Best Restaurants In South Laguna Near The Beach

South Laguna pairs golden beaches with a dining scene built for sunsets, family strolls and impromptu date nights. If you live here or are exploring a move, eating near the sand is part of daily life. This guide highlights the best restaurants close to the beach, how to plan your visit, and what that lifestyle means for local real estate.

How this list was curated

We focused on places within easy reach of South Laguna’s beach access points along South Coast Highway. Each spot offers at least one of the following: ocean views or coastal ambiance, strong food and service, simple access from the beach, and a range of price points and occasions. We also noted reservation needs, parking, and family‑friendly options. For context on South Laguna’s ocean‑view cluster and transit tips, see the local directory and trolley info from Visit Laguna Beach (ocean‑view dining list and trolley guide).

Quick Snapshot: Top Picks at a Glance

• Best for ocean views: Splashes at Surf & Sand – cliff‑top dining “25 feet above the sea.” Reserve for sunset. $$$–$$$$ (official site)
• Best casual beach bites: La Sirena Grill (South Laguna) – quick tacos and bowls near Treasure Island. Great post‑beach. $–$$ (site)
• Best date‑night/fine dining: The Loft at Montage – polished service, panoramic bluff‑top views. $$$–$$$$ (Montage dining)
• Best seafood: Driftwood Kitchen – coastal cuisine with ocean‑facing seating; popular brunch and dinner. $$–$$$
• Best on‑the‑sand vibe: The Deck on Laguna Beach – one of the few spots right on the sand. $$–$$$
• Best steak & wine: Selanne Steak Tavern – upscale steakhouse in a historic home; Michelin‑recognized. $$$–$$$$ (site)
• Best Asian coastal flavors: Starfish Laguna – lively room across from Montage with shareable plates. $$–$$$ (contact/location)
• Best coffee & breakfast: Bear Coast Coffee – craft espresso and light bites steps from the sand. $–$$ (local favorite; listed on neighborhood dining guides like Ocean View Laguna)

Detailed Recommendations — By Category

Splashes at Surf & Sand Resort

Set above the surf with indoor and palm‑shaded patio seating, Splashes frames the ocean at every turn. The menu leans coastal and Mediterranean, with a sommelier‑guided wine program and seasonal updates. The resort describes the setting as “25 feet above the sea,” and that is exactly how it feels at sunset (Surf & Sand).

• Beach proximity: Cliff‑top over the sand at Surf & Sand. Ideal after an afternoon on the beach below.
• Practical notes: $$$–$$$$. Book sunset or weekend brunch in advance; valet and validated parking available.
• When to go: Golden hour for wide‑open views; breezy evenings are common, so bring a light layer.
• Try this: Day‑boat scallops, seasonal crudo, and a glass from the reserve list.
• Good for: Date night, celebrations, visiting guests.

The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach

Montage is a dining anchor on the bluffs of South Laguna, and The Loft blends polished service with breathtaking views across the coves (Montage dining). Expect all‑day service, thoughtful wine selections and a setting that feels special without being stuffy.

• Beach proximity: Cliff‑top resort above Treasure Island and Aliso beaches; walkable via coastal pathways.
• Practical notes: $$$–$$$$. Reservations recommended, especially for prime patio tables. Valet on site.
• When to go: Sunset dinners or leisurely brunch.
• Try this: Chef‑driven seasonal mains and signature cocktails from the Lobby Lounge next door.
• Good for: Refined date night, elegant family meals, client dinners.

Note on what’s new: Montage’s reimagined Studio Mediterranean reopened to resort guests in mid‑2025 with a public opening scheduled for October 10, 2025. Check current access before planning (Studio coverage).

Driftwood Kitchen

Driftwood is a local favorite for seafood, oysters and sweeping ocean views from its dining room. Brunch and dinner are the stars, and the vibe is relaxed yet polished, perfect after a day on the sand.

• Beach proximity: Cliff‑side along Sleepy Hollow Lane, steps from beach access and Coast Highway.
• Practical notes: $$–$$$. Book ahead for brunch and sunset; street parking is limited, so arrive early.
• When to go: Weekend brunch or sunset dinner.
• Try this: Raw bar selections, lobster pasta and a coastal spritz.
• Good for: Seafood lovers, small groups, visiting family.

The Deck on Laguna Beach

Few places sit this close to the waves. The Deck is literally on the sand, with a breezy patio, shareable seafood and a lively bar scene. It is a go‑to for sunset and casual celebrations, so expect energy and ocean spray on windy days.

• Beach proximity: On the sand. Time your meal around tides and sunsets.
• Practical notes: $$–$$$. Walk‑ins see waits at peak times; join the list early. Valet available nearby.
• When to go: Late afternoon into sunset.
• Try this: Fresh fish tacos, ceviche and margaritas.
• Good for: Beach day finish, groups, casual date night.

Selanne Steak Tavern

Housed in a restored 1934 cottage on South Coast Highway, Selanne delivers a classic steakhouse experience with Laguna charm. The wine list is deep, service is polished and the dining rooms feel intimate and celebratory. The restaurant has been recognized by the Michelin Guide and Wine Spectator (official site).

• Beach proximity: A short walk or drive from the sand along South Coast Highway.
• Practical notes: $$$–$$$$. Reservations are essential on weekends; valet in front during peak periods.
• When to go: Dinner and special occasions.
• Try this: Prime ribeye, steak accoutrements and a sommelier‑guided pairing.
• Good for: Celebrations, client dinners, classic date night.

