Oceanfront Dining: 10 Florida Restaurants That Wow with Flavor & Scenery
Florida’s coastline offers some of the most spectacular dining experiences in the country. Picture yourself enjoying fresh seafood while watching waves crash just steps away from your table. These waterfront restaurants combine incredible food with breathtaking ocean views that make every meal unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, these spots deliver both amazing flavors and stunning scenery.
1. Shooters Waterfront
Fort Lauderdale’s beloved waterfront gem has been serving up spectacular views and fresh seafood for decades. The expansive deck stretches right over the Intracoastal Waterway, making you feel like you’re dining on a luxury yacht.
Their famous coconut shrimp and grouper sandwich draw crowds from across South Florida. Watch million-dollar yachts glide by while sipping tropical cocktails at sunset.
Weekend brunch here feels extra special with bottomless mimosas and live music. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from families to couples on romantic dates.
2. Waterfront Restaurant
Key Largo’s dining scene wouldn’t be complete without this iconic establishment overlooking Florida Bay. The panoramic water views stretch for miles, creating an almost endless blue horizon.
Lobster bisque and Key lime pie represent the perfect start and finish to any meal here. Local fishermen often deliver their catch directly to the kitchen, ensuring the freshest possible seafood.
Thursday night brings live steel drum music that captures the true spirit of the Keys. The covered outdoor seating protects diners from sudden tropical showers while maintaining those incredible water views.
3. Ocean Grill
Vero Beach’s historic treasure sits directly on the sand, offering unobstructed Atlantic Ocean views since 1938. The vintage photographs covering the walls tell stories of old Florida glamour and countless memorable meals.
Their turtle soup recipe hasn’t changed in decades, maintaining authentic flavors that keep generations of families returning. Fresh catch specials change daily based on what local boats bring to shore.
Sea turtle nesting season brings extra magic as guests sometimes spot these gentle creatures from the dining room windows. Reservations during turtle season book weeks in advance for this unique dining experience.
4. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill
Longboat Key’s nautical-themed hotspot embraces its marina location with boat slips right outside the dining room. Captains often tie up their vessels and walk straight to their tables for lunch.
The raw bar showcases Gulf Coast oysters and stone crab claws served on mountains of crushed ice. Their signature grouper Reuben sandwich has earned recognition from food magazines across the Southeast.
Happy hour brings discounted drinks and appetizers while pelicans and dolphins provide free entertainment in the water below. The second-floor deck offers elevated views of Sarasota Bay’s sparkling waters and frequent manatee sightings.
5. Amara at Paraiso
Miami’s sophisticated rooftop restaurant elevates oceanfront dining to new heights with its sleek modern design. The infinity pool creates a stunning backdrop while Biscayne Bay sparkles in the distance.
Mediterranean-inspired cuisine meets Miami flair in dishes like branzino with citrus salsa verde. The wine list features selections from coastal regions around the world, perfectly paired with the waterfront setting.
Sunset cocktail hour transforms the space into Miami’s most Instagram-worthy dining destination. The stylish crowd and creative mixology make this spot perfect for special celebrations and romantic evenings with breathtaking city skyline views.
6. Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar
Clearwater Beach’s most laid-back dining experience puts your toes practically in the sand. The open-air pavilion structure allows Gulf breezes to keep diners cool while providing shade from Florida’s intense sunshine.
Fish tacos and conch fritters showcase Caribbean influences that define this stretch of coastline. Cold beer served in frozen mugs pairs perfectly with the casual beach atmosphere and reggae music.
Beach volleyball tournaments happen right outside the restaurant, adding entertainment to weekend meals. The sunset views here rank among Florida’s most photographed, with brilliant colors reflecting off the calm Gulf waters every single evening.
7. Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
Anna Maria Island’s premier dining destination combines upscale cuisine with relaxed beach vibes. The wraparound deck provides 270-degree water views that showcase both sunrise and sunset depending on your timing.
Pan-seared grouper with mango salsa represents the chef’s commitment to fresh, local flavors with tropical twists. The extensive wine cellar includes bottles from coastal vineyards that complement the seafood-focused menu perfectly.
Dolphin pods frequently swim past during dinner service, creating magical moments for diners. The elegant yet comfortable atmosphere makes this restaurant equally suitable for anniversary dinners and casual family gatherings with spectacular water views.
8. Benny’s On The Beach
Lake Worth Beach’s colorful local favorite brings Caribbean flair to South Florida’s coastline. The vibrant murals and reggae music create an instant vacation mood that makes stress melt away.
Jerk chicken and conch chowder showcase authentic island recipes passed down through generations. The frozen drink menu features creative rum concoctions served in souvenir glasses that many guests take home.
Live music every weekend features local bands playing everything from Jimmy Buffett covers to original island tunes. The beachfront location allows diners to take romantic sunset walks between courses while enjoying the gentle Atlantic waves.
9. Longboards Oceanfront Grille
Neptune Beach’s surf-themed restaurant captures the essence of Florida’s beach culture perfectly. Vintage longboard surfboards decorate the walls while actual surfers often grab post-session meals still wearing their wetsuits.
The fish sandwich features whatever local anglers caught that morning, ensuring peak freshness and supporting the community. Craft beer selections focus on Florida breweries, with many taps featuring seasonal and limited releases.
Morning surf reports play on televisions throughout the restaurant, creating an authentic beach town atmosphere. The oceanfront patio offers front-row seats to watch surfers catch waves while enjoying casual dining with genuine coastal character and friendly service.
10. Joia Beach
Miami Beach’s newest oceanfront sensation brings South American flavors to pristine Atlantic shores. The sophisticated beach club atmosphere combines luxury dining with feet-in-the-sand casualness that defines modern Miami.
Ceviches and grilled octopus showcase the chef’s expertise with coastal cuisines from around the world. The creative cocktail program features fresh tropical fruits and premium spirits that perfectly match the upscale beach setting.
Day beds and cabanas surround the restaurant, creating an all-day destination for Miami’s beautiful people. Weekend pool parties seamlessly transition into elegant dinner service as the sun sets over one of America’s most famous beaches.
