Best Waterfront Restaurants

There are plenty of St. Pete/Clearwater waterfront restaurants ready to offer you a beautiful view along with a delicious meal.

A couple dines and enjoys cocktails at Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille with the St. Pete Pier in the background

Downtown St. Pete has some of the best waterfront dining in Florida, with restaurants such as Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille at the St. Pete Pier.

Keep the beach vibe going on your vacation by dining out at a popular cafe, tiki bar or upscale restaurant right on the water. From laid-back beach bars along the Gulf beaches to downtown St. Pete restaurants with a view of Tampa Bay, you'll have plenty of waterfront dining options. All of the restaurants on our list offer patio dining or outdoor deck seating (and most have an indoor option, too).

Casual Beachy Dining Classics

No need to be dressed to the nines at these classic establishments. Come straight off the beach and enjoy some delicious dining and refreshing cocktails.
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Frenchy's

Colorful Adirondack chairs on the beach outside of Frenchy's Rockaway Grill

Be sure to enjoy a classic waterfront Florida restaurant like Frenchy's when you visit!

Vibe: Frenchy's restaurants are practically institutions in the St. Pete/Clearwater area. All of them are beachy-fun, but Frenchy's Rockaway Grill (right on the sand) and Frenchy's South Beach Cafe (on Beach Walk) have great Gulf views, too. Frenchy's Saltwater Cafe, with a view of the Intracoastal Waterway, also has a dog-friendly back patio. All of the Frenchy's restaurants offer open-air dining.

Insider Tip: Frenchy's is known for their fresh grouper caught right from the Gulf of Mexico. You won't want to leave without tasting the garlic crab fries, which Food Network star Alton Brown claimed as one of his favorite dishes in Clearwater!

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The Palm Pavilion

An exterior shot of the Palm Pavilion Restaurant just after sunset

The Palm Pavilion has been a staple on Clearwater Beach since 1926.

Vibe: An open-air Gulf-front landmark on Clearwater Beach, The Palm Pavilion is an ideal spot for sunset-gazing on Clearwater Beach. The restaurant has been a staple on Clearwater Beach since 1926 and is famous for its come-as-you-are vibe. Flip-flops are more than welcome at this easy-going bar and grill! Enjoy shaded, open-air dining.

Insider Tip: The fried gator bites and wasabi scallops are delicious.

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Hurricane Seafood Restaurant

People dining on the rooftop of Hurricane Watch Roof-Top Bar  at sunset

Listen to live music and sip a cocktail at the Hurricane Watch Roof-Top Bar 

Vibe: This landmark in tiny Pass-A-Grille offers multi-level panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Hurricane is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and this casual place showcases a menu that has something for everyone. Dine inside, or choose covered patio or open-air deck seating.

Insider Tip: It's the perfect spot to watch the sunset, grab a grouper sandwich and a cold local craft beer.

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Paradise Grille

People outside dining at Paradise Grille, which overlooks Pass-A-Grille beach

Enjoy a great burger and amazing views at Paradise Grille at Pass-A-Grille Beach.

Vibe: Grab a picnic table, hoist the umbrella and take in the sights and sounds of this outdoor beachfront eatery. The embodiment of Pass-A-Grille Beach's low-key, old Florida vibe, Paradise Grille offers everything from burgers and wraps to smoothies and craft beer.

Insider Tip: Stick around for sunset, when one lucky guest is chosen to ring the ceremonial bell exactly 15 times at the precise moment the sun sinks into the Gulf.

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Restaurants with a Tropical Vibe

Bright colors, frozen coladas and nautical decorations - you might feel like you're on a Caribbean island at these restaurants. Kick back, relax and savor the food, music and island vibes.
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Woody's Waterfront

A sunset at Woody's Waterfront Restaurant

Dining in a waterfront setting with a great plate of food at Woody's on St. Pete Beach is the perfect end to a vacation day.

Vibe: Explore the retro style, casual vibe and amazing views that come together for a great time dining on the water. Located on an inlet in St. Pete Beach with views of Blind Pass and the Gulf, Woody's is so close to the water that you may see a dolphin pop up to say hi! There's plenty of outdoor dining at picnic tables shaded by umbrellas.

Insider Tip: Order the legendary Buffalo wings while listening to live entertainment Thursday through Sunday.

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Crabby Bill's

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Vibe: There's almost always a beach party vibe at Crabby Bill's, so there's no need to ditch your beachwear. Enjoy the sweeping views of St. Pete Beach from almost every seat in the house! You'll have the option of both indoor and outdoor seating.

Insider Tip: Enjoy your Philly-style grouper sandwich and a cold one while enjoying the sunset from the rooftop deck.

