Oceanfront Restaurants Along the Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and incredible dining options. Whether you’re staying in Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or along 30A, there’s no shortage of delicious oceanfront restaurants that offer spectacular views and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, casual beachside dining, or a fine dining experience, these restaurants make the most of their Gulf-front locations. Here’s a guide to the best oceanfront restaurants along the Emerald Coast, along with key details to help you plan your visit.

1. The Back Porch – Destin

A local favorite since 1974, The Back Porch in Destin is one of the most iconic oceanfront restaurants along the Emerald Coast. Located right on the beach, it offers stunning Gulf views, a laid-back atmosphere, and some of the freshest seafood in the area. The menu features everything from fried grouper sandwiches to seafood platters, making it perfect for both casual lunches and relaxed dinners.

• Website: The Back Porch Destin
• Address: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98 E, Destin, FL 32541
• Cost: $15-$30 per entrée
• Group Tip: Arrive early to get a table with a prime view of the Gulf, especially if you’re dining with a large group.
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM

For guests staying in one of Legacy Beach Homes’ large vacation rentals in Destin, The Back Porch is an easy and excellent choice for a fun, casual meal by the ocean.

2. Pompano Joe’s – Miramar Beach

For a taste of the tropics, head to Pompano Joe’s in Miramar Beach. This colorful beachside restaurant is known for its Caribbean-inspired seafood dishes and breathtaking ocean views. Located directly on the sand, Pompano Joe’s is a perfect spot for families and groups looking to enjoy a beachside meal while soaking up the coastal scenery.

• Website: Pompano Joe’s
• Address: 2237 Scenic Gulf Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
• Cost: $15-$35 per entrée
• Group Tip: Ideal for large groups, Pompano Joe’s has ample seating with great views of the Gulf. Try their famous coconut shrimp or mahi-mahi.
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM

Pompano Joe’s is just a short drive from Legacy Beach Homes’ large vacation rentals in Miramar Beach, making it a convenient stop for guests looking to dine with a view.

3. Vue on 30A – Santa Rosa Beach

For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Vue on 30A in Santa Rosa Beach is one of the top oceanfront restaurants along 30A. As the name suggests, this restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico from both indoor and outdoor seating. Vue on 30A serves a sophisticated menu featuring fresh seafood, steak, and craft cocktails, making it ideal for a romantic dinner or a special group celebration.

• Website: Vue on 30A
• Address: 4801 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
• Cost: $20-$45 per entrée
• Group Tip: Perfect for larger groups or special occasions, be sure to make reservations in advance to secure a table with ocean views.
• Hours: Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM (closed Mondays)

Guests staying in Santa Rosa Beach large vacation homes by Legacy Beach Homes will love the sophisticated ambiance and incredible Gulf views that Vue on 30A has to offer.

4. The Crab Trap – Destin and Miramar Beach

Another local favorite for beachfront dining is The Crab Trap, with locations in both Destin and Miramar Beach. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and Gulf-front seating, The Crab Trap offers a mix of classic seafood dishes, such as crab legs and shrimp, along with burgers and sandwiches. With unbeatable views of the beach, it’s an excellent spot for both lunch and dinner.

• Website: The Crab Trap
• Address: 3500 Scenic Hwy 98 E, Destin, FL 32541 (Destin); 1450 Scenic Gulf Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 (Miramar Beach)
• Cost: $15-$30 per entrée
• Group Tip: The Crab Trap is great for large families or groups, offering kid-friendly options and plenty of space.
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM

For groups staying at Legacy Beach Homes’ large vacation rentals in Destin or Miramar Beach, The Crab Trap provides a fun and casual dining experience with unforgettable views.

5. Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant – 30A

Located in the charming beach town of Seaside along 30A, Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant is a beloved establishment offering some of the best views on the coast. Known for its laid-back vibe and fresh, seasonal cuisine, Bud & Alley’s serves everything from seafood gumbo to seared tuna, making it a hit with locals and visitors alike. The rooftop bar is also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset over the Gulf.

• Website: Bud & Alley’s
• Address: 2236 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
• Cost: $20-$40 per entrée
• Group Tip: If you’re dining with a group, consider booking the rooftop area for sunset cocktails and dinner.
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM

If you’re staying in 30A large beach vacation homes by Legacy Beach Homes, Bud & Alley’s is a perfect spot for a meal with friends and family, offering a quintessential 30A dining experience.

6. The Surf Hut – Miramar Beach

Right on the beach in Miramar Beach, The Surf Hut is known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere and Southern-inspired seafood dishes. Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite after a day at the beach or sit down for a seafood feast, The Surf Hut offers great food with unbeatable ocean views. Their menu features a variety of seafood, BBQ, and sandwiches.

• Website: The Surf Hut
• Address: 551 Scenic Gulf Dr, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
• Cost: $15-$30 per entrée
• Group Tip: The Surf Hut has plenty of outdoor seating right on the sand, making it perfect for families and groups looking for a relaxed dining experience.
• Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM

Guests staying at Legacy Beach Homes’ vacation rentals in Miramar Beach will find The Surf Hut to be a convenient and laid-back option for beachfront dining.

Plan Your Stay with Legacy Beach Homes

When planning your beach vacation along the Emerald Coast, it’s essential to have the perfect accommodations for your group. At Legacy Beach Homes, we offer the largest collection of newly-built vacation homes on the Emerald Coast, designed specifically for large group vacations and multi-family gatherings. Our 8-bedroom homes can accommodate 20+ guests, and our side-by-side homes are perfect for groups of 50 or more.

With easy beach access, private pools, and free golf carts, Legacy Beach Homes ensures your group has the ultimate Emerald Coast vacation experience. After enjoying a meal at one of the area’s top oceanfront restaurants, you can retreat to your luxury vacation home and relax in comfort.

Visit Legacy Beach Homes today to find the ideal vacation rental for your next trip to Destin, Miramar Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, or 30A!

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