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  • Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove

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Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove

Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove Details

  • Dining Style: Casual Dining
  • Website: http://thebeachcombercafe.com
  • Email: info@thebeachcombercafe.com
  • Phone: (949) 376-6900
  • Hours of Operation: Breakfast: Monday - Sunday: 7:00am - 11:15am; Lunch: Monday - Sunday: 11:30am - 4:15pm; Dinner: Monday - Sunday: 4:30pm - 10:00pm
  • Payment Options: AMEX, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, Visa
  • Cuisine: Californian, Seafood
  • Executive Chef: Executive Chef: Carlos Olivera
  • Dress Code: Casual Dress
  • Accepts Walk-Ins: Yes
  • Additional Details: Beer, Cafe, Full Bar, Non-Smoking Restaurant, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Personal wines welcome, Personal wines welcome (corkage fee applies), View, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Catering: Crashing surf and breathtaking sunsets are the backdrops of your Southern California dream event. The Beachcomber's Catering division offers four stunning sites within the California State Park Historic District or will travel to your desired location.
  • Private Party Facilities: 3 Beautiful settings able to accommodate 25-200 people.

    Promenade-located right on the beach

    Outdoor Deck- See the beautiful sunsets and have Catalina in the backround.

    Vistor Center- Perfect for a Cocktail Party
  • Private Party Contact: Jennifer McCallister (949) 644-8759
  • Entertainment: Live Guitar on Thursday nights

Getting there

  • Cross Street: Los Trancos
  • Parking: Public Lot
  • Parking Details: Validated Parking is available at the Los Trancos parking lot adjacent to Pacific Coast Highway, just a short walk or shuttle ride from the restaurant and beach.
A word from Beachcomber Cafe - Crystal Cove
The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove provides ocean front dining in the Historic District of the Crystal Cove State Park with breath taking views of the Newport Coastline and Catalina Island. Situated steps from the sandy beach, The Beachcomber's outdoor patio provides the perfect spot to enjoy the… ocean's breeze while sipping on your favorite cocktail or enjoying one of the many favorite entrees and appetizers.

