Best Brunch Spots with a View in San Diego: 5 Oceanfront Spots Locals Love

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Few things feel more quintessentially San Diego than brunch by the beach. Brunch with an ocean view is one of the best ways to soak in our beautiful coastline, and we’ve tried just about every spot worth visiting.

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or just want to treat yourself to mimosas and a view, these five oceanfront brunch spots deliver the best of San Diego’s coastal vibe.

See below for where to go, what to order, and insider tips for making the most of your ocean view brunch, and even where to stay nearby if you want to make a whole beach weekend of it.

1. Brockton Villa – La Jolla

Perched in a historic beach cottage above La Jolla Cove, Brockton Villa offers some of the best brunch views in town — along with one of San Diego’s most famous brunch dishes: the Coast Toast. This custardy French toast is worth the hype. From the patio, you’ll watch sea lions sunbathe and kayakers paddle by.

• See the menu here. Keep in mind that the patio fills up fast, especially on weekends. Make a reservation in advance if you can!

• What to order: Coast Toast + Crab Ipanema Benedict

• Local tip: Parking in La Jolla is tough. Arrive early or stay nearby at a La Jolla Hotel so you can walk to brunch. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available.

2. Cody’s La Jolla – La Jolla Village

Just steps from the beach, Cody’s has a bright, relaxed vibe and a patio with sweeping ocean views. This is where locals come after a morning surf session for pancakes, lobster rolls, and a Bloody Mary.

• See the menu here. Keep in mind that they do not take reservations, but you can still try to call ahead to let them know you'll be coming.

• What to order: Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes + Lobster Roll

• Local tip: Bring your pup! Cody’s is dog-friendly and even has water bowls for furry brunch guests. If you're in the area, be sure to check out La Jolla Cove or these 6 Scenic Spots in La Jolla Worth Visiting.

3. JRDN at Tower23 – Pacific Beach

If you’re looking for a modern, upscale brunch with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, JRDN at Tower23 Hotel is your spot. This sleek restaurant sits right on Pacific Beach’s boardwalk — perfect for people-watching while you sip on craft cocktails.

• Check out the menu here, and you could even book a stay at Tower 23 Hotel for a true beachfront getaway!

• What to order: Short Rib Hash + craft Bloody Mary

• Local tip: After brunch, take a stroll along the boardwalk — or rent a beach cruiser bike to explore the coast.

4. Poseidon – Del Mar

For a classic, toes-in-the-sand experience, head to Poseidon in Del Mar. You’re literally dining on the beach here, and the vibe is relaxed yet elegant. Watch surfers ride the waves as you sip champagne and enjoy the salty breeze.

• See the menu here. Ask specifically for outdoor seating for the full experience.

• What to order: Seafood Omelette + a glass of bubbly

• Local tip: Want to stay nearby? Book a room at L'Auberge Del Mar and make it a full beach weekend.

5. Pacific Coast Grill – Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Just north of Del Mar, Pacific Coast Grill offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views around, with a chic yet breezy Cardiff vibe. Sit on the patio and watch for dolphins while you brunch.

• See the menu here. Choose to sit on the patio for a beach experience!

• What to order: Chilaquiles + Lobster Benedict

• Local tip: The parking can be difficult here. For the most seamless experience, plan to valet your car. You can pay to park at Cardiff State Beach next door, try to park on the PCH, or across the street.

Plan your trip with the Ultimate Trip Planner Spreadsheet

Make the Most of Your Ocean View Brunch

Here are a few local tips to turn brunch into a full day on the coast:

• Stay overnight at a beachfront hotel or vacation rental via VRBO or Airbnb to beat the morning parking hassle.

• Bring polarized sunglasses and sunscreen — even morning sun can be intense.

• After brunch, explore nearby beaches, or book a San Diego sailing cruise to see the coastline from the water.

View from JRDN Restaurant in Pacific Beach

Whether you’re here for the weekend or a San Diego local looking for a new favorite spot, these brunch spots are a perfect way to savor the city’s best ocean views — and a plate of something delicious while you’re at it.

Looking for more San Diego beach dining information? Check out these 10 oceanfront restaurants in San Diego with a view, as well as our beach reviews for more information on oceanfront and beachfront dining at San Diego's most popular beaches.