Sunsets Waterfront Dining Menu: Fresh Seafood & Coastal Cocktails
If you are looking for the perfect blend of the “Aloha Spirit” and fresh Pacific seafood, the Sunsets Waterfront Dining menu delivers. Located in the beautiful Capistrano Beach area of Dana Point, California, this independently owned staple is famous for its panoramic ocean views, legendary Coconut Shrimp, and laid-back island atmosphere.
Whether you are planning a weekend breakfast by the beach or searching for a sunset dinner spot with strong Mai Tais, having accurate menu items and pricing is essential. Unlike outdated PDF menus that are hard to read on your phone, this comprehensive guide provides a fully updated, mobile-friendly look at everything Sunsets Bar & Grill has to offer.
Last Updated: March 2026 (Prices reflect recent 2026 adjustments).
Complete Sunsets Waterfront Dining Menu with Prices
Below is the complete, updated menu. We have organized the dishes into easy-to-read sections so you can quickly find your customer favorites before you arrive.
🏝️ Starters & Shareable Plates (The “Sunset” Appetizers)
Start your meal with these Hawaiian-inspired appetizers. The generous portion sizes make these plates perfect for sharing with your table while you enjoy the ocean breeze.
| Menu Item | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coconut Shrimp ⭐ | $17.50 | Large shrimp breaded in sweet coconut flakes, fried gold, served with a spicy marmalade. | 580 |
| Ahi Poke | $19.25 | Fresh sashimi-grade tuna cubed with soy, ginger, sesame oil, and onions. Served with wonton chips. | 420 |
| Crispy Calamari | $16.50 | Lightly breaded rings and tentacles served with cocktail sauce and a fresh lemon wedge. | 610 |
| Sunsets Wings | $16.25 | One pound of wings. Choices: Buffalo, Teriyaki, or BBQ. Served with ranch and celery. | 780 |
| Island Nachos | $15.50 | House-made chips topped with black beans, melted cheese, jalapeños, and pico de gallo. | 950 |
| Add Kalua Pork to Nachos | +$4.25 | Slow-roasted Hawaiian pulled pork added to your Island Nachos. | +250 |
🌮 Signature Waterfront Entrees
The main courses feature a mix of fresh daily catches and hearty, land-based grill favorites. If you enjoy the coastal menus found at places like 550 Waterfront Druthers, you will appreciate the fresh seafood preparation here.
| Menu Item | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahi Mahi Tacos ⭐ | $20.75 | Two large flour tortillas with grilled or blackened Mahi, cabbage, avocado crema, and salsa. Served with black beans. | 680 |
| Macadamia Nut Crusted Halibut | $33.50 | Fresh halibut fillet with a crunchy macadamia crust, topped with lemon butter sauce. Served with coconut rice. | 720 |
| The Sunsets Burger | $18.25 | 1/2 lb wagyu-angus blend, cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, butter lettuce, and secret “Sunset sauce” on a brioche bun. | 890 |
| Kalua Pork Sandwich | $17.50 | Slow-roasted Hawaiian-style pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and pineapple coleslaw on a toasted roll. | 760 |
| Sunset Sirloin (8oz) | $29.75 | Center-cut sirloin grilled to order, served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. | 810 |
🍳 Saturday & Sunday Breakfast Menu
Served exclusively on weekends from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM. Get there early to secure a window seat for your morning coffee.
| Menu Item | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loco Moco ⭐ | $17.50 | Traditional island style: white rice, burger patty, brown gravy, topped with two over-easy eggs. | 920 |
| Honeymooners French Toast | $15.25 | Thick-cut Hawaiian sweet bread dipped in vanilla cinnamon batter, topped with fresh berries. | 740 |
| Beachside Benedict | $18.25 | Poached eggs and Canadian bacon on English muffins with hollandaise. Served with breakfast potatoes. | 850 |
🍟 Kids Menu (Keiki Menu)
| Menu Item | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keiki Chicken Tenders | $10.50 | Two large breaded chicken tenders served with a choice of fries or fresh fruit. | 520 |
| Kids Fish & Chips | $11.50 | One piece of battered cod served with fries and a small side of tartar sauce. | 610 |
| Surfer’s Grilled Cheese | $8.95 | Classic sourdough bread with melted cheddar cheese, served with fries. | 480 |
🍹 Coastal Cocktails & Beverages
Nothing complements waterfront dining better than a tropical drink. Much like the laid-back riverfront vibe at Roosters on the River, the bar program here is designed for pure relaxation.
| Menu Item | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature Mai Tai ⭐ | $14.50 | Light and dark rums, pineapple juice, orange curacao, and orgeat syrup. | 280 |
| Big Wave Golden Ale (Draft) | $8.25 | Refreshing Hawaiian golden ale served ice cold on draft. | 160 |
| Tropical Iced Tea | $4.50 | Freshly brewed fruit-infused iced tea. (Free refills) | 5 |
| Fresh Lemonade | $4.50 | Classic lemonade. Add strawberry or mango flavor for $0.50. | 120 |
🍨 Decadent Desserts
| Menu Item | Price | Description | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hula Pie ⭐ | $11.50 | Macadamia nut ice cream on an Oreo cookie crust, topped with hot fudge and whipped cream. | 980 |
| Warm Pineapple Upside Down Cake | $9.95 | Classic warm pineapple cake served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. | 710 |
Most Popular Dishes at Sunsets
If it is your first time visiting, you might wonder what the absolute best items are. Based on local reviews and staff recommendations, here are the most popular dishes you should consider:
- Coconut Shrimp: This is the undisputed champion of the appetizer menu. The shrimp are massive, the coconut breading is crispy without being overly sweet, and the spicy marmalade dipping sauce provides the perfect tangy kick.
