11 Great Eats At The Beach

AJ’s Grayton—Grayton Beach, Florida

The Grayton Beach location of World Famous AJ’s is located just past the intersection of Scenic Highway 30A and Defuniak Street and is the newest of the four AJ’s locations. Many long-time 30A visitors will remember it as the previous location of Pandora’s, before AJ’s moved into this centrally located hotspot, bringing their same recipe for coastal fun, good food, and great music, just as patrons have come to know and expect from all four AJ’s locations along the Gulf Coast.

AJ’s Grayton --Gray J’s as many locals refer to it-- has a laid-back, old school beach bar vibe, featuring lots of cool vintage and coastal décor, two stages, three bars, and live music almost every single day. It’s a great place to stop in for a drink with friends, or to enjoy an all-out seafood dinner, featuring everything from their famous Oysters AJ’s to the Chef’s Fresh Catch of the day, with all the fixings.

There’s also a sushi bar, and wide array of beer, wine, and mixed drinks from all three bars. The Grayton location serves lunch and dinner seven days a week, along with a Saturday and Sunday brunch complete with a build-your-own Bloody Mary Bar. AJ’s has live music nightly, usually with no cover unless there is a special event. They also have a great happy hour that runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with menu specials, beer, wine and cocktails. Just as is the case with the famous AJ’s Destin location, this is a sure bet when looking for a grayt place to play!

Old Florida Fish House – Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

One of 30A’s best kept secrets is about to become more popular than ever; Old Florida Fish House, located on 30A’s Eastern Lake in Seagrove, has a new look, and a new menu, all combined to make sure that your dining experience is one that you will not soon forget. The restaurant offers views of one of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes and has recently undergone a top to bottom renovation. This renovation includes: opening up the dining room and bar, expanding the sushi bar, creating a stage for live music, and updating the adjacent porch dining space.

Adding a fresh new menu, the 30A institution is focusing on fresh seasonal specials such as a pasta option and some of the best sushi in town. If you aren't completely sold on the new stuff, traditional favorites like Grouper Fish House, Seafood Potpie, and seafood platters are still available. The main dining room is open for dinner, however, during lunch you might want to take advantage of “The Porch”, a laid back, enclosed space with a great view of the lake. With favorites like oysters, burgers, po’boys and fish sandwiches and an extensive kids’ menu, the Porch is a great option for a quick lunch on your way, to or from, the beach. The Porch is a great happy hour spot as well, with plenty of choices of wine, cocktails, and beer. Don’t forget, there’s live music many nights too.

Best Restaurants in Destin

Mimmo’s Italian Restaurant – Destin, and Blue Mountain Beach, Florida

If you’re a fan of excellent Italian cuisine then look no further than Mimmo’s in Destin, and their newest location on Scenic Hwy. 30A. Serving authentic Italian dishes bursting with flavor and color, Mimmo’s offers the perfect atmosphere for anything from an intimate dinner with your significant other to a large family celebration. With two convenient locations Mimmo’s has become a prime hot-spot for those who expect the best in authentic Italian dishes, along with a vast array of wine choices for that perfect pairing.

I’d highly suggest their cheese ravioli, topped with ham in a creamy porcini mushroom sauce, as well as the Linguine Alla Diavola. The latter being a sautéed shrimp in garlic with crushed red peppers, served over linguine pasta in a crushed tomato sauce. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to try some of Mimmo’s famous garlic rolls… once you do, you’ll understand why.

Both the Destin and 30A location are open seven days a week, with the same great menu choices, including some specialty additions specific to each location. Both locations of Mimmo’s offer dine in and takeout for lunch and dinner.

Best Restaurants in Panama City Beach

Captain Anderson’s -- Panama City Beach, Florida

A staple of Panama City Beach dining, Captain Anderson’s has been a favorite of vacationers from around the country since 1967, with no sign of slowing down. This, attested by the fact that many of the families making the trek to this Gulf Coast favorite once came here with their own parents decades before. I’d say that’s a sure sign that their brand of fresh fish and coastal cuisine is a multi-generational hit… and who among us –child or adult— doesn’t love dining in a restaurant designed to look and feel as if you’re feasting on the open seas.

Capt. Anderson's restaurant is one of those rare family restaurants that not only survives, but strengthens and improves through the years. The landmark waterfront restaurant is celebrating its 55th anniversary in 2022, and every year has witnessed remarkable growth without loss of quality. The restaurant has grown to 725 seats and, six nights a week, serves over 250,000 guests during their busy season.