La Sirena Grill — South Laguna

A beloved local spot across from Montage and near Treasure Island, La Sirena is perfect for quick, fresh Mexican fare. Counter‑service keeps things moving, and the patios are ideal for sandy feet after the beach (site).

• Beach proximity: Steps from coastal paths and beach access.
• Practical notes: $–$$. Expect lines at peak lunch and early dinner; easy for takeout to the sand.
• When to go: Post‑surf breakfast burrito, easy lunch or casual early dinner before sunset.
• Try this: Blackened salmon tacos, carnitas plate and house salsas.
• Good for: Families, casual meetups, quick bites.

Starfish Laguna

Across from Montage in the Aliso Creek shopping area, Starfish brings an Asian‑coastal menu with shareable plates, noodles and a lively bar. It is not oceanfront, but it sits right inside the South Laguna hospitality corridor and is an easy post‑beach choice (contact/location).

• Beach proximity: Just inland from the bluffs, an easy walk from the coastal hotels and beach access points.
• Practical notes: $$–$$$. Reservations recommended for groups; convenient lot parking in the center.
• When to go: Dinner or late‑night bites.
• Try this: Thai basil chicken, miso cod, crispy Brussels sprouts and a sake cocktail.
• Good for: Group dinners, shareable plates, lively bar scene.

Bear Coast Coffee

For a sunrise surf or a mellow beach walk, Bear Coast pours excellent espresso drinks with light pastries and breakfast items. It is the simple, quality‑first option you want a block from the sand (listed among South Laguna casual picks in neighborhood dining roundups such as Ocean View Laguna).

• Beach proximity: Steps from South Coast Highway and beach access points.
• Practical notes: $–$$. Mornings are busy; lines move fast. Street parking is limited, so walk when you can.
• When to go: Early morning or late afternoon for a pick‑me‑up.
• Try this: Iced vanilla latte, cold brew and avocado toast.
• Good for: Coffee runs, remote work breaks, post‑surf refuel.

Practical tips for dining near the beach

• Go early or late. Sunset and weekend brunch fill fast. Aim for early seatings or a later second wave.
• Book ahead. Ocean‑view and resort spots often need reservations, especially in peak season. For Splashes, Driftwood and Montage outlets, reserve several days out in summer.
• Use the free trolley. Parking is limited near the water. The seasonal trolley connects North Laguna, Downtown and South Laguna along Coast Highway (trolley guide).
• Expect valet at resorts. Many oceanfront properties offer valet or validation. Check fees on the restaurant’s page.
• Dress code: Casual coastal to smart‑casual. Bring a light jacket for breezy evenings and terrace dining.
• Outdoor seating: Sunset is beautiful, but plan for glare and cooler temps. Ask for shade or heaters as needed.

How South Laguna’s dining scene reflects lifestyle and local real estate

Walkable, high‑quality dining near the beach adds real value to daily life. For buyers, being able to stroll to coffee, grab tacos after the sand, or book a cliff‑top dinner is a lifestyle premium. For sellers, showcasing proximity to Splashes, Montage dining, or favorite local cafés helps tell a compelling story about the home.

If you are comparing neighborhoods, note distance to beach access, presence of valet or public parking nearby, and noise patterns around popular restaurants. For showings, a quick coffee stop or a sunset reservation can help buyers feel the rhythms of the area. It is a simple concierge touch that makes a difference.

Quick planning checklist for a beach‑to‑dinner outing in South Laguna

• Time your day: Leave the beach 45–60 minutes before your reservation to rinse off and park.
• Pack the basics: Sandals, a light jacket, sunscreen and a phone charger.
• Confirm your table: Double‑check reservations and waitlist texts 30 minutes prior.
• Plan transport: Use rideshare or the trolley during peak hours to skip parking stress.
• Think layers: Even in summer, ocean breezes make patios cooler after sunset.

Conclusion & Local next steps

South Laguna’s restaurants make the most of the coast, from on‑the‑sand seafood to refined bluff‑top dining. Whether you are visiting or planning a move, these spots capture the easy, beach‑adjacent rhythm that locals love. If you want to explore how dining, walkability and beach access fit your home search or sale, Schedule a consultation with Kira Nimmer‑Crabel for a tailored neighborhood tour and next‑step plan.

FAQs

What counts as “South Laguna”?

Locals use “South Laguna” for the southern stretch of the city along South Coast Highway near Montage, Surf & Sand, Aliso Creek and the nearby beaches and bluffs. Tourism pages group many ocean‑view spots here (directory).

Do I need reservations for ocean‑view restaurants?

Often yes, especially at sunset and on weekends. Book Splashes, Montage outlets like The Loft, and Driftwood a few days ahead in peak season.

Is parking difficult near the beach?

It can be. Oceanfront venues may offer valet or validation, but curb spots are limited. The free seasonal trolley reduces parking stress (trolley info).

Which restaurants are actually on the sand?

The Deck on Laguna Beach is one of the few true on‑the‑sand options. Splashes and Driftwood sit cliff‑side with panoramic ocean views.

What’s new at Montage?

Studio Mediterranean reopened to resort guests in mid‑2025 with a public opening scheduled for October 10, 2025. Check current access and hours before you go (Montage dining and news coverage).