Last Updated on September 5, 2024

Are you looking for the best seafood restaurants in Destin?  If so, we have you covered!
 
Destin, Florida, is popular for its stunning beaches and vibrant coastal culture, making it a prime location for seafood lovers.
 
The dining scene in Destin features a mix of restaurants on the beach, the harbor, and throughout the city, catering to different tastes and preferences.
 
Let’s dive in!

Best Seafood Restaurants In Destin FL

Photo credit – Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant (Facebook)

entrance at Dewey Destin Restaurant

1. Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant

Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant is a popular choice for visitors in Destin, Florida.

It has a reputation for serving fresh, local seafood in a casual atmosphere.
 
The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including stuffed shrimp and flavorful oysters.
 
Diners can also enjoy catches of the day, which are sourced from the Gulf of Mexico.
 
There are two locations in Destin and the one provides scenic views of the harbor, and the other offers the best look at Crab Island.
 
Guests appreciate the outdoor seating, where they can enjoy their meals while watching the boats.

With its long-standing history, Dewey Destin’s reflects the tradition of seafood dining in the area.

It has become a staple for those seeking genuine, coastal cuisine in a relaxed environment.

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Photo credit – Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House

set of seafood meals on the outdoor dining setting of Boshamps restaurant in Destin

2. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House

Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House is a well-known destination in Destin, Florida. It offers a casual dining experience with stunning views of the bay.

The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including their oyster bar, shrimp, and fish.
 
Guests can enjoy a selection of craft beers and wines that complement the menu.
 
A notable aspect of Boshamps is its outdoor seating area, which provides a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a popular spot with the locals and visitors.
 
The atmosphere is enhanced by live music on certain nights, making it a lively spot.
 
This adds to the appeal of Boshamps as a go-to seafood destination in Destin.

Photo credit – The Back Porch

beach front view of the Back Porch Destin restaurant

3. The Back Porch

The Back Porch is a popular seafood restaurant located in Destin, Florida. It offers a casual dining experience with amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico.

The menu features a variety of seafood combos, including fresh fish, shrimp, and crab.
 
Diners can enjoy options like their specialty, the Chargrilled Amberjack, as well as Red Snapper.
 
A notable highlight is the outdoor seating area, which allows guests to dine while enjoying the ocean breeze.
 
Live music often adds to the dining experience and the atmosphere.

In addition to seafood, The Back Porch provides a selection of appetizers and desserts. The key lime pie is especially popular among visitors.
 
You can also try the Florida Sunshine Cake, an orange cake with orange mousse and white chocolate icing.

Photo credit – Louisiana Lagniappe

front view of the Louisiana Lagniappe Destin restaurant

4. Louisiana Lagniappe

Louisiana Lagniappe is a standout seafood restaurant in Destin, known for its blend of Southern and Creole cuisine.

The menu features a variety of seafood options. Diners can enjoy dishes like blackened redfish, shrimp and grits, and fresh oysters.

With its diverse menu showcasing the flavors of the Gulf Coast, Louisiana Lagniappe remains a consistent top 10 choice for seafood lovers in Destin.

Photo credit – AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

variety of colorful cocktails and drinks at AJ's Destin

5. AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar is a popular destination in Destin, Florida, known for its fun atmosphere on the Harbor, and fresh seafood.

The menu features a wide variety of seafood options, including oysters, shrimp, and fish tacos.
 
Guests can also enjoy sushi, their specialty gumbo, and daily specials that highlight local catches.

The restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating, making it suitable for various occasions.

AJ’s often has live music, making it a perfect spot to enjoy dinner at the Destin Harbor.

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Photo credit – Harbor Docks

beautiful waterfront view from Harbor Docks restaurant

6. Harbor Docks

Speaking of the Destin Harbor, Harbor Docks is a well-regarded seafood restaurant located in Destin!

Known for its fresh local seafood and casual atmosphere, the menu features a variety of dishes, including several kinds of prepared shrimp, grilled fish, and seafood platters.

