Looking for the best seafood restaurants on Pensacola Beach? From casual oyster bars to upscale waterfront dining, here's your guide to the top spots to savor fresh Gulf flavors.
Cover photo credit: Flounder's Chowder House on Facebook.
From the Rocky Mountains to the beaches of Ocracoke Island, every destination has its flavor, and on Pensacola Beach, it's seafood all the way.
If you're craving oysters by the marina, a crab cake brunch with a view, or just a fun spot to sip a cold drink by the water, you're in the right place. Pensacola Beach serves up seafood with style—and plenty of sunshine on the side.
At Pensacola Beach Properties, we're more than just local experts on rentals. We also know where to eat, sip, and savor the best of the beach. For more insider tips, check out our destination blog.
Here's our pick of the top seafood restaurants on Pensacola Beach, each with something special on the menu:
- Peg Leg Pete's – Casual Classic with Oysters and a View
- The Grand Marlin – Refined Dining with a Waterfront Backdrop
- Crabs on the Beach – Family-Friendly Vibes and Oceanfront Charm
- Shaggy's – Laid-Back, Dog-Friendly, and Full of Flavor
- Flounder's Chowder House – Boardwalk Staple with Seafood and Tunes
Hungry yet? Let's dive in.
1. PEG LEG PETE'S
Casual Classic with Oysters and a View
Peg Leg Pete's is a casual restaurant that offers a wide range of seafood dishes, from classic fried shrimp to blackened grouper. The restaurant is also known for its oysters, which are shucked to order and served raw or cooked. Over the years, Peg Leg Pete's has become a favorite seafood spot for both locals and tourists.
Atmosphere
Located on a waterfront marina, this restaurant has a playground for children and live music to keep you entertained during your meal. For those looking for a cocktail or light meal, Peg Leg Pete's has a fun, lively atmosphere and is a great spot to grab a drink and watch the sunset over the water.
2. THE GRAND MARLIN
Refined Dining with a Waterfront Backdrop
Another great seafood restaurant on Pensacola Beach is The Grand Marlin. This upscale eatery offers a more refined dining experience, with a menu that focuses on fresh, locally sourced seafood.
Atmosphere
Located on the Santa Rosa Sound, The Grand Marlin is great for dinner or drinks with beautiful waterfront views. The restaurant's specialty is its Gulf seafood platter, which features a variety of grilled and fried seafood, including shrimp, oysters, and fish. This spot is excellent for families or couples who want a more elegant dining experience when staying on the beach. The Grand Marlin also has an extensive wine list and a knowledgeable staff that can help you choose the perfect pairing for your meal.
3. CRABS ON THE BEACH
Family-Friendly Vibes and Oceanfront Charm
Crabs on the Beach is another popular restaurant located directly on Pensacola Beach. People have come to love this restaurant for its incredible outdoor dining, an onsite playground, and a gift shop for souvenirs.
Menu & Atmosphere
Enjoy breathtaking views, the laid-back atmosphere, and, you guessed it, fresh crab dishes, among other seafood options like shrimp, sushi, and more. This restaurant has an impressive drink menu for sunset cocktails, or Sunday brunch which involves delicious crab cakes and irresistible bottomless mimosas.
4. SHAGGY'S
Laid-back, Dog-Friendly, and Full of Flavor
If you're looking for a dog and family-friendly restaurant on Pensacola Beach, Shaggy's Harbor Bar & Grill is the perfect stop. Their menu is full of fresh Gulf seafood like shrimp, mahi mahi and unique dishes like crab soup and seafood macaroni and cheese. They also have a unique selection of fish options like Catfish and Tigerfish.
Atmosphere
This waterfront eatery in Pensacola Beach has an open-air atmosphere perfect for those who love being outside and enjoying summer breezes. Shaggy's offers boat slip rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis, and outdoor dining on their large deck or outside picnic tables facing the water.
5. FLOUNDER'S CHOWDER HOUSE
Boardwalk Staple with Seafood and Tunes
Flounder's Chowder House is one of the most popular casual seafood spots on Pensacola Beach. This waterfront restaurant is located on the Santa Rosa Sound at the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk and has been a favorite of locals and tourists for over 30 years.
Menu & Atmosphere
Flounder's menu has a wide range of seafood options like gumbo, oysters, shrimp, and even sushi. The restaurant also offers live music and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy the beach vibes. Since this eatery is located on the boardwalk, there are several options for shopping and dessert nearby.
Enjoy Pensacola Beach Like Never Before!
When you're in town, stay like a local in one of Pensacola's many stellar vacation rentals.
At Pensacola Beach Properties, we offer a wide selection of the best short-term rentals, including Pensacola Beach rentals and beachfront options. Staying with us, all you have to do is kick back, relax, and soak in the Gulf Coast vibes to the fullest.
