ding room with marina view
07 Aug 2025

10 San Diego Must-Try Restaurants on the Water

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

There’s nothing like dinner and drinks on the Southern California coast with a water view and delicious local cuisine. If this sounds like paradise, you will definitely enjoy the amazing waterfront restaurants and unique dining experiences available in San Diego. Here are some of the best waterfront restaurants in San Diego, and the list starts right here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, with Humphreys SoCAL Dining and Music!

10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in San Diego

Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music (Onsite at Hotel)

Have an amazing night with dinner and live music, San Diego style, at our popular waterfront restaurant and music venue onsite here at Humphreys! Plan to have dinner at Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music and enjoy marina views, local coastal dishes, creative cocktails, and craft beers. From the best Filet Mignon to Lobster Risotto, prepare for a delicious meal before a show at either one of our two music venues. Check out the summer concert and event schedule and make plans for a great night under the stars with an exciting show at Humphreys Concerts by the bay at our outdoor venue, or head over to our intimate lounge next door, Humphreys Backstage LIVE!

woman drinking wine, overlooking the marina

Blue Wave Bar & Grill (0.3 Miles from Hotel) 

Indulge in California coastal cuisine next door at our sister hotel, Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina. Enjoy dining at the Blue Wave Bar & Grill, where casual fine dining meets beautiful marina views. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the menu offers a selection of main dishes and small plates, perfectly complemented by the scenic beauty of the Point Loma hillside. Savor the tropically inspired flavors crafted by Executive Chef Andrew Mroz and unwind with a truly memorable dining experience. Open daily from 7am – 11pm.

outdoor food and drink by the waterfront at blue wave

Bali Hai (0.3 Miles from Hotel)

Take a leisurely stroll from your room or suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn for dinner with a view at Bali Hai, a fun and unique Polynesian-style restaurant that offers plenty of excitement! One of the best places for summer dining in San Diego, Bali Hai offers cool tropical drinks and outdoor dining options. They are best known for their dangerously delicious (and strong) Mai Tais (over three million sold to date!) Grab your favorite flavor and a delicious dinner of seafood or steaks for a great evening out at one of the best waterfront restaurants in San Diego with a view of the city skyline.

Food and drink sitting on table overlooking water
Photo: @balihairestaurant

Ketch Bar & Grill (0.4 Miles from Hotel) 

A staple in the San Diego dining scene, Ketch Bar and Grill on Shelter Island offers fresh seafood, craft beers, and amazing harbor views, making it one of the best waterfront restaurants in San Diego. Enjoy flavors of the California coast with high-quality, locally sourced seafood with some of the best views San Diego has to offer. Choose from breakfast, lunch, or dinner with everything from fresh-shucked oysters and chicken and waffles to fish and chips and blackened salmon at this popular San Diego waterfront restaurant.

Two girls standing by table, with water in the background
Photo: @ketchgrillandtaps

Mitch’s Seafood (1.0 Mile from Hotel)

If you’re looking for casual waterfront dining in San Diego, Mitch’s Seafood is the place to be. This popular Point Loma restaurant serves fresh seafood from local waters with unbeatable views! Eat inside or outside on the deck for lunch or dinner and enjoy fried, grilled, and steamed seafood specialties. Located in the heart of the Point Loma Sportfishing Dock, Mitch’s is dedicated to serving local fish from local fishermen.

oysters

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood (3.1 Miles from Hotel)

Serving the best seafood and prime steaks, Eddie V’s in La Jolla is one of the most popular, upscale waterfront restaurants in San Diego to visit. Splurge and enjoy the fresh Seafood Tower with shrimp, oysters, and lobster for an amazing feast everyone is sure to love, along with some of the best water views around! Be sure to make a reservation at this spot to make sure you do not miss out during your San Diego vacation.

seafood pasta

C Level Lounge (3.5 Miles from Hotel)

With amazing views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline, C Level Lounge is one of the most popular waterfront restaurants in San Diego. Enjoy dining on the patio for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with amazing water views and an incredible menu! Try the Fisherman’s Breakfast or one of their delicious baskets with a variety of fresh local seafood to choose from at C Level Lounge in San Diego.

