuinely friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

Prices for rooms range from $300 to $625 depending on the season.

2

The inn offers free parking for guests.

3

The hotel hosts a daily wine and cheese happy hour.

03
Monarch Bay Beach Club image 1
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.

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

Outdoor seating includes a deck with beautiful views and patio heaters that keep it comfortable day and night. Both indoor and outdoor options exist, with lunch on the deck being a highlight.

People are saying

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

"The ocean views here are truly extraordinary."

"The outdoor seating has amazing views."

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.

04
El Caminante Bar & Bungalows image 1

Boutique hotel in a beautifully restored historic building offers ocean views, Spanish-style decor, and private patios with chiminea fire pits. Atmosphere blends romantic quiet with lively weekend DJ nights on the terrace. Free e-bikes encourage exploration of nearby beaches and riding paths.

Rooms and patios offer ocean views with comfortable seating and chiminea fire pits. Dining areas and suites feature 180-degree beach views and patios with bars and music.

Upstairs suite '74' offers a patio with ocean views, a bar, and great music. Common areas include a quaint outdoor patio with tables for dining and pleasant ocean sights.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers amazing sunset views over the ocean."

"It's a romantic getaway with lovely, kind staff."

"You get a nice view of the ocean from the patio."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a great beachfront location, perfect for beach lovers.

2

Expect music from the bar until 10:30 or 11 pm on weekends.

3

Sunday nights feature a DJ on the terrace for entertainment.

05
180blu image 1
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.

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 food here is delicious and tastes so fresh."

"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.

06
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach image 1

Resort hotel offers breathtaking ocean views and luxurious, spacious rooms with private fire pits. Atmosphere stays relaxing and elegant, supported by impeccable concierge-level service. Amenities include golf courses, pools, a spa, and a private beach, creating a setting where guests feel special and pampered.

Million dollar views dominate the scene with gorgeous ocean scenery visible from many spots. The building's beautiful architecture complements the fantastic location offering stunning vistas.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's personal attention made it the best stay."

"The ocean views here are beautiful and impressive."

"Armando made sure I was comfortable with outdoor dining, providing a heater and blanket."

Good to know

1

The hotel hosts free events like bookmark making and offers free churros by the pool.

2

Expect large groups and outdoor events that may run until 10 pm.

3

Reservations are recommended for dining, as restaurants can be fully booked.

07
Proud Mary's Restaurant image 1
Breakfast restaurant

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

"I experienced the food here as absolutely the best I had ever had."

"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.

08
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel image 1

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 staff here makes your lunch spot feel like a special occasion."

"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.

09
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.

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 watched the beautiful sunset from here."

"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.

10
Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-Sea image 1

Hotel offers oceanfront views from many rooms and balconies, creating a relaxing beachy vibe. Outdoor spaces include shared balconies and a jacuzzi with Pacific Ocean views. Ambient music and ocean sounds contribute to a calm atmosphere where people feel happy and relaxed.

Many rooms and walkways offer ocean views that create a relaxing vibe. A deck with lawn chairs overlooks the Pacific Ocean, and some rooms have balconies with perfect beach views.

Oceanview patios offer plenty of chairs and tables for outdoor dining and relaxing. Shared balconies vary from private to semi-private, and a small outdoor hot tub complements the seating areas.

People are saying

"I loved the great ocean view from my balcony."

"The breakfast here was really great."

"I loved the outdoor seating with its great ocean views."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served from 7 to 10 am.

2

The hotel is located right across from the beach.

3

Parking is super easy.

11
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa image 1

Expansive grounds showcase breathtaking ocean and harbor views with scenic mountain backdrops. Pools separate families and adults, supporting a kid-friendly atmosphere with splash pads and mini golf. The vibe balances serene outdoor spaces with occasional lively energy around pool areas.

Rooms offer spectacular water views including the ocean, marina, and Dana Point Harbor. Balconies provide a great vantage point to enjoy the coastline and seashore.

Outdoor spaces include a small patio attached to the junior suite and pools for a refreshing dip. Views from these areas and the venue overlooking the harbor are awe-inspiring and bright.

People are saying

"The ocean views from the property are truly wonderful."

"The pool areas are great for kids and make it super kid friendly."

"The outdoor seating offers breathtaking views of the ocean."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is required at $45 per day; no self-parking available.

2

The hotel is undergoing construction, which may disrupt your stay.

3

Expect noise from events like weddings and parties, especially on weekends.

12
Capistrano Surfside Inn image 1

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

"It's just steps from the beach, right across the street."

"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.

13
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.

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.

Outdoor seating offers nice views and a well kept, clean area with both indoor and outdoor tables available. The live band can be very loud, even outside with doors closed.

People are saying

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

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

"The outdoor seating area was nice and well kept."

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.

14
The Beachfront Inn & Suites at Dana Point image 1

Rooms offer spacious layouts with separate living and sleeping areas and balconies facing the ocean. The atmosphere combines relaxing ocean views with loud nearby train and nightclub noise. Accessibility features include an elevator and ramps, and onsite parking is available.

Rooms offer unobstructed ocean views with balconies facing the beach. Suites provide a beautiful view of the waves crashing along the shore.

Patio offers two chairs and a table with views of the hot tub and beach. Beach is visible right outside the window, providing a nice morning and evening view.

People are saying

"I found the ocean views from the room to be spectacular."

"The hotel staff here are incredibly friendly and helpful."

"The patio offers an amazing ocean view and relaxing surf sounds."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located right across the street from the beach.

2

Parking is difficult; no spots available after 9 pm.

3

Breakfast is served every morning from 8-10 am.

15
Olamendi's Inc image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"The patio has beautiful ocean views."

"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.

16
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.

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.

Plenty of outdoor seating lets you enjoy drinks in the sunshine. Seating options include both inside and outside areas.

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 outdoor seating has a beautiful ocean view."

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.

17
Stella's image 1
Italian restaurant

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

"This lunch spot has amazing pizza and pasta."

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

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

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.

18
Hilton Vacation Club Riviera Beach & Shores image 1

Hotel offers spacious rooms with ocean views and balconies. Pools and hot tubs stay clean and well-maintained, with amenities like BBQs and complimentary beach bikes nearby. Noise from traffic and neighboring rooms can affect quietness, but the setting remains family-oriented with a calm atmosphere.

Rooms offer ocean views from balconies with the sound of waves. The property provides sunset views from the pool and beach views from various spots.

Patios feature a BBQ area and a kitchenette for cooking meals outdoors. Some patios include an ocean mural for a coastal vibe, though not all rooms face the ocean directly.

People are saying

"You'll love the awesome ocean views from the balcony."

"The beach across the street was rocky, but still great for strolls."

"The outdoor seating has a convenient BBQ area for cooking."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located directly across the street from the beach.

2

The elevator has been out of service for over a year, making access difficult.

3

The property is currently being remodeled, which may improve conditions.

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Dana Point, California

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