The Best Waterfront Restaurants

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!

Vibe: An open-air Gulf-front landmark on Clearwater Beach, Crabby's Beachside Pavilion is an ideal spot for sunset-gazing on Clearwater Beach. Previously known as The Palm Pavilion, 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 Boom Boom Lobster Tacos are a must-try. 

Vibe: This landmark in tiny Pass-a-Grille Beach offers multi-level panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Hurricane is open daily for lunch and dinner, with breakfast served Friday through Sunday — 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 gator bites, and wash it all down with a cold local craft beer.

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.

Vibe: Step into a Key West state of mind at this Clearwater Beach favorite, where whimsical tropical decor and Gulf views make every seat feel like vacation. Dine indoors or out, and don't be surprised if the energy kicks up as the sun goes down.

Insider Tip: Stick around for the nightly Sunset Celebration — a free shot and live music mark the moment the sun dips into the Gulf, seven nights a week.

Vibe: Overlooking Blind Pass on St. Pete Beach, Buoy's serves up scratch-made seafood and hand-crafted cocktails with small-town charm. Boat docks make it an easy stop if you're out on the water, and the rooftop bar adds another layer to the sunset views.

Insider Tip: The crab cakes and Maine lobster roll are local favorites — get there early for a rooftop table before the after-work crowd rolls in.

Vibe: Family-owned and operated, Rusty Bellies sits right on the Anclote River in the heart of the Sponge Docks, where you can watch the family's own fishing boats unload the day's catch. Expect a lively waterfront deck, live music and a laid-back, working-waterfront feel.

Insider Tip: Named for the local nickname given to large male gag grouper, Rusty Bellies is famous for hush puppies and fresh-off-the-boat seafood — ask your server what came in that day.

Vibe: A John's Pass staple since 1978, The Friendly Fisherman serves fresh Gulf seafood in a laid-back, family-friendly dining room or dockside in the Dockside Lounge, where dolphin sightings are practically guaranteed.

Insider Tip: Reel in your own dinner and take advantage of their "cook your catch" service — bring in your fresh haul and their chefs will grill, blacken or fry it to order.

Vibe: Perched at the entrance to John's Pass Village, Mad Beach Cantina brings vibrant Mexican flavors and marina views to Madeira Beach, with a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere across both rooftop and ground-level seating.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the BOGO margarita specials, and grab a rooftop or marina-side table for the best sunset view in the house.

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.

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!

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 it is 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 bites 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.

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.

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, named No. 11 in the U.S. for "Best Fine Dining" in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards. 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.

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 Wednesday to Sunday. And when trying to decide between the steak and lobster mac-n-cheese, bring a friend and order both!

Vibe: A Tierra Verde institution since 1972, Billy's is built entirely of native cypress and pine and overlooks the natural harbor known as Hurricane Hole. It's the kind of refined, old-Florida spot where a cocktail from the third-floor crow's nest bar is the perfect prelude to a memorable meal.

Insider Tip: Stone crab season runs October through May — order the claws with drawn butter, then save room for the steaks, which are just as celebrated as the seafood.

Vibe: A Greek seafood steakhouse nestled centrally on the historic Sponge Docks, Dimitri's pairs waterfront elegance with views of the Anclote River. It's a step up from the casual taverna scene nearby, making it an ideal choice for a celebratory dinner with a view.

Insider Tip: Order the flaming saganaki for a tableside show, then try the chargrilled octopus — one of the most praised dishes on the menu.

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.

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.

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 Cuban, Floridian and Caribbean culinary traditions.

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

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.

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 — make sure to try it dressed in Maine lobster butter!

Vibe: A bamboo-covered beach cafe just steps from the 8th Avenue beach access in Indian Rocks Beach, Kooky Coconut is equal parts sandwich shop and ice cream parlor. Grab a seat outside, or head out back to the complimentary beach chairs after you eat.

Insider Tip: The hot-pressed Tampa Cuban is the star of the menu, but save room for one of 20-plus homemade ice cream flavors — Toasted Coconut is a fan favorite.