For a family, summer is all about making memories, enjoying good food, and soaking up the beauty of the outdoors. For my family, nothing encapsulates that better than a perfect day of oceanfront dining in Santa Barbara. As a dad who loves a hearty meal but also cherishes quality time with my wife and kids, I’ve come to appreciate what Santa Barbara offers when it comes to family-friendly restaurants with a view. From fresh seafood to kid-approved menus and jaw-dropping ocean vistas, this city has a little bit of everything.
Let me take you through why Santa Barbara has become one of our favorite spots for family dining by the sea. I’ll share my personal highlights, places we’ve grown to love, and what makes each one special for adults and kids alike.
A Scenic Drive to Kick Things Off
The day usually begins with a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Windows down, sea breeze in our faces, and music playing—it’s these little moments that set the tone. For dads like me, the drive itself is a chance to decompress while the kids get excited pointing out the ocean and boats along the way. By the time we arrive in Santa Barbara, everyone’s in a great mood and ready for food.
Why Santa Barbara Stands Out
When it comes to oceanfront dining, Santa Barbara nails it. The city effortlessly balances laid-back coastal vibes with a touch of sophistication. It’s not just about the views (although they’re incredible); the food is fresh, often locally sourced, and there’s a clear effort to cater to families. As a dad, I appreciate any restaurant where I can enjoy my meal without feeling like we’re inconveniencing someone because the kids are laughing or dropping a fry under the table. Santa Barbara gets it—families are welcome.
Picking the Perfect Spot: My Top Choices
While there are plenty of options, we’ve narrowed down a few favorites over the years. Here’s a closer look at some of the restaurants my family and I have loved:
- The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
This one’s a crowd-pleaser for our family. Located right on the sand at Arroyo Burro Beach, the Boathouse offers a relaxed vibe with incredible ocean views. My wife and I usually start with their ahi tuna tartare while the kids dive into the fish and chips, which are always a hit. Bonus points for the outdoor seating—you can watch surfers while you eat. And when the kids get restless, they can run around on the beach right after the meal. Win-win.
- Stearns Wharf: Moby Dick Restaurant
Stearns Wharf is an experience in itself, and dining at Moby Dick is the cherry on top. With panoramic views of the harbor, it’s a seafood lover’s dream. I’m a sucker for their clam chowder in a bread bowl, while my wife often opts for a fresh salad with avocado and shrimp. The kids love the chicken tenders (classic) and watching the boats pass by. After lunch, we always stroll the pier to check out the local shops.
- Toma Restaurant & Bar
This one’s for evenings when we want something a little more upscale but still family-friendly. Toma offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and their outdoor seating faces the marina, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunset. I’lladmit, I’m a steak guy, and their filet mignon is worth the visit. The kids love their pasta dishes, and the staff always goes out of their way to make sure we’re comfortable.
Kid-Friendly Perks Everywhere
One of the reasons we keep coming back to Santa Barbara for family dining is how accommodating the restaurants are for kids. High chairs are always available, most menus have kid-friendly options, and the staff in almost every place we’vevisited has been incredibly welcoming. As a dad, little things like crayons at the table or a friendly server who takes the time to chat with the kids make a huge difference.
And let’s not forget dessert! Almost every spot we’ve visited has some kind of sweet treat to end the meal. Whether it’sice cream, a warm brownie, or churros, it’s the perfect way to cap off the experience and keep the kids happy.
Beyond the Food: The Atmosphere
It’s not just the meals that make these places special; it’s the atmosphere. There’s something magical about dining with the sound of waves in the background or watching the sun dip below the horizon while you sip on a cold drink. Even the kids seem to pick up on the relaxed energy and are usually better behaved (most of the time!). The outdoor seating at many of these restaurants means we’re not cooped up indoors, and there’s space for the kids to stretch their legs if needed.
Making It a Full Day Experience
One of my favorite things about oceanfront dining in Santa Barbara is that it’s not just about the meal—it’s the whole day. We usually pair lunch or dinner with some kind of activity to keep the kids entertained. Here are a few tried-and-true options:
- A Beach Walk After Your Meal: Many of the oceanfront spots are located just steps from the sand, making it easy to move from the table to the beach. The kids love collecting shells or just running around while my wife and I enjoy the view.
- Exploring Stearns Wharf: After eating, we like to wander the pier, popping into shops or visiting the Sea Center. It’s fun for the kids and gives us a chance to walk off the meal.
- Renting Bikes Along the Waterfront: On occasion, we rent bikes and cruise along the Cabrillo Bike Path. It’s an easy way to see the coastline and work up an appetite before our meal.
A Dad's Take on the Experience
As a dad, what I love most about these outings isn’t just the food or the views—it’s seeing my family happy. There’ssomething so satisfying about watching your kids excitedly point out a pelican flying by or laugh at the sight of a wave crashing on the beach. It’s these simple moments that remind me why we prioritize experiences like this.
Santa Barbara’s oceanfront dining isn’t just about filling your stomach; it’s about feeding your soul. There’s a calmness to the city that I can’t quite describe—something about the mix of salty air, great food, and family that makes everything feel just right.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Visit
If you’re thinking about making a trip to Santa Barbara for some oceanfront dining, here’s my advice: do it. Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to grab lunch or a more refined dinner with a view, you’ll find something for every mood and occasion. And if you have kids, rest assured that Santa Barbara knows how to cater to families.
Take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy the food. More importantly, enjoy the company. After all, summer is about making memories, and there’s no better way to do that than with your family by the ocean.
