Top Waterfront Dining on 30A: Restaurants with Unbeatable Views
The scenic 30A stretch is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant communities, and of course, its incredible dining scene. One of the best ways to enhance any meal is with a view of the Gulf, a coastal dune lake, or a serene bay. Whether you're looking for an upscale seafood experience or a laid-back spot to enjoy local flavors, 30A offers a range of dining options that pair amazing food with unforgettable views.
In this guide, we'll explore the best waterfront dining spots on 30A, from upscale restaurants to hidden gems where you can enjoy the perfect meal against the backdrop of the area’s natural beauty.
1. The Pearl’s Havana Beach Bar & Grill
Location: Rosemary Beach
View: Gulf of Mexico
Cuisine: Upscale Coastal
Signature Dish: Gulf Coast Red Snapper
Perched atop the iconic Pearl Hotel in Rosemary Beach, Havana Beach Bar & Grill offers one of the most stunning rooftop dining experiences along 30A. With breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico, this spot is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients with a coastal influence. Their signature dish, Gulf Coast Red Snapper, is a must-try, featuring perfectly seared local snapper with a blend of Gulf-inspired flavors. Pair your meal with one of their craft cocktails or a glass of wine from their extensive list.
Whether you're inside the elegant dining room or on the rooftop terrace, you'll enjoy impeccable service and an unforgettable view of the shimmering Gulf waters.
2. Vue on 30A
Location: Santa Rosa Beach
View: Gulf of Mexico
Cuisine: Contemporary American with Coastal Influences
Signature Dish: Crab Cakes
As the name suggests, Vue on 30A boasts one of the most striking views of the Gulf. Located in Santa Rosa Beach, this restaurant features an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the ocean right to your table.
Known for its contemporary American cuisine with a coastal flair, Vue on 30A is beloved for its fresh seafood, steaks, and creative appetizers. Their signature crab cakes are a fan favorite, featuring tender lump crab meat paired with a tangy remoulade sauce. If you're in the mood for something hearty, their filet mignon is cooked to perfection and served with seasonal vegetables.
The outdoor patio offers direct views of the Gulf, making it a fantastic spot for sunset dinners. If you're looking for an upscale yet approachable dining experience with an unbeatable waterfront view, Vue on 30A is a top contender.
3. Fish Out of Water (FOOW)
Location: WaterColor
View: Gulf of Mexico
Cuisine: Southern Coastal Cuisine
Signature Dish: Grouper & Grits
Fish Out of Water, or FOOW as it's fondly known, is an iconic restaurant located in the WaterColor Inn. The restaurant’s casual yet refined setting, combined with spectacular Gulf views, makes it a top choice for both locals and visitors.
FOOW offers a seasonal menu that blends Southern comfort food with coastal influences. Their Grouper & Grits is a standout dish, featuring fresh Gulf grouper served with creamy, stone-ground grits and a savory seafood broth. FOOW's raw bar is also worth exploring, with a variety of fresh oysters and shrimp cocktails to start your meal.
Whether you're seated indoors or on their expansive outdoor deck, you'll enjoy a beautiful view of the Gulf waves gently crashing onto the beach below. FOOW is the perfect place to relax, dine, and take in the beauty of 30A’s coast.
4. The Bay
Location: Santa Rosa Beach (on Choctawhatchee Bay)
View: Choctawhatchee Bay
Cuisine: Southern Coastal with Asian Fusion
Signature Dish: Wood-Fired Pizza
For those looking to venture slightly inland but still enjoy waterfront dining, The Bay in Santa Rosa Beach is a local favorite. Located on the shores of Choctawhatchee Bay, this casual yet lively spot offers outdoor seating with picturesque views of the bay, as well as a laid-back vibe perfect for families and groups.
The Bay’s menu is a blend of Southern coastal favorites and Asian fusion dishes. Their wood-fired pizza, in particular, is a crowd-pleaser, with a variety of toppings that cater to every palate. If you're in the mood for something more indulgent, try their famous fried oysters or spicy pork ramen.
The outdoor area also features a sandy "beach" where guests can relax with a drink in hand and even play a few games of cornhole. The Bay is an excellent spot to catch the sunset over the water while enjoying great food and drinks.
5. The Red Bar
Location: Grayton Beach
View: Gulf of Mexico (Close Proximity)
Cuisine: Southern Comfort
Signature Dish: Blackened Grouper
The Red Bar in Grayton Beach is something of an institution along 30A. While it may not be directly on the water, it’s just steps from the beach, and its quirky, bohemian vibe makes it a must-visit.
Known for its no-frills menu, The Red Bar offers hearty portions of Southern comfort food with a focus on seafood. The blackened grouper is legendary, served alongside their famous mashed potatoes and a vegetable medley. Don’t forget to try their crab cakes, which are widely regarded as some of the best in the area.
The laid-back, funky atmosphere combined with the close proximity to the beach makes The Red Bar a great spot to grab lunch or dinner after a day spent by the water.
6. Bud & Alley’s
Location: Seaside
View: Gulf of Mexico
Cuisine: Coastal American
Signature Dish: Grilled Gulf Shrimp
Bud & Alley’s has been a staple in Seaside for decades and offers one of the best spots for casual dining with a view of the Gulf. The restaurant is perched above the dunes, providing panoramic views of the Gulf from the upstairs deck.
Bud & Alley’s menu is a celebration of Gulf Coast cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and simple preparations. Their grilled Gulf shrimp, served with herb butter and lemon, is a perfect representation of their commitment to fresh, local ingredients. The rooftop bar is also a great place to enjoy a cocktail while taking in the sunset.
With its unbeatable location and relaxed, beachy vibe, Bud & Alley’s is a must for anyone looking to enjoy a great meal with a breathtaking view of the Gulf.
7. Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar
Location: Santa Rosa Beach (Gulf Place)
View: Gulf of Mexico
Cuisine: Seafood
Signature Dish: Oysters on the Half Shell
Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar offers a laid-back, beachside dining experience with beautiful views of the Gulf. Located in Gulf Place, this spot is known for its fresh oysters, which can be enjoyed raw, grilled, or baked with various toppings.
The restaurant also serves up a variety of other seafood dishes, including shrimp po'boys and blackened mahi-mahi. The outdoor seating area offers a direct view of the water, and the live music adds to the overall beachy atmosphere.
Shunk Gulley is the ideal spot for those looking to enjoy fresh seafood in a casual, relaxed environment with the Gulf as your backdrop.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking an upscale dining experience with ocean views or a casual beachside eatery where you can kick back with fresh seafood, 30A’s waterfront restaurants offer something for every palate. From the elegant atmosphere of Havana Beach Bar & Grill to the laid-back charm of The Red Bar, these establishments not only serve incredible food but also provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable meal.
