A lively seafood-and-oyster spot in the heart of Grayton Beach, AJ's pairs a wide-ranging menu with a full slate of entertainment. The kitchen turns out seafood baskets, raw and grilled oysters, burgers, fish sandwiches, sushi, and Southern favorites like shrimp and grits, plus steaks off an oak-fired grill. With three bars, two stages, patio seating, and regular live music, it doubles as one of South Walton's go-to nightlife destinations. Weekend brunch and private events round things out, and the vibe stays family-friendly.
63 Defuniak St, Santa Rosa Beachajsgrayton.com ↗
Outdoor hotel venue offering burgers, meat & seafood dishes, plus cocktails in a beachfront setting.
4000 S Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beachhiltonsandestinbeach.com ↗
Tiny restaurant whipping up sushi & other Pan-Asian eats in mellow surroundings.
3295 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beachbasmatisthirtya.com ↗
A casual waterfront seafood house on Destin Harbor, Boshamps grew out of the family's former fine-dining restaurant, the Flamingo Cafe, trading white tablecloths for a relaxed harborside setting. The menu leans on fresh Gulf seafood -- oysters from the raw bar, daily catches, and Southern-inspired plates -- backed by a full bar with craft cocktails and wine. The name is a playful mashup of the owners' three Labradors and the owner's own initials. Between the harbor views, family-friendly feel, and annual events, it's become a Destin staple.
414 Harbor Blvd, Destinboshamps.com ↗
An icon of Seaside since 1986, Bud & Alley's serves gulf-to-table cooking from an oceanfront perch on County Road 30A. The menu spans breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar fare built around fresh Gulf seafood and farm-sourced ingredients, and the rooftop bar is a long-standing draw for sunset views. The setting suits both a casual meal and a special occasion, and the restaurant regularly hosts private and public events. It remains one of the Emerald Coast's most enduring dining destinations.
2236 E County Rd 30A, Santa Rosa Beachbudandalleys.com ↗
Spanish-style dishes served in a colorful, laid-back setting with outdoor seating & water views.
63 Hotz Ave, Santa Rosa Beachchiringograyton.com ↗
Local Mexican chain serving classic dishes, beer & wine in a casual, vibrant setting.
4304 Legendary Dr C110, Destineljalisco.com ↗
Huge waterfront site offering multiple dining rooms, games & attractions including live gators.
20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destinfudpucker.com ↗
A menu offering classic sushi & creative rolls in a modern hotel setting with bar & table seating.
4000 S Sandestin Blvd, Miramar Beachhiltonsandestinbeach.com ↗
American & seafood spot set in a roomy waterfront space stuffed with circus memorabilia.
46 Harbor Blvd, Destinharryts.com ↗
Seafood shack offering oysters, sandwiches & tacos plus happy-hour deals in a funky setting.
5773, 37 Logan Ln #4, Santa Rosa Beachhurricaneoyster.com ↗
A Destin fine-dining fixture for more than three decades, Marina Cafe overlooks the harbor from Harbor Boulevard. The kitchen focuses on fresh daily seafood, USDA prime steaks, and house-made pastas, backed by a wine list of more than 100 selections. A candlelit, high-ceilinged dining room sets an upscale tone that suits both special occasions and an easygoing evening, while a separate lounge offers its own bar menu. Private events are available as well.
404 Harbor Blvd, Destinmarinacafe.com ↗
Open-air eatery with an upstairs terrace offering regional seafood plates, cocktails & live music.
1875 S County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beachshunkgulley.com ↗
Grilled seafood stars at this joint with a long porch, beach chairs on the sand & gulf views.
1740 Scenic Hwy 98, Destintheback-porch.com ↗
Shabby-chic market & bistro serving upscale breakfast & lunch with a focus on ham & bacon.
4281 E County Hwy 30A #104, Santa Rosa Beachtheperfectpig.com ↗
Set in an old general store, this casual hangout offers Southern-tinged fare & live music.
70 Hotz Ave, Santa Rosa Beachtheredbar.com ↗
