Sometimes the view is just as important as the food, and Orlando is just a short jog to some of the best beachside eateries on either the Gulf or the Atlantic. Every one of these spots is within a 2 hour drive from Orlando, and are directly on the sand, with lots of fresh arir and room to distance.
So fill the tank up, here are a few of the best seaside joints worth a quick weekend road trip.
Caddy’s On the Beach
9000 W Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, (727) 360-4993
Play some frisbee on the beach then catch yourself a cold one at the bar. This restaurant located directly on the beach with a walkway of sand to the front door brings an atmosphere of the tropics and relaxation. Some say it’s the perfect sunset spot so you might have to try to see it yourself.
Photo via Caddy’s On The Beach/FacebookWoody’s Waterfront
7308 Sunset Way, St. Pete Beach, (727) 360-9165
Enjoy a drink on the waterway at this deck restaurant. From seafood salads to their legendary buffalo wings, there is something for everyone here. Enjoy the full bar and live entertainment after a long day at the beach.
Photo via nocapi112176/InstagramCocina 214
451 S Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, (386) 456-3168
Specializing in authentic Mexican and Tex Mex dishes, this beachfront restaurant aims to bring freshness and flavor to its customers. With Happy Hour specials Monday through Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., spend the day under the sun and start the night with drinks in hand. The restaurant has a front lawn area dedicated for lounging and playing a game of cornhole, also with beach access to bring customers that much closer to the shore.
Photo via Cocina214DaytonaBeach/FacebookLandShark Bar & Grill
471 S Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, (386) 256-1248
Modeled after Margaritaville, this is a must stop for Jimmy Buffet-lovers everywhere who enjoy sipping on a cold one while also taking in the sights of the shore. The live music and uber-tropical decor attempts to transport guests to an island elsewhere. To make sure you really take in the atmosphere of the beer company, you can’t leave without trying their LandShark Burger paired with their, you guessed it, LandShark beer.
Photo via LandShark Bar & Grill/FacebookJimmy’s Fish House and Iguana Bar
521 S Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach, (727) 446-9720
Priding themselves in a Key West-created atmosphere, the part indoor, part outdoor upscale restaurant is decorated in an array of colors and designs. Dance to the live music or enjoy the food in front of you, either way, make sure you relax.
Photo via Jimmy’s Fish House and Iguana Bar/FacebookWave Terrace at Hard Rock Hotel
918 N Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, (386) 947-7300
With live music and a view of the oceanfront, this Hard Rock Cafe restaurant cherishes ambiance and sound. On the menu, you can spot local beer, craft cocktails and dishes ranging from seafood to meat. The fire pits are a nice touch to a night-out above the sea eating experience.
Photo via Hard Rock Cafe Daytona Beach/FacebookShor
301 S Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach, (727) 373-4780
This more upscale-style American restaurant brings you the best of fish and wines. The Buttermilk Fried Calamari and Chef’s Daily Special are some of the more popular items to choose from on their elite menu.
Photo via Shor Clearwater, American Seafood Grill/FacebookCocoa Beach Pier
401 Meade Ave., Cocoa Beach, (321) 783-7549
With five restaurants on the pier, you can choose which spot sounds the best for you. With Pelican’s Bar and Grill, Rikki Tiki Tavern, Keith’s Oyster Bar, Boardwalk Bar and Sea Dogs, find your favorite and eat your night away. Who said you can’t hit more than one of these spots in one night?
Photo via cocoabeachpier/InstagramCrabby Joe’s Deck and Grill
3701 S Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, (386) 788-3364
Eat above the sea at this deck-located restaurant. Don’t miss out on their “Crabby Hour” from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at their Calypso bar. From crab cakes to clam chowder, this restaurant will cure all your seafood cravings.
Photo via Crabby Joe’s Deck & Grill/FacebookThe Golden Lion Cafe
501 N Ocean Shore Blvd., Flagler Beach, (386) 439-3004
Dubbed “King Of The Beach,” this tropical outdoor getaway serves island favorites and major scenery. With a raw bar, live band and little umbrellas for drinks, this place plans to transport you to an island under the sun.
Photo via goldenlioncafe/FacebookPalm Pavilion Beach Bar and Grill
10 Bay Esplanade, Clearwater, (727) 446-2642
This spot is known for its grouper and sunsets so if either sounds good to you, plan according for both time of day and hunger. With several bands each day and a view of the beach, you can’t go wrong at this restaurant.
Photo via Palm Pavillion Beachside Grill/FacebookCrabby Joe’s Deck and Grill
3701 S Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach, (386) 788-3364
Eat above the sea at this deck-located restaurant. Don’t miss out on their “Crabby Hour” from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at their Calypso bar. From crab cakes to clam chowder, this restaurant will cure all your seafood cravings.
Photo via Crabby Joe’s Deck & Grill/Facebook
