Discover the top family-friendly restaurants on Okaloosa Island, from casual seafood spots to beachside grills with Gulf views.
Soft waves, golden sands, and salty breezes; Okaloosa Island has all the makings of a perfect family getaway.
Between afternoons on the beach and strolls along the pier, one of the best ways to experience the island is through its food. In this stretch of Florida's Emerald Coast, families will find everything from casual shacks to vibrant, beachside eateries where kids can dig into nuggets or shrimp while adults sip something cold with a view.
In a hurry? Here's a gist of where to eat on Okaloosa Island.
Quick-Scan List
- Dig Into Local Flavor at The Gulf
- Savor Casual Seafood at Stewby's Seafood Shanty
- Go Big on Shrimp at Floyd's Shrimp House
- Spice Things Up at Rockin Tacos
- Dine With a View at Angler's Beachside Grill
At RealJoy Vacations, we've been part of the Emerald Coast hospitality scene for years. 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 fishing charters in the region to nightlife guides; it's all there.
In this guide, we'll dive into each spot to show you why they're perfect for your beach crew.
1. The Gulf
Fresh, Local, and Unforgettable
The Gulf is a pretty unique restaurant in the area. They use recycled and salvaged parts of old buildings and other materials to create an atmosphere you won't forget. The menu is constantly changing throughout the seasons because
The Gulf uses local ingredients in all of their dishes. Some of the specials include snow crab legs, blackened mahi tacos, and Tuscan snapper. You'll also find seafood mac and cheese, crispy shrimp, and crab cakes. Your kids get to choose from chicken tenders or fish nuggets. Your whole table can share chips and queso, peel-and-eat shrimp, or loaded fries.
Why it's a hit with the whole gang
- Ever-changing menu with fresh local ingredients
- Fun, eco-friendly design that sparks conversation
- Plenty of shareable appetizers for the table
- Kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and fish nuggets
What people say
The best Dinner in Okaloosa Island
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"We dined at The Gulf twice this past week, both times excellent and fast service. The Mango Mahi was perfect both nights as well as the fish tacos! So glad we found this, it was the best dinner of our vacation. It sure beat the fried everything at most of the other restaurants nearby.
We didn't know there wasn't table service and that there were two lines to wait in if you wanted both food and a drink but lines moved fast and food was delivered quickly. The kids loved the grassy areas and sand."
2. Stewby's Seafood Shanty
Casual Dining with Big Flavor
If you're looking for a casual place to eat that's welcoming for the whole family, you should try Stewby's Seafood Shanty. You'll get to enjoy fresh seafood at an affordable price, which is what you're looking for in a family-friendly Okaloosa Island restaurant.
One of their signature dishes you have to try is their gumbo. You can also get calamari, popcorn shrimp, or fried crab claws. Some of their specials are grilled scallops, seared yellowfin tuna, and colossal shrimp. You can get any of your favorite seafood fried or grilled, and there are combos and platters if you just can't pick one thing. Your kids can have shrimp, fish, or chicken grilled or fried.
Why it's a hit with the whole gang
- Fresh seafood without breaking the bank
- Famous gumbo and generous platters
- Laid-back setting that's perfect after a beach day
- Flexible kid's menu with grilled or fried options
What people say
Delicious seafood
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"Great spot worth waiting in line for. The lines look bad but they move pretty quickly. They have a large menu with plenty of seafood to choose from. Everything I have had there was delicious."
3. Floyd's Shrimp House
Shrimp Lover's Paradise on The Boardwalk
Another family-friendly Okaloosa Island restaurant you should try is Floyd's Shrimp House. Start out sharing oysters, shrimp, or gator bites. If you love shrimp, you can get them fried, peel-and-eat, covered in coconut, or wrapped in bacon.
You will find fish, steak, chicken, and crab entrées. There are shrimp tacos, po' boy sandwiches, burgers, and more. Your kids can choose from burgers, popcorn shrimp, chicken, grilled cheese, and more. The adults can enjoy all different kinds of drinks, from margaritas to mai tais. They also have beer and wine. Floyd's is located at The Boardwalk.
