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Beach lunch spots in Santa Monica

A lunch spot right on the sand that offers a real meal instead of just overpriced snacks.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Shutters on the Beach image 1
Shutters on the Beach image 2
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Hotel offers beachfront views and a stylish, romantic atmosphere with live music and evening cocktails. Guests enjoy daily bike rentals and a lounge bar favored for socializing. The setting combines luxury decor with a relaxing vibe despite occasional traffic noise.

The hotel sits right on the beach with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Pier. Dining options include a unique beachside dinner and a lovely lunch spot inside the hotel, all accessible to exciting beach activities.

Lunch happens right on the beach with ocean views and a relaxed vibe. The spot suits casual meals and business lunches alike, offering a solid menu for midday dining.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is great, right on the beach."

"It's right on the beach with great views."

"I had a lovely lunch spot on the beach."

Good to know

1

Parking without validation costs $44 for 2.5 hours.

2

The hotel offers a Mon-Thurs Happy Hour at Coast restaurant.

3

Live music is available on Wednesday nights.

02
Perry's Cafรฉ & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 1

Outdoor seating on sand with ocean views and umbrella-covered tables creates a relaxed, beachside atmosphere. Comfortable beach chairs and live music on select days add to the laid-back vibe. The setting features sunset views and casual dining right by the water.

Seating and dining happen right on the sand with toes in the sand and views of the Pacific Ocean and bike trail. Rentals include beach chairs, umbrellas, and bikes, plus a beach butler service that handles needs for a relaxing time.

Lunch happens right on the beach with great views. The spot suits both quick bites and relaxed meals with convenient seafront access.

People are saying

"I loved watching everything happening on the beach from the cafe."

"I enjoyed a cold beer while watching the sunset."

"This lunch spot has fabulous beach views and a great location."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Bikes and beach umbrellas can be rented for $8 per hour.

3

The cafรฉ closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

03
Coast image 1
Californian restaurant

Beachfront restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and comfortable outdoor seating that creates a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Soft live music enhances the peaceful vibe while diners enjoy the scenic patio setting.

A beach-front location offers a peaceful setting with outdoor seating that overlooks the waves and sunset. Soft music plays nearby, enhancing the relaxed beach atmosphere.

A peaceful and serene spot attached to Shutters offers a calm setting for lunch. The location near the beach adds to the lovely atmosphere during midday meals.

People are saying

"The food at this beach spot is outstanding, especially the lobster roll."

"I loved the ocean view from the outdoor seating."

"This Lunch Spot has excellent food and service."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

3

Valet parking is available for $20 on weekends.

04
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

A casual spot right on the beach offers affordable prices and a delightful view of the ocean. It captures the beach atmosphere well, making it a nice place for a snack or meal near the water.

Lunch offers a chance to enjoy shrimp cocktail with a tangy kick and join in on Taco Tuesday specials. Outdoor seating lets you watch people while having a beer and a meal.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"This Lunch Spot's food is tasty, well-seasoned, and beautifully presented."

"The fish tacos here are amazing, truly to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

05
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Outdoor seating offers a view of the beach, ocean, and pier with a super chill vibe. The spot serves seafood and draft beer right by the beach, making it a solid choice for lunch or a casual bite.

Lunch offers fresh seafood with a great ocean view. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy a beachside vibe while eating.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"This Lunch Spot's seafood is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood at this beach spot is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

06
Sirena image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers terrace seating with views of the ocean and park, creating a relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Live music and a classy bar add to the elegant yet cozy vibe. Charming booths provide privacy while overlooking a beautifully decorated dining room.

Terrace seating offers views of Palisades Park, the ocean, and the Santa Monica beach. A cool breeze comes off the beach, especially at sunset.

Lunch offers a limited menu focused on American cafeteria food with poor execution. Seating overlooks the ocean, providing a chance to enjoy the view or catch the sunset.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, fresh, and served hot."

"You can sit overlooking the Santa Monica beach and have a nice meal."

"You can have a nice lunch overlooking the ocean and Palisades Park."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 at the front of the hotel.

2

The restaurant offers a beautiful view of Palisades Park and the beach.

3

Lunch menu options are limited and primarily American cafeteria-style food.

07
Hotel Casa del Mar image 1

Grand lobby and ocean views create an elegant, peaceful atmosphere with a classic California vibe. Heated rooftop pool and live bands add to the relaxed yet upscale energy. Guests enjoy spacious rooms and easy beach access, making it a luxurious coastal oasis.

Location offers unbeatable ocean views and direct access to the beach. Rooms provide stunning beach and pool views, with included access to chairs and bikes for beach enjoyment.

Lunch offers picturesque dishes at the Terraza restaurant. Lobby no longer provides table service during lunch, but the spot remains suitable for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The oceanfront view of the sunset over the Pacific is amazing."

"It's right on the beach with amazing ocean views."

"The food at this Lunch Spot tasted great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The hotel charges a $44 daily amenity fee for access to facilities.

3

The hotel offers complimentary beach chairs and bikes for guests.

08
Maria Sol image 1
Mexican restaurant

Ocean-facing patio offers breathtaking views and warmth from scattered heating lamps. Live music from street artists creates a lively atmosphere with a touristy vibe. Fresh, locally sourced seafood and exceptional margaritas complement the energetic seaside setting.

Located right at the tip of the beach, it offers great views of the sand and ocean. Tables sit by the corner with sights of the beach and mountain, creating a beautiful beach vibe.

Lunch offers a chance to enjoy drinks alongside the meal. The spot provides a nice view to complement the midday break.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served with quick, friendly, and welcoming service."

"The tres carnes fajitas were so good."

"The tres carnes fajitas at this Lunch Spot were so good."

Good to know

1

Check your bill carefully as extra charges may be added.

2

Expect a reasonable cost of about $50 for two entrees and drinks.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but the upper level may be closed.

09
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Quiet setting sits close to the beach and promenade. Free bikes make rides to Venice Beach easy. Walking distance covers the beach, shops, and restaurants.

Lunch features stellar meals served in a hotel restaurant and at Calabra. Both spots offer satisfying options for midday dining.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The staff here made my lunch feel so special and memorable."

"It's an easy walk to the beach and promenade."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

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Santa Monica, California

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