These 13 Florida Waterfront Restaurants Have The Best Views In The State
Picture this: you’re sitting outside with a cool breeze rolling in from the water, a plate of fresh seafood in front of you, and a view so stunning it almost steals the show from your meal. Florida’s got no shortage of beautiful spots to eat, but when you combine great food with jaw-dropping waterfront scenery, the experience becomes something truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re craving sunset views over the Gulf, watching boats glide by on the Intracoastal, or soaking in ocean breezes while you dig into grouper tacos, these restaurants deliver on every level.
1. Coconuts (Fort Lauderdale)
Right on the Intracoastal Waterway, this Fort Lauderdale gem gives you front-row seats to one of the most gorgeous boat parades in South Florida. You can watch mega-yachts drift past while you sip tropical drinks and munch on coconut shrimp that lives up to the restaurant’s name.
Located at 429 Seabreeze Boulevard, Coconuts has been a local favorite for decades, and once you settle into a seat on the outdoor deck, you’ll understand why.
The menu leans heavily into seafood, with daily catches grilled to perfection and tossed into tacos, salads, or served straight up with a squeeze of lime. Service feels relaxed but attentive, matching the laid-back vibe of the setting.
Sunsets here are legendary—the sky turns shades of orange and pink that reflect off the water in a way that makes you forget you’re still in the city.
It’s casual enough for flip-flops but special enough to bring out-of-town guests who want the full Florida experience.
2. The Waterfront Restaurant (Anna Maria)
Anna Maria Island has that old-Florida charm that feels like stepping back in time, and The Waterfront Restaurant fits right into that nostalgic vibe. Perched along the bay, this spot offers sweeping water views and a menu packed with Gulf-fresh seafood that tastes like it was pulled from the ocean minutes before hitting your plate.
You’ll find it at 111 South Bay Boulevard, tucked into a quiet corner of the island where pelicans dive-bomb for fish and dolphins occasionally make surprise appearances.
The grouper sandwich here is borderline legendary—crispy, flaky, and piled high with all the fixings. Pair it with a cold beer and you’ve got yourself a perfect afternoon.
The outdoor seating area is breezy and comfortable, with plenty of shade and a view that stretches across the glittering bay.
Whether you come for lunch or linger into the evening, the atmosphere stays mellow and welcoming, like a good friend inviting you to stay just a little longer.
3. Beach House Waterfront Restaurant (Bradenton Beach)
Imagine eating fresh stone crab while your toes are practically in the sand and the Gulf of Mexico sparkles just a few feet away. Beach House Waterfront Restaurant in Bradenton Beach makes that dream a reality.
Located at 200 Gulf Drive North, this place sits right on the shoreline, offering unobstructed views of turquoise water and white sand that make you feel like you’re dining in paradise.
The menu is a love letter to Florida seafood, with everything from blackened mahi to key lime pie that tastes like sunshine in dessert form. I love how the staff here balances professionalism with that beachy, no-worries attitude—you never feel rushed, even when the place is packed.
Sunset dinners are particularly magical, with the sky turning shades of purple and gold as the waves gently roll in.
It’s the kind of spot where you can show up sandy from the beach and still feel totally at home, or dress up a bit for a special occasion and fit right in.
4. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill (Longboat Key)
Longboat Key is known for its upscale, tranquil vibe, and Dry Dock Waterfront Grill captures that essence perfectly. Nestled at 412 Gulf of Mexico Drive, this restaurant overlooks the bay with a view that’s equal parts serene and stunning.
The outdoor patio is where you want to be—shaded, breezy, and positioned so you can watch boats bobbing in the marina while you work your way through a plate of perfectly seared scallops.
The menu here is a bit more refined than your typical beach shack, with dishes that showcase local ingredients and bold flavors without being overly complicated. I’m a fan of their crab cakes, which are all crab and barely any filler, served with a tangy remoulade that ties everything together beautifully.
The wine list is solid, and the cocktails are crafted with care.
Service is friendly and knowledgeable, making you feel like a regular even if it’s your first visit. It’s a great choice for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch with friends.
