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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Dana Point

Seafood with outdoor seating

Seafood enjoyed in the open air that feels like a coastal experience rather than a rushed meal on a patio.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
Whitestone Restaurant & Bar image 1
Whitestone Restaurant & Bar image 2
Whitestone Restaurant & Bar image 3
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Restaurant offers an elegant coastal theme with upscale decor and a stunning fireplace visible through full windows. Atmosphere stays low key but classy, suitable for celebrations and intimate dining. Bar serves quality cocktails and wine, complementing a menu praised for seafood and unique dishes.

Seafood shines with crispy, moist fish tacos wrapped in thin flour tortillas and drizzled with chipotle aioli. The Fisherman's Seafood Platter and dishes like Bang Bang Shrimp and octopus stand out for their fresh, tender qualities.

The patio features warm heaters that make outdoor dining comfortable. Hosts often seat guests outside even when indoor tables are open, creating a welcoming outdoor dining area.

People are saying

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

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

"The outdoor seating here is amazing, I had a great time."

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.

02
Doho Cafe image 1
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.

Battered fish tacos stand out with a crispy texture that even appeals to those who usually avoid fish. Calamari and fish and chips also feature as popular seafood options with a satisfying taste.

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."

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

"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
Cali Costa Restaurant & Cantina image 1

Restaurant combines indoor-outdoor bar and patio with big screen TVs everywhere, creating a loud, lively sports bar atmosphere. Patio features dog-friendly space with fire pits, enhancing the casual, social vibe. Nostalgic coastal feel blends with energetic crowd focused on sports and music.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors and a solid reputation. The avocado shrimp roll offers a delicious twist, and Taco Tuesday features birria, fish tacos, and margaritas.

Outdoor seating includes a dog friendly patio and bar area. The space suits warm weather well and hosts private parties.

People are saying

"The tacos and margaritas here are really tasty."

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

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're delicious."

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.

04
Station Craft Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Open, spacious setting with large TVs and a dog-friendly patio creates a lively atmosphere. Noise levels rise during busy times, fueled by live music and sports viewing. Craft beers and a rotating bar menu add to the energetic vibe.

Fish dishes feature crispy texture and come with house made tartar sauce. Options include fish tacos, fish and chips, and salmon salad, all noted for strong flavors.

A dog-friendly patio offers space to relax with pets. Outdoor seating feels quieter and cooler than inside, with plenty of room to enjoy the vibe.

People are saying

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

"The fish and chips here are crispy and delicious."

"The Outdoor Seating has a great selection of beers and cocktails."

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.

05
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.

Coconut shrimp stands out for being huge and yummy. Fish dishes like fish and chips and fish tacos offer good flavor with some spice.

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

"The coconut shrimp here is huge and yummy."

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.

06
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.

Fish and chips stand out with unmatched quality north of San Diego. Fish tacos come with fresh ingredients like diced mango in the cole slaw, and the menu also features an Ahi Burger and clam chowder.

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."

"You have to try the fish and chips; they're the best north of San Diego."

"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.

07
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.

Blackened shrimp tacos stand out with a bit of spice. The fish dishes are consistently delicious.

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 seafood here is delicious and flavorful."

"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.

08
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.

Fish and chips come with large servings of light, moist fish and crispy fries. Shrimp scampi, homemade chowder, and zucchini sticks also appear as popular seafood options.

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."

"The fish and chips here are excellent and feed you twice."

"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.

09
Carlos Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a large patio featuring a huge fire pit and live music that stays at a comfortable volume. The atmosphere is laid-back and festive, enhanced by cozy indoor seating with a fireplace and abundant plants. Patrons enjoy authentic dishes and a variety of margaritas in a welcoming, fun setting.

Shrimp dishes stand out with huge, perfectly grilled shrimp that stay delicious even cold. Fish tacos come with a great deal on Taco Tuesday, and seafood chili rellenos offer a solid option.

Outdoor seating offers a great patio with a Palapa firepit that enhances the vibe. The area combines a 70's Tarantino Tiki feel with cozy banquettes, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The street tacos de birria were amazing with the consommรฉ."

"The garlic shrimp and seafood chili rellenos were delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right on PCH, but it can be limited.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly and allows dogs on the patio.

3

Prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

10
Brio Tuscany Grill image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers live smooth jazz saxophone and dine and dance experience with a pleasant patio for outdoor seating. Interior feels old and outdated with kitschy decor and dim lighting. Food includes standout items like top notch lasagne and fantastic calamari, though portions tend to be small.

Seafood options include Shrimp appetizer, Manila clams served both as a dish and added to Capellini pasta with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and parmesan. Fish filet also features alongside steak.

Outdoor seating includes a covered patio that helps reduce noise. The patio atmosphere feels pleasant and more inviting than it appears from outside.

People are saying

"You have to try the garlic bread; it's a must."

"The Seafood here is great, and the staff is super friendly."

"The outdoor seating area was pleasant and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Karaoke happens every Monday night with a two-drink minimum.

3

Half-price pasta is available every Tuesday night.

11
The Brig Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Old-fashioned American diner with outdated interior and a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere feels cozy and casual, suitable for families, with a generally quiet environment. Outdoor seating stands out as a pleasant feature amid the basic setup.

Fish and chips stand out with a crispy, well-balanced batter and fresh fish. Other seafood options like fish tacos vary, with some lacking flavor and freshness.

A dog-friendly patio offers outdoor seating that welcomes four-legged friends. The area feels quite nice, though some table covers look worn and could use updating.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty good, with large portions."

"The patio is dog friendly and great for your four-legged friend."

"The outdoor seating is dog-friendly, perfect for your four-legged friend."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is dog friendly, making it a good option for pet owners.

2

Expect high prices, with meals often exceeding $20 per entrรฉe.

3

The menu is large and offers a variety of options for different tastes.

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Dana Point, California

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