The Absolute Best Restaurants on the Water San Diego: Coastal Gems

As a San Diego native, I’ve always been drawn to the city’s shimmering coastlines, where the ocean meets culinary artistry. The best restaurants on the water in San Diego offer more than just a meal; they deliver unforgettable experiences with fresh seafood, stunning views, and warm hospitality.

From the vibrant boardwalks of Pacific Beach to the serene bays of Coronado, these dining spots capture the essence of coastal living. Whether you’re a tourist chasing sunsets or a local craving a bayside escape, these restaurants promise to elevate your dining adventures with every bite.

Top 10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in San Diego: A Local’s Guide to Dining by the Water

As a San Diego native, I’ve spent countless evenings savoring meals with the Pacific Ocean or San Diego Bay as my backdrop. The city’s waterfront dining scene is a treasure trove of culinary delights, blending fresh seafood, vibrant flavors, and breathtaking views. Below, I share my personal experiences at the top 10 waterfront restaurants in San Diego, each offering a unique blend of ambiance, cuisine, and service. From cozy beachside bistros to upscale bayside gems, these spots are perfect for tourists and locals alike.

C Level

Basic Information

Address: 880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-298-6802
Website: clevelsd.com
Hours: Open from 11:30 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Exceptional seafood dishes like the Ahi, Crab & Avocado Stack
Generous portions that satisfy hearty appetites
Attentive service from knowledgeable staff
Stunning bay views of the San Diego skyline
Creative cocktails paired with a vibrant happy hour

What makes a waterfront dining experience unforgettable? Stepping into C Level, ranked first in my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m greeted by a sleek, inviting atmosphere with panoramic views of the bay. The expansive patio, warmed by fire features, sets the stage for a meal that feels like a celebration. The mesmerizing sight of the Coronado Bridge twinkling at dusk adds a magical touch.

The cuisine here is nothing short of impeccable. The Ahi, Crab & Avocado Stack, a savory masterpiece, layers fresh tuna and crab with creamy avocado, delivering a burst of coastal flavors. For dessert, the Warm Butter Cake, with its caramelized crust and velvety center, is a sweet indulgence that lingers on the palate. The generous portions ensure no one leaves hungry, with each dish crafted to highlight San Diego’s seafood bounty.

One standout side is the Lobster Mac n’ Cheese, a decadent treat where perfectly cooked pasta meets a rich, creamy cheese sauce studded with tender lobster chunks. The fresh, local ingredients shine through, making every bite a revelatory experience that elevates this comfort food to new heights.

The service at C Level is warm and professional, with staff who are incredibly attentive and eager to share their expertise. They seamlessly accommodate special requests, like adjusting spice levels, ensuring every guest feels valued. Their genuine enthusiasm enhances the dining experience, making it feel personal and memorable.

For anyone seeking a quintessential San Diego waterfront meal, C Level is a must-visit. Its exceptional seafood, hearty portions, and top-notch service make it a standout in my toplist. Whether you’re a tourist chasing bay views or a local craving a special night out, this restaurant promises an unforgettable evening.

Island Prime

Basic Information

Address: 880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-298-6802
Website: islandprimesd.com
Hours: Open from 5 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Premium seafood and steaks with bold flavors
Elegant ambiance perfect for special occasions
Attentive service with a personal touch
Panoramic bay views from an over-water setting
Signature desserts like the Hot Chocolate Lava Cake

Can a restaurant feel like a luxurious escape? At Island Prime, second on my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m enveloped by an elegant, refined ambiance as I step into its over-water dining room. The stunning views of the San Diego skyline and bay create a captivating backdrop that instantly elevates the mood.

The menu is a showcase of exquisite craftsmanship. The Seared Market Tuna, kissed with a smoky crust and paired with almond and grape accents, is a culinary work of art. On the sweeter side, the Hot Chocolate Lava Cake oozes with molten chocolate, offering a decadent finish. The hearty portions leave me satisfied, with every dish reflecting the chef’s dedication to quality.

A standout side is the Truffle Fries, crispy and perfectly seasoned with a luxurious truffle aroma. The fresh, high-quality ingredients make each bite a delightful surprise, transforming a simple side into something extraordinary.

