Gill’s By the Bay is a family-owned seafood and breakfast restaurant at 77 Halibut Ave, Eureka, CA 95503, set right on Humboldt Bay in the small waterfront community of King Salmon, just south of central Eureka. The building has been a café, a bar, and a boat-launching facility since the 1940s before sitting abandoned for years; in 1990 Ben and Vivian Gill bought the rundown property and rebuilt it into today’s bayside restaurant. Travelers come for fresh seafood, hearty breakfast plates, and close-up views of boats and shorebirds on the water.
What to Expect at Gill’s By the Bay
Gill’s is still run by the family, with Ben, Vivian, daughter Denise, and grandson Brent tending the flower garden that frames the entrance. Inside, look for the historic whaling photographs on the walls, which include a young Ben Gill. The mood is casual and unhurried, with a working-harbor feel rather than a formal dining room.
The kitchen serves breakfast and lunch only, from 8am to 3pm. The menu centers on local seafood alongside classic morning platters. The restaurant offers outdoor dining and to-go orders, and the observation deck is the place to sit in good weather to watch harbor seals, herons, and fishing boats moving through the bay. Dietary options are limited, so ask staff about vegetarian or gluten-free swaps when you order.
- Observation Deck: Open-air seating directly over Humboldt Bay with views of boats and wildlife.
- Fresh Seafood: Local catches anchor the lunch menu, reflecting King Salmon’s fishing heritage.
- Hearty Breakfast Platters: Generous morning plates served from 8am.
- Family Garden: A flower garden tended by three generations of the Gill family.
- Whaling History Photos: Archival images inside, including Ben Gill in his youth.
Gill’s By the Bay at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 77 Halibut Ave, Eureka, CA 95503 |
| Neighborhood / Area | King Salmon, on Humboldt Bay south of Eureka |
| Operating Hours | Thu–Mon 8am–3pm; closed Tue & Wed |
| Admission / Price Range | $$, moderate breakfast and lunch prices |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 45 to 75 minutes |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Free on-site and street parking; easiest reached by car via US-101 and King Salmon Ave |
| Official Website & Phone | gillsbythebay.com · (707) 442-2554 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Gill’s does not run a reservation system, so arrive near the 8am opening or after 1pm to avoid the weekend late-morning rush. Remember that it is closed Tuesday and Wednesday. From Eureka, drive south on US-101 for about five minutes, turn west onto King Salmon Avenue, and follow it to Halibut Avenue. Public transit is limited, so plan on a car or rideshare. Bring a layer because Humboldt Bay is often cool and foggy even in summer.
Ground-level outdoor seating makes the deck reasonably manageable for strollers and wheelchairs, though surfaces near the water can be uneven, so call ahead about specific needs. Nearby, walk the King Salmon waterfront to watch fishing boats, then drive a few minutes to the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge for birding trails. Old Town Eureka’s Victorian streets and the Carson Mansion are about 10 minutes north by car.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gill’s By the Bay’s hours?
Gill’s is open Thursday through Monday, 8am to 3pm, and closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Early mornings are the quietest time and often the best for wildlife viewing.
Do I need a reservation?
No. Seating is walk-in, and to-go orders are available by calling (707) 442-2554. Prices fall in the moderate $$ range.
How long should I plan to stay?
Budget 45 to 75 minutes for a meal. Allow extra time to stroll the garden and linger on the deck.
Is it family friendly?
Yes. The relaxed outdoor setting, the boats, and the birdlife appeal to kids, and there is no dress code.
When planning your Eureka travel guide or comparing verified restaurants and breakfast restaurant in Eureka, pair this stop with standout local spots including Kristina's Restaurant, Café Waterfront, Red Lion Hotel Eureka, and Falafelove (0.5 km away).