The Beachcomber's outdoor tropical bar 'The Bootlegger' with thatch roofing provides the perfect spot to escape from the world while enjoying one of many tropical vivations.Continued
Foodspotting photos
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Awards voted by OpenTable diners
  • Diners' Choice WinnerBest Ambiance
  • Diners' Choice WinnerCalifornian
  • Diners' Choice WinnerGreat for Brunch
Diner Reviews
  • "We have been here several times and keep coming back. Happy they take reservations and that we get a great seat everytime. Our favorite time to still go is at sunset with the raising of the martini flag."
    Dined on 3/2/2014
  • "Although we made a reservation and were on time a table for six was not saved for us in the front and more desirable part of the room. We were seated in a side area missing much of the view we went for. Three of us ordered the lamb shank, tow came with the rest of the orders, I waited for an additional three or four minutes for mine which was cild inside. Overall, not the pleasant experience we have come to expect at the Beachcomber"
    Dined on 2/26/2014
  • "This is one of the best places in OC to dine next to the beach. A walk on the beach after lunch is a must!"
    Dined on 2/26/2014
  • "One of our favorite Laguna restaurants! The food is great and the Beachcomber is right on the sand in Crystal Cove. Be sure to make reservations! Consistent food and service and very friendly staff! Parking is across the highway; allow time to walk or take the tram which is a small fee. The Beachcomber is our favorite breakfast spot, but the lunches and dinners are excellent also. The coconut macadamia nut pancakes are fabulous!!"
    Dined on 2/18/2014
  • "Everything at this historic site is a dream come true. The breakfast menu includes many favorite items and a few new combos we found exciting and delicious. Our server, Oscar, is an elegant young man with perfect manners and was very aware of the proper pacing of our meal which only enhanced our first experience at Crystal Cove. The setting is unbeatable and every visited to SoCal needs to find this hidden gem.We have a reservation for dinner this coming week and can't wait to revisit this very special establishment."
    Dined on 2/25/2014
  • "We always love the Beachcomber! Wonderful place to go anytime!"
    Dined on 2/25/2014
  • "Good view, but go during the daylight..... Night dinner is average at best and service is average."
    Dined on 2/24/2014
  • "This is by far my favorite restaurant in SoCal! The food is excellent and being on the beach, you can't beat the location. I would highly recommend that you go early and catch the sunset on the beach! Reservations highly recommended as there is often a 2 hour wait. Make sure you ask to sit outside on the patio."
    Dined on 2/23/2014
  • "Made a reservation seven weeks in advance for Valentine's Day. I requested a prime table out on the patio area. We arrived 20 minutes early and were pointed out the nice table that set aside for us. we just need to wait for the couple who was currently there to finish. However when we were called to go to our table the manager had decided to switch us from a good table to the absolute worst table on the patio. One in the back corner of the patio that is hardly ever used. Had no view and was by the door that servers and patrons came in and out of constantly. I didn't want to make a scene with my wife and make things worse. I've been here many times but this'll be my last."
    Dined on 2/14/2014
  • "We really had great service and prompt food at the Beachcomber. We celebrate our family birthday's there. We come from three different areas and all meet for the food, ambiance and of course, the ocean. We always make reservations, and always go for breakfast. Thank you."
    Dined on 2/19/2014
  • "The breakfast menu is creative besides having delicious basics. The beignets are a special treat. The service has always been great with friendly and helpful waiters. The view of the beach and water can't get better. We were also excited to see dozens of dolphins just beyond the breaking waves. We come here every time we are in California."
    Dined on 2/20/2014
  • "Amazing experience for my out of town guests! Would recommend for everyone to see what an lovely establishment you have."
    Dined on 2/20/2014
  • "We were overwhelmed by our entire wonderful dining experience, but be sure to reserve. You know it's different when instead of the usual OC valet parking you park in a lot across PCH and walk or shuttle to the Cafe. There you are greater by a beach scene and cottage from a bygone day. So California of another era. You can easily stroll around and reminisce for 30 minutes before or after the meal. We sat outside on a beautiful day and the staff was super fabulous while the food was beyond our expectation."
    Dined on 2/20/2014
  • "We had a lovely birthday dinner in February at The Beachcomber. The view of the ocean and beach was amazing and you often don't expect good food in a place like that. BUT the food was very good, great selection and attentive service. The ambiance was great and the price was very reasonable considering all of those factors."
    Dined on 2/18/2014
  • "Loved every minute! The moon didn't come out as we had planned but the food was superb.service great...especially the waiter that tried desperately to keeo the front panels closed to keep me warm! everyone was so thoughtful & attentive! We're coming back for breakfast soon. Oh, and I loved the "Handicapped" parking so close so I could enjoy without being out of breath! THANK YOU FOR A MEMORABLE EVENING!"
    Dined on 2/17/2014
  • "My wife, daughter and daughters friend and I went to have breakfast on Saturday Feb 15. We waited over an hour to only find out when I finally went up to check on the progress of our name on the list that the power went out. At the least I suggest the host should have notified the people waiting by sending someone among the waiting guests. On top of that when we left to find another place to eat we headed towards CDM and saw all the traffic lights were down from the power outage. When I got to the first light at Cameo Highlands I decided to do a U-Turn so not to spend all the rest of the morning in the traffic nightmare and was pulled over by a very unfriendly Newport Police officer who issue me a ticket."
    Dined on 2/17/2014
  • "The plastic tenting was difficult to see through, as it was wrinkled and not very clear to enjoy the view. No heaters on the patio, so we were cold. Service was great and the food was presented well and delicious! The worst part: there was a family of 4 with two small children that let out piercing screams about every 5 minutes. When we spend $260. on dinner, we are expecting a more relaxing setting. It definately got on our nerves. We're hoping to return soon, and will be better prepared with warmer clothes."
    Dined on 2/17/2014
  • "Very casual. Right on the beach with a spectacular view of Sunset. Good engaging and accomodating service from the host to the bartender and the waiter. Fun and open. Enjoyed the food. A bit expensive but worth the experience. We would recommend the Beachcomber and would go back again."
    Dined on 2/12/2014
  • "The food is great and the location is amazing. It was pretty cold the night we went but I'm definitely going back during the summer. The Ahi Tacos were spectacular!"
