Southwest Florida is packed with stunning waterfront spots where you can sip a cocktail, watch the legendary Gulf Coast sunset, and enjoy some of the best food in the state. From casual tiki bars with boat dock access to upscale fine dining with white-tablecloth service, the Gulf Coast delivers unforgettable dining experiences.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just craving fresh seafood with a side of Gulf breeze, these ten locally-vetted waterfront restaurants are the absolute best in Southwest Florida for 2026.
Quick Navigation: Naples | Fort Myers | Marco Island | Cape Coral | Captiva
1. The Bay House (Naples)
The Bay House offers stunning river views and upscale Southern cuisine
Located along the scenic Cocohatchee River, The Bay House serves upscale Southern coastal cuisine in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Their shrimp and grits and seared scallops are local favorites that keep diners coming back season after season.
- Address: 799 Walkerbilt Rd, Naples, FL 34110
- Phone: (239) 591-3837
- Cuisine: Southern Coastal
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Date nights, special occasions
- Don't miss: Shrimp and grits, seared scallops
- Pro tip: Most evenings feature live music
2. Doc Ford's Rum Bar and Grille (Fort Myers Beach)
Doc Ford's serves Caribbean-inspired dishes with direct boat dock access
This casual waterfront spot is ideal for a post-beach lunch or sunset dinner. Known for their famous Yucatan shrimp and refreshing mojitos, Doc Ford's offers direct boat dock access so you can arrive by water.
The laid-back vibe and consistently great food make this a Fort Myers Beach institution.
- Address: 708 Fisherman's Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Phone: (239) 765-9660
- Cuisine: Caribbean-American
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Casual groups, boat arrivals
- Don't miss: Yucatan shrimp, mojitos
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner
3. Snook Inn (Marco Island)
Snook Inn offers waterfront dining with dolphin watching opportunities
An old-school Florida gem that perfectly captures the island lifestyle. The Snook Inn serves up fresh grouper sandwiches that are legendary among locals, with nightly live music adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Grab a seat on the deck and watch dolphins play while the sun sets over the water.
- Address: 1215 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145
- Phone: (239) 394-3313
- Cuisine: Fresh Florida Seafood
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Families, casual dining, live music lovers
- Don't miss: Grouper sandwich
- Setting: Outdoor waterfront deck
4. The Turtle Club (Vanderbilt Beach)
The Turtle Club offers stunning Gulf views and upscale seafood
For beach-adjacent dining at its finest, The Turtle Club delivers with stunning Gulf views and an upscale seafood menu. Their seafood towers are perfect for sharing, and the wine list is carefully curated to complement the fresh catches.
- Address: 9225 Gulf Shore Dr N, Naples, FL 34108
- Phone: (239) 592-6557
- Cuisine: Fine Seafood
- Price range: $$$$
- Best for: Special occasions, sunset dining
- Don't miss: Seafood tower
- Reservations: Essential, especially during sunset hours
5. Dixie Fish Co. (Fort Myers Beach)
An open-air fish shack just steps from the water, Dixie Fish Co. keeps it casual with picnic tables and fresh catches. Their blackened mahi tacos are a must-try, and the cold beers flow freely.
Perfect for families or anyone seeking that authentic beach dining experience.
- Address: 714 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Phone: (239) 233-8837
- Cuisine: Fresh Seafood
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Families, casual beach lunch
- Don't miss: Blackened mahi tacos
- Vibe: Open-air, flip-flops welcome
6. Rumrunners (Cape Coral)
Rumrunners offers marina views and upscale waterfront dining
Nestled in Cape Harbour with gorgeous marina views, Rumrunners offers upscale seafood and prime steaks in a sophisticated setting. It's a popular choice for date nights and special celebrations.
- Address: 5848 Cape Harbour Dr, Cape Coral, FL 33914
- Phone: (239) 542-0200
- Cuisine: Seafood and Steaks
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Date nights, celebrations
- Don't miss: Sunday brunch, weekend live music
- Reservations: Recommended
7. Bayside Seafood Grill and Bar (Naples)
This split-level gem offers two distinct experiences: a casual downstairs bar and an elegant rooftop dining area. Both offer stunning views of Venetian Bay and excellent seafood.
