BEST Waterfront Dining Guide: Southwest Florida
Waterfront!
Whether you are traveling with kids in tow or solo, there is nothing quite like dining waterfront! It is our favorite way to dine! Florida has some of the most beautiful waterfront and no shortage of dining options! In this guide you will find our favorite waterfront dining options, each with very different vibes, so be sure to read the descriptions so you can make the best choice! (In no particular order as each is very different.)
Mucky Duck, Captiva ($$) –This casual beach front restaurant boasts a perfect view of the sunset and is our favorite to go to with the kids. Its flavorful menu, fresh seafood and casual atmosphere is perfect! Beach and activities keep kids busy, plenty of outdoor seating and super fun merch! Try the shrimp tacos, and the Beer-garita!
Casual Beachfront Dining, in your swimsuit if you want…Mucky Duck, Captiva
This walk up and sit-down restaurant has all the staples and is very family friendly. Relatively inexpensive and perfect if you don’t feel like packing a cooler for the beach! (Don’t miss the sunset).
Baleen, Naples ($$$) –This beachfront restaurant is great for date night, be sure to catch the sunset! It is pricey, but so worth it, each dish is a culinary masterpiece! Dress to impress, requires reservations weeks-months ahead of time depending on season. Check their website. My fav, the Blackened Gulf Grouper!
Turtle Club, Naples ($$$) – (Still rebuilding from hurricane Ian slated to reopen January 2024) Much like Baleen, Turtle Club is fancy, pricey and a spectacular date night! They have amazing martinis, my favorite is the Pina Colada Martini. For entrees try the Sea Harvest, a collection of shrimp, lobster, sea scallops and gulf fish…so delicious! No reservations needed for lunch, but if you’re like everyone else and trying to catch dinner and the sunset, you’ll need to make reservations well ahead of time!
The Sea Harvest, Turtle Club
Coconut Jacks, Bonita Springs ($$) – Located on the intercoastal you’re likely to catch a dolphin or two if you sit outside! Casual atmosphere, great for families, fun beachy cocktails, and delicious seafood! The Blackened Grouper Sandwich is my personal favorite!
Boat House, Ft. Myers and Cape Coral ($$)
There are two locations with open air seating, both on the Caloosahatchee River. There is so much to do here! Yard Games, a pool, live music, and TV’s everywhere this is paradise for dining with kids and super fun night life! Great seafood options and fun tropical cocktails!
Flipper’s on the Bay, Ft. Myers Beach ($$$) – Located on the intercoastal, you might catch a dolphin or two! Relax in the pool/hot tub until your table is ready! Great with or without kids, open air seating! Try the Original Bucket O Fun, and Flippers Famous Oscar!
