10 Restaurants We’d Visit For The Ocean Views Alone

Dining out at a perfectly designed restaurant is always a treat, but there’s one thing that can take any meal to the next level: a great view of the ocean. Cliffs, rooftops, and beachfronts are only some of the ways you can take in the views while enjoying summery fare. From coastal California cafes to Italian caves, these Instagram-worthy restaurants are going to make you want to book a flight to a seaside spot ASAP.

Caroline’s Seaside Cafe, La Jolla, California

The seaside community of La Jolla is the home to some of the most gorgeous southern California views and the chillest vibes. It’s no surprise that Caroline’s Seaside Cafe captures all the best features of this town. With panoramic ocean views, a neutral color scheme, and just the right amount of slatted coverage from the sun, this daytime spot is the perfect place for anyone cruising the coast to relax.

San Cristóbal Baja Pool Bar, Baja, Mexico

Thanks to locations like San Cristóbal, wanderlust seekers are booking trips to Baja like crazy. With gorgeous interior and amenities galore, this hotel exceeds every must-have on an accommodation checklist. Even if you’re not a guest at the hotel, you can snag a day pass to the pool for $25 and enjoy the fantastic pool bar and its flawless views.

La Sponda, Positano, Italy

Coastal Italy will always be a must-visit destination, but the spot that nobody can resist? La Sponda in Positano. With views for days and a bright color palette spanning the coast and cliffs, this Amalfi Coast city is picture perfect. The ivy covered restaurant, La Sponda, is one spot you don’t want to miss. With views of the lively town and sea, this location won’t fail to delight.

The Lido Bayside Grill, Miami

Standard Hotels are always ahead of the game in terms of trendy locations and playful interiors, and the rooftop Lido Bayside Grill in Miami is no exception. Healthy and refreshing food and drink choices pair perfectly with the view that surrounds this rooftop grill. Get comfy in an Acapulco chair, enjoy a top notch meal, and take in the stunning views all day long.

Sphinx, Santorini, Greece

We’re no strangers to the jaw-dropping views that go hand in hand with a trip to Santorini, but this restaurant is a game changer. The Sphinx Wine Restaurant is nestled high among the famous cliffs of this Grecian city. Looking to have an international millennial pink moment? This cliffside terrace has you covered. With a pink foundation, simple white table cloths, and fresh sunflowers on every table, the views speak for themselves.

La Terrasse, Saint-Raphael, France

The South of France just got even chicer thanks to Les Roches Rouges. Fair warning, this Saint-Raphaël spot will induce travel envy in an instant. With the contrast of camel leather seating and white accents against the perfect blue backdrop, you’ll have a hard time saying goodbye to these dining options. With both a terrace and beach restaurant, La Terrasse is the clear winner.

The Surf Lodge Restaurant, Montauk, NY

A weekend stay in Montauk can transform even the biggest city lover into a beach bum. Kicking back, and noshing on some eats doesn’t get better than the Surf Lodge Restaurant (which, okay, isn’t technically oceanfront—it’s on the edge of Fort Pond). Turquoise floors, natural wood, and classic beach art make the restaurant the ultimate laid back dining spot. While you can see the views from the inside, step out to the terrace to really take in the atmosphere while enjoying the market-driven daily menu.

Aux Amis, St. Barths

All sorts of water views are welcomed, but nothing has quite the same appeal as a Caribbean destination. St. Barths is constantly delivering the bluest of views, and Aux Amis takes it to the next level. Dine only a few feet from the clear blue waters—the breeze, blowing palm trees, and outdoor furniture set the scene perfectly.

Grotta Palazzese, Puglia, Italy

If you haven’t yet seen photos of Grotta Palazzese, you’re in for a treat. This restaurant is built right into the side of a cave, and yes, you get to have dinner inside. Add this once-in-a-lifetime spot to your bucket list right now.

Sierra Mar, Big Sur, California  

Big Sur has been a view-centric location to begin with, and Sierra Mar is the best of the bunch. Sitting on the cliffside terrace will make you feel like you’re on top of the world—a feeling that needs to be experienced firsthand. With endless views of the Pacific ocean, cliffs, and lush greenery, you’ll want to spend your sunset hours right here.