Taco

Portside Pier (5.2 Miles From Hotel)

Home to some of the best waterfront restaurants in San Diego, Portside Pier offers guests a variety of delicious options for dining with a view. From Brigantine to Miguel’s Topsail Terrace, Portside offers outside patio and lounge dining, plus a second-floor viewing deck with panoramic waterfront views!

oysters

Cannonball (5.8 Miles from Hotel)

Enjoy dinner with a view at this amazing rooftop restaurant and bar in San Diego. Cannonball at Belmont Park is a fun place to watch the sunset and sip on craft cocktails at San Diego’s largest oceanfront rooftop bar. Enjoy a leisurely dinner of sushi, steak tataki, or bao buns on the amazing rooftop terrace with ocean views! Impressive water views from the rooftop terrace at Cannonball in San Diego offer an unforgettable experience at this popular waterfront restaurant in San Diego.

cheersing drinks
Photo: @cannonballsd

The Marine Room (11.8 Miles from Hotel) 

Known as one of San Diego’s most iconic dining experiences, The Marine Room serves seafood and seasonal dishes with an amazing up-close waterfront view! The Marine Room's unique beachfront setting makes it a popular destination, and their High Tide Dinners are a true culinary icon in San Diego. Experience ocean waves crashing right beside your window as you dine at one of the most incredible spots in town. Dinner at The Marin Room is definitely a dining experience you won’t soon forget!

Enjoy Waterfront Dining in San Diego During Your Stay at Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn

Make plans today for your stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn for a delicious experience during your San Diego vacation. Enjoy the best waterfront restaurants in San Diego, first-class resort-style amenities, live concerts onsite, and so much more. Make a reservation here to book the most amazing Southern California vacation today!

wine by firepits
14 Feb 2025

Sip Your Way Through San Diego’s Wine Scene

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

California is known all around the world for its amazing wines and vineyards and San Diego offers some amazing opportunities to sip your way through our wine scene and see what all the fuss is about! If you’re looking to impress your favorite wine lover with a fun and romantic date idea this February, a San Diego wine tasting or tour at one (or several) of our unique San Diego vineyards is the perfect choice.

Choose Humphreys Half Moon Inn for a romantic getaway near all the best San Diego wineries. Enjoy waterfront suites and urban resort-style amenities for your San Diego wine getaway, and be close to all the wineries near San Diego that are (or should be) on your Bucket List. From amazing restaurants and wine bars with fabulous wine lists and delicious dinner menus to tours of unique San Diego vineyards and exciting excursions, you will love wine-tasting San Diego style during your stay here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn.

Wine and Dine in San Diego at the Best Wineries Near San Diego

Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music (Onsite at Hotel)

waterfront dining table

Guests at Humphreys Half Moon Inn don’t even have to leave the property to wine and dine with fresh coastal flavors and breathtaking views at our waterfront restaurant and lounge. Choose from locally inspired dishes and an amazing wine selection for the perfect dinner, wine, and live music experience in San Diego.

The Wine Pub (0.5 Miles from Hotel)

This popular San Diego restaurant is just minutes from your room or suite here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn and offers a delicious food menu, along with over 60 new and old-world wines by the glass or bottle. Their handcrafted, artisan-style, food is available as small plates as well as full entrees, and they support local farmers and fishers for their menu options. Enjoy a great meal and spectacular wine flights for a fun wine-tasting experience San Diego visitors will enjoy.

Carruth Cellars (2.0 Miles from Hotel)

Located in Liberty Station, Carruth Cellars urban winery offers wine-tasting San Diego locals and visitors love to indulge in! Relax in the modern yet charming wine garden while drinking your favorite glass or bottle from wineries near San Diego. Their unique wine garden cheese shop menu offers plenty of choices for lunch or dinner and don’t forget happy hour every Monday through Thursday with 30% off your favorite beverages!

The Best Wine Tours of San Diego Vineyards

If you want to experience wine tasting San Diego style, there are a variety of San Diego wineries to try as well as wineries near San Diego to explore. Here are a few of our favorites!

Pali Wine Company (4.4 Miles from Hotel)

Located in San Diego in the Little Italy community, this family-owned winery highlights the diversity of the California wine-growing area. Specializing in Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, Pali Wine Company's goal is to craft world-class, critically acclaimed, site-specific wines. Enjoy a tasting flight while dining on a delicious small plates menu or take a customized guided tour to experience one of the most popular urban San Diego wineries.

