Offering the kind of casual beachside dining experience that once prevailed along the Southern California coast, Beach House Inn is—as its name suggests—an old, restored former residence on the water’s edge with an expansive and romantic view of the Pacific. A lively crowd of gabby tourists, preening surfers, and nonchalant locals find the well-prepared, primarily seafood and steak fare a good excuse to stick near the sand, and the ingratiating waitstaff does everything it can to keep them happy. Early birds drifting in at 5 pm can enjoy hearty entrées at nearly half off.

Beach House Inn Information:

• Seafood, steak menu. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Closed Thanksgiving, Dec 25. Bar. Children's menu. Casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking. Outdoor seating.