Welcome to our guide on the best restaurants and cafes along the Pacific Coast Highway! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first road trip along the scenic California coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway is a must-see destination. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and picturesque towns along the way, it’s no wonder this iconic highway is on many people’s bucket list.
One of the highlights of any road trip is discovering new and delicious food. The Pacific Coast Highway is home to a diverse range of culinary experiences, from fresh seafood to farm-to-table dining. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Where to eat on the Pacific Coast Highway? Which restaurant on the Pacific Coast Highway is the best? Where to stop for a great cafe along the Pacific Coast Highway? In this post, you will find out!
1. Oak Table Cafe
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 164 MI/ 264 KM SEQUIM, WASHINGTON
GPS: 48.07911, -123.10750
ADDRESS: 292 W Bell St, Sequim, WA 98382
The Oak Table Cafe in Sequim is a popular restaurant that serves delicious home-style meals. The cafe is known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner with family and friends. The menu features a variety of classic dishes, such as pancakes, burgers, salads, and sandwiches, all made with high-quality ingredients. Additionally, the cafe offers gluten-free options and accommodates dietary restrictions. Overall, the Oak Table Cafe is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a satisfying meal in Sequim.
2. Wanda’s Cafe + Bakery
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 470 MI/ 756 KM NEHALEM, OREGON
GPS: 45.71790, -123.89653
ADDRESS: 12880 H St, Nehalem, OR 97131
Wanda’s Cafe + Bakery is a charming little stop along the Pacific Coast Highway that offers delicious food and baked goods. Located in Nehalem, Oregon, this family-owned cafe serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a wide variety of freshly-baked pastries and desserts. The menu features a mix of classic and modern dishes, with an emphasis on using local, seasonal ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the scenic drive along the coast. Overall, Wanda’s Cafe + Bakery is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
3. Tidal Raves
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 550 MI/ 885 KM DEPOE BAY, OREGON
GPS: 44.81534, -124.06279
ADDRESS: 279 US-101, Depoe Bay, OR 97341
Tidal Raves is a seafood restaurant located on the Pacific Coast Highway in Depoe Bay, Oregon. The restaurant boasts stunning views of the ocean and has a reputation for serving some of the freshest seafood in the area. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including crab, lobster, oysters, and fish, all sourced locally and sustainably. Additionally, Tidal Raves offers a selection of wines and cocktails to pair with your meal. The elegant and cozy atmosphere, combined with the delicious food and ocean views, makes Tidal Raves a must-visit spot on the Pacific Coast Highway.
4. Cafe Aquatica
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1107 MI/ 1782 KM JENNER, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 38.44902, -123.11489
ADDRESS: 10439 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450
Cafe Aquatica is a charming coffee shop located along the Pacific Coast Highway in Jenner, California. This cozy cafe offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and baked goods, all made with locally-sourced ingredients. Visitors can sit outside on the deck and enjoy stunning views of the Russian River and the Pacific Ocean.
5. Spud Point Crab Company
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1118 MI/ 1799 KM BODEGA BAY, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 38.32952, -123.05889
ADDRESS: 1910 Westshore Rd, Bodega Bay, CA 94923
Spud Point Crab Company is a must-visit spot for seafood lovers traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. Located in Bodega Bay, California, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up fresh, delicious seafood since 2004. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including Dungeness crab sandwiches, fish and chips, clam chowder, and more. All the seafood is sourced locally, ensuring the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The casual and cozy atmosphere, combined with the stunning views of the bay, makes Spud Point Crab Company a popular stop for both locals and tourists. Overall, if you’re looking for a great seafood meal along the Pacific Coast, Spud Point Crab Company is the perfect stop.
6. Hog Island Oyster Co
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1140 MI/ 1835 KM MARSHALL, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 38.16212, -122.89354
ADDRESS: 20215 Shoreline Hwy, Marshall, CA 94940
Hog Island Oyster Co is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. This farm-to-table oyster bar serves up some of the freshest oysters on the West Coast, straight from their own oyster farm. The oysters are shucked to order and served raw or grilled with a variety of delicious toppings. In addition to oysters, Hog Island Oyster Co also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, as well as wine and beer to pair with your meal. The restaurant’s location on the water provides stunning views of the bay, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy some delicious food and drinks.