Bernardo Winery (28.5 Miles from Hotel)

Established in 1889; Bernardo Winery is one of the most popular San Diego vineyards. It is also the oldest family-owned and operated winery in Southern California. They specialize in Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Merlot, and Zinfandel. Take a guided tour of the winery and old-world village in a tranquil setting with olive trees, gardens, and more. In addition to being the perfect place for wine tasting San Diegos finest, they also have Café Merlot, V’s Coffee Shoppe, and a variety of village shops.

Belle Marie Winery (39 Miles from Hotel)

This boutique winery near San Diego is located in Escondido and produces 30 different wines each year. The well-manicured grounds offer public tastings and tours and are perfectly situated on 3 acres surrounded by lush citrus groves, expansive lawns, and picnic tables to enjoy the sunny California weather. Guests will be in awe of the French-style chateau castle and will enjoy touring the unique Belle Marie Winery and all it has to offer.

Cordiano Winery (33.4 Miles from Hotel)

Situated in North County San Diego, Cordiano Winery is proud of its vineyard and the quality wines produced in the region. Enjoy wine tasting from their extensive wine list and delicious offerings from their Italian menu of baked breads, authentic pizzas, perfect pasta, scrumptious cannoli, and more. Take a tour of the grounds and find a new favorite wine during your visit to one of the best wineries near San Diego.

California Wine Tours (Miles from Hotel Varies)

From a chauffeured vineyard adventure and a winery train tour to an Old Towne Wine Walking Tour and Grape to Glass San Diego vineyards experience - San Diego Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tours has it all. This popular wine tour company will even pick you up from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, so there is no need to drive or book an Uber! Choose from a variety of wine-tasting San Diego tours to learn more about our unique wineries and vineyards in the area.

Wineries Near San Diego (Miles from Hotel Varies)

If you want to do a winery road trip, a tour to the wine areas of Temecula, Ramona, or even Valle de Guadalupe (if you have your passport handy) might be a great option for your San Diego winery tour adventure. GoGrape offers a variety of wine tours to different regions in the San Diego area and has raving reviews of their vineyard tours. Let’s Go Vino is a great choice if you’d like to explore Valle de Guadalupe. With over 180 wineries, the area offers a unique wine tour in one of the oldest wine-growing regions.

Are You Ready to Sip Your Way Through San Diego’s Wine Scene?

Book your suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn to be right in the middle of San Diego’s wine scene. Our secluded waterfront resort-style hotel on Shelter Island has everything you need for the perfect escape. Start your San Diego wine adventure onsite at Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music and have an amazing weekend learning about all the fabulous local wineries and vineyards around the San Diego area.

Wine and cheese
farmers market
01 Apr 2024

Guide To The Best San Diego Food Halls & Farmers Markets

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Southern California is known for many amazing things and food is definitely at the top of the list for locals and visitors to the area. Whether you are looking for fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to make your favorite dish or want something delicious that has already been expertly prepared, foodies and fresh market fans will love the offerings of the local San Diego food halls and San Diego farmers markets. Don’t miss the chance to experience the culture of the city, take in the unique dining opportunities, and explore your options for creative goods offered at these popular establishments during your stay here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego. Here are a few of the most popular San Diego farmers markets and food halls in the area to visit.

Popular San Diego Food Halls

If you’re looking to experience the culture of San Diego, a local food hall is a great way to get a taste of the amazing cuisine and meet some of the locals who prepare it. Choose from a variety of different dining options in one central location, so you can try a little bit of everything. A visit to a San Diego food hall is sure to please even the most finicky eaters and entertain everyone with the unique ambiance and local fare.

