Salty’s on Alki Beach in Seattle, WA — Photo courtesy of Salty’s on Alki Beach
Whether oceanside, lakeside or along a riverbank, these 10 restaurants offer some of the most epic waterfront views in the United States. Make a reservation at one of these establishments, and you might find yourself with a front-row seat to crashing waves at The Marine Room in California or dining with manta rays at Manta in Hawaii.
Harbor House Inn, Elk, California
Dining at Harbor House Inn in Elk, California — Photo courtesy of Brendan McGuigan
Situated in the Northern California town of Elk, the restaurant at Harbor House Inn features spectacular views of the Pacific that are meant to be shared with a special someone who can appreciate a proper tasting menu and lengthy wine list. In fact, you’ll find nearly 3,000 bottles to choose from in this two Michelin-starred restaurant’s wine cellar. As for the food, it’s all seasonal and locally sourced, put together by James Beard semi-finalist chef Matthew Kammerer. Reservations are required, and patrons must be 15 or older.
Anable Basin Sailing, Long Island City, New York
Anable Basin Sailing in Long Island City, NY — Photo courtesy of Anable Basin
While gorgeous waterfront and skyline views sometimes come with a high-price menu, Anable Basin Sailing is a hidden gem in Long Island City, with a menu your wallet will love. If you’re feeling fancy, a skirt steak or Mediterranean platter paired with a bottle of wine will do. Otherwise, opt for a burger or a hot dog and a Corona at this cash-only establishment. It’s about a 12-minute walk from the LIC Ferry Terminal, where you can continue to enjoy the East River and Manhattan skyline.
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Joia Beach, Miami, Florida
Joia Beach in Miami, Florida — Photo courtesy of Joia Beach
For a perfect little slice of beachside paradise, look no further than Miami’s Joia Beach. Part restaurant, part beach club, Joia offers unparalleled views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay. It’s one of the few spots to catch a solid sunset in the 305. A European-inspired menu and lengthy drink list (cocktails, beer and wine, but also coffee and tea service) mean there’s a little something for everyone. Once you’re done, you’re free to dip your toes in the sand or even depart by boat — if you arrived in one, that is!
The Marine Room, La Jolla, California
The Marine Room in La Jolla, California — Photo courtesy of The Marine Room
For a real wow factor, there’s nothing quite like The Marine Room. Since 1941, this fine dining establishment has impressed generations of guests with sweeping views of the ocean while serving up award-winning French cuisine and seafood with class and style. But what truly sets The Marine Room apart is its high-tide dinners, when the massive Pacific waves crash right up against the panoramic glass. A true sight to behold!
Mill and Canyon Grill Restaurant, Lampe, Missouri
Mill and Canyon Grill in Lampe, Missouri — Photo courtesy of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
While a landlocked state might not be the first place to cross your mind for waterfront dining, you’ll certainly be pleased as punch with the views at Mill and Canyon Grill Restaurant, in Lampe, Missouri. Part of Dogwood Canyon Park, this impressive, family-friendly establishment features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Little Indian Creek and a gorgeous 120-foot waterfall. It’s just the spot to grab some lunch or dinner, with offerings like Bison burgers, trout cakes or some good ol’ mac and cheese for the kids. A perfect pit stop while exploring the beauty of the Ozarks.
Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill, New Haven, Connecticut
Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill in New Haven, Connecticut — Photo courtesy of Shell and Bones Oyster Bar and Grill
Look out over the sparkling waters of the Atlantic while noshing on oysters, clams or even tacos at this award-winning waterfront restaurant. Located in New Haven’s historic City Point, it’s a decidedly romantic venue, though your brunch crew will be just as happy here.
Sit on the outdoor deck for the best views — plenty of sailboats on the horizon — and enjoy the sustainably caught seafood. Shell and Bones holds claim to being the only Connecticut restaurant that The James Beard Foundation acknowledges as “committed to the goals of the Smart Catch Program.”
Salty’s, Seattle, Washington
Salty’s on Alki Beach in Seattle, WA — Photo courtesy of Salty’s on Alki Beach
It’s hard to beat a waterfront view, except, of course, when it also includes a stunning skyline. And when you dine at Salty’s on Alki Beach in Seattle, you get exactly that: delightful views of Elliott Bay with the shimmering Emerald City buildings on the horizon. Dine on Alaskan salmon, Dungeness crab or Maine lobster at this sustainable seafood restaurant and enjoy a glass from their award-winning wine selection. No matter what you choose, it’s all great, especially with that view.
Sierra Mar, Big Sur, California
Sierra Mar in Big Sur, California — Photo courtesy of Kodiak Greenwood
Anyone who’s ever been to Big Sur (or even seen photos, honestly) knows the majesty of the Pacific Coast views. But once you’re seated at your table at Sierra Mar, you’ll understand just how gorgeous nature can truly be. Part of the Post Ranch Inn, Sierra Mar’s floor-to-ceiling windows give patrons the opportunity to feel as though they’re floating over the ocean. Coupled with an incomparable garden-centric dining experience, it makes for an unforgettable experience.
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Breeze Ocean Kitchen, Palm Beach, Florida
Breeze Ocean Kitchen in Palm Beach, Florida — Photo courtesy of Eau Palm Beach
Open-air and facing the Atlantic, Breeze Ocean Kitchen in Manalapan is hard to beat for waterfront views. Visitors to this establishment, which is part of the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, can sit inside or on the terrace under the shade of palm trees and umbrellas. Watch the waves come in while dining on fresh seafood, specialty cocktails and local craft beers. Come by Friday evenings for live music, which pairs nicely with the azure ocean beyond.
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Manta, Kohala Coast, Hawaii
Manta on Kohala Coast, Hawaii — Photo courtesy of Mauna Kea Resort
Few states can compete with waterfront dining the way Hawaii can. At Manta, you get a stellar view of Kauna’oa Bay. Part of the iconic Mauna Kea Resort, Manta offers a scrumptious breakfast buffet and delectable dinners, with offerings that include tacos, salads, scallops, soufflés and more.
Sip on fresh juices, French-pressed Kona coffees or a glass of wine from Manta’s award-winning list. Make sure to stay for the magical sunsets. Afterward, watch the giant manta rays swim, float and dive in the evening (in the glow of spotlights) from the resort’s nearby viewing platform, just steps away.
