This October, we’re celebrating Ocean Friendly Business Month by shining a spotlight on the incredible restaurants and hotels across California that are redefining what it means to operate sustainably and protect our ocean.
Through Surfrider’s Ocean Friendly Restaurants and Ocean Friendly Hotels programs, these businesses are tackling plastic pollution at the source and setting a new standard for ocean-minded hospitality.
Many of these business leaders go beyond their operations to advocate for meaningful policy change. This year, 44 California-based Ocean Friendly Restaurants signed a joint letter urging Governor Newsom to uphold SB 54 as written—ensuring a comprehensive strategy to reduce plastic pollution statewide. Meanwhile, 48 Ocean Friendly Business leaders from 12 states signed our Farewell to Foam Congressional Letter in support of banning expanded polystyrene (aka styrofoam) food ware. Through their participation in the ocean-friendly programs, they’re proving that protecting the ocean isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business.
Every purchase is a chance to vote with your dollar. Choosing to dine and stay at sustainable businesses drives the hospitality industry toward a cleaner, healthier future for our coastlines. Discover ocean-friendly options near you by exploring the Ocean Friendly Restaurant and Ocean Friendly Hotel directories.
Now let’s take a closer look at some of California’s Ocean Friendly Businesses:
Ocean Friendly Restaurants
Washington Square Pizza, Venice, CA
A picture (or video) is worth a thousand words! Check out this spotlight video created by Surfrider LA volunteers featuring owner Tima Bell, who shares why caring for the environment isn’t just good for business—it’s essential to quality of life. From thoughtful sourcing to reducing single-use plastics, Washington Square Pizza shows that sustainability can be baked into every slice.
University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) Dining Halls
UCSB’s three dining halls—De La Guerra, Carrillo, and Portola—have all been certified as Ocean Friendly Restaurants thanks to the advocacy of the university’s Surfrider student club. These dining halls were already leaders in sustainable dining, but with student support, they aligned fully with OFR criteria by switching to reusable dishware, installing drink refill stations, composting food waste, and donating excess food to local food banks. Together, they now serve up to 900 plastic-free meals a day, transforming campus dining into a model of ocean-minded sustainability. Read the full spotlight here.
The Plot, Oceanside and Costa Mesa, CA
At The Plot, sustainability isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation. Co-owners Jessica and Chef Davin Waite operate a 100% plant-based, zero-waste restaurant that reimagines what dining can look like when every decision supports the planet. Kitchen “scraps” become star ingredients, on-site gardens reduce supply chain emissions, and packaging is kept to a minimum. As a Platinum Level OFR, The Plot goes above and beyond with a reusable container swap program, grey water recycling for gardens, and a transparent, ethical supply chain. Their approach proves that environmental responsibility and exceptional dining go hand in hand. Read the full spotlight here.
Ocean Friendly Hotels
Twelve Senses Retreat, Encinitas, CA
Nestled in Encinitas, Twelve Senses Retreat is a Platinum Level Ocean Friendly Hotel that integrates sustainability into every detail—from its eco-conscious design to daily operations. Owner Anke Bodack infused the retreat with mindful touches like yoga mats made from recycled wetsuits and tiles crafted from ocean plastics. Each of the themed guest rooms—Fire, Earth, Water, and Air—features thoughtful, low-waste details such as refillable glass toiletry bottles and reusable coffee filters. With all seven mandatory and nine optional criteria met (plus extras like EV charging stations), Twelve Senses embodies how luxury and sustainability can coexist beautifully. Read the full spotlight here.
Tucked in scenic Aliso Canyon across from Aliso Beach, The Ranch in Laguna Beach proudly holds the title of California’s first certified Ocean Friendly Hotel. As a flagship for Surfrider’s OFH program, The Ranch has woven sustainability into every aspect of its guest experience. The resort has eliminated single-use plastics, switched to compostable and refillable alternatives, and uses bamboo room keys, glass bottles, and aluminum cans instead of disposables. Its Harvest Restaurant is also certified ocean-friendly, featuring local, seasonal food. Beyond the property, The Ranch also maintains a section of Aliso Creek through the County’s Adopt a Channel program and partners with food banks to reduce waste. Read the full spotlight here.
From small family-run cafes to coastal retreats, these Ocean Friendly Businesses are leading the way toward a bluer, more sustainable future. By supporting them, we’re not just enjoying great meals and experiences—we’re helping protect the waves, wildlife, and coastlines we all love.