Our Story
On June 25, 1965, Jack and Jeanette Haley opened Captain Jack’s on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach. Jack was a local boy – growing up in Seal Beach, attending Huntington Beach High School and Long Beach State University. Surfing was his passion – forever chasing the perfect wave whether in California, Hawaii, Mexico or France. In 1959, Jack won the champion title of the inaugural United States Surfing Championship, an honor that led to many tributes, including an induction into the Surfing Walk of Fame and the Surfers’ Hall of Fame. He is considered a surfing pioneer and hometown hero. Jack served the community for many years as a Seal Beach lifeguard and volunteer police officer. Although he had no experience in the restaurant business, he wasn’t deterred. His buddies were opening restaurants along the coast -- Chart House, Rusty Pelican & Ancient Mariner -- so he bought an old, empty building, added some used equipment, hired fellow surfers and opened a nautical-themed steak & seafood full-dining restaurant.
With heartfelt appreciation to our amazing team, loyal guests and special community, we are proud and honored to celebrate 57 years as an Orange County family owned and operated business.
