9 Florida Boardwalk Bites You Can Enjoy All Year Long
Florida’s boardwalks aren’t just for sightseeing and people-watching; they’re food havens where ocean breezes enhance every bite. From fresh seafood to sweet treats, these coastal eateries serve up delicious meals with stunning water views all year round. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here are nine must-try boardwalk bites that showcase the Sunshine State’s culinary treasures.
1. LandShark Bar & Grill – Hollywood Beach Boardwalk
Imagine sipping a cold beer while waves crash nearby, that’s the LandShark experience. This Jimmy Buffett-inspired spot serves island-style cuisine with a laid-back vibe.
Their famous fish tacos come perfectly seasoned and topped with fresh mango salsa. When the sun sets, live music often fills the air, creating the ultimate Florida beach dining atmosphere.
2. Puffles – Hollywood Beach Boardwalk
Sweet meets savory at this unique Hollywood Beach gem. Puffles specializes in bubble waffles, Hong Kong-style egg waffles with bubble-shaped pockets, filled with ice cream and creative toppings.
Each waffle comes warm and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Watching the sunset with a Nutella-drizzled, strawberry-topped puffle is practically a boardwalk tradition now.
3. Coconuts on the Beach – Cocoa Beach Pier
Surfers flock here after riding waves, drawn by the aroma of fresh seafood and tropical drinks. Family-owned for decades, Coconuts captures authentic Florida vibes with its weathered wood décor and panoramic ocean views.
Their coconut shrimp arrives golden and crispy, paired with a house-made pineapple dipping sauce. Between bites, watch surfers catch waves and pelicans dive for fish right before your eyes.
4. Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill – Clearwater Beach
Famous for their Grouper Sandwich, Frenchy’s sits just steps from Clearwater’s powdery white sand. The restaurant’s owner actually has his own fishing fleet, ensuring the catch arrives daily.
Seafood doesn’t get fresher than this, from boat to plate in hours. The casual vibe welcomes sandy feet and salty hair, while colorful Adirondack chairs provide the perfect sunset perch for enjoying their legendary She Crab Soup.
5. The Salty Crab Bar & Grill – Fort Myers Beach
Reggae music and Gulf breezes create the soundtrack at this toes-in-the-sand eatery. Yellow umbrellas dot the beachfront patio where servers deliver platters of fresh seafood to happy diners.
Their signature dish? Garlic blue crab claws harvested from local waters. The friendly staff often remembers regulars by name and drink order. When the famous Florida sunset begins, everyone pauses to appreciate nature’s nightly show.
6. The Drunken Clam – St. Pete Beach
Quirky nautical décor and fishing nets hang from the ceiling at this local favorite. Don’t let the casual vibe fool you, their seafood rivals upscale restaurants but at half the price.
Their buffalo shrimp arrive plump and spicy, cooled by housemade blue cheese dressing. Bartenders craft creative cocktails with names that make you chuckle. Even in December, the outdoor patio stays comfortable thanks to Florida’s gentle winter climate.
7. Kilwins – Miami Beach Boardwalk
Sweet aromas waft onto the boardwalk as artisans hand-dip chocolates and stir copper kettles of fudge in the window. This old-fashioned confectionery brings nostalgic charm to Miami’s ultra-modern beach scene.
Their signature sea salt caramel ice cream comes in freshly made waffle cones. Watching candy-makers fold taffy and pour chocolate provides entertainment while you wait. Even celebrities have been spotted in line for their famous chocolate-covered strawberries.
8. Sharky’s on the Pier – Venice Beach
Built on Venice’s historic fishing pier, Sharky’s offers dining literally over the water. Pelicans perch on nearby pilings while dolphins sometimes swim beneath your feet during meals.
Their grouper tacos feature the day’s catch with mango-papaya salsa and citrus slaw. Sunset brings a nightly ritual, the ringing of a ship’s bell as the sun touches the Gulf horizon. Even locals never tire of this magical dining experience.
9. Key Lime Pie Popsicles – Key West Historic Seaport
Frozen key lime pie on a stick? Yes please! These tangy-sweet treats transform Florida’s signature dessert into a refreshing popsicle that’s perfect for battling the Sunshine State’s heat. The creamy lime filling gets dipped in dark chocolate for an irresistible contrast of flavors.
Locals swear these cool delights taste even better when enjoyed while watching boats drift through the harbor. The graham cracker crust bits mixed throughout add just the right amount of texture to each bite.
