Dock and Dine: 5 Restaurants to Visit Via Boat in Panama City Beach, Florida

Jonathan Timianko

Mar 10, 2024 — 3 min read

Panama City Beach, located on the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida, offers a unique dining experience with several restaurants accessible by boat. Boating enthusiasts and seafood lovers alike can enjoy a leisurely cruise along the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay to reach these delightful establishments.

Here are a few restaurants in Panama City Beach that you can access by boat from private boat slip rentals or marinas around the Destin, Pensacola and Panama City areas.

Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet

Photo: Capt. Jack's Family Buffet (Facebook)

Capt. Jack’s Family Buffet, located along St. Andrews Bay, provides a quintessential seafood experience with a casual and family-friendly vibe. Tie up at the dock and indulge in a variety of locally caught seafood from fried shrimp baskets to mouthwatering crab legs. The restaurant's outdoor seating area provides an ideal setting for enjoying the sea breeze and stunning sunsets from private boat dock rentals.

Bayou on the Beach Café and Oyster Bar

Photo: Bayou on the Beach Oyster Bar (Facebook)

Bayou on the Beach offers boaters a welcoming spot to dock and dine. Known for its Southern-inspired cuisine, this waterfront gem serves up dishes like blackened grouper, crawfish etouffee and hushpuppies. The laid-back atmosphere and live music on weekends contribute to the restaurant’s overall charm.

Grand Marlin at Lighthouse Marina

Photo: Grand Marlin (Facebook)

Lighthouse Marina is not only a hub for boating enthusiasts but also a fantastic spot for waterfront dining. Grand Marlin, the on-site restaurant, offers a diverse menu featuring seafood specialties, sandwiches and salads. Guests can dock their boats and enjoy a relaxing meal on the outdoor deck while taking in scenic views of the marina and the Gulf of Mexico.

Pineapple Willy's

Photo: Pineapple Willy's (Facebook)

A well-known landmark on Panama City Beach, Pineapple Willy's is accessible by boats from marinas and private boat lifts for rent. This beachside restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring seafood, steaks, and tropical drinks. Boaters can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, live music and stunning Gulf views from the outdoor deck.

Schooners Beach Club

Photo: Schooners Beach Club (Facebook)

As one of the last remaining beach clubs in Florida, Schooners is a lively spot accessible by boat on the Gulf side of Panama City Beach. Anchor off the shore and wade ashore or use the designated boat slips. Known for its beachfront location, Schooners provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy seafood specials and a vibrant beach party vibe.

The next time you’re looking for restaurants to access by private boat dock rentals in Panama City Beach, check out some of these suggestions. Let us know your favorites!

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