Harbor Docks also has a notable sushi bar. Diners can enjoy a range of sushi rolls crafted with fresh fish and flavor combinations.

The restaurant offers waterfront views and is a great place for a relaxing atmosphere while watching the boats.

Photo credit – The Crab Trap

visitors eating at the beachfront with beautiful sunset view in Destin

7. The Crab Trap

The Crab Trap is an awesome seafood restaurant located in Destin, near James Lee Beach.  

The menu features a variety of seafood options, including crab, shrimp, and fresh fish.

Outdoor seating offers scenic views, making it a great spot for dining during sunset.

The restaurant also has a full bar with a selection of cocktails and local beers.

The combination of good food and a prime location makes it a must-visit spot for seafood in Destin!

Photo credit – Pompano Joe’s Seafood House

view of Pompano Joes Destin from the beach

8. Pompano Joe’s

One of my favorites, Pompano Joe’s is a well-known seafood restaurant located near Destin in Miramar Beach.

With its beach atmosphere and amazing views, it’s a popular choice for both visitors. 

The menu features a variety of fresh seafood options, including shrimp, fish, and crab cakes.

Pompano Joe’s also offers a selection of signature cocktails and desserts.

You will love the casual beachfront dining experience and there’s also live music on select nights. 

Photo credit – Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer

Oyster specialty at Brotula's

9. Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer

Often voted the best in the area, Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood.

The restaurant features a diverse menu that highlights Gulf Coast favorites, including shrimp, oysters, and a variety of crab dinners.

The atmosphere is laid-back, with indoor and outdoor seating options, and provides scenic views of the Harbor.

Signature dishes such as the seafood gumbo and platters are popular among visitors.

The restaurant also offers a large selection of craft beers and cocktails.

seafood platter served with a glass of champagne

Types Of Seafood In Destin

Destin, Florida, is known as the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, and therefore for its diverse seafood offerings, attracting visitors from all over!

The variety includes fresh catches straight from the Gulf and unique specialty dishes that highlight regional flavors.

 

Fresh Catches

Fresh seafood features prominently on menus in Destin. Common selections include:

✓ Gulf Shrimp: Known for their sweet flavor and tender texture, Gulf shrimp are a favorite. They can be grilled, fried, or served in a traditional shrimp boil.

✓ Snapper: Often found in both red and gray varieties, snapper has a mild taste with flaky flesh. It can be enjoyed grilled, baked, or as part of a ceviche.

✓ Mahi-Mahi: This fish is prized for its firm texture and slightly sweet flavor. Mahi-mahi is often grilled or served with tropical salsas.

✓ Oysters: Freshly shucked, Destin oysters are a must-try. They can be enjoyed raw with sauces or baked with cheese.

 

 

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What Are The Top Seafood Restaurants In Destin With Beachfront Views?

Some top seafood restaurants that offer stunning beachfront views include Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant and The Back Porch.

These venues provide not only delicious seafood but also a scenic dining atmosphere overlooking the Gulf.

 

 

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Booking a last-minute trip to Destin?  

If so, we have you covered.  Here are some top recommended tours and experiences!

Top Tours in Destin

Crab Island Sandbar Adventure (Crab Island has been my favorite experience in Destin!)

Crab Island 12 Passenger Pontoon Boat Rentals (Half or full-day rentals)

Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise (one of the most beautiful cities to catch a sunset)

Tikis Harbor Lights Cruise (Fantastic Destin Harbor Nighttime Cruise)

Dolphin-Watching Speedboat Ride  (Dolphin Watching Off The Coast of Gulf Mexico)

Top Hotels In Destin

Hotel Effie Sandestin (Top Rated Hotel With Lots Of Activity Options)

The Grand Sandestin – (Best Rated Hotel In Destin)

Hyatt Place Sandestin – (Hotel Near Miramar Beach Destin)

Holiday Inn Express Destin E – (Highly Rated Budget To Mid Range Hotel)

 Looking To Get Around In Destin? 

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