Dining With a View: 10 South Bay Restaurants Worth Visiting
Few things make a meal more memorable than a beautiful view. In the Los Angeles South Bay, you can enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the Pacific Ocean, have breakfast beside the sand in Hermosa Beach or watch sailboats drift through Redondo Beach’s King Harbor.
Whether you’re planning a romantic sunset dinner, a leisurely waterfront lunch or breakfast after a walk on the beach, the best restaurants with a view in the South Bay offer something for every occasion.
For visitors staying at Best Western Plus South Bay Hotel in Lawndale, these restaurants are excellent destinations to combine with a day exploring Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach or Redondo Beach.
Here are 10 South Bay restaurants where the scenery is part of the experience, from elegant oceanfront dining rooms to casual beachfront favorites.
1. The Strand House – Manhattan Beach
Best for: Panoramic ocean views, romantic dinners and special occasions
Few restaurants capture the Southern California beach lifestyle quite like The Strand House. Located just steps from the Manhattan Beach Pier, this upscale restaurant offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean through its expansive windows.
The elevated dining room overlooks the beach, pier and coastline, making it an especially appealing destination for a sunset dinner. The menu emphasizes contemporary California cuisine, seasonal ingredients, seafood and thoughtfully prepared entrées.
For couples celebrating an anniversary or visitors looking for a memorable evening, The Strand House combines an elegant atmosphere with one of the South Bay’s most recognizable coastal settings.
After dinner, take a walk along the Manhattan Beach Pier or explore the nearby shops and restaurants. StrandBar downstairs also offers cocktails in a livelier atmosphere.
The view: Pacific Ocean, Manhattan Beach Pier and the surrounding coastline.
Address: 117 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Phone: (310) 545-7470
Website: The Strand House
2. Bluewater Grill – Redondo Beach
Best for: Fresh seafood, marina views and relaxed waterfront dining
Bluewater Grill is a longtime Redondo Beach favorite situated directly on King Harbor. Unlike restaurants facing the open Pacific, Bluewater Grill overlooks a working marina filled with sailboats and other recreational vessels.
The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, with selections that can include grilled fish, oysters, chowder and other coastal favorites. Its approachable atmosphere makes it suitable for families, couples and groups looking for a waterfront meal without an overly formal setting.
Outdoor patio seating is particularly appealing on a sunny afternoon, when the harbor is active and the boats provide an ever-changing backdrop.
Bluewater Grill is also convenient for exploring the Redondo Beach waterfront before or after your meal.
The view: King Harbor marina, sailboats and waterfront activity.
Address: 665 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 318-3474
Website: Bluewater Grill
3. Chart House – Redondo Beach
Best for: Oceanfront dining, sunset views and special occasions
Chart House is one of Redondo Beach’s classic waterfront dining destinations, with a location that puts the Pacific Ocean remarkably close to the restaurant’s windows.
The dining room is designed to take advantage of its coastal setting, making the ocean views a central part of the experience. Arriving before sunset is especially rewarding, when the changing light creates a dramatic backdrop for dinner.
The menu features seafood and steakhouse favorites, including fresh fish, prime rib, steaks and signature desserts. Its combination of traditional service and coastal scenery makes it a popular choice for birthdays, anniversaries and special evenings out.
If you’re looking for a restaurant where the view feels just as important as the food, Chart House deserves serious consideration.
The view: Open Pacific Ocean, breaking waves and coastal sunsets.
Address: 231 Yacht Club Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 372-3464
Website: Chart House
4. Kincaid’s – Redondo Beach
Best for: Seafood, steaks and panoramic pier views
Kincaid’s has long been a destination for waterfront dining on the Redondo Beach Pier.
The restaurant features expansive windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean, allowing guests to enjoy coastal scenery while dining indoors. It’s particularly attractive during the late afternoon and early evening, when the water reflects the changing colors of the sky.
The menu combines seafood and classic American steakhouse dishes, including fresh fish, prime rib, steaks and traditional appetizers.
For visitors who want a full-service restaurant with a dramatic ocean backdrop, Kincaid’s provides a more traditional dining experience than some of the casual establishments along the pier.
After dinner, explore the Redondo Beach Pier and enjoy the ocean breeze.
The view: Pacific Ocean, Redondo Beach Pier and coastal scenery.
Address: 500 Fishermans Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 318-6080
Website: Kincaid’s
5. Tony’s on the Pier – Redondo Beach
Best for: Classic pier dining, ocean views and nostalgic South Bay atmosphere
For a more traditional Southern California waterfront experience, Tony’s on the Pier, commonly known as Old Tony’s, is a Redondo Beach institution.