The Perfect Pig – Gulf Place: Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

'Praise the Lard!' reads the sign welcoming customers to the new Perfect Pig in Gulf Place. This delightful café is the epitome of coastal design. The intimate dining room is accented by a cozy bar area and outside seating both contributing to a lovely dining experience. Located in the bustling Gulf Place development, the Perfect Pig is family friendly and casual in the best possible way. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant has a focus on all things pork, from the hand cut and cured bacon to

the pulled pork specials served at lunch, to the tenderloin medallions offered for dinner. Additionally, the kitchen also makes its own barbeque sauce and cole slaw from scratch. Overall, it's this attention to detail that makes dining here a real treat. Although I’ve seen grit cakes popping up on menus all over town, the Perfect Pig’s offer a subtle heat from the jalapeno cheddar, which makes it stand out from the crowd. The Pig’s house made tomato soup, served with some of the best cornbread that you will ever eat. While the menu focuses on pork, the hickory smoked chicken is a best seller, earning rave reviews from celebrity Chef Emeril Lagasse. From the laid-back, yet sophisticated beach-loving atmosphere to the little details, like the mini pig on the table with your last name written on it welcoming you, to the excellent food and portions large enough to share, this is one restaurant you’ll want to try. ThePerfectPig30A.com

The Sunset Bay Café’ – Sandestin, Florida

While the location of Sunset Bay Café might be responsible for the restaurant’s million dollar views, owner Bryce Jarvis, and his staff, are running point when it comes to their commitment to fresh, local ingredients and a passion for exceptional customer service. Located inside Sandestin’s Linkside Center, Sunset Bay Café’ is one of my personal favorites when it comes to grabbing a great breakfast or brunch anywhere near the Sandestin side of the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast. Diners looking to load up on their carbs can’t go wrong with any of the pancake, French toast, or waffle options. If you’re truly looking to indulge in a decadent breakfast, the “Triple By-Pass” is the dish for you. This gigantic pancake is filled with both chocolate chips and bacon. Yes, you read that correctly, the bacon is inside the pancake. It’s served with warm syrup and whipped cream. If you’re a French toast fan, the strawberry cream cheese will satisfy any sweet tooth. As a Destin native and son of one of Destin’s most successful boat captains --Destin Mayor, Capt. Gary Jarvis-- Bryce knows his way around the docks and makes sure the best ends up on your plate. Sunset Bay offers a full bar and mixes a perfectly spicy Bloody Mary, garnished with some thick cut bacon and large traditional and flavored mimosas for brunch. Grab yourself one! SunsetBayCafeSandestin.com

Voyagers at Perdido Beach Resort - Orange Beach, Alabama

If you’re anywhere near the beaches of Alabama’s Gulf Coast and looking for a fine dining experience with a view like nothing else, you owe it to yourself to make a reservation at Voyagers. Located inside the well-known Perdido Beach Resort, this upscale beach venue offers everything from fresh Gulf seafood to the finest poultry, beef, lamb, and wild game. All raised on sustainable domestic farms. In sharing his personal vision for Voyagers. Their own chef put it this way, “We are ladies and gentleman serving ladies and gentleman, and this is how our team approaches Voyagers; in hopes that each of our patrons can sense our happiness being grown exponentially from the joy we get in pleasing them”. A

sentiment that no doubt holds true, as after a few visits to this scenic hotspot it is definitely one of my very favorite fine dining establishments on the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Beach Walk Café - Destin, Florida

This Florida based staple of fine dining is located inside the award winning, Henderson Park Inn, located right on the sugar-white sands of one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire world. You heard me right, the world! Henderson Park Inn was named by TripAdvisor as one of the “Ten Most Romantic Inns in America”, and Beach Walk Café offers its patrons one of the most romantic dining experiences in the entire state of Florida. Beach Walk Café’ recently made Open Table’s “Top 100 Restaurants for Scenic Views”. Not just in Destin, not just in Florida, but for the entire United States! How’s that for perfect? Beach Walk Café Customers have raved about everything from the Gulf Shrimp to the Seafood Rockefeller to New Zealand venison filet. One of Beaches, Resorts & Parks’ editor, Will Estell’s personal favorites is the Grouper Vince. The dish is named after famous singer/songwriter, Vince Gill, and is a must try. Another great dish is Beach Walk’s famous version of shrimp and grits. If you like shrimp and grits, you’ll love this version of the Southern staple. The magnificent view is another huge draw of this upscale coastal eatery. Beach Walk Café’ is situated directly on the beach, and is the only beachfront fine dining establishment in Destin. BeachWalkHendersonPark.com