The staff at Island Prime are gracious and knowledgeable, ensuring every detail is perfect. They anticipate needs, like refilling drinks before I ask, and their warm demeanor makes me feel like a VIP. Their recommendations, from wine pairings to dessert, are always spot-on.

Island Prime is a gem for anyone craving a refined waterfront experience. Its superb cuisine, generous portions, and impeccable service secure its place in my toplist. I urge visitors and locals to indulge in this bayside haven for a night of unforgettable dining.

Dockside 1953

Basic Information

Address: 998 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 619-224-1234
Website: bahiahotel.com/dining
Hours: Open from 7 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Fresh coastal cuisine with local ingredients
Vibrant seafood tower as a signature dish
Cozy patio with fire pits and bay views
Friendly service that feels like family
Creative cocktails like the Bahia Mai Tai

What’s the secret to a perfect bayside meal? At Dockside 1953, third in my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m welcomed by a charming, nautical vibe and the soothing sight of Mission Bay. The patio, dotted with cozy fire pits, feels like a warm embrace against the ocean breeze.

The food is consistently delightful, with the Seafood Tower stealing the show a towering display of fresh shrimp, crab, and oysters that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. For dessert, the Skillet Cinnamon Roll is a sweet, gooey masterpiece. The ample portions ensure every guest leaves content, with flavors that celebrate San Diego’s coastal heritage.

The Baked Crab Cakes are a must-try side, expertly crafted with a crisp exterior and tender, flavorful crab inside. The fresh, local crab makes each bite a revelation, pairing perfectly with the house-made remoulade.

The staff are incredibly warm and attentive, treating me like a regular even on my first visit. Their thoughtful suggestions, like recommending the perfect cocktail, elevate the experience, making it feel effortlessly special.

Dockside 1953 is a must for anyone seeking a fresh, flavorful waterfront meal. Its standout dishes, generous servings, and welcoming service make it a toplist favorite. I highly recommend it to tourists and locals for a bayside escape that’s both delicious and memorable.

Waterbar

Basic Information

Address: 4325 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 858-888-4343
Website: waterbarsd.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

Social seafood menu blending East and West Coast flavors
Lively boardwalk vibe with ocean views
Craft cocktails with bold, innovative twists
Attentive service in a bustling setting
Fresh oysters as a standout starter

Is dining by the ocean always this vibrant? At Waterbar, fourth on my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m swept into a bustling, energetic atmosphere right on Pacific Beach’s boardwalk. The lively ocean views and salty breeze create a thrilling setting that’s quintessentially San Diego.

The cuisine is bold and inventive, with the Grilled Octopus, tender and charred to perfection, showcasing a creative fusion of Baja and Japanese flavors. The Key Lime Pie, with its tangy, creamy filling, is a refreshing endnote. The substantial portions ensure every dish feels like a feast, leaving me fully satisfied.

The Fresh Oysters, served on a shimmering bed of ice, are a highlight side. Impeccably fresh and briny, they’re paired with a zesty mignonette that makes each slurp a joyful moment of coastal bliss.

The staff are engaging and efficient, navigating the busy dining room with effortless grace. Their friendly banter and quick responses to requests, like extra napkins, make the experience feel seamless and fun.

For a lively, flavorful waterfront meal, Waterbar is a top pick in my toplist. Its innovative dishes, hearty portions, and dynamic service make it ideal for tourists and locals alike. Dive into this boardwalk gem for an unforgettable San Diego experience.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen

Basic Information

Address: 3999 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 858-539-8634
Website: catamaranresort.com/dining
Hours: Open from 7 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Chef-driven seafood with California flair
Stunning bayfront views from airy dining areas
Creative sushi rolls as a menu highlight
Warm service with a personal touch
Refreshing cocktails like tangy mimosas

Can a restaurant capture the essence of the coast? At Oceana Coastal Kitchen, fifth in my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m enveloped by an airy, modern ambiance with sweeping Mission Bay views. The tranquil setting, with paddleboarders gliding by, feels like a postcard come to life.

