Beach Break Cafe

Started in 1988 by Gary and Zell Dwelley, Beach Break Cafe has become a essential part of the Oceanside community. Located off the historic Highway 101 that runs along the California coast, halfway between downtown Los Angeles and the Mexican border, this surf-inspired diner serves American fare with a California twist. People taking a break from the beach or those who want a pre-ocean meal flock here for the moist, cinnamon-laced coffee cake drizzled with frosting and the giant and inventive four-egg omelets and scrambles. While dining they can check out the colorful surfboards, surfboard-inspired ceiling fan and surf photos that decorate this breakfast-and-lunch-only spot. The Banana Crunch French Toast is a favorite, dipped in honey bunches of oats for the crunch and then topped with bananas and a healthy dose of whipped cream. The wait can be long on weekends, but the Dwelley's set up an honor-system coffee station.