Located directly on the pier, the restaurant has been part of the local dining scene for decades. Its setting provides ocean views and the kind of relaxed coastal atmosphere that visitors often associate with classic California beach towns.
The menu focuses on traditional seafood and American favorites. Upstairs, the cocktail lounge is particularly well known for its panoramic ocean views and old-school atmosphere.
Tony’s is less about trendy culinary presentations and more about enjoying a longstanding Redondo Beach tradition. It’s a particularly enjoyable stop for visitors who appreciate restaurants with local history and personality.
The restaurant does not accept reservations, so arriving early is a good strategy when hoping to catch the sunset.
The view: Open Pacific Ocean and Redondo Beach Pier.
Address: 210 Fishermans Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 374-1442
Website: Tony’s on the Pier
6. Riviera Mexican Cantina – Redondo Beach
Best for: Margaritas, Mexican food and casual marina views
If your ideal waterfront meal involves tacos, fresh guacamole and a margarita, Riviera Mexican Cantina is an appealing choice.
Located along King Harbor, this Redondo Beach restaurant offers a relaxed dining atmosphere with views of the marina and surrounding waterfront.
The menu features familiar Mexican favorites, including tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, seafood and other dishes, complemented by margaritas and cocktails.
It’s a particularly good option for groups and families who want a lively setting rather than a formal dining experience.
On a pleasant afternoon, outdoor seating allows guests to enjoy the coastal air while watching activity around the harbor.
The view: King Harbor marina and waterfront scenery.
Address: 207 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 374-2689
Website: Riviera Mexican Cantina
7. California Surf Club North Grill – Redondo Beach
Best for: Coastal cuisine, sunset cocktails and outdoor dining
California Surf Club North Grill brings a contemporary waterfront dining experience to Redondo Beach.
Located near the harbor, the restaurant is part of the California Surf Club complex, which features outdoor decks, landscaped gathering spaces and views of the ocean and surrounding waterfront.
Importantly, the North Grill is open to the public. You do not need a membership to dine at the restaurant.
The menu emphasizes California coastal cuisine, with seafood, grilled dishes, fresh ingredients and a selection of cocktails. Its outdoor seating areas and sunset views make it particularly appealing for couples and groups looking for a relaxed but stylish waterfront experience.
Weekend brunch is another option, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery during the day rather than waiting until dinner.
The view: Pacific Ocean, harbor scenery and coastal sunsets.
Address: 245 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 318-0001
Website: California Surf Club North Grill
8. Scotty’s on the Strand – Hermosa Beach
Best for: Beachfront breakfast, casual lunches and people-watching
Scotty’s on the Strand offers a different kind of scenic dining experience from the upscale restaurants and marina destinations in Redondo Beach.
Located directly on The Strand in Hermosa Beach, this casual neighborhood restaurant overlooks the beach and Pacific Ocean. Its outdoor seating provides a front-row view of walkers, cyclists and beachgoers enjoying the waterfront.
The menu includes American comfort food and breakfast favorites, with options such as omelets, pancakes, French toast, sandwiches, seafood and other familiar dishes.
Scotty’s is especially appealing for breakfast after a morning beach walk or a casual lunch during a day exploring Hermosa Beach.
Rather than dressing up for a special occasion, you can arrive in casual beach clothes and enjoy a meal while taking in the ocean views.
The view: Hermosa Beach, Pacific Ocean and activity along The Strand.
Address: 1100 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Phone: (310) 318-7152
Restaurant information: Scotty’s on the Strand
9. Good Stuff – Hermosa Beach
Best for: Oceanfront breakfast, brunch and family-friendly dining
Good Stuff has been a fixture of the Hermosa Beach dining scene for decades, and its location directly on The Strand is one of its biggest attractions.
The restaurant overlooks the beach, volleyball courts and nearby pier, offering the kind of relaxed coastal atmosphere that makes Southern California so appealing.
Good Stuff specializes in breakfast and lunch, with a broad menu that includes pancakes, eggs, breakfast burritos, burgers, salads and healthier options.
It’s an especially good choice for families and visitors who want to enjoy an ocean view without the expense or formality of an upscale waterfront restaurant.
For a classic South Bay morning, take a walk along The Strand, watch the volleyball players on the beach and then settle in for breakfast overlooking the Pacific.
The view: Hermosa Beach, volleyball courts, pier and Pacific Ocean.
Address: 1286 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Phone: (310) 374-2334
Website: Good Stuff Hermosa Beach
10. Redondo Beach Crab House – Redondo Beach
Best for: Fresh shellfish, casual pier dining and ocean views
Redondo Beach Crab House offers a more casual seafood experience directly on the Redondo Beach Pier.
