West Palm Beach Restaurants on the Water
South Florida’s Best Waterfront Dining Spots: Where to Eat with a View
South Florida’s coastline is dotted with exceptional waterfront dining spots that offer both incredible food and stunning views. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, American classics, or something with a tropical twist, you’ll find the perfect spot by the water. From Palm Beach to Miami and even up to Stuart, here’s a roundup of the best waterfront dining experiences South Florida has to offer.
1. The Breakers – Palm Beach
An iconic South Florida destination, The Breakers in Palm Beach is a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience by the ocean. The Flagler Steakhouse is the standout, offering classic American cuisine with a refined atmosphere and panoramic ocean views. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood or a perfectly cooked steak, the luxurious setting adds to the experience.
Must-Try Dish: Dry-Aged Ribeye Steak
2. The River House – West Palm Beach
Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway in West Palm Beach, The River House provides a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere with beautiful water views. The menu offers a variety of fresh seafood and American classics, perfect for a lunch or dinner while watching the yachts go by. With its inviting outdoor patio, this restaurant is a local favorite for both casual and special occasions.
Must-Try Dish: Blackened Grouper
3. Waterway Cafe – Palm Beach Gardens
For a casual, fun waterfront dining experience, Waterway Cafe in Palm Beach Gardens is a favorite. Set on the North Palm Beach Waterway, it offers great seafood, tropical drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for a sunny afternoon or evening out. Whether you're seated inside or on the patio, the views of the water make for an ideal setting.
Must-Try Dish: Coconut Shrimp
4. Mamma Mia Italian Ristorante – Palm Beach Gardens
Located on the Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach Gardens, Mamma Mia provides an ideal setting for enjoying classic Italian dishes with a beautiful water view. The warm, family-friendly atmosphere is perfect for casual dining, and the outdoor seating area offers a relaxing spot to watch the boats pass by while you enjoy their delicious pasta and seafood offerings.
Must-Try Dish: Shrimp Scampi
5. Benny’s on the Beach – Lake Worth
For a relaxed meal with your toes in the sand, Benny’s on the Beach in Lake Worth offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This popular spot serves everything from breakfast to seafood, and their lobster roll is a local favorite. The casual atmosphere and beachfront location make it a perfect choice for a sunny day by the sea.
Must-Try Dish: Lobster Roll
6. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa – Manalapan
Located just south of Palm Beach, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa provides an upscale dining experience at its Temple Orange Mediterranean Bistro. This elegant restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Must-Try Dish: Grilled Sea Bass
7. Dockside Grill – Lake Worth
A charming spot located on the Lake Worth Lagoon, Dockside Grill offers a nautical-themed ambiance with views of the water. The relaxed setting is ideal for a casual meal, and the seafood offerings are fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re here for lunch or dinner, the views of the marina and the lagoon provide a perfect backdrop to your meal.
Must-Try Dish: Blackened Tuna
8. Calaveras Cantina – West Palm Beach
For a lively, vibrant waterfront experience, head to Calaveras Cantina in downtown West Palm Beach. This Mexican-inspired restaurant offers fresh tacos, margaritas, and other flavorful dishes. Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway, the outdoor seating area provides a fun and festive atmosphere, especially during sunset.
Must-Try Dish: Fish Tacos
9. Dune Deck Café – Lantana
Located in the charming town of Lantana, Dune Deck Café offers a fantastic beachfront dining experience with beautiful ocean views. Known for its fresh seafood and American classics, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner by the sea. Whether you’re enjoying their crab cakes or a tropical cocktail, the ocean breeze adds an extra touch of relaxation.
Must-Try Dish: Crab Cakes
10. Pelican Café – Palm Beach Shores
This hidden gem in Palm Beach Shores offers waterfront dining with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its fresh seafood, including mahi-mahi tacos and grilled fish, Pelican Café offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal with an ocean breeze. It’s an ideal spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy the South Florida coastline.
Must-Try Dish: Mahi Mahi Tacos
11. The Blue Heron – Loxahatchee River, Jupiter
For a more intimate, rustic experience, The Blue Heron in Jupiter sits on the Loxahatchee River and offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a laid-back dining experience. With a menu focused on seafood and Southern-inspired dishes, it’s a wonderful spot for enjoying fresh Florida catch while watching boats drift by on the river.
Must-Try Dish: Florida Stone Crab Claws
12. The Wharf – Miami
The Wharf in Miami is a trendy, lively spot located on the Miami River. With its vibrant atmosphere, this outdoor venue offers a variety of food trucks and pop-up vendors alongside cocktails and riverfront views. Whether you're enjoying tacos, seafood, or BBQ, it’s the perfect place for a casual meal with great company and a beautiful setting.
Must-Try Dish: Seafood Paella
13. Boatyard – Fort Lauderdale
For an upscale nautical experience in Fort Lauderdale, Boatyard offers delicious seafood and American cuisine in a stylish setting. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, the restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating with stunning views of the passing yachts. The fresh oysters and seafood towers are particularly popular for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated waterfront meal.
Must-Try Dish: Crab-Stuffed Flounder
14. Sailfish Marina – Stuart
Located in Stuart, Sailfish Marina offers a scenic waterfront setting with delicious seafood dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're dining inside or on the outdoor deck overlooking the marina, you can enjoy fresh catch-of-the-day specials and tropical drinks. This spot is perfect for a laid-back meal while enjoying the peaceful views of the marina.
Must-Try Dish: Grilled Mahi-Mahi
15. Islamorada Fish Company – Islamorada (Florida Keys)
A trip to the Florida Keys wouldn’t be complete without visiting Islamorada Fish Company. Situated right on Florida Bay, this restaurant offers a wide range of seafood dishes in a casual, island-inspired setting. With views of the water and nearby boats, it’s the perfect place to indulge in conch fritters and other local favorites.
Must-Try Dish: Conch Fritters
Final Thoughts
From the sleek and sophisticated waterfront dining in Palm Beach to the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys, South Florida has no shortage of dining experiences with stunning views. Whether you’re in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, or even Miami, there’s a waterfront spot to fit every mood, occasion, and craving. These restaurants not only offer incredible food but also an atmosphere that allows you to fully embrace the beauty of South Florida's coastline.