    Dined on 2/16/2014
  • "This was our first time here. My birthday, I was NOT disappointed. Had a wonderful friendly waiter & bar tender. Great fun bloody mary (yes it was fun). Our food was very attractive and tasted as good as it looked. Romantic little stroll on the beach after dinner. Could be a bit pricey if you take a group and you pay the whole tab, ha. So I was pleased it was just my hubby and I for our first visit here. With that said, we WILL be back and hope to bring family with us when they visit from out of state. Also, the walk from the parking lot to the restaurant was very easy and just plain nice :) We rode the tram back due to it was dark, but I would have enjoyed the walk back too. Thanks for a memorable night."
    Dined on 2/12/2014
  • "The weather and sunset created the perfect atmosphere for a romantic and unforgetable dinner. The four course pre-set dinner menu selections were incredible and the wine parings a great compliment. The service was as always, wonderful. A really special evening all around. I will definitely want to dine there again next year!"
    Dined on 2/14/2014
  • "When the service is poor, the whole conversation starts to revolve around the service and the whole wonderful food looses the highlighted place it deserves..I left a 10% tip. I have not left such a low tip in 20 years. Never below 20%. It was I understand Valentines Day and our anniversary but the restaurant was not over busy but booked. We brought a fine bottle of vine from our cellar for the occasion. The waiter opened it but never touched it again. Half way through we were rushed and at the end could not get his attention. This is one of our favorite restaurants."
    Dined on 2/14/2014
  • "No other restaurant is RIGHT ON the beach! Go at sunset, happy hour and Brunch. Just make a reservation first! The wait can be up to 2 hours! Yikes! Expensive but definitely worth it!"
    Dined on 2/14/2014
  • "Loved this restaurant - on the beach and we saw dolphins and a whale while eating breakfast for Valentine's Day. We had a reservation, so only had to wait about 5-10 minutes instead of what can be 45 minutes. The food was excellent and we had a really great waitress."
    Dined on 2/14/2014
  • "The service was great, the food was delicious, the view and atmosphere are what make Beachcomber a desirable place."
    Dined on 2/14/2014
  • "Menu is limited, but all food is really good. Restaurant is in crystal cove on the beach; I have been to a lot of restaurants in Southern California, and I am not sure there is a better location for any restaurant in SoCal."
    Dined on 1/7/2014
  • "this restaurant has the best location but the food feels like one of those touristy places, taking advantage of its setting and not making the effort to be great or particularly current, but charging like its the best food out there. it's a restaurant, remember?."
    Dined on 2/12/2014
  • "This was not the first time we've eaten there. We go there several times a year. We enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach and a relaxing mid-afternoon meal of delicious food in full view of the ocean. Parking is free (if you spend at least $15--not hard to do) and you can enjoy the beach and ocean for "free" as long as you grab a meal there."
    Dined on 2/11/2014
  • "With a fantastic view of the Pacific Ocean, this restaurant really does not have to have good food to have customers. What a lovely surprise to find that the food was really good! My Cioppino had a very flavorful broth and the seafood was not overcooked as can happen with this dish. The crusty bread served with it tasted like the sourdough in San Francisco. My husband's fish and chips were not greasy and the fish was very flakey. The 3 house made sorbets were very fruity and perfect for a warm day at the beach."
    Dined on 2/10/2014
  • "Do not reserve a table. If you don't get there at least 10 minutes early they give away your table. All your party must be present to be seated, or they give away your table."
    Dined on 2/10/2014
  • "I love coming here for breakfast only as the view makes up for the cold vanilla latte that they just can't seem to get hot ever. the difficulty getting there, making a reservation, walking down in time, and then once you get there, not being able to get seated cuz your friend is in the bathroom or parking the car, is aggravating to say the least. I would like to get a basket of binets (spelling!) and a coffee while waiting the few extra minutes it takes for the one party member to get there. the table is already allocated for us. i don't understand why they don't seat you. i find it unceremonious and unwelcoming. we live very close by and we would come more often if these major problems were reduced. atmosphere & view is unmatched."
    Dined on 2/10/2014
  • "We went to the beachcomber for my birthday, I had never been there. What a fabulous surprise! The staff was great, they were friendly, and knowledgeable about everything crystal Cove! They were also kindly accommodating as my little dinner party grew from 5 to 9 people. The food was top notch, both dinner and breakfast. Everyone needs to go there... But I don't want this secret spread!"
    Dined on 2/9/2014
  • "Went for my birthday breakfast. Very good and relaxing :) service was great thank you!"
    Dined on 2/6/2014
  • "We only went for breakfast so I wouldn't be able to commit on the wine or bar list but the breakfast was awesome. I highly recommend this resterant."
    Dined on 2/6/2014
  • "The pork loin was dry, but the short ribs & scallops were good. It was a cold evening but the heaters kept us warm. It is a casual setting but the ocean view is wonderful."
    Dined on 2/4/2014
  • "tIt may have been a cold rainy day, but the staff at the Beachcomber Cafe made our trip to the beach for us and our out of town guests a wonderful experience. They had a great table ready for us, and they were helpful and fun and very accommodating."
    Dined on 1/30/2014
  • "Beautiful location on the beach front with great ambiance. Food delicious & reasonably priced. Great for families as you can spend a little time playing on the beach or go for a nice walk on the beach front. Don't forget to pre-book as the waiting can be long."
    Dined on 2/2/2014
  • "Love the Beachcomber! We come here every time we are in the area! It is always great food and the service is always great! Such an awesome location! We had a large group and they handled the check wonderfully! The Bloody Mary is huge! We recommend it to everyone we know!"
    Dined on 12/23/2013
  • "I have eaten there for breakfast and lunch which were very good. However dinner was just mediocre. The food was not very good."
    Dined on 1/26/2014
  • "My friend and I had a reservation for two. Found out four more friends were in town. The staff was extremely accommodating. They put us on a wait list for a table for six, and we were seated sooner than our actual reservation!"
    Dined on 2/1/2014
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Diners' Choice Awards
  • Los Angeles / Orange County Winners
  • Best Ambiance
  • Orange County Winners
  • Best Ambiance
  • Californian
  • Great for Brunch
  • Outdoor Dining
  • Scenic View
  • Most Booked
Learn more ›