One of 30A’s best kept secrets is about to become more popular than ever; Old Florida Fish House, located on 30A’s Eastern Lake in Seagrove, has a new look, and a new menu, all combined to make sure that your dining experience is one that you will not soon forget. The restaurant offers views of one of South Walton’s rare coastal dune lakes and has recently undergone a top to bottom renovation. This renovation includes: opening up the dining room and bar, expanding the sushi bar, creating a stage for live music, and updating the adjacent porch dining space. Adding a fresh new menu, the 30A institution is focusing on fresh seasonal specials such as a pasta option and some of the best sushi in town. If you aren't completely sold on the new stuff, traditional favorites like Grouper Fish House, Seafood Potpie, and seafood platters are still available. The main dining room is open for dinner, however, during lunch you might want to take advantage of “The Porch”, a laid back, enclosed space with a great view of the lake. With favorites like oysters, burgers, po’boys and fish sandwiches and an extensive kids’ menu, the Porch is a great option for a quick lunch on your way, to or from, the beach. The Porch is a great happy hour spot as well, with plenty of choices of wine, cocktails, and beer. Don’t forget, there’s live music many nights too. OldFloridaFishHouse.com

Surf Hut -- Miramar Beach, Florida

Surf Hut, situated right along the white sands of Miramar Beach, on Scenic Hwy. 98 has long been one of my personal favorites in the Destin area. From their killer waterfront views, and fresh from the Gulf seafood to the always friendly and prompt staff this is one restaurant that always checks the box for great food, great atmosphere and impeccable service; all while maintaining a classic laid-back beach vibe. Open since 2014, Surf Hut serves up Southern hospitality and the best that land and sea have to offer. Try their array of fish, shrimp, and pulled pork tacos, along with their southern-style barbecue ribs, remarkable fresh catch choices, alongside classics like burgers and fries. There’s also a large full-service bar offering your favorite beers and top-shelf brands… with a view. And, remember, Surf Hut is right on the beach so sandy feet and salty hair are welcome inside and out. SurfHutDestin.com

Lulu’s – Gulf Shores, Alabama, Destin, Florida, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Lulu’s at Homeport Marina has become a world famous establishment for most anyone and everyone who visits the Alabama Gulf Coast. Many people vacationing in places like Perdido Key and Pensacola even make the drive over from the Florida side, just to get a taste of the magic that has made Lucy Buffett’s piece of coastal perfection so popular. Lulu’s is one of those rare places where dining is more of an event than it is a meal. Sure the food is great, and the service friendly and prompt, but what really makes this place different is just that it literally is so different. You will find all kinds of outdoor activities and adventures for the kids, including the popular outdoor bars, with views of the waterway in Gulf Shores, and the emerald green bay in Destin. Both locations also offer a fantastic gift shop with everything from those have-to-have Lulu’s tee shirts to souvenir cups, to CD’s and books from Lucy’s famous brother, Jimmy Buffett. Did I mention the great music? Lulu’s has some of the best local and regional bands you can find, and during the busy spring and summer months you can hear them every day and night. If you like fun, you love the beach lifestyle, and you’re in for some great Southern coastal cuisine, then Lulu’s is your place… whichever side of the Flora-Bama line you’re beaching it on. LuLuBuffett.com

Ovide, Hotel Effie -- Sandestin Gulf & Beach Resort, Miramar Beach, Florida

One of the newest, and certainly most upscale affluently appealing restaurants in all of Destin and South Walton, Ovide offers an elegant, culinary adventure led by acclaimed Georgia chef Hugh Acheson. Ovide brings together classic Gulf Coast flavors and impeccable classic French technique, along with traditional favorites. Whether you are having their half shell oysters as your appetizer, or their snapper crudo, or roasted fairy eggplant you’re sure to have a great culinary experience every single time. At Ovide, every dish is fueled by a passion for sustainability and seasonality that gives each bite incredible flavor. In addition to resort-style dining by reservation, Ovide is available for Birthdays, rehearsal dinners, and special events of your choosing. While you’re planning, be sure to check out Hotel Effie –home of Ovide—for your perfect getaway accommodations. This new luxury resort hotel offers everything you could ever want and so much more.https://www.hoteleffie.com/dining/ovide

ck-image"> The pools, lazy river, lush landscaping and family-friendly beachfront location make Waterscape Resort one of the most popular destinations on the Gulf Coast.