The restaurant specializes in live seafood, including crab and lobster prepared to order, along with shrimp, shellfish and Korean-inspired seafood dishes.
Its location above the water gives diners ocean views while enjoying a meal, making it an appealing choice for visitors who want a traditional pier-side seafood experience.
Unlike an upscale seafood restaurant, Redondo Beach Crab House emphasizes straightforward seafood dining in a casual setting. It’s especially well suited to families and groups who enjoy sharing shellfish and exploring different preparations.
After your meal, take time to walk around the pier, browse the shops and enjoy the surrounding waterfront.
The view: Pacific Ocean and the Redondo Beach Pier waterfront.
Address: 100 Fishermans Wharf, Suite F, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: (310) 376-2244
Website: Redondo Beach Crab House
Which South Bay Restaurant Has the Best View?
The answer depends on the scenery you’re hoping to enjoy. Some restaurants overlook the open Pacific Ocean, while others provide beautiful views of marinas, sailboats and beach activity.
- Best panoramic ocean views: The Strand House in Manhattan Beach
- Best romantic sunset dinner: Chart House or The Strand House
- Best marina views: Bluewater Grill or Riviera Mexican Cantina
- Best waterfront cocktails: California Surf Club North Grill
- Best traditional seafood restaurant with a view: Kincaid’s
- Best classic pier experience: Tony’s on the Pier
- Best beachfront breakfast: Good Stuff or Scotty’s on the Strand
- Best casual shellfish experience: Redondo Beach Crab House
Where to Find the Best Waterfront Dining in the South Bay
Three South Bay beach communities stand out for their restaurants with beautiful views. Each offers a slightly different experience.
Manhattan Beach: Panoramic Ocean Views and Sunset Dining
Manhattan Beach combines a wide sandy shoreline with a lively downtown restaurant district.
Restaurants near the pier offer some of the area’s most recognizable beach views, making this a particularly appealing destination for romantic evenings and special occasions.
The Strand House is one of the most prominent ocean-view restaurants in the area, and the nearby pier provides an easy opportunity for a walk before or after dinner.
Hermosa Beach: Casual Beachfront Restaurants
Hermosa Beach offers a more relaxed approach to dining with a view.
Restaurants along The Strand overlook the beach, volleyball courts and Pacific Ocean, creating a lively atmosphere that’s especially enjoyable during breakfast and lunch.
Good Stuff and Scotty’s on the Strand are particularly appealing for visitors who want to enjoy the beach without committing to an upscale dining experience.
After your meal, explore the Hermosa Beach Pier or take a walk along the coastal pathway.
Redondo Beach: Oceanfront Restaurants and Harbor Views
Redondo Beach offers the greatest variety of waterfront dining settings on this list.
King Harbor is home to restaurants overlooking sailboats and marina activity, while the Redondo Beach Pier provides open-ocean views and traditional seaside dining.
Bluewater Grill, Riviera Mexican Cantina and California Surf Club North Grill offer appealing waterfront settings, while Chart House, Kincaid’s, Tony’s on the Pier and Redondo Beach Crab House provide different ways to enjoy the ocean.
Whether you prefer an elegant seafood dinner or a casual meal beside the water, Redondo Beach offers plenty of choices.
Tips for Getting the Best Restaurant View
Even at an oceanfront restaurant, not every table has the same view. A little planning can make your experience more enjoyable.
- Request a window or patio table: When making a reservation, ask whether ocean-facing seating is available. Specific tables are not guaranteed.
- Plan around sunset: Check the sunset time if you’re hoping to enjoy golden-hour views over the Pacific.
- Know the difference between ocean and marina views: Restaurants overlooking King Harbor offer a different experience from those facing the open Pacific.
- Bring a light jacket: Ocean breezes can make outdoor seating cooler than expected, even on warm afternoons.
- Allow time for parking: Popular beachfront areas can become busy on weekends and during summer.
- Check current restaurant hours: Some locations primarily serve breakfast and lunch, while others focus on dinner.
Explore the South Bay From Best Western Plus South Bay Hotel
One of the best things about visiting the Los Angeles South Bay is how easily you can combine a great meal with the area’s beaches and coastal attractions.
Spend the morning exploring Hermosa Beach, walk along the Manhattan Beach Pier or enjoy an afternoon around Redondo Beach’s King Harbor before settling in for dinner overlooking the Pacific.
Best Western Plus South Bay Hotel in Lawndale provides a convenient home base for exploring these coastal destinations, along with the restaurants, shopping and attractions throughout the South Bay.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a family breakfast or a relaxed waterfront lunch, these restaurants prove that sometimes the most memorable part of dining out is the view.