Liberty Public Market (2.4 miles)

Make sure to visit Liberty Public Market, the culinary epicenter nestled within the historic confines of San Diego’s Liberty Station. This food hall offers a diverse array of culinary experiences to tantalize every taste bud. From artisanal cheese shops and freshly baked pastries to savory barbecue and exotic international fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Sip on locally roasted coffee or indulge in a craft cocktail as you wander through this vibrant marketplace, soaking in the lively atmosphere and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious bite, Liberty Public Market promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Old Town Market (3.9 miles)

Step into San Diego’s Old Town Market Food Hall and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Southern California. Nestled in the heart of historic Old Town, this bustling food hall captures the essence of the region’s rich culinary heritage. From sizzling street tacos and mouthwatering burritos to freshly made ceviche and indulgent churros, every corner offers a taste sensation to delight every palate. With its charming ambiance and diverse array of vendors, the Old Town Market Food Hall is a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of San Diego’s culinary soul.

Little Italy Food Hall (4.6 miles)

All the amazing tastes and the unique culture of Italy are just 4.9 miles away from your suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego at the Little Italy Food Hall. Recently named as one of the Top 10 Food Halls in the United States by USA Today, this popular San Diego food hall offers a superb taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy community. Located at the Piazza Della Famiglia, be prepared to be wowed by eight food stations offering everything including authentic pizza, fusion tacos, sushi bowls, Chinese noodles, Maine lobster, a donut cart, and full bar service for guests with a beautiful view of the fountain in the Piazza. 

little italy

(Photo: @eatsamburgers)

Popular San Diego Farmers Markets

From local art and creative crafts to amazing California produce and flowers, you might be surprised at all the things you can find at a San Diego farmers market. Here are some of the most popular local markets that are near Humphreys Half Moon Inn for you to explore during your stay.

If you’re looking to experience the culture of San Diego, a local food hall is a great way to get a taste of the amazing cuisine and meet some of the locals who prepare it. Choose from a variety of different dining options in one central location, so you can try a little bit of everything. A visit to a San Diego food hall is sure to please even the most finicky eaters and entertain everyone with the unique ambiance and local fare.

Ocean Beach Farmers Market (3.1 miles)

Open each Wednesday from 4-8pm, the Ocean Beach Farmers Market is the place for foodies who are looking for unique, local, delicious cuisine. Located just 3.1 miles from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, immerse yourself in a unique shopping experience with over 100 vendors. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market includes goods from certified farmers, chefs, artisans, and more. This eclectic San Diego farmers market offers baked bread and desserts, flowers and plants, local fruits and vegetables, and even hot-prepared meals. Hotel guests will enjoy this unique experience in a fun, beachside community.

Ocean Beach Farmers Market

(Photo: @aishamaephoto)

Little Italy Mercato (4.5 miles)

The Little Italy Mercato sounds like a food lover’s paradise! With over 200 vendors offering a diverse range of fresh produce and artisanal goods, it’s no wonder it’s such a celebrated market. The fact that it’s situated in Little Italy, known for its culinary excellence, speaks volumes about the quality you can expect there. From freshly baked bread to artisanal cheeses, candies, honey, and farm-fresh eggs, it seems like there’s something to delight every palate. It must be a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, perfect for exploring and discovering new flavors.

Saturdays, 8am–2pm

little italy mercato
(Photo: @littleitalymercato)

Pacific Beach Farmers Market (7.4 miles)

Located just 7.4 miles from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, the Pacific Beach Farmers Market is open every Tuesday from 2-7pm. This popular seaside market offers everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce, flowers, and more. Visitors will also find gourmet dining opportunities as well as beautiful, handcrafted pieces by local artisans.

Hillcrest Farmers Market (7.6 miles)

The perfect way to spend a Sunday in San Diego, the Hillcrest Farmers Market is San Diego’s original and largest farmers market. Less than 7 miles from your room here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, there are over 175 vendors that offer everything from locally grown produce and flowers to unique gifts, clothing, arts and crafts, and more! This is a must-visit during your time in San Diego, as this popular farmers market hosts around 10,000 people each week!

