The Best Seafood Restaurants Near Crab Island 🐠🍽️
After a sun-soaked day floating at Crab Island, nothing hits quite like a plate of fresh Gulf seafood and a view of the water. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled grouper, buttery crab legs, or fish tacos with a cold drink, Destin’s harbor and beachside eateries deliver some of the best seafood on the Emerald Coast.
Here are the top local spots near Crab Island where the food is fresh, the vibes are laid-back, and the views are chef’s kiss. 😋🌅
1. Dewey Destin’s Harborside 🐟⛵
A classic. This family-run spot has been serving up seafood since forever — and it’s right near the docks, so you know it’s fresh.
Best for: No-frills, casual seafood with a killer view
What to try: Grilled amberjack, shrimp & grits, hushpuppies
Vibe: Casual, dockside, very local
2. Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House 🦪🍹
Right on the harbor with two levels of seating, a sandy play area for kids, and live music on the weekends. It’s a local favorite for a reason.
Best for: Families, date night, or happy hour with a view
What to try: Snapper Destin, oysters on the half shell, house-made key lime pie
Bonus: They even have boat parking if you’re coming from Crab Island!
3. Louisiana Lagniappe 🦞🌇
A little more upscale but still relaxed, this gem blends Creole flavor with fresh Florida seafood. Tucked inside Sandpiper Cove, it’s a bit hidden — and totally worth it.
Best for: Romantic dinners, seafood lovers, quiet evenings
What to try: Grouper almondine, crawfish étouffée, shrimp & andouille pasta
Pro tip: Go around sunset — the golden light over the harbor is gorgeous
4. The Back Porch 🏖️🦐
Oceanfront, always lively, and known for big portions and beachy vibes. It’s a short drive from Crab Island, but you get that toes-in-the-sand energy that keeps people coming back.
Best for: Beachside lunches and casual seafood classics
What to try: Fried shrimp basket, seafood gumbo, their famous chargrilled Amberjack
Kid-friendly: Absolutely — big patio and fun vibe
5. Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer 🦀🍷
Overlooking the Destin Harbor, Brotula’s is all about steamed shellfish, craft cocktails, and a Southern-style menu that makes you want to order one of everything.
Best for: Big seafood platters, boat-to-table freshness, group dining
What to try: Royal red shrimp, snow crab, broiled oysters
Fun option: They’ll even cook your catch if you were out fishing!
6. Harbor Docks 🍣🐟
Part sushi bar, part seafood house, part Destin legend — Harbor Docks is a go-to for both locals and visitors. It’s been around since the ‘70s, and it’s still serving some of the best seafood around.
Best for: Casual dinners, sushi nights, fresh catches
What to try: Grouper sandwich, tuna dip, daily specials
Extra points: They work with local fishermen, so the fish is as fresh as it gets
7. East Pass Seafood & Oyster House 🐚🍻
This laid-back spot is right on the harbor with great views and an even better menu. It’s one of the newer favorites with outdoor seating and a relaxed, beach-town vibe.
Best for: Laid-back seafood meals, oyster lovers, Crab Island day-trippers
What to try: Blackened mahi tacos, crab claws, smoked tuna dip
Good to know: Short walk from many Crab Island boat rental docks!
Tips for Seafood Dining Near Crab Island 🧭🍽️
✔️ Go early for dinner — sunset tables fill up fast
✔️ Reservations? Not always needed, but call ahead on weekends
✔️ Look for “catch of the day” — that’s where the local magic happens
✔️ Traveling by boat? Several spots (like Boshamps & Brotula’s) have docks
✔️ Want it to go? Many of these spots offer takeout — perfect for a beach picnic or condo dinner
Final Thoughts 🌊🦐
When you’re floating around Crab Island, you’re only minutes away from some of the freshest seafood on the Gulf Coast. From sunset oysters and grilled grouper to beachy shrimp baskets and steamer pots for the whole family, Destin’s harborfront restaurants offer something for every appetite. And when you stay with Destin Dreamers, all those delicious coastal flavors are just a short ride away.
Need help booking a sunset dinner after your Crab Island cruise or a vacation rental to stay? Want a local’s favorite not on the map? I’ve got you — just ask!
