Dock ‘n’ Dine: Best Waterfront Restaurants in San Diego to Get to by Boat

Last Updated on January 31, 2024 by Boatsetter Team

There is nothing better than heading out to the open waters off the coast of San Diego, California, for an exciting day of boating. However, after several hours of being on the water, chances are you may want to head to shore for some food. Well, you are in luck.

Many of the waterfront restaurants in San Diego have docks at the location or a marina nearby. Dining at one of the best waterfront restaurants in the area is the perfect addition to your San Diego boat day. 

1. Bali Hai Restaurant
2. Edgewater Bar & Grill
3. Marion’s Fish Market and Restaurant
4. Mitch’s Seafood
5. San Diego Pier Café

Find available boat rentals in San Diego, CA 

1. Bali Hai Restaurant

Experience Polynesian cuisine at Bali Hai Restaurant, nestled in the San Diego Bay Harbor. This waterfront restaurant offers a unique dining experience with fabulous views of the bay. When dining at Bali Hai Restaurant, guests are treated to a fun yet sophisticated setting, where they can gather with friends and family for mouthwatering food and beverage options.

The Polynesian-themed menu offers guests several options, including the lounge, Sunday brunch, lunch, dinner, and specialty drinks menu. The dinner menu features raw and cold seafood, salads, skewers, pork ribs, steaks, and fresh seafood entrées. 

The sides available help enhance the dining experience at Bali Hai Restaurant, including garlic mashed potatoes, black bean tofu, and island macaroni salad. The decadent dessert menu includes tropical cheesecake, dark chocolate mousse, and matcha cashew panna cotta.

• Address: 2230 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
• Hours: Monday – Thursday, Sunday, 11:30 am – 8:45pm; Friday – Saturday 11:30am – 9:45pm
• Reservations: Yes
• Type of food: Polynesian
• Dockage available: Shelter Island Boat Ramp

2. Edgewater Bar & Grill

The Edgewater Bar & Grill is nestled along San Diego’s Waterfront and has been offering distinctive waterfront dining since 1978. Enjoy brunch, dinner, or cocktails with friends and family in an environment with amazing views, delicious menus, and fresh-air dining. Menu items are created using the freshest local seafood and seasonally sourced ingredients from local businesses. Plus, this location welcomes pets to join you on the patios, which overlook the boardwalk and San Diego Bay.

Brunch menu items include everything from breakfast to burgers. Dinner consists of a selection of shared plates, appetizers, fresh seafood, soups, salads, and more. Finally, don’t forget to hang around for a happy hour, offering several drinks and appetizer specials.

• Address: 861 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Hours: Monday – Friday 10am – 9pm; Saturday – Sunday 9am – 9pm
• Reservations: Yes
• Type of food: American fare 
• Dockage available: Embarcadero Marina Park North

3. Marion’s Fish Market and Restaurant

Marion’s Fish Market and Restaurant provide boaters with a casual fish and seafood restaurant environment. Everyone is treated to a beautiful experience with a menu full of delicious options and service with a sense of humor.

 The outdoor dining seating area offers spectacular views of the water. Menu items include fish and chips to ceviche and fish tacos to clam chowder. Marion’s Fish Market and Restaurant are set on the west end of the plaza food court area in Seaport Village.

Mouthwatering menu options include clam chowder in a bread bowl, seafood combinations, and taco combinations. The build your own platters allow you to create your own meal by selecting your choice of salad, sides, and protein. Protein options for creating your own meal include mahi-mahi, salon, and fried fish.

• Address: 879 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Hours: Monday – Sunday 10am – 9pm
• Reservations: No
• Type of food: Seafood
• Dockage available: Tuna Harbor

4. Mitch’s Seafood

Established in 2008, Mitch’s Seafood has supported the long fishing history in the Point Loma area of San Diego. Patrons enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood in a beautiful waterfront setting with views of the fishing fleet.

 Those looking to enjoy a beverage with friends can try the craft beer from some of the area’s most famous breweries or a glass of wine from family-owned vineyards in California. Mitch’s seafood is the perfect place to taste what the local San Diego waters have to offer.

Mouthwatering menu items include a raw bar and chilled seafood, appetizers, salads, tacos, tostadas, sandwiches, and grilled market fish. Other tasty menu options include assorted breakfast items, fryer baskets, steamed seafood, and various sides created to enhance your dining experience at Mitch’s Seafood.

• Address: 1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106
• Hours:  Monday – Sunday, 8am – 9pm
• Reservations: No
• Type of food: Seafood 
• Dockage available: Yes

5. Sally’s Fish House & Bar 

Sally’s Fish House & Bar is situated on the picturesque waterfront of Harbor City, offering a breathtaking view of the glistening waters and a charming ambiance that captures the essence of coastal dining. Nestled between internationally renowned hotels and with historical landmarks dotting the skyline, Sally’s provides an idyllic setting for a memorable dining experience. If you’re docking ‘n’ dining at Sally’s, we highly recommend the Sally’s Seafood Platter, a bountiful display of the freshest catches from the local waters, expertly prepared and served with a zesty house-made cocktail sauce.

• Address: 1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
• Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11am – 9pm
• Reservations: Yes
• Type of food: Seafood
• Dockage available: Embarcadero Marina Park North

What to read next: 14 Water Activities to Do in San Diego

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