Warmed and tanned by the sun, the best end to a day at the beach is a meal of local seafood overlooking the water. With the coastline dotted with various eateries, the glut of options can make the average tourist overwhelmed. So many places to try, so little time. Luckily, we can help make that a little easier. Here are 5 food options that are sure to please while taking the stress out of going to dinner.
First, let's establish the criteria that led to these 5 restaurants, because a list of entirely impractical options is less helpful than a standard google search. First, we considered location: waterfront. Panoramic views of the water were the first consideration. Secondly, this search is tailored to locations that specialize in seafood. A burger joint is probably not going to prioritize the flavors and cook of your snapper entrée. And lastly, we chose to select a medium range in price. These are not the cheapest restaurants, and also not the most expensive. You could dress up if you wanted, but you don't have to. That being established, let's take a look at these restaurants!
1) Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House
Located on Harbor Boulevard in Destin, Boshamps overlooks the beautiful Destin Harbor waters. With seafood sourced by Lucky Dog Seafood Company, Boshamps proudly claims to serve the freshest seafood around! You can even access the restaurant straight from the water
if you want! Boshamps also hosts BoJamz, a music and art festival each year. Ranked by google as $$$, this stunning restaurant is sure to be a spot you come back to over and over again!
2) Boathouse Oyster Bar
This coastal spot is known as a favorite among Destin locals! Having been voted Best Oysters and Gumbo for the past 30 years, Boathouse Oyster Bar also overlooks the Destin Harbor and can be accessed from the water.
This restaurant has an impressive menu ranging from their classic oysters and gumbo to prime rib, crab claws, and boiled peanuts. Ranked on Google as $$, this is a must-see.
3) The Bay
Want to dine on delicious seafood on a white sand beach overlooking Choctawhatchee Bay? Then this stunning restaurant checks all the boxes!
The Bay has weekly Wednesday night bonfires on the sand, as well as live music on Sundays. This award winning spot hosts a 12-draft beer system and an impressive menu that is sure to have something for even the pickiest of eaters. Ranked by Googles as $$, this Santa Rosa Beach destination needs a spot on your 30A itinerary.
4) Captain Anderson's Restaurant & Waterfront Market
Panama City Beach is the lucky home of this core 30A-experience. With gorgeous waterfront views and reputation 56-years strong, Captain Anderson's has been honored countless deserving awards such as being named among America's Top 50 Restaurant's.
Although the award winning menu is enough to draw most guests, Captain Anderson's also has an impressive market to browse. From specialty seasonings to cookbooks, this seafood market is sure to impress. Ranked by Google as $$$, we recommend you check it out.
5) Old Florida Fish House
If you're looking for an eating experience that captures the heart and soul of 30A, this restaurant overlooking Eastern Lake is your desired destination.
With an impressive menu selection to impress the avid foodie, Old Florida Fish House specializes in old Florida flavors. You can also reserve the venue for all your social needs. Ranked by Google as a $$$, this Santa Rosa is a favorite among the locals!
Fresh seafood is a priority on a trip to 30A so hopefully this brief list reduces some pressure in making dinner plans. There are hundreds of amazing restaurants that range from Destin all the way to Rosemary Beach, we just hope these 5 can give you some inspiration. And if you do try them, let us know what you think!