Explore the San Diego Farmers Markets and Food Halls During Your Stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Are you ready to explore the food halls and farmers markets in San Diego for a delicious cultural experience you won’t soon forget? Book your accommodations now at Humphreys Half Moon Inn to be close to all the fun! Hotel guests can also enjoy the proximity to some of the most popular places to visit in San Diego including SeaWorld San Diego, Legoland California, the San Diego Zoo, and more. In addition, enjoy top-notch onsite amenities during your stay including our waterfront restaurant and lounge, outdoor concerts, tropical pool and jacuzzi, fitness center, bayfront location with a private marina, and so much more!

dining room
13 Sep 2023

Meet Percy Oani: Humphreys New Executive Chef

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

We are thrilled to introduce our new Executive Chef, Percy Oani, who has joined the Humphreys family with a wealth of culinary experience and a passion for creating delightful dining experiences. Chef Percy brings a diverse culinary background and a commitment to crafting dishes that cater to a broad range of palates. Let’s get to know him better and discover what he has in store for guests at Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music!

Q: Can you please introduce yourself?

A: Hi, I am Chef Percy. I’m the new executive chef here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. It’s really great to be joining this family of hotels and I’m looking forward to a very long tenure.

a dining table overlooking the water

Q: Can you tell us about your job experience/history before coming to Humphreys?

A: Prior to my arrival here to Humphreys, I was downtown as the executive chef for Hotel Republic. Before that, I was over at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club where I was a chef at the Shores Hotel. Prior to that, for an extensive period of time, I was the chef for Roy’s Restaurants, where I traveled to different locations.

Q: Where are you from originally?

A: I’m actually a Southern California native. I was born in San Pedro and I grew up in the South Bay area of Los Angeles, so that’s where I had a lot of influence when it comes to food. There are a lot of different neighborhoods to go to, for all different styles of cuisine.

Q: How did you get into being a chef?

A: My dad was a cook in the Navy and he would come home and make all these different dishes. So I wasn’t exposed to just the Filipino food that my mom would cook, but I was exposed to different types of food. We also had a spice rack that my dad would always go to, and I was always curious to see what he was using the different spices for. That little spice rack is probably one of the things that piqued my interest in cooking most — trying to figure out what those little leaves were doing to food and how they would flavor it.

Q: What advice would you give to anyone who wants to become a chef?

A: To have humility. Not everyone’s going to enjoy what you’ve made, but you want to make sure that you’re trying to create food that’s going to be catering to a broad range of people – not just one person, but everyone. Be dedicated, because hours are long, and just be a student of cooking.

Q: What about advice for someone who just wants to get into cooking in their own home?

A: Get quality ingredients and cook when you’re happy. I was once told to never cook when you’re angry because the food’s going to come out bitter. That’s my biggest piece of advice – just cook from the heart at home, because it’s always going to come out better that way.

Q: Who or what inspires you, when it comes to cooking?

A: Definitely my father who pretty much got me into cooking, He inspires me ’cause I really want to make him proud too. I want to become the chef that he always hoped I’d be.

Q: What is your favorite dish to make?

A: My favorite dish to make is beef ribs – low and slow. Let it just go for a while. Smoke it, just wait, and be patient to let it come out nice and super tender.

Q: What about your favorite dish to eat?

One of my favorite foods to eat is poke – tuna poke. My kids love it too, it’s one of those go-to dishes in our family. Whenever we’re hungry, I get some tuna, cut it up real quick, make some rice, toss it in a bowl… The kids are happy. I’m happy. It’s all good. 

salad and champagne

Q: Other than cooking, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

A: When you start having kids, your free time is limited. It’s not about you anymore. It’s all about your kids. So, my son right now, plays a lot of baseball – a lot of our time is spent watching his baseball games and practices. My oldest daughter, she’s getting ready to drive so I’ve been taking her out to practice a lot. My middle daughter is now in the speech and debate team that just started, so I’m really looking forward to seeing some of her speeches and debates when she begins traveling to different high schools. So that all pretty much takes up all my free time!

Q: What do you have in store for Humphreys?

A: I want to put my personality on the plate. Being that I have grown up around and learned so many different types of cuisine, I really want to incorporate that eclectic mix here — Asian fusion, south-of-the-border influence, Mediterranean style… Casually fun, I don’t want it to be too stuffy. I just want people to come in, have a good time, and enjoy what we’re putting out there.

Q: Anything else you’d like guests to know?

A: Just come on by! Give us a try — I know it’s probably been a while for some people, but in the next few months, we’re going to start having some fun with this menu and I think you’re really going to enjoy it.

Stay tuned for exciting new menu updates and make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up-to-date on Chef Percy’s latest creations!