Craving seafood with a view? Discover four top waterfront restaurants in Pensacola Beach where great food, breezy vibes, and stunning coastal scenery come together for the perfect dining experience.
In the Colorado Rockies, it's all about dinner with a mountain view. But on Florida's Gulf Coast, nothing beats fresh seafood with ocean views and salty air.
When visiting Pensacola Beach, enjoying fresh seafood and a refreshing drink with a view is hard to beat. This Florida gem has several waterfront restaurants where you can sit back, relax, and take in both delicious food and beautiful scenery.
Below, I'll introduce you to four top-rated waterfront spots in Pensacola Beach to help you enjoy a standout dining experience while you're in town.
Here's a little taste of what's coming your way:
At Pensacola Beach Properties, we don't just offer a great selection of Pensacola Beach rentals; we've also got the kind of local tips that can seriously level up your trip.
As local experts, we're here to show you the best of what Pensacola Beach has to offer. For more insider ideas, check out our destination blog. We cover everything from top pet-friendly spots to the best places to eat, drink, and enjoy the local nightlife.
Let's jump into the details!
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Whiskey Joe's is a laid-back spot right on Quietwater Beach, perfect for soaking up sunset views and waterfront breezes. It's part of the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, so you're just steps from shops, live music, and beachy fun. Come hungry and thirsty because this place delivers on both.
Highlights
- Located right on the sand at Quietwater Beach, ideal for sunset views.
- Famous for its "Floribbean" flavors like Gator Bites and Grouper Sandwiches.
- Raw Bar with fresh seafood picks.
- Over 30 tiki cocktails, plus local beers and frozen favorites like the Bushwhacker>
- Great vibe for a casual dinner or fun night out by the water
Just a short walk from many of our rentals, Peg Leg Pete's is a local favorite for fresh seafood, marina views, and a welcoming atmosphere. It sits right across from Pensacola Beach, making it a convenient stop for lunch, dinner, or a sunset meal. Families love it, and it's easy to see why.
Highlights
- Walkable from several of our vacation rentals.
- Popular for seafood, plus gluten-free and kid-friendly options.
- Right next to LaFitte Cove Marina, great for boat watching.
- Five boat slips available for guests.
- On-site playground for the kids while you dine.
Flounder's Chowder House is a popular spot in Pensacola Beach where good food, great views, and live music come together. It sits right on the Santa Rosa Sound, making it a great place to relax, watch the water, and enjoy a meal. Families love it, and there's something on the menu for everyone.
Highlights
If you're after a fun, casual spot that welcomes both kids and dogs, Shaggy's Harbor Bar & Grill is a great pick. Located right on Little Sabine Bay, it's a local favorite for outdoor dining, fresh air, and easygoing vibes. You can pull up by boat, grab a picnic table in the sand, and enjoy the view.
Highlights
- Dog- and family-friendly with outdoor seating.
- Picnic tables right on the sand.
- Boat slip rentals on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Deck dining with bay views and a breeze.
- One of the best craft beer lists in Pensacola Beach
Bonus: How to Make the Most of the Waterfront in Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach is all about the water, and there are plenty of easy ways to enjoy it (no yacht required). From paddleboarding and kayaking to dining with your toes in the sand, the waterfront is where this beach town shines.
Here's how to soak it all in:
- Take a morning paddle: Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore Little Sabine Bay or the calm waters around Quietwater Beach.
- Book a dolphin cruise or sunset sail: Local outfitters offer daily trips.
- Stroll the boardwalk: Shops, live music, and breezy views; great during golden hour.
- Cast a line from the pier: The Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier is perfect for fishing or just enjoying the view.
- Anchor off for the afternoon: If you've got a boat or rent one, pull into Little Sabine for swimming and floating.
- Rent a Gulf-front vacation rental: Relax on your private balcony with a view of the Gulf and feel the salty breeze roll in.
Wondering where to stay in Pensacola Beach?
Here's an idea: to make the most of your stay in Pensacola Beach, why not book a beautiful vacation rental? That's the best way to stay like a local. There's nothing like experiencing this piece of paradise in Florida with all the privacy and comfort you need.
At Pensacola Beach Properties, we offer a wide selection of the best short-term rentals in Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach, including vacation rentals with pools, Gulf views and pet-friendly options. Staying with us, all you have to do is kick back, relax, and soak in the Gulf Coast vibes to the fullest.