Why it's a hit with the whole gang
- Endless shrimp options cooked in fun styles
- Plenty of kid-approved choices
- Lively Boardwalk atmosphere with drinks for the adults
- Great for groups who want to share appetizers and seafood feasts
What people say
Definitely A Must
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"Floyd's was a pleasant surprise on a Saturday at the end of May. We only had to wait for maybe 10 min to sit outside. We would have eaten inside for no wait but it was freezing in there. Ladies, bring a wrap! The waitress was prompt and attentive. Our drinks came quickly, as did our food. I had the steak skewers and they were excellent! There was live music which I would have loved to stay fo,r but there is always one stick in the mud lol, all good."
4. ROCKIN TACOS
Mexican Flavors with a Beachside Twist
If your family loves Mexican food, then you should definitely try Rockin Tacos. Share some avocado fries, Mexican street corn, or nachos. You can get taco salad, quesadillas with your choice of protein, or fajitas with your choice of protein. Some unique items on their menu are cheeseburger tacos, gator tacos, and lobster tacos.
You can even build your own tacos if you want! They have enchiladas, burritos, and so much more. Adults can get their favorite margarita flavor or another cocktail to go with their food. Your kids can enjoy beef or chicken tacos, a burger, cheese and bean burrito, and more. Rockin Tacos is also located at The Boardwalk.
Why it's a hit with the whole gang
- Fun and flavorful twist on classic Mexican dishes
- Creative tacos like gator or lobster for adventurous eaters
- Build-your-own taco options to keep everyone happy
- Beachside location makes every meal feel like a celebration
What people say
Amazing Experience
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"Amazing service! Our server Jes, was super friendly, helpful, and made the whole experience great! Definitely recommend this place!"
5. Angler's Beachside Grill
Ocean Breezes and Classic Seafood
Angler's Beachside Grill is a low-key spot that offers Gulf views, affordable seafood classics, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families looking to dine right by the beach. Enjoy fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, or their popular seafood platters while soaking in the ocean breeze. The casual setting makes it easy for both adults and kids to unwind after a day in the sun.
Why it's a hit with the whole gang
- Beautiful Gulf views just steps from the sand
- Classic seafood dishes the whole family can enjoy
- Relaxed setting for a stress-free meal
- Ideal spot to watch the sunset while you dine
What people say
Great food and drinks
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"This place was amazing. The food was excellent and the bartenders were great. Prices were very affordable. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for awesome seafood and drinks. Great views of the ocean as well. I will definitely be back next year."
Family-Friendly Okaloosa Island Restaurants FAQ
What type of restaurants can families find on Okaloosa Island?
Families will discover a mix of casual seafood shacks, fun Mexican spots, and beachside grills with Gulf views. Most locations offer kid-friendly menus with items like chicken tenders, burgers, and grilled or fried seafood.
Are these restaurants good for large family groups?
Yes! Most family-friendly restaurants on Okaloosa Island have spacious seating, shareable platters, and a laid-back vibe perfect for big family gatherings.
Do the restaurants offer kid menus or kid-sized portions?
Absolutely. Many spots feature kids' menus with smaller portions and classic favorites such as popcorn shrimp, grilled cheese, or fish nuggets.
Can we enjoy Gulf views while dining?
Definitely. Restaurants like The Gulf and Angler's Beachside Grill give diners open-air seating with a front-row view of the water and stunning sunsets.
Is it necessary to make reservations?
In peak seasons, it's wise to call ahead or make a reservation, especially for popular dinner times. Casual spots usually accept walk-ins but may have short waits.
Are there vegetarian or non-seafood options?
Yes. Mexican spots like Rockin Tacos offer vegetarian items, and most seafood restaurants also serve salads, fries, and non-seafood dishes like burgers or chicken.
What's the best time to visit these family-friendly restaurants?
Arriving early in the evening or for a late lunch helps avoid crowds, and you'll often catch beautiful Gulf Coast sunsets during dinner hours.
Emerald Coast: A Beachfront Haven Like No Other
With so much to explore, and endless natural beauty to experience the best Florida has to offer, the Emerald Coast will definitely fulfill your craving for a fun-filled vacation.
At RealJoy Vacations, we go the extra mile to make your Emerald Coast getaway truly extraordinary. Your accommodation should match the beauty and magic of this Florida treasure, and our goal is to provide a 5-star coastal living experience during your stay.