5. Tide Tables (Cortez)
Cortez is one of Florida’s last working fishing villages, and Tide Tables sits right in the heart of it, offering an authentic, no-frills dining experience that feels refreshingly real. You’ll find it at 12507 Cortez Road West, a spot where the fishing boats are still active and the seafood couldn’t be fresher if you caught it yourself.
The view overlooks the water, with a rustic charm that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a hidden local secret.
The menu is straightforward and focused on what they do best: seafood done right. Think fried shrimp baskets, fish tacos bursting with flavor, and clam chowder that warms you from the inside out.
The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with picnic-style seating and a vibe that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
It’s not fancy, but that’s exactly the point—Tide Tables is about good food, good views, and the kind of honest, coastal experience that’s harder and harder to find these days.
6. Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant (Palmetto)
Sitting along the Manatee River, Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant in Palmetto offers a peaceful escape with views that stretch across the water and into the horizon. Located at 995 Riverside Drive East, this spot has a laid-back elegance that makes it perfect for everything from a casual lunch to a celebratory dinner.
The outdoor seating area is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of shade and a breeze that keeps things cool even on warmer days.
The menu features a mix of seafood and land-based options, all prepared with care and presented beautifully. I’m particularly fond of their blackened grouper, which has just the right amount of spice and pairs perfectly with their garlic mashed potatoes.
The cocktail menu is creative and well-executed, with drinks that feel like they were made just for sipping by the river.
Service here strikes a nice balance between attentive and unobtrusive, letting you enjoy your meal and the view without feeling rushed or overlooked. It’s a gem that locals treasure and visitors discover with delight.
7. Waterfront (Stuart)
Stuart’s downtown waterfront has a charming, small-town feel, and the restaurant simply called Waterfront takes full advantage of that setting. Located at 22 SW Osceola Street, this spot sits right on the St. Lucie River, offering views of boats, bridges, and the kind of Florida scenery that makes you want to linger over your meal for hours.
The outdoor deck is the place to be, especially during golden hour when the light hits the water just right.
The menu is a seafood lover’s dream, with fresh catches prepared in creative ways that go beyond the usual fried fare. Their sushi is surprisingly excellent, and the poke bowls are packed with flavor and freshness.
I also appreciate the variety—there’s something for everyone here, from raw bar selections to hearty entrees and lighter salads.
The vibe is upscale casual, meaning you can dress up a bit or keep it relaxed, and either way, you’ll fit right in. Service is friendly and efficient, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
8. Waterfront Social (Crystal River)
Crystal River is famous for its manatees, and Waterfront Social gives you a front-row seat to the natural beauty that makes this area so special. Located at 697 NW 1st Avenue, this restaurant overlooks the river where manatees often gather, especially during the cooler months.
The outdoor seating area is designed to maximize the view, with comfortable chairs and a relaxed atmosphere that invites you to settle in and stay awhile.
The menu is modern and approachable, with a mix of seafood, burgers, and creative appetizers that are perfect for sharing. I’m a big fan of their fish dip—it’s smoky, creamy, and addictive, especially when paired with a cold craft beer from their rotating selection.
The staff here is genuinely friendly and knowledgeable about both the menu and the local wildlife, often pointing out manatees or dolphins to diners.
It’s a wonderful spot for families, couples, or anyone who wants to enjoy good food while soaking in the unique beauty of Florida’s nature coast. The sunsets here are absolutely stunning, painting the sky in vivid colors that reflect beautifully off the water.
9. Harbor Master Tiki Grille (Saint Petersburg)
Saint Petersburg’s waterfront scene is vibrant and diverse, and Harbor Master Tiki Grille brings a fun, tropical twist to the mix. You’ll find it at 200 Marina Plaza Drive, right on the marina where sleek sailboats and yachts create a constantly changing backdrop.
The tiki-themed decor is playful without being over-the-top, and the outdoor seating area is breezy and inviting, with views that stretch across the water and into the downtown skyline.
The menu leans into island-inspired flavors, with dishes like coconut shrimp, jerk chicken, and fish tacos that pack a flavorful punch. Their tropical cocktails are strong, refreshing, and perfect for sipping while you watch the boats come and go.
I love the casual, festive vibe here—it feels like a mini-vacation even if you’re just stopping by for lunch.
