Best Beach Front Restaurants on Scenic 98 with a View

Looking for the best Gulf-front restaurants in Destin and Miramar Beach? Along Florida's Emerald Coast, there are many options for restaurants with delicious food with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico while you dine.  Here are some of the top restaurants to walk, bike, or scooter to on Scenic 98, one of the original quaint beach roads of Destin. 

Capt. Dave’s on the Gulf

Capt. Dave’s, at 3796 Old Highway 98, has been around for over 50 years and still serves some of the best seafood with a ‘contemporary Gulf Coast twist’ right on the beach. They’ve got floor to ceiling windows to better enjoy the majestic gulf views. Try their signature dishes, including ‘Cajun Redfish’ dish with shrimp, dice peppers, and a cayenne pepper cream sauce. 

The Crab Trap

The original Gulf-front seafood restaurant is conveniently located at 3500 Scenic Hwy 98 East. They’ve got a tiki bar on the beach for sunset cocktails; and open air windows with their indoor seating so you can still take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful Gulf. The Crab Trap is known for their crab dip, gulf grouper, and garlic Dungeness crab.   

Pompano Joe’s

Bring your group to Pompano Joe’s Seafood House across from Mediterranea condominium resort as well as homes in Port of Call, and catch their happy hour from 3 PM-5 PM with $5 Margaritas and PJ Punch and $8 appetizers. It’s conveniently located at 2237 Scenic Gulf Highway, which is also near Summer Breeze condominiums and Blue Surf townhomes. 

The Whale’s Tail Beach Bar & Grill

Recently renovated and just a short walk/ride down the beach, it is located at 1373 Scenic Gulf Drive. The Whale's Tail offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with a coffee on the beach, and end it with a cocktail at the outdoor beach bar downstairs. Their shrimp tacos are grilled and served to perfection. 

The Surf Hut

If you crave fresh oysters and some outdoor games on the beach with the family, head over to The Surf Hut at 551 Scenic Gulf Drive. They have a ‘Create Your Own Catch’ option where you pick your fish, the style it’s cooked, and choice of their signature sauces. Consider your dinner here to be tailor-made just for you. 

Ready to come stay on Scenic 98? 

View our premier Destin condos and vacation rental homes online, especially  rentals on Old Hwy 98, including Mediterranea, Quiet Surf, Summer Breeze, or call one of our friendly vacation specialists at 1-800-225-7652 to help you find the perfect beach vacation home. Remember to always book direct with Newman-Dailey for the best rate guarantee.

See you @ the beach!