There's something magical about arriving at a restaurant by boat. The gentle rocking of the waves, the salty breeze in your hair, and then stepping directly from your vessel to enjoy a delicious meal with spectacular water views. Fort Myers Beach offers numerous opportunities for this quintessential Florida experience, and with Seadipity Adventures, you can enjoy a perfect day on the water that includes culinary delights at some of the area's finest waterfront establishments.

Our local captains know all the best spots where you can easily dock and dine. Whether you're planning a full-day charter or a sunset cruise, adding a meal stop at one of these restaurants creates unforgettable memories for friends and family. Let's explore the top waterfront restaurants in Fort Myers Beach that welcome boaters with open arms and delicious menus.

Dixie Fish Co.

Located at 714 Fishermans Wharf in Fort Myers Beach, Dixie Fish Co. is housed in an authentic Florida fish house from the 1950s. This open-air restaurant sits directly on Matanzas Harbor and provides convenient docking for boaters at the adjacent public dock.

Dixie Fish Co. offers a true taste of old Florida with a modern culinary twist. Their famous grouper sandwich is consistently ranked among the best in Southwest Florida and is a must-try for any visitor. The smoked fish dip and fresh stone crab claws (in season) are also local favorites that showcase the fresh seafood of the region.

The atmosphere is relaxed and casual with live music most afternoons and evenings. The rustic charm and harbor views create the perfect backdrop for a laid-back meal after exploring the waters around Fort Myers Beach.

Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille

Named after the fictional marine biologist in Randy Wayne White's novels, