Want to dine while taking stunning water views? This article will show you the best beachfront restaurants in Destin Florida.
With expansive white sand beaches, scenic ocean views, and a nostalgic boardwalk, it’s easy to see why Destin’s coastline provides the perfect backdrop for a meal by the water.
A trip along the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village will show you a bounty of waterfront restaurants serving delicious meals accompanied by mesmerizing ocean beauty and magnificent sunsets.
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Whether you prefer the casual ambiance of seaside eateries, the lavish settings of upscale seafood restaurants, or locations with a bit more party(ish) atmosphere, you will surely discover a spot that appeals to you here.
Be swept away by scenery, ambiance, and flavors at any of these beachfront restaurants in Destin FL below.
Plan Your Trip to Destin, FL In a Glance
Here is a snapshot to help you plan your trip to Destin Florida!
How to get around: The best way to get around Destin and see everything in the city and the nearby places is by driving a car. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent one via Discover Cars. You can alternatively use Uber, bikes, and public transport to get around though these can be quite limiting.
Must-do tours and experiences: Some of the must-do tours and activities while in Destin include; This Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise (4.5/5) to admire the local marine life on a unique jet, this Banana Boat Experience (5/5) the entire family can enjoy, this tiki sunset cruise (5/5) to sail to the famous BYOB tiki bar, and a day trip to the stunning Crab Island by joining this tour (5/5).
Where to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Destin (8.4/10) is the best hotel if you want to be close to everything with a mid-range budget. It is right in downtown, the beach is 3 minutes away and there is also a small theme park across the street. Those who are after unmatched luxury will love Henderson Beach Resort (9.2/10). It has private beach access to Henderson Beach State Park and the rooms are luxurious with all the amenities you can think of. If you’re a budget traveler, you can’t go wrong with SummerPlace Inn (8.3/10)
What to pack: Don’t leave sunscreen (take this one that is eco-friendly with SPF50), this beach cooler with rollers, this sand-proof beach mat, this wide-brim beach hat, a swimsuit, a beach coverup, and more.
Best Beachfront Restaurants in Destin FL
Regardless of the kind of vibe you’re after, one of these waterfront restaurants in Destin Florida will meet your needs!
1. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster Bar
Expect a high-end experience worth every penny at this historic beachfront restaurant in Destin with scenic harbor views.
Boshamp’s Seafood & Oyster Bar served the people of Destin under the name, The Flamingo Cafe for over 30 years before transforming into the casual and inviting seafood mecca we know now.
Located at the beautiful Destin harbor, Boshamp’s is home to some of the city’s best and most innovative Southern-inspired Gulf-to-table seafood plates.
For dinner, start with the Baked Pimento Cheese, then order the Oysters Rockefeller from the oyster bar, and make space for the Signature Corn and Crab Chowder which was Flamingo Café’s original recipe.
Their bar also serves custom co*cktails! Pair them with the live music on the patio and you have the perfect Destin waterfront dining experience.
Location: 414 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-424-7406
2. Beach Walk Cafe
Located on the private beach of an intimate 4-star hotel, Beach Walk Cafe at Henderson Park Inn will take your breath away with a seductive ambiance, idyllic Gulf and sunset views, attentive service, and a mouthwatering menu.
Chef Daniel Peters is at the helm bringing locally-sourced ingredients together in a perfect marriage of flavors.
Every bite into the beautifully plated seafood is pure bliss and the extensive beverage list of seasonal handcrafted co*cktails, champagne, wines, and sparkling drinks accompanies the impeccable dishes.
A perfect romantic date location, this upscale Adults-only dining establishment offers a VIP Toes-in-the-Sand dining experience where you enjoy personalized service and a private table with your toes buried in the sand as you linger over bites of fresh seafood.
Location: 2700 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-650-7100
Related Post: Best Places To Eat Breakfast In Destin, Florida
3. Pompano Joe’s
Bold and dynamic Caribbean flavors are the theme of the brightly-colored Pompano Joe’s which sits on the edge of a stunning beach.
Consistently dubbed one of the world’s best beach restaurants, fresh and local ingredients make up the hefty Caribbean-inspired menu, with the Seafood Gumbo – a 3-time winner of the Sandestin Gumbo Festival, and the Reggae Rolls always stealing the show.
PJ also offers gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options, and you can take your dining experience up a notch with their daily Happy Hour specials served from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm.
Whether you go during the day to enjoy the water views and blue skies or wait for the golden hour to enjoy a beautiful sunset, you won’t go wrong with this place if you’re looking for beachside restaurants in Destin FL.
And the best part is that you’ll be able to enjoy the beach views whether you’re seated on the patio or inside the dining area. Just make sure you arrive early to get a spot because it’s usually crowded.
Location: 2237 Scenic Gulf Dr, Destin, FL 32550.
Contact: +1 850-837-2224
4. Louisiana Lagniappe
When you want the whole package — delicious food, high-quality service, an unmatched ambiance, and stunning water views, stop by this locals’ favorite.
Louisiana Lagniappe aims to transport a slice of Louisiana to Destin’s waterfront and has been serving generous portions of steak and seafood specialties in an upscale and sleek setting since 1984.
Open only for dinner, this Destin beachfront restaurant serves addictive hush puppies and Bread Pudding, and its menu also highlights excellent options for kids and gluten-free diners.
Whether you are seated in the white tablecloth dining room or in the spacious patio, there’s no better place to share plates with loved ones and enjoy the cool Gulf breeze and views than this.
Location: 775 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-837-0881
Related Post: Best Cities Near Destin
5. Marina Cafe
A venue that’s romantic by default, Marina Cafe is the perfect upscale venue for romantic dates and milestone celebrations.
Whether dining in the candlelit dining room or at the outdoor tables, you will be swept away by the creative meals, beautiful harbor vistas, and friendly service.
With a cross-cultural-influenced menu of seafood, sushi, steaks, pasta, and some of the best Pizza in Destin, there is something filling, tasty, and stunningly presented for every guest.
Treat yourself to their much-loved Coconut Cream Pie for dessert and explore their extensive beverage menu featuring wines, co*cktails, spirits, and beers.
Happy Hour is on daily between 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, and live music runs from 7:30-10:30 pm every Thursday to Saturday.
Due to the popularity of this restaurant, we highly encourage making reservations to guarantee a spot.
Location: 404 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-837-7960
6. The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
Gorgeous views and scrumptious seafood are two things they have in abundance at this rustic waterfront restaurant in Destin.
Serving Destin locals since 1974, The Back Porch’s exceptional understanding of delicate yet bold and vibrant seafood is highlighted on their menu, which also features gluten-free options and a kid’s menu.
Gulf Grouper and baked Back Porch Oysters topped with crabmeat and cheese, headline the menu but there are other worthy mentions including Snow Crab legs and Crab Stuffed shrimp.
Between the high-quality cooking, unpretentious atmosphere, friendly service, and unparalleled Gulf views to go with your meal, this restaurant takes beachfront dining in Destin FL to the next level.
And if you want to eat with your toes deep in the sand, it’s possible at this restaurant because there are tables right on the beach.
Location: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-837-2022
Related Post: Destin’s Best Italian Restaurants
7. Crab Trap Destin
There’s something uber-relaxing about watching the sun set over the ocean with a co*cktail in hand, fresh seafood by your side, and your toes buried in white sand, all while inhaling crisp ocean breezes! That is the exact experience this dog-friendly beachfront restaurant in Destin serves on a platter.
Situated right on the beach, Crab Trap Destin has multiple seating options available all with equally arresting Gulf views where you can dive into fresh seafood offerings like their signature Hot Crab Dip served with warm pita chips, bronzed grouper, and Alaskan Crab Legs. Crab Tap also offers a gluten-free and kid’s menu.
Get the kids busy at the playground while you check out their tiki bar serving classic coastal co*cktails with an unmatched coastal view.
If there are restaurants on the beach in Destin we can’t get over, Crab Trap Destin is at the top.
Location: 3500 Scenic Hwy 98 E, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-654-2722
8. Harry T’s Lighthouse
This longtime Destin favorite has been around since 1987 and moved to its current lighthouse location in 2008 where it is renowned for its proximity to the water, tastefully chosen circus-themed decor paired with mementos from Thracia (a sunken luxury cruise ship), and seating layout that ensures every guest enjoys breathtaking water views.
But the true highlight of Harry T’s Lighthouse is the wide array of fresh seafood and meat options to satisfy any foodie’s quest for flavor.
From the famous Seafood Nachos to the Cream of Crab Soup that has been served for over 25 years, to the award-winning gumbo, the high quality, and freshness remain consistent across the entire menu.
Harry T’s bar also has an impressive list of specialty co*cktails, handcrafted local beers, and wines, and occasionally, live bands and musical-themed events turn up the mood making it one of the best bars in Destin.
And if you have a special event you’ll like to celebrate, Harry T is happy to host you on its second floor.
Location: 46 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-654-4800
9. Harbor Docks
Originally a spot where commercial fishermen came to reboot after long work days, this historic building has transformed into a local favorite.
To date, its history still runs deep so much so that the wood walls are still lined with historic photos of fishermen with their catches.
Day or night, the harbor and water views are unmatched, and fresh Gulf-harvested seafood, impeccable service, and a friendly atmosphere round out the experience.
Sitting on the harbor, Harbor Docks reels in patrons with their fresh seafood directly from their own fish market, an extensive sushi selection, and delightful Thai plates.
With live music and endless special events, this is one of the Destin Harbor restaurants that know how to have a good time.
Location: 538 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-837-2506
10. Margaritaville – Destin
Share plates with friends, vibe to live music, and enjoy tasty margaritas while taking in coastal breezes at Margaritaville – Destin.
The restaurant is covered in nautical decor which is fitting for a restaurant that is only steps away from some of Destin’s gorgeous yachts.
Peruse their limited menu of classic comfort food, including headliners like the Volcano Nachos, Jimmy’s Jammin’ Jambalaya, and the Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Plus, a gluten-free option is available for some dishes upon request.
There is plenty of indoor dining space — both on the first and second floor with scenic ocean and marina views through the large windows, but the most coveted seats are on the patio for the best harbor views.
Expect regular live music as it makes up a huge part of the vibes here.
Location: 76 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541.
Contact: +1 850-460-7700
Final Thoughts on the Best Beachfront Restaurants in Destin Florida
Between the city’s thriving culinary scene and stunning seaside scenery, these are a standout selection of the best beachfront restaurants in Destin that will take you on a true culinary adventure from start to finish.
After all, nothing beats fresh seafood and a glass of margarita while enjoying world-class water views.
Which Destin beach restaurants can’t you wait to dine at?
But before you go, consider sharing these Destin waterfront restaurants if you found the article helpful!