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Caddy’s

Two woman enjoy cocktails on the second floor of a Caddy's Restaurant overlooking the beach

The original Caddy's on the Beach at Treasure Island is known for great views, BBQ and live daily music.

Vibe: There are multiple Caddy’s on the Beach - on Treasure Island, Madeira Beach and Indian Shores. All offer a family-friendly vibe with tasty food, ice cold drinks and frequent live music. Enjoy sunset, some great wings and a cucumber mojito.

Insider Tip: At the original Caddy’s on Treasure Island, stretch out and enjoy yoga on the beach three days a week!

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Mangos Restaurant & Tiki Bar

A waterfront deck with tables and umbrellas at dusk at Mangos DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton Tiki Bar

Enjoy a beachfront tiki bar and Gulf-front dining at Mangos Restaurant in North Redington Beach.

Taste the tropics at Mangos Restaurant & Tiki Bar in the DoubleTree Beach Resort on North Redington Beach. The setting is a bit more elegant than many beachfront restaurants, but it's not stuffy here. Dine inside in air-conditioned comfort or choose a seat on the open-air veranda for great Gulf views. In the evening, the beachfront tiki bar gets lively with island music, colorful tropical drinks and equally colorful sunsets.

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Upscale Waterfront Dining

Make a reservation for a special moment: These fine dining waterfront restaurants offer delicious dishes in stunning settings.
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Bon Appetit Restaurant

People dine on a waterfront deck at Bon Appetit in Dunedin at dusk

Bon Appetit is an award-winning waterfront restaurant in charming small-town Dunedin.

Vibe: You can't go wrong at this local favorite in Dunedin that's been voted "Tampa Bay's Best Waterfront Restaurant" and among the "100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America." Come to Bon Appetit for lunch or dinner in an atmosphere of relaxed elegance, all with a spectacular waterfront view.

Insider Tip: Yes, it's possible (and a good idea) to make a reservation, but a tip that dining on the outdoor terrace is first-come, first-served. There's also a waterfront bar you can relax at while waiting for a table.

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Island Way Grill

oysters and shrimp are surrounded by cut lemons on a brunch table at Island Way Grill in Clearwater

Locals and visitors alike come for the award-winning Sunday brunch at the Island Way Grill in Clearwater.

Vibe: With its signature style, Island Way Grill offers slightly more formal waterfront dining on the Clearwater Harbor. "Formal" doesn't mean stuffy, though - the restaurant's dress code is along the lines of Tommy Bahama shirts for the guys and sundresses for the ladies. Outdoor seating is available.

Insider Tip: Enjoy one of the best Sunday brunch spreads around. Fresh seafood, omelet station, sushi bar, oysters on the half shell and a deluxe waffle station will keep you coming back for more!

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Sandbar

a beer-batter fried grouper sandwich with lettuce and tomatoes and fries on the side

The Sandbar is a casual beachfront spot at the elegant Opal Sands Resort.

Vibe: Views, views, views! As the name Sandbar would suggest, this prime spot on Clearwater Beach is directly on the Gulf. It's got a chill vibe, though the Opal Sands Resort its attached to is decidedly upscale. You decide whether you want to come in super-casual clothes, or wear your best South Beach-inspired ensemble while sipping tropical cocktails and sharing fresh seafood and pretty drinks with friends. This upscale tiki bar has outdoor dining aplenty.

Insider Tip: You'll find some of the best drinks on Clearwater Beach here. Get the biggest bang for your buck with pre-dinner appetizers and drinks - and enjoy an out-of-this world sunset.

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Tate Island Grill

A couple enjoys cocktails on the beach at Tate Island Grill at the Sandpearl Resort

Tate Island Grill is part of the Sandpearl Beach Resort in Clearwater Beach.

Vibe: Stroll up from the beach or poolside at this beachfront cool-and-casual haunt located at the Sandpearl Resort on Clearwater Beach. Enjoy a delicious wrap, some hummus or a refreshing beverage. Tate Island Grill offers plenty of shaded, outdoor seating.

Insider Tip: Stay for sunset to check out some live music and the nightly ringing of a ship's bell.

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Caretta on the Gulf

Four friends toast and enjoy a meal at Caretta on the Gulf overlooking Clearwater Beach

Caretta on the Gulf is a AAA Four-Diamond restaurant on Clearwater Beach.

Vibe: For a more refined experience, dress up just a bit and head to stylish Caretta on the Gulf on the Sandpearl Resort's main floor. You'll be raving about this AAA Four-Diamond restaurant with its seasonally inspired menu. Both indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Insider Tip: Enjoy tasty fresh seafood and steaks. If you're feeling really fancy, enjoy some Siberian caviar.

