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15 Must-Try Waterfront Restaurants in Central Florida (With Great Views + Even Better Food)
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items Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a juicy burger, or just want to sip a cocktail while watching the sunset, Central Florida has no shortage of great waterfront dining spots. From lakefront gems to river and ocean views, these 15 restaurants serve...
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Sections
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Central Florida Dining - Lakes & Rivers
Central Florida - West Coast
Central Florida - East Coast
Final Thoughts
Central Florida Dining - Lakes & Rivers
Central Florida has more than 7700 lakes offering spectacular views. Many of these lakes have excellent restaurants where you can have a nice meal or cocktails while enjoying the view.
Live music, fresh seafood, and tropical drinks right on Lake Fairview. A favorite with locals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Grills Lakeside Orlando
Upscale waterfront dining with seafood, steak, and vintage amphicar rides on the lake at Disney Springs. Worth the splurge!
The Boathouse Orlando at Disney Springs
Famous for gator tail and sunsets over Lake Jesup. Check out the live gators and airboat rides next door.
The Black Hammock, Oviedo
Make your own pancakes at your table, just steps from the spring! Bring swimsuits for a full day of fun.
Old Spanish Sugar Mill, De Leon Springs
A hidden gem with beachy vibes, a tiki bar, and gorgeous lakefront views on Lake Minneola. Known for its seafood tacos, burgers, and relaxing sunsets.
Salt Shack on the Lake, Clermont
A stylish new addition with coastal-chic decor, upscale casual fare, and a beautiful view of the Disney Springs lake.
Summer House on the Lake at Disney Springs
Central Florida - West Coast
Sample a taste of the Gulf at these waterfront restaurants on the west side of Central Florida.
Located at the end of the Sponge Docks, this lively spot offers Gulf views, live music, and a fun family-friendly menu on the Tarpon Bayou.
Rusty Bellies Waterfront Grill, Tarpon Springs
Tucked away on the salt marsh off of Homosassa Bay, this local favorite is perfect for seafood lovers and sunset seekers. Try the fried oysters!
Peck's Old Port Cove, Crystal River
A stylish hidden gem on the Old Tampa Bay waterfront near Gandy Boulevard. With breezy, open-air seating and a menu full of fresh seafood and tropical cocktails, Salt Shack offers laid-back vibes and some of the best sunset views on Tampa Bay.
Salt Shack on the Bay, Tampa
Central Florida - East Coast
If you're enjoying time at the beach, be sure to visit one of these waterfront restaurants for dinner on the east coast of Central Florida.
Casual and quirky, this local spot on Indian River North serves fresh-caught seafood. Enjoy riverfront views and kayak rentals nearby.
JB's Fish Camp, New Smyrna Beach
Dine right over the ocean in Daytona Beach Shores! Casual seafood favorites and unbeatable views from the pier.
Crabby Joe's, Daytona Beach Shores
Great food and drinks with breezy riverfront seating on the Indian River. Sister location to Grills Lakeside and The Portside in Port Canaveral.
Grills Riverside, Melbourne
Southern-style seafood with all the fixings. Waterfront views of the Halifax River and a beloved local brunch buffet.
Aunt Catfish's on the River, Port Orange, FL
Known for its "Florisiana" cuisine (Florida meets Louisiana), this laid-back Lake Weir lakeside spot has sandy beach access and live music.
Eaton's Beach Sandbar & Grill, Weirsdale
A casual restaurant and bar offering classic American eats, lakeside sunsets on Lake Eustis, and docking for boaters.
Lake Eustis Waterfront Grille, Eustis
Final Thoughts
From lakefront lounges to Gulf-side gems, Central Florida’s waterfront restaurants make dining out like a mini vacation. Whether you're craving seafood, Southern comfort, or just a sunset view with your drink, this list has something for every taste ... I've also included a few cookbooks that contain some of Florida's classic recipes for you to enjoy at home.
Enjoy a collection of 400 of the best recipes from Florida restaurants, hotels, and resorts.
Special Taste of Florida: 400 Recipes
Enjoy some of Florida's classic recipes, from Key Lime Chili Shrimp to my favorite, Orange Cream Cake!
Florida Hometown Cookbook