- Mahi Mahi Tacos: A staff favorite for a reason. You get two heavily stuffed flour tortillas loaded with fresh, flaky Mahi (order it blackened for extra flavor). The avocado crema balances the spices perfectly.
- Loco Moco: A staple of authentic Hawaiian comfort food. It is a massive, filling breakfast option that cures any weekend hangover. The rich brown gravy over the over-easy eggs and rice is deeply satisfying.
- Hula Pie: Do not order this just for yourself! This dessert is huge, making it an incredibly shareable, Instagram-worthy end to your meal. The macadamia nut ice cream pairs flawlessly with the thick Oreo crust.
Sunsets Prices and Value Analysis
When evaluating Sunsets Waterfront Dining prices, the restaurant falls comfortably into the moderate ($$) category. While dining directly on the water in South Orange County often comes with a massive premium, Sunsets manages to keep its prices relatively grounded.
Entrees range from $17 to $35, which is highly competitive when compared to similar oceanfront spots in nearby Laguna Beach or Newport Beach. The best value on the menu is easily the Island Nachos. For just $15.50 (or $19.75 with the Kalua Pork), you receive a platter large enough to feed three people as a meal. The drink prices are also fair, especially if you take advantage of their excellent Aloha Happy Hour.
Nutrition and Dietary Information
Finding accurate nutrition information and allergy-friendly options is important for many diners. Sunsets provides several customizable plates for different dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free (GF): The Ahi Poke can be made gluten-free by substituting the wonton chips for fresh cucumber slices. The Macadamia Nut Crusted Halibut is also naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetarian (V): The Island Nachos (without meat) and the Surfer’s Grilled Cheese are great vegetarian options. You can also order a large Caesar salad without chicken.
- Healthiest Pick: If you are watching your calories, the best option is the Grilled Mahi Mahi (request no butter sauce) paired with a side of steamed seasonal vegetables or grilled asparagus.
How to Order from Sunsets Waterfront Dining
Dine-In: Walk-ins are always welcome. However, if you want a table right next to the window to watch the waves, it is highly recommended to make a reservation-especially for groups of six or more. Try to arrive 45 minutes before sunset for the best experience.
Takeout & Online Ordering: Sunsets uses ToastTab for seamless online ordering. You can place your order directly through their official website for quick pickup. This is the fastest way to grab a Kalua Pork sandwich and head down to the sand.
Delivery: If you want the food brought to you, Sunsets Waterfront Dining delivery is available through major third-party apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats. Delivery times are generally fast for residents in Capistrano Beach and the immediate Dana Point area.
Love finding hidden waterfront gems? Check out the Southern comfort seafood at Big Mama’s on the Bayou for another unique regional dining experience.
Hours and Locations
Located right on the Pacific Coast Highway corridor, finding the restaurant is easy. Below are the current Sunsets Waterfront Dining locations details and operating hours.
Address:
34871 Doheny Park Rd, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
| Day | Operating Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Lunch & Dinner |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Taco Tuesday Specials |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Local Resident Night |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Lunch & Dinner |
| Friday | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Extended Evening Hours |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Breakfast served until 12:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Breakfast served until 12:00 PM |
Note: The Sunsets Waterfront Dining hours for the bar often extend slightly past the kitchen closing time on busy Friday and Saturday nights.
Current Deals and Promotions
Sunsets offers several recurring promotions that make their already reasonable prices even better.
- Aloha Happy Hour: Runs Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Enjoy $2 off all draft beers, $6 well drinks, and $3 off select appetizers (including the Sunsets Wings and Crispy Calamari).
- Taco Tuesday: Get $5 Mahi Mahi or Kalua Pork tacos all day long. Pair them with $7 House Margaritas.
- Sunday Funday: Purchase any breakfast entree before noon on Sunday and add Bottomless Mimosas for just $15.
- Local Appreciation Night: Every Wednesday night, residents of Capistrano Beach and Dana Point receive a 10% discount on their bill (must show valid local ID).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sunsets Waterfront Dining have outdoor seating?
Yes, Sunsets features a beautiful, glass-enclosed heated patio that provides direct, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. It is comfortable year-round.
What is the best time to go to Sunsets for the view?
To get the best sunset experience, check your local weather app for the sunset time and book your table for 45 to 60 minutes prior. This gives you time to order a Mai Tai and settle in before the colors change.
Does Sunsets Bar and Grill take reservations?
Yes. While they accept walk-ins, reservations are highly recommended for dinner, especially on weekends or for larger parties of 6 or more people.
Are there vegetarian options on the menu?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian-friendly items such as the Island Nachos (ordered without meat), the Surfer’s Grilled Cheese, Coconut Rice, and customizable side salads.
Is parking available at the restaurant?
Yes, there is a dedicated parking lot for guests. Because it is a popular beach area, the lot can fill up during peak summer weekends, but ample street parking is also available nearby.
What kind of food does Sunsets serve?
Sunsets serves a Hawaiian-inspired coastal menu. You will find a heavy emphasis on fresh seafood (Mahi Mahi, Halibut, Ahi Tuna) alongside classic American grill items like Wagyu burgers and center-cut sirloin steaks.
Does Sunsets offer takeout and delivery?
Yes, takeout can be ordered directly through their website or by calling (949) 661-1240. Delivery is handled through partner apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats.
Disclaimer: Prices and menu items subject to change. Prices may vary by location. Information verified March 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Sunsets Waterfront Dining menu updates.