The menu is sophisticated yet approachable, with the Braised Scallops, seared to a golden perfection, delivering a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The Mango Sorbet, vibrant and refreshingly tart, is a tropical delight. The generous portions ensure every dish feels indulgent, satisfying even the heartiest appetites.

A standout side is the Crab Cakes, lightly crisped and bursting with fresh, sweet crab meat. The expert preparation and bright remoulade make each bite a delightful surprise, showcasing the kitchen’s skill.

The staff are genuinely warm and attentive, offering thoughtful recommendations that enhance the meal. Their easygoing charm makes every interaction feel like catching up with friends, elevating the overall experience.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen is a waterfront gem in my toplist, perfect for those seeking refined seafood, ample portions, and ** stellar service**. I urge locals and visitors to savor this Mission Bay treasure for a meal that’s as beautiful as its views.

Serea Coastal Cuisine

Basic Information

Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: 619-435-6611
Website: sereasandiego.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Sustainable seafood with coastal elegance
Two-tiered patio with Coronado Beach views
Whole fish dishes as a signature offering
Polished service with a welcoming vibe
Artisanal cocktails with local ingredients

What does sustainable seafood taste like? At Serea Coastal Cuisine, sixth on my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m welcomed by a sophisticated, breezy ambiance on the Hotel del Coronado’s patio. The mesmerizing ocean views and gentle waves create a serene escape.

The cuisine is masterfully executed, with the Wood-Grilled Whole Fish, flaky and perfectly seasoned, stealing the spotlight as a showstopping centerpiece. The Lemon Tart, with its buttery crust and zesty curd, is a refreshing finale. The substantial portions ensure every guest leaves fulfilled, with flavors that linger.

The Smoked Seafood Tower is a standout side, artfully presented with layers of fresh, briny shrimp and mussels. The smoky undertones and vibrant garnishes make each bite a sensory delight, showcasing the chef’s creativity.

The staff are polished yet approachable, offering insightful suggestions that elevate the meal. Their attentive care, like ensuring my glass is never empty, makes the experience feel luxurious and personal.

Serea Coastal Cuisine is a toplist must for its sustainable, flavorful dishes, generous servings, and exceptional service. I highly recommend it to tourists and locals for a Coronado dining experience that’s as stunning as the beach it overlooks.

Peohe’s

Basic Information

Address: 1201 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: 619-437-4474
Website: peohes.com
Hours: Open from 11:30 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Island-inspired seafood with vibrant flavors
Spectacular skyline views from Coronado
Signature sushi rolls as a menu highlight
Attentive service with a warm vibe
Tropical cocktails like the Mai Tai

Can a meal feel like a tropical getaway? At Peohe’s, seventh in my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m immersed in a vibrant, island-inspired setting with breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline. The lively ambiance, with city lights reflecting on the water, is pure magic.

The food is bold and flavorful, with the Coconut Crunchy Shrimp, crispy and perfectly balanced with sweet chili sauce, stealing my heart. The Chocolate Lava Cake, warm and decadently rich, is a crowd-pleaser. The hearty portions ensure every dish feels like a feast, leaving me content.

A standout side is the Lobster Bisque, velvety smooth and brimming with rich, briny lobster flavor. The fresh ingredients and careful preparation make each spoonful a luxurious treat, perfect for savoring slowly.

The staff are friendly and proactive, offering personalized service that makes me feel at home. Their quick responses to special requests, like dietary adjustments, add a thoughtful touch to the experience.

Peohe’s is a toplist favorite for its vibrant cuisine, ample portions, and warm service. I urge locals and tourists to visit this Coronado gem for a waterfront meal that blends island flair with San Diego charm.

Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar

Basic Information

Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-719-4966
Website: brigantine.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Famous fish tacos as a San Diego staple
Breezy harbor views at Portside Pier
Fresh oysters with vibrant garnishes
Lively service in a casual setting
Local craft beers to complement the menu

What makes a fish taco legendary? At Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar, eighth on my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m greeted by a casual, upbeat vibe at Portside Pier. The stunning harbor views and gentle lapping waves create a relaxed coastal escape.