Service is upbeat and friendly, matching the energy of the setting. It’s a great spot for groups, with shareable appetizers and a lively atmosphere that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this place captures the fun, sunny spirit of St. Pete perfectly.
10. Buoy’s Waterfront Bar & Grill (St Pete Beach)
St Pete Beach is all about sunshine, sand, and good vibes, and Buoy’s Waterfront Bar & Grill embodies that spirit perfectly. Located at 3701 Gulf Boulevard, this spot sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway, offering views of passing boats and stunning sunsets that light up the sky every evening.
The outdoor deck is spacious and relaxed, with a laid-back atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re on island time the moment you sit down.
The menu is classic beach bar fare done really well—think juicy burgers, crispy fish sandwiches, and wings tossed in sauces that range from mild to mouth-scorching. Their grouper bites are a must-try, served hot and crispy with a side of tangy tartar sauce that’s basically perfect.
The drink menu features frozen cocktails and cold beers that go down easy in the Florida heat.
Service is friendly and efficient, even when the place is packed with beach-goers and locals alike. It’s the kind of spot where you can come as you are, enjoy great food and drinks, and soak in views that remind you why Florida is such a special place.
11. Southernmost Beach Café (Key West)
Key West has a magical quality that’s hard to describe, and Southernmost Beach Café captures that magic effortlessly. Located at 1405 Duval Street, this oceanfront gem sits right on the Atlantic, offering unobstructed views of turquoise water and endless horizon.
The outdoor seating area is steps from the sand, with a breezy, open-air vibe that makes you feel like you’re dining at the edge of the world.
The menu is a celebration of tropical flavors and fresh seafood, with dishes like conch fritters, mango-glazed mahi, and key lime pie that’s tart, creamy, and absolutely divine. I love how the kitchen balances bold flavors with fresh ingredients, creating dishes that taste vibrant and alive.
The cocktails here are top-notch, too—try a mojito or a rum punch and let the island vibes wash over you.
Service is warm and welcoming, with staff who genuinely seem to love what they do. Whether you’re catching breakfast at sunrise or lingering over dinner as the stars come out, this place delivers an experience that’s pure Key West magic.
12. Ocean2000 (Fort Lauderdale)
Fort Lauderdale’s beachfront has a glamorous energy, and Ocean2000 fits right into that scene with style and sophistication. Located at 2000 North Ocean Boulevard, this upscale spot sits directly on the sand, offering views of the Atlantic that are nothing short of spectacular.
The modern, sleek interior opens up to an outdoor patio where you can dine with your toes practically in the sand and the sound of waves providing the perfect soundtrack.
The menu is elevated and creative, with dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients and expert technique. Their seafood towers are impressive both visually and in taste, piled high with oysters, shrimp, and crab that’s ocean-fresh and beautifully presented.
I’m also a fan of their brunch menu, which features everything from decadent eggs Benedict to lighter, fruit-forward options that feel refreshing and indulgent at the same time.
The wine list is extensive, and the cocktails are crafted with precision and flair. Service is polished and attentive, making you feel special without being stuffy.
It’s a perfect choice for celebrating something special or simply treating yourself to a memorable meal by the sea.
13. La Mar by Gastón Acurio (Miami)
Miami’s culinary scene is world-class, and La Mar by Gastón Acurio raises the bar even higher with its stunning Biscayne Bay setting and Peruvian-inspired menu. Located at 500 Brickell Key Drive, this restaurant sits on the waterfront with views that take in the glittering bay, downtown skyline, and passing boats that add movement and life to the scenery.
The outdoor terrace is absolutely gorgeous, with stylish seating and an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and inviting.
The menu is a masterclass in Peruvian cuisine, with ceviches that are bright, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavors. The tiradito is silky and delicate, while the anticuchos bring a smoky, savory punch that’s utterly addictive.
Every dish feels thoughtfully crafted, with bold flavors balanced by fresh ingredients and expert preparation. The pisco sours here are legendary—perfectly tart, frothy, and dangerously easy to drink.
Service is polished and knowledgeable, with staff who can guide you through the menu and make excellent recommendations. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to experience one of Miami’s finest waterfront dining spots, La Mar delivers on every level.