Dine in Destin where the seafood is fresh, the Gulf views are dazzling, and the pelicans judge your table manners.
Beautiful views never go out of style. When you're on vacation, dining with views of the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, the captivating landscapes of the Outer Banks, or Florida's Emerald Coast can definitely elevate your experience. Chasing those views, even while dining, is always worth it.
When vacationing in Destin, a full day on the beach and exploring everything the city has to offer is sure to work up quite an appetite. Here, you'll find restaurants where you can enjoy not only a delicious meal but also spectacular views.
Here's a taste of what's to come:
- The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House: Iconic beachfront spot for chargrilled Amberjack and daily fresh seafood.
- Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House: Harbor-view Southern cuisine with a standout oyster menu.
- Pompano Joe'sCaribbean-inspired seafood in a colorful, beachside setting.
- Sand Flea Beach Bar: Old-school beach shack vibes with Gulf views and casual coastal fare.
- LuLu's Destin: Family-friendly dining with live music, a beach for kids, and waterfront views.
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. If you're looking for spacious beachfront houses or luxurious resorts, we offer a wide range of options to suit every preference.
As local experts, we know the area inside and out, and we're here to help you have the best possible experience. For more tips, check out our destination blog for insights on all things Emerald Coast; from the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants to nightlife guides, it's all there.
Below, I've rounded up five of the best Gulf-front restaurants in Destin for you to indulge in good food, beach vibes, and beautiful views.
Let's dive in!
1. The Back Porch
Fresh Gulf Seafood & One of the best Gulf views in Destin.
The Back Porch combines fresh seafood with one of the best Gulf views in Destin. Since 1974, it has been a local institution, famous for its chargrilled Amberjack and commitment to sourcing seafood daily from trusted suppliers.
What to Try
- Seafood Nachos: Perfect for sharing, loaded with Gulf shrimp and cheese.
- Chargrilled Amberjack: Their signature dish, cooked over an open flame.
- Fried Captain's Platter: A generous combination of Gulf favorites.
- Crab Stuffed Shrimp: Rich and flavorful with just the right spice.
Why It Stands Out
- Prime beachfront location with open-air seating.
- Known for starting the Amberjack trend in the area.
- Casual, family-friendly atmosphere with attentive service.
2. BOSHAMPS SEAFOOD & OYSTER HOUSE
Full of personality, quality, Gulf delicacies, and harbor views.
Boshamps offers Gulf-to-table Southern cuisine right on Destin Harbor. The name comes from the owner's dogs, Bo, Shamp, and Bama, and the restaurant delivers both personality and quality.
What to Try
- Pan-Roasted Gulf Grouper: Fresh and flaky, served with seasonal vegetables.
- Yankee Lobster Mac 'N Cheese: Creamy comfort food with a coastal twist.
- Southern Style Fried Chicken: A nod to classic Southern flavors.
- Oysters Rockefeller: Baked with spinach, garlic, pernod, and asiago cheese.
Why It Stands Out
- Expansive deck seating with harbor views.
- Wide oyster selection, from raw to specialty baked.
- Live music on select evenings.
3. POMPANO JOE'S
Caribbean-inspired seafood with a beachfront location.
This local favorite is a colorful beachfront spot with a chill vibe and Caribbean-inspired seafood. Featured on the Travel Channel as one of the world's best beach restaurants, it's a must for visitors seeking casual dining with a view.
What to Try
- Fish Tacos: A local favorite, perfectly seasoned and fresh.
- Grilled Salmon Salad: Light yet satisfying.
- Coconut Crusted Amberjack: Tropical flavors meet local seafood.
- Joe's Crab Cakes: House-made and loaded with lump crab meat.
Why It Stands Out
- Fun, beachy décor with open-air seating.
- Direct beach access, great for a post-meal stroll.
- Recognized nationally for its location and menu.
4. THE SAND FLEA BEACH BAR
Old-school beach shack vibes with Gulf views and casual coastal fare.
If you're craving a laid-back beach bite where your feet are practically in the sand, The Sand Flea Beach Bar is unbeatable. This charming seafood shack, inside Sandpiper Cove on Holiday Isle, serves breakfast through dinner with a nostalgic, open-air setup that invites you to unwind and soak in the Gulf views.
What to Try
- Breakfast Burger or Avocado Toast: great for your first bite of the day with ocean waves in the background.
- Fish Tacos, Cheeseburger, or Fried Shrimp: casual Gulf favorites that hit the spot.
- La Paz Chips, Salsa & Queso or Local Market Cuban Sandwich: signature dishes borrowed from nearby favorites.
- The Sand Flea Cocktail: a refreshing mix of dark and light rum with citrus juices, as iconic as the bar itself
Why It Stands Out
- Nostalgic "Old Florida" style fused with modern beach comfort in a relaxed, open-air setting.
- Outstanding ocean views with beachside service, just walk up from the sand, no parking needed.
- Thoughtful touches and signature menu items from local favorites like La Paz and The Local Market.
5. LULU'S DESTIN
Local icon, famous Seafood Gumbo, and waterfront dining.
Combining waterfront dining with entertainment and family fun, LuLu's is a local icon. Founded by Lucy Buffett (sister to Jimmy Buffett), it's as much an attraction as it is a restaurant.
What to Try
- LuLu's Famous Seafood Gumbo: A house signature.
- Crab Melt: Rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- Fish Tacos: Fresh and vibrant with local ingredients.
- Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding: Served with vanilla custard sauce.
Why It Stands Out
- Live music and a laid-back, island vibe.
- On-site shop for souvenirs.
- Kid-friendly beach and play area.
Tips for Dining Gulf-Front in Destin
Dining along the Gulf can be a popular choice, especially during peak travel seasons. Keep these tips in mind:
- Make Reservations: Especially for sunset dining.
- Arrive Early: Lunch and early dinner hours mean easier parking.
- Dress Comfortably: Many spots are casual, but upscale restaurants may require resort wear.
- Check Menus Online: Many feature seasonal specials or limited-time dishes.
Why Gulf-Front Dining Matters in Destin
Destin's identity is tied to its seafood heritage. Eating Gulf-front means supporting local fishermen and enjoying the freshest possible catch. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida ranks among the top U.S. states for fresh seafood landings, with the Gulf Coast as a leading source.