Shoreline Cafe

Shoreline Café in Santa Barbara is one of the city’s most iconic beachfront dining spots, located at 801 Shoreline Drive directly on Leadbetter Beach near the harbor. Guests can dine with their feet in the sand or relax on a shaded, heated patio overlooking the ocean. The café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, featuring a Baja-inspired menu that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a relaxed coastal vibe.

Signature favorites include Baja-style fish tacos, shrimp tacos, ceviche, clam chowder, and nachos, along with hearty breakfast options such as pancakes, yogurt with granola, and classic egg plates. The drink menu is a major draw, featuring local wines, California craft beers, and beachy cocktails, such as their famous Mai Tai —a tropical blend of platinum and dark rums with fresh fruit juices and a dark rum float. Other popular drinks include margaritas (classic, spicy guava, and mango), mojitos, and Bloody Marys.

Shoreline Café’s weekday happy hour, from 4 to 6 PM, offers discounted drinks and appetizers, including tacos, guacamole, and chowder. It’s a favorite for locals and tourists alike—casual, family-friendly, and just steps from the surf. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast after a morning beach walk or sipping a Mai Tai at sunset, Shoreline Café perfectly captures the laid-back charm and oceanfront beauty of Santa Barbara.