If you’re a fan of oysters and seafood, be sure to check out my blog post featuring the best seafood restaurants along the Pacific Coast Highway: Discovering the Best Seafood on the Pacific Coast Highway – TOP 10 Restaurants
7. Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1288 MI/ 2060 KM CASTROVILLE, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.76574, -121.75829
ADDRESS: 10700 Merritt St, Castroville, CA 95012
Another great addition to my list of the best cafes and restaurants along the Pacific Coast Highway. Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery is a popular seafood restaurant located in Moss Landing, California, along the Pacific Coast Highway. The restaurant is known for its fresh, sustainable seafood and delicious clam chowder. Phil’s has won numerous awards and accolades for its food, including being named one of the “Top 100 Restaurants in the United States” by OpenTable. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including fish tacos, cioppino, and grilled salmon.
8. Nepenthe
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1335 MI/ 2148 KM BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.22183, -121.75928
ADDRESS: 48510 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Nepenthe is an iconic restaurant located in Big Sur, California, and is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants along the Pacific Coast Highway. The restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the coastline from its hilltop location, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Nepenthe offers a diverse menu of American and international cuisine, featuring dishes such as burgers, salads, and seafood. The restaurant also has a famous cocktail bar and an extensive wine list, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing drink while taking in the stunning views. The unique atmosphere and delicious food make Nepenthe a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.
9. COAST Big Sur
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1339 MI/ 2155 KM BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 36.20190, -121.72558
ADDRESS: 49901 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Located along the scenic drive of California’s coastline, this place is truly a gem that captures the essence of the laid-back West Coast lifestyle. With its stunning terrace views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains, it’s hard not to feel relaxed and at peace here.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff that make you feel right at home. In addition to the great coffee and beer, they also serve up delicious, freshly baked bread that is out of this world. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a more substantial meal, you won’t be disappointed with the quality and flavor of the food here. The views are truly breathtaking, and there’s something about being near the ocean that is both calming and energizing at the same time. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is definitely a spot you don’t want to miss.
10. Splash Café
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1450 MI/ 2334 KM PISMO BEACH, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 35.14014, -120.64241
ADDRESS: 197 Pomeroy Ave, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
Another great restaurant to add to my list of best restaurants along the Pacific Coast Highway. Splash Cafe in Pismo Beach is a must-visit for seafood lovers. With its laid-back, beachy atmosphere and delicious seafood chowder, it’s no wonder why it’s been a local favorite for over 35 years. The award-winning chowder is made fresh daily and pairs perfectly with their famous sourdough bread. In addition to chowder, they also serve a variety of seafood dishes, sandwiches, and salads, all made with the freshest ingredients. Don’t forget to try their signature clam chowder bread bowl, which is a customer favorite!
11. Neptune’s Net
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1606 MI/ 2585 KM MALIBU, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.05318, -118.96246
ADDRESS: 42505 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265
Neptune’s Net is a legendary seafood restaurant located along the Pacific Coast Highway, and it’s definitely a must-visit spot for seafood enthusiasts. With its stunning ocean views, laid-back vibe, and fresh seafood, it’s no surprise why it’s been a popular destination for over 60 years. The menu offers a variety of seafood dishes, including fish and chips, crab cakes, and shrimp cocktail, all made with locally sourced ingredients. In addition to the delicious seafood, Neptune’s Net is also known for its biker-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular pit stop for motorcyclists cruising along the coast.
12. Paradise Cove Beach Café
PACIFIC COAST HWY: 1618 MI/ 2604 KM MALIBU, CALIFORNIA
GPS: 34.02023, -118.78718
ADDRESS: 28128 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Paradise Cove Beach Café is a hidden gem located along the Malibu coast (Pacific Coast Highway), and it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful beach views. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe and beachy atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a casual meal or drinks with friends. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, burgers, salads, and sandwiches, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to try their famous fish tacos, which are a customer favorite! In addition to the great food, Paradise Cove Beach Café also offers beachside dining and a fun tiki bar, making it a truly unique dining experience.
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the PCH in my travel guide, “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the adventure and wonder of THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY! MUST-HAVE for all West Coast travelers. Visit 202 places on the PCH with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles motorcycle club and an avid traveler. He has completed seven full journeys along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway on his Harley-Davidson and is passionate about promoting this historic drive to others. Mark has also explored the Alaska Highway and Route 66, and has authored three bestselling travel guides on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places,” “Alaska Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops,” and “Pacific Coast Highway Travel Guide – 202 Best Stops.”