People Travel From All Across Florida For Meals At These Beachfront Seafood Shacks
Florida’s coastline is home to some amazing seafood spots where you can wiggle your toes in the sand while munching on fresh-caught fish.
These beachfront shacks might look simple from the outside, but locals know they serve up some of the tastiest seafood in the Sunshine State. From panhandle to Keys, hungry seafood lovers are willing to drive for hours just to grab a bite at these legendary coastal eateries.
5. JB’s Fish Camp – New Smyrna Beach
Tucked away on the Indian River, JB’s has been serving up no-frills seafood since 1977. Kayakers often paddle right up to the dock before digging into their famous blue crab.
The rustic waterfront setting lets you watch dolphins play while cracking into stone crab claws. Could there be anything more Florida than that?
4. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant – Destin
Founded by a descendant of Destin’s original settlers, this harborside gem serves seafood so fresh it was swimming that morning! The plastic chairs and paper plates might fool you, but your taste buds won’t be deceived.
Fishermen unload their catches mere feet from your table. How’s that for ocean-to-plate service?
3. The Old Salty Dog – Sarasota
Where else can you munch on a beer-battered hot dog while watching the sunset over the Gulf? The signature Salty Dog (a hot dog wrapped in beer batter and fried to golden perfection) draws crowds, but the seafood steals the show.
Though originally a British pub, this spot has evolved into a Florida institution.
2. Star Fish Co. Seafood Market & Restaurant – Cortez
Blink and you might miss this tiny market-turned-eatery in Florida’s oldest fishing village. The grouper sandwich? Legendary! The secret’s in their simplicity – fresh fish, lightly seasoned, perfectly cooked.
Cash only and always packed, Star Fish embodies old Florida charm with pelicans watching hopefully from nearby posts. Worth every minute of the wait!
1. Dry Dock Waterfront Grill – Longboat Key
Perched on Sarasota Bay, Dry Dock serves up grouper sandwiches that have won awards and stolen hearts. Boaters dock right at the restaurant after a day on the water, creating a lively atmosphere.
The covered deck offers prime manatee-spotting opportunities while you sip something tropical. May your worries float away with each bite of their blackened seafood!