Imagine the sound of the crashing waves and the feel of warm sunshine on your skin. You take a deep breath and you’re intoxicated with the smell of coconut sunscreen and salt in the air. A gentle sea breeze washes over you as you sip a frozen pina colada. To your left, a sparkling pool awaits. In front of you: a view of the Caribbean blue waters and sugar-white sand of Fort Walton Beach at Waterscape Resort Okaloosa Island. Relax, you’re in paradise now.

View Units and Book Online

Amenities at Waterscape

The main attraction at Waterscape is the oasis of pools and lazy river

Waterscape Resort at Fort Walton Beach is one of the area’s premier luxury resorts. Nestled on ten acres of Okaloosa Island with five hundred feet of beachfront, Waterscape is highly sought after for its beautiful setting, vast amenities, and convenience to area activities. 

The centerpiece of the resort — and one of the main reasons people book Waterscape — is its pool area. But it’s not just one pool that Waterscape has: you’ll find multiple pools including a zero-entry pool, a lazy river, and a children’s splash pad area with slides and climbing features. Cool down under a 10-foot waterfall and float the day away on the long, curving lazy river. Some outdoor pools are seasonally heated so you can enjoy swimming year-round. While you’re by the pool, order a drink or some food from the resort’s snack bar. 

Meandering Lazy River at Waterscape

Other on-site amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, gazebo areas, and a conference room (perfect for those working remotely!). Play shuffleboard on one of the resort’s courts while you’re waiting for your dinner to finish up on the nearby community gas grills.

Waterscape Resort's state-of-the-art fitness room faces the pool area.

Waterscape Resort Map

Waterscape has a variety of condos that fit every family’s — or couple’s or individual’s — needs. The resort has options for one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos. About 90 percent of them have been recently updated, and all three-bedroom condos have a beachfront view. One-bedroom and two-bedroom condos mostly have separate bunk rooms that kids love.

All condos in this horseshoe shaped complex have a private balcony that faces the pool, beach, or community parking with partial beach views.

When you’re ready to hit the beach, all you have to do is walk out the door. When you rent on BeachGuide, the rental chairs and umbrellas are usually included in the rental price. (Seasonal beach service is March through October.) After a day spent basking in the sun and splashing in the waves, watch the sunset from your condo’s patio. Or take advantage of the resort’s location to walk to many of the nearby amenities. 

The soft, white-sand beach in front of Waterscape Resort, with the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier in view just a short stroll down the beach.

Attractions near Waterscape Resort Okaloosa Island

In addition to proximity to necessary amenities like Publix, Walgreens, and Walmart, Waterscape Resort is conveniently located within walking distance of many of the area’s great restaurants. Devour fresh-caught seafood at Old Bay Steamer or catch some live music at AJ’s Oyster Shanty. The place to go for breakfast is Asiago’s Skillet. Walk off a good meal at The Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island. Throughout the summer, The Boardwalk has weekly fireworks shows. Check BeachGuide for details on all Fort Walton Beach events.

Other Fort Walton Beach attractions great for families include The Emerald Coast Science Center, the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, and the Fort Walton Beach Landing Park, a waterfront park with play areas, a rock-climbing wall, and a concert stage. Vacationing couples love to visit the Heritage Park and Cultural Center, a park with multiple museums featuring local history exhibits. Ross Marler Park is a scenic park with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and nature trails.

Book your stay at Waterscape

Waterscape Resort is available to book on BeachGuide’s website directly through a number of management companies with no added fees. (Some international rental sites such as vrbo, airbnb and booking.com tack on fees that can add up to an extra 18 percent.) With BeachGuide you’ll know you’re getting the best deal possible. BeachGuide vacation planners are familiar with all of the Waterscape condo rentals, locations and policies, and are happy to answer any questions or book your stay on the phone (888-404-2602) -- or even recommend nearby Fort Walton restaurants, fishing charters and other fun things to do in Fort Walton.

All the 3 bedroom condos face the Gulf. According to BeachGuide vacation planners, they fill up quickly so book well in advance.

Book your Waterscape Condo rental today, and before you know it, you’ll be sitting in a pool chair overlooking Fort Walton Beach without a care in the world.

This article was originally written by Julia in 2021 and updated by BeachGuide editors in 2022.

Published on Monday, August 1, 2022