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The Society Table at the Don CeSar

An exterior shot of the Don CeSar Hotel

Opened in 1928, The Don CeSar has been welcoming travelers for nearly a century. 

Vibe: Stop by the Don CeSar Hotel for an all-new experience at their recently opened Society Table. The menu leans toward fresh seafood, but meatlovers and vegetarians will find options, too.

Insider Tip: The Society Table is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so come when the mood strikes and the tummy grumbles.

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Watercolour Grillhouse in Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites

The Watercolour Grill House at Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites Outside Dining

Enjoy beautiful views of the Florida Gulf Coast at you dine at this casual upscale restaurant.

VIBE: Watercolour Grillhouse has a relaxed, upscale vibe. This is where you want to go to have a great meal with your significant other, best friends or for a business get-together.  Located in the Clearwater Beach Marriott Suites on Sand Key, the bay front restaurant and bar offers relaxing views and parking is easy. 

Insider Tip:  The wine list is impressive and the cocktails are too! For Sushi fans, the sous chef rolls sushi Weds - Sunday. And when trying to decide between the steak and lobster mac-n-cheese, bring a friend and order both!

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ESKaPE

Marrying local flavors with intuitive service in a casual water front setting, ESKaPe is a haven to discover the essence of the Gulf. For guests of the Resort, ESKaPe is open mid-day.

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Waterfront Restaurants in the St. Pete Pier District

The St. Pete Pier has great options for waterfront dining.
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Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille

Exterior shot of Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille at the St. Pete Pier.

Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille at the St. Pete Pier offers a unique balance of flavors from the Caribbean Rim. 

Vibe: Named after the main character in Randy Wayne White's popular marine-biologist-turned-detective mystery series, it's no wonder that Doc Ford's plays up an adventurous vibe. It's a great place to savor Florida-themed fare on the St. Pete waterfront. Find your next great meal at the southern end of the Pier's Overlook area.

Insider Tip: Order the Yucatan Shrimp and a Mojito and enjoy the breeze off Tampa Bay. Dining is available both inside and out.

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Fresco's Waterfront Bistro

People enjoying lunch at Fresco's Waterfront Bistro at the St. Pete Pier

Dock your boat and have lunch at Fresco's Waterfront Bistro in downtown St. Pete near the St. Pete Pier.

Vibe: Dock your boat or come on foot to this family-friendly restaurant with great views of yachts and sailboats. Enjoy gentle breezes off the bay when you dine at the open-air deck. You'll find Fresco's just to the north of the Pier entrance.

Insider Tip: Their happy hour not only includes half-off select drinks Monday through Friday, but also some of the best waterfront views in downtown St. Pete.

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Teak

Two plates of foot at Teak on the St. Pete Pier

Enjoy Teak at the end of the St. Pete Pier and top off dinner with a cocktail at sunset.

Vibe: Waterfront elegance is the name of the game at Teak, the nautically themed restaurant on the fourth floor of the Pier structure. Foodies will appreciate this new offering by Chuck Prather, proprietor of the well-known Birchwood on St. Pete's Beach Drive, home to Birch & Vine and The Canopy rooftop bar. Expect small plates and entrees influenced by Floridian and Southern culinary traditions.

Insider Tip: After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at Pier Teaki, the Polynesian-themed rooftop tiki bar above Teak in the Pier building.

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Surf and Turf in Indian Rocks Beach & Indian Shores

Indian Rocks Beach and Indian Shores are quiet beach retreats, away from the bustle of Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. Discover amazing dining in this smaller neighborhood!
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Guppy's on the Beach

Vibe: This Indian Rocks Beach staple is a study in casual refinement, but it's serious about offering a delicious menu of options. Guppy's is best known for its fresh fish selection including local Gulf grouper piccata, Florida lobster tail, and shrimp and grits. Find plenty of shaded, outdoor dining.

Insider Tip: Steak lovers will enjoy the filet mignon dressed in garlic gorgonzola butter!

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Salt Rock Grill

A couple toasts at a outdoor table at Salt Rock Grill

Salt Rock Grill is a fine dining establishment with views of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Vibe: This fine dining establishment with views of the Intracoastal Waterway stands as a St. Pete/Clearwater landmark, known for excellent service and food. Salt Rock Grill's menu features both specialty seafood from around the world as well as the freshest of local catches. Steak lovers will also find some nice selections.

Insider Tip: If you're a wine aficionado, you'll want to order a nice bottle from their impressive wine cellar, which can be seen from the dining room.

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