The office of Governor Ron de Santis reports that Florida saw over 142 million visitors in 2024. In particular, Destin is a popular destination.

Destin is famous for its stunning beaches and world-class seafood, making it a top attraction for food lovers. With fresh catches straight from the Gulf, local restaurants serve up everything from casual dockside meals to upscale dining experiences.

Whether you’re craving grilled fish or classic Southern flavors, Destin’s seafood scene has something for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the best seafood restaurants in Destin to consider.

Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant

Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant is a staple for fresh seafood in Destin. This family-owned spot has deep roots in the area, serving up locally sourced seafood with a casual, laid-back vibe.

Guests can dine on the dock while watching boats pass by, creating a true coastal experience. Their menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including:

• Blackened mahi
• Fried shrimp
• Their famous crab cakes

Freshness and simplicity define the flavors here, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Destin dining. Popular menu highlights:

• Grilled grouper with lemon butter sauce
• A classic fried shrimp basket
• Signature hush puppies with house-made tartar sauce

Each plate captures the essence of Gulf Coast seafood, delivering bold and satisfying flavors.

The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House

This beachfront restaurant has been a favorite in the Destin dining guide for decades. Located right on the sand, it offers stunning views of the Gulf alongside its well-loved seafood cuisine. Visitors come for the:

• Fresh oysters
• Grilled fish
• Famous amberjack sandwich

The casual, open-air setting makes it a great place to unwind after a day at the beach. With a long-standing reputation, it remains a go-to spot for both locals and tourists.

Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House

Boshamps combines upscale flavors with a laid-back coastal vibe, making it a standout in Destin dining. Its waterfront location gives guests a chance to enjoy a meal while overlooking Destin Harbor.

The menu highlights local seafood with Southern-inspired flavors, including their famous oysters and blackened redfish. The restaurant also has a large outdoor deck where live music is often played.

Whether coming for a casual lunch or a special dinner, it never disappoints. Top reasons to visit:

• Gulf-to-table seafood with bold Southern flavors
• House-made pimento cheese dip with fried saltines
• Fresh Gulf oysters served six different ways

Every dish reflects the flavors of the Gulf Coast, making it a memorable dining experience.

Louisiana Lagniappe

For those craving Creole-inspired seafood cuisine, Louisiana Lagniappe is the place to be. This upscale yet welcoming restaurant offers some of the best seafood in Destin, with a focus on Cajun and Creole flavors. Dishes like seafood gumbo and shrimp étouffée bring a taste of Louisiana to the Gulf Coast.

With waterfront views and top-quality ingredients, it’s a favorite for special occasions. The elegant yet relaxed setting makes it a great spot for a memorable night out.

Top rated dinner options:

• Blackened redfish
• Grouper almondine
• Shrimp & grits
• Tournedos of beef

Harbor Docks

Known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant works with area fishermen to bring in the freshest catches daily. The menu offers a mix of:

• Grade A sushi
• Grilled, blackened, or fried seafood
• Southern comfort dishes

The casual waterfront setting makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. Many locals consider it one of the most authentic seafood spots in town. What makes it special:

• Locally caught seafood
• Hand-rolled sushi with Gulf Coast ingredients
• Blackened snapper with house-made remoulade

With its dedication to quality and fresh ingredients, it has built a loyal following over the years.

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

AJ’s is one of the liveliest spots in Destin dining, offering:

• Fresh seafood
• Live music
• A fun atmosphere

Located along the harbor, it’s known for its variety of seafood dishes, from fried baskets to fresh oysters on the half shell. The rooftop bar provides a great place to watch the sunset with a drink in hand. Whether you are visiting for a meal or just to enjoy the nightlife, it’s a must-visit destination.

The Crab Trap Destin

Sitting right on the beach, The Crab Trap is a go-to for seafood lovers looking for a laid-back dining experience.

The open-air dining space offers direct views of the Gulf, making it a prime location for sunset dinners. Specialties include:

• Snow crab legs
• Grilled shrimp
• Fresh fish entrees

It’s a popular stop for families, thanks to its friendly atmosphere and kid-friendly options. The combination of fresh seafood and unbeatable views makes it a favorite. Top menu picks:

• Snow crab legs served with drawn butter
• Grilled shrimp skewers with a lemon-garlic sauce
• Blackened fish sandwich with house-made slaw

With its prime location and fresh flavors, it’s a true Destin classic.

Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer

Brotula’s is all about fresh, steamed seafood with bold flavors. The restaurant sits along Destin Harbor, offering a relaxed setting with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced seafood.

Unlike many fried seafood spots, Brotula’s specializes in steamed and boiled seafood dishes. Also, guests can bring in their own daily catch and they will prepare and cook it for you (Hook & Cook)! Guests can customize their own seafood platters with:

• Local shrimp
• Snow crab
• King crab
• Dungeness crab

The fresh flavors and harbor views create a memorable dining experience.

Boathouse Oyster Bar

The Boathouse Oyster Bar is located directly on the Destin harbor and is one of Destin’s best kept secrets. Come to the Boathouse to hang with the locals and dine on anything from seafood to burgers and salads. The menu features Gulf Coast favorites like:

• Smoked tuna dip
• Grilled shrimp
• Prime rib
• Raw, steamed, and baked “action” oysters

Its indoor and outdoor dining space provides stunning views of the Destin harbor. The laid-back atmosphere keeps things casual, especially during the evening sunsets.

This restaurant is a great spot for both tourists and longtime Destin visitors looking for a true coastal experience. With a history of great food and hospitality, it’s a must-visit spot.

Check Out These Best Seafood Restaurants in Destin

No trip to Destin is complete without indulging in its world-class seafood cuisine. Plan your visit to the best seafood restaurants in Destin and taste what makes Destin dining truly unforgettable.

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