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Monterey isn’t just a coastal town with a view. It’s one of the few places on the California coast where the ocean ends up on your plate. If you’re visiting Monterey Bay, these waterfront spots are all easy to reach and perfect after a day exploring Cannery Row, the aquarium, or the scenic coastline. Here are five places that deliver the full coastal experience and some of the best waterfront dining in town.
Old Fisherman's Grotto
Old Fisherman's Grotto has been serving guests on Fisherman's Wharf for over 75 years,and the creamy clam chowder is what locals bring visiting friends here for again and again. The fresh-off-the-boat seafood platters are served with uninterrupted views of the bay. The unhurried old-school vibe is something newer spots simply can't replicate. Book ahead and aim for a weekday visit to avoid long waits.
Schooners Monterey
Open from breakfast at 7 AM through dinner at 9 PM,Schooners works for any occasion. The menu covers everything from a proper breakfast to a full seafood dinner. The bay views are hard to beat, and the Cannery Row location makes it one of the most convenient waterfront options in Monterey. Complimentary valet parking is available for up to two hours with validation. Reserve a window table through OpenTable before you go.
Sandbar and Grill
Overlooking Monterey Harbor, Sandbar and Grill brings together fresh seafood and a full cocktail and wine barin a setting made for lingering. Fish tacos, grilled plates, and patio seating with harbor views make it the easy choice after a morning walk along the coast. Check their happy hour menu online. It’s worth planning your visit around it.
Sapporo Sushi and Steakhouse
Sapporo offers Japanese cuisinewith a distinctly Monterey twist, drawing on fresh Pacific fish for its sushi and teppanyaki dishes. If you want something beyond chowder and calamari, this is the spot. The teppanyaki experience turns dinner into a show, making it a crowd favorite for families and groups.
Chart House
Chart House delivers a more refined take on waterfront dining along Cannery Row. It’s the kind of place you go when you want to slow down and settle in. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, the sea bass over lobster risotto is a dish that quiets the table. The dining room feels warm and inviting, with Monterey Bay stretching out beyond the windows in every direction.
What Makes Seaside Dining in Monterey Special
Monterey’s dining scene runs on what the bay actually produces, along with a fishing tradition that has supported this coastline for generations. Add in locally sourced fish, Pacific sunsets beyond your table, and a pace of life that encourages you to slow down. That’s the experience the seaside restaurants in Monterey, CA, are truly offering, and it’s something that can’t be replicated elsewhere. The mild climate keeps the waterfront tables full year-round, which tells you everything about why people keep coming back.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Late afternoon (4 to 6 PM) is the sweet spot for golden hour and fewer crowds
- Fall brings thinner crowds, clear skies, and some of the best coastal weather of the year
- Book ahead for Old Fisherman's Grotto and Schooners, especially on weekends
- Bring a light jacket since evenings by the water can cool down quickly
- Arrive early for parking near the wharf
Ready to Book Your Table?
Staying in Monterey? These seaside restaurants in Monterey, CA, are all within a short drive of the area’s top hotels, making it easy to enjoy a waterfront meal after a day at Cannery Row or the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Whether you're planning a casual dinner or a special night out, Monterey’s coastal dining scene delivers an experience you won’t forget. If you’re still planning your food itinerary, our guide to the best Monterey fish and chips spots is a great next stop.
