On the Waterfront: Beach Dining in South Walton

Romance with a View

For a romantic meal with that special someone, nothing beats a sunset and dinner on the waterfront.

One of the best beach restaurants in WaterColor, FOOW (Fish Out of Water) offers great views, along with a southern twist on several made-from-scratch dishes. From fresh oysters and the Gulf fish sandwich to the grouper and swordfish, Chef Matt Moore serves the freshest dishes in a casual, beautiful space overlooking the Gulf. Not to mention, FOOW has one of the best happy hours in South Walton, complete with live entertainment – perfect for date night.

Part of the Santa Rosa Beach culinary scene, Vue on 30a sets you high up on a dune overlooking the pristine beach, with nothing between you and the glorious spectacle of a water-meets-sky horizon line. The stunning views help complement a celebratory ambiance in the dining room – perfect for special events. Chefs Mayhue and Hughes created an inspired menu – including plenty of fresh seafood – that reflects the unique character and tastes of the 30A community, and it is sure to please.

Casual Good Eats  

When you have a bait house, fishing charter and a restaurant all in one, you know you are about to enjoy some of the freshest seafood on the Gulf Coast. Stinky’s Fish Camp offers a fun Dune Allen dining experience with a laid-back atmosphere and world-class fresh seafood. They're just steps away from the Gulf and offer plenty of outdoor seating along Lake Allen. Be sure to check out their famous Oyster Log and Sunday brunch!  

With the Gulf and the Choctawhatchee Bay on either side, there are some great restaurants in Sandestin on the water. Offering a view of the Bay and delicious Southern cooking, Bayside Café will be a highlight of your day. Stop by for breakfast before a round of golf, for lunch in between dips in the pool or for dinner after a day of exploring.

If you’re in the mood for some zesty fish tacos, a tropical cocktail or a panoramic Gulf-view sunset dinner, Barefoot’s Beachside Bar & Grill on the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa property has you covered! Open to the public daily, they serve up stunning views in a relaxed, resort environment. After the sun descends below the horizon, head downstairs for a more upscale dinner at Seagar’s, the area’s only AAA Four-Diamond steakhouse.

Pull up a chair next to a bonfire at The Bay in Santa Rosa Beach, where there's often live music to go with your outdoor waterfront dining right on the bank of the Choctawhatchee Bay. With a wide-ranging menu that covers both an incredible lobster roll and Vietnamese-style chicken wings, every palate will be pleased here. Family-friendly, it's a winner on all fronts, whether you're there for the atmosphere, the view or the food.

A Night Out

There's nothing like an evening on the town with friends, cocktails and a view. Fortunately, South Walton has plenty of great spots to grab a drink and take in the view with your crew.

Are you partial to a rooftop vista? Pescado  is one of the best restaurants in Rosemary Beach with a view overlooking the Gulf. The space is sleek and sophisticated while remaining casual. An eclectic menu ranges from small plates and a raw bar to shareable large-format dishes.

Another top spot located atop The Pearl Hotel is the Havana Beach Rooftop Lounge, an elegant oasis dedicated to living and drinking well. With a classic bar serving craft cocktails, beer and wine, you might imagine you're in another time and place. But there's no time like the present to share a few contemporary, Gulf-to-table dishes.

Right in the middle of the action in Seaside is a South Walton classic, Bud & Alley's. Meet some friends for the great bites, a fun atmosphere and an iconic view of the brilliant white-sand beach and turquoise Gulf water. Signature cocktails add a playful spin to your favorite beach refreshments, and each day’s sunset is greeted with their celebratory bell-ringing tradition. You’ll quickly see why this has been a centerpiece of the Seaside culinary scene for so long.

Spreading the Flavor

South Walton cuisine is in high demand, so sometimes the taste has to travel. Being masters of their craft, some of our chefs – including those from Stinky's Fish Camp, FOOW and Hilton Sandestin – are often showcased at events outside of the destination, such as Emeril Lagasse Foundation's Carnivale du Vin in New Orleans or Food Network’s NYC Wine & Food Festival in none other than the Big Apple itself.  

Want one last view to tide you over? Check out our Waterfront Dining video here to see some of the best places to eat in South Walton on the water.