The rooftop is particularly magical at sunset. Arrive early to snag the best seats.
- Address: 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL 34103
- Phone: (239) 649-5552
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Sunset dining, groups
- Don't miss: Rooftop seating at golden hour
- Pro tip: Downstairs bar is more casual with same views
8. Matanzas on the Bay (Fort Myers Beach)
A friendly, dockside restaurant known for exceptional service and affordable prices. The grouper Reuben is a standout that locals rave about.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it great for families, and you might spot manatees in the water below.
- Address: 416 Crescent St, Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
- Phone: (239) 463-3838
- Cuisine: American Seafood
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Families, casual waterfront dining
- Don't miss: Grouper Reuben
- Wildlife: Manatee sightings common
9. The Green Flash (Captiva Island)
Tucked away on Captiva Island, The Green Flash offers expansive water views and authentic Old Florida charm. The back deck is the prime spot for watching the legendary green flash at sunset.
Worth the drive for the atmosphere alone.
- Address: 15183 Captiva Dr, Captiva, FL 33924
- Phone: (239) 472-3337
- Cuisine: Florida Coastal
- Price range: $$$
- Best for: Sunset viewing, Old Florida vibes
- Don't miss: Back deck seating
- Pro tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for best tables
10. Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant (Fort Myers)
With panoramic marina views and a relaxed vibe, this is a go-to spot for mixed seafood and American classics. Great for a casual lunch or leisurely dinner watching boats come and go.
- Address: 14301 Port Comfort Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33908
- Phone: (239) 489-0770
- Cuisine: American Seafood
- Price range: $$
- Best for: Casual lunch, marina views
- Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly
Tips for Waterfront Dining in SWFL
Make Reservations Early
Prime waterfront tables go fast, especially during season (December through April). Book sunset seatings at least a week in advance for popular spots.
Timing Matters
- Sunset seatings: Most requested, book 2+ weeks ahead in season
- Golden hour: Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for photos
- Lunch: Same views, easier reservations, better prices
- Happy hour: Many spots offer discounted drinks and apps 4-6 PM
Arrive by Boat
Several restaurants offer dock access:
- Doc Ford's (Fort Myers Beach)
- Snook Inn (Marco Island)
- Rumrunners (Cape Coral)
Dress Code
Most waterfront spots are casual. Flip-flops are fine at beach bars, but upscale spots like The Bay House and Turtle Club expect resort casual attire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfront restaurant has the best sunset views?
The Turtle Club in Vanderbilt Beach and The Green Flash on Captiva Island are the top picks for sunset viewing. Both face west over the Gulf with unobstructed views.
Do I need reservations for waterfront dining?
During season (December through April), reservations are essential for dinner at most spots. Lunch is more flexible. Year-round, weekend sunset tables should be booked in advance.
Which restaurants are best for families with kids?
Dixie Fish Co., Snook Inn, and Matanzas on the Bay are all family-friendly with casual atmospheres and kid-friendly menus.
Can I arrive by boat?
Yes! Doc Ford's, Snook Inn, and Rumrunners all have boat docks. Call ahead to confirm dock availability.
What's the best value for waterfront dining?
Try lunch or happy hour for the same views at lower prices. Matanzas on the Bay and Dixie Fish Co. offer great food at moderate prices year-round.
More SWFL Dining & Beach Guides
Looking for more dining options or planning beach visits? Check out these guides:
Restaurant Guides by City
- 10 Best Restaurants in Naples — Upscale dining on Fifth Avenue & beyond
- 10 Best Restaurants in Fort Myers — River District dining scene
- 10 Best Restaurants in Sarasota — From Yoder's to St. Armands
- 10 Best Restaurants in Cape Coral — Hidden gems across the canals
- 10 Best Restaurants in Venice — Shark tooth capital dining
Beach Live Cams
- Fort Myers Beach Live Cam — Check conditions before you go
- Vanderbilt Beach Live Cam — Naples beach views
- Siesta Key Beach Live Cam — World-famous quartz sand
Have a favorite waterfront spot we missed? Let us know and we'll check it out!