The menu is consistently excellent, with the Brig’s Famous Fish Tacos, stuffed with crisp, flaky fish and zesty slaw, earning their iconic status. The Key Lime Pie, with its creamy, tangy filling, is a refreshing treat. The generous portions ensure every dish satisfies, perfect for sharing or indulging solo.

The Oyster Platter is a standout side, featuring impeccably fresh oysters with a bright, citrusy mignonette. The expert shucking and vibrant presentation make each slurp a joyful moment of coastal flavor.

The staff are lively and engaging, bringing infectious energy to the bustling dining room. Their quick service and friendly recommendations, like pairing a local beer with the tacos, enhance the experience.

Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar is a toplist must for its iconic tacos, hearty portions, and dynamic service. I recommend it to locals and visitors for a quintessential San Diego waterfront meal that’s both delicious and laid-back.

World Famous

Basic Information

Address: 711 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 858-272-3100
Website: worldfamouspb.com
Hours: Open from 7 AM to 11 PM daily

Highlights

Coastal cuisine with seafood and prime rib
Prime beachfront location on the boardwalk
Generous portions for hearty appetites
Friendly service with a beachy vibe
Lively happy hour with creative drinks

Can a meal feel like a beachside party? At World Famous, ninth in my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m drawn into a lively, sun-soaked atmosphere right on Pacific Beach’s boardwalk. The vibrant ocean views and crashing waves create a carefree coastal vibe.

The food is hearty and flavorful, with the Grilled Mahi-Mahi, perfectly seared and paired with tropical salsa, showcasing coastal flair. The Caramel Flan, silky and rich, is a sweet standout. The large portions ensure every guest leaves full, with dishes that celebrate San Diego’s beach culture.

A standout side is the Clam Chowder, creamy and comforting with tender clams and a savory depth. The fresh ingredients make each spoonful a warming delight, perfect for a cool coastal evening.

The staff are upbeat and welcoming, embodying the laid-back beach spirit. Their prompt service and friendly chatter, like sharing local tips, make the experience feel fun and personal.

World Famous is a toplist gem for its flavorful cuisine, generous servings, and lively service. I urge tourists and locals to visit this boardwalk icon for a San Diego waterfront meal that’s as vibrant as the beach itself.

Cannonball

Basic Information

Address: 3105 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 858-228-9300
Website: cannonballsd.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

Robust sushi menu with creative rolls
Rooftop setting with unparalleled ocean views
Fresh lobster roll as a signature dish
Energetic service with a coastal charm
Craft cocktails like the Sunset Collins

What’s it like to dine above the waves? At Cannonball, tenth in my San Diego waterfront toplist, I’m transported to a vibrant, open-air rooftop with sweeping Pacific Ocean views. The lively ambiance, with live music and fire pits, feels like a coastal celebration.

The sushi menu is exceptional, with the Lobster Roll, packed with spicy, succulent lobster and creamy avocado, stealing the show as a culinary masterpiece. The Matcha Cheesecake, light and subtly sweet, is a perfect finale. The hefty portions ensure every dish satisfies, making sharing a joy.

The Spicy Edamame is a standout side, perfectly steamed and tossed in a fiery, umami-rich sauce. The fresh beans and bold flavors make each bite a thrilling surprise, elevating this simple dish.

The staff are dynamic and attentive, bringing infectious energy to the rooftop. Their thoughtful touches, like ensuring my table has the best view, make the experience memorable and fun.

Cannonball rounds out my toplist with its creative sushi, generous portions, and lively service. I highly recommend it to locals and tourists for a rooftop waterfront experience that captures San Diego’s coastal spirit.

Why These Waterfront Gems Are a Must-Visit

My journey through the top 10 waterfront restaurants reveals a tapestry of bold flavors, generous portions, and impeccable service. Each spot, from C Level’s skyline vistas to Cannonball’s rooftop energy, offers a unique slice of San Diego’s coastal soul. These venues shine for their creative dishes, like seared scallops and lobster rolls, paired with attentive staff who make every visit special. For anyone seeking the best restaurants on the water in San Diego, this toplist is your guide to unforgettable meals. Dive in and explore these culinary treasures to savor the city’s waterfront at its finest.

San Diego Nav guides you through my handpicked toplist, showcasing venues that blend flavor, ambiance, and local charm.