MARCO x SB Good Eats
With all the adventures available at your fingertips on MARCO, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll work up a healthy appetite, and there’s nothing more quintessentially Santa Barbara than wrapping up a full day of fun with a delicious bite by the water while soaking in the views.
We’ve partnered with local Santa Barbara foodie SB Good Eats (@sbgoodeats) to give you a list of our favorite restaurants by the water, featuring fresh catches from the local waters, mouthwatering drinks, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean!
Brophy Bros
Directly overlooking the Santa Barbara harbor, Brophy Bros offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the water. You may even see fishing boats bring in the local catch! Don’t miss out on trying the award-winning clam chowder! Brophy’s does not take reservations so expect a little bit of a wait. If the wait is too long or if you’re looking for a quick dining experience, check out Brophy’s smaller sister restaurant “On the Alley” just around the corner. They’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and still have some of Brophy’s classics like fish n’ chips and calamari.
Shoreline Cafe
Shoreline is a lovely, casual setting to enjoy a burgers, tacos, and more, located on Leadbetter Beach. The menu has a large variety and if you’re stepping right off the beach without your shoes, there is a to-go window making it easy to grab a quick bite. Shoreline cafe is perhaps the closest you can get to the water on this list, with tables available right on the sand, as well as a glass enclosed dining area for windier days. Combining a simple yet delicious menu with affordable prices, ease of parking and chill beach vibes, the Shoreline Cafe is easily one of our personal favorites.
The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach
For a more upscale dining experience, check out the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach. A local favorite, The Boathouse offers a wonderful selection of local seafood with a heated patio and fantastic ocean views. For the non-pescatarians, the Pork Belly Benedict and the signature Bloody Mary (garnished with bacon and shrimp) are must-trys. Happy Hour is from 3PM to 8PM Sunday through Thursday, and 8PM to close on Fridays. Arroyo Burro is a very popular dog-walking beach, so make sure to allow time to park as it gets very busy.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
The Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is a small, lively restaurant at the end of Stearns Wharf. While you can usually expect there to be a little bit of a wait, it’s always worth it for the crab, oysters and other local shellfish served here. We recommend the cioppino or clam chowder served in a bread bowl. There’s also a take-out window where you can order and eat at the outside tables on the wharf.
Beachside Bar and Cafe
If you’re just getting into the Santa Barbara Airport or happen to be spending time in the Goleta area or at UCSB, make sure to make a stop at the Beachside Bar and Cafe. Located right before the entrance to UCSB and right on the Goleta Pier, the Beachside Bar and Cafe has a wind-protected outdoor patio with sweeping ocean views. Make sure to try the Paella Del Mar or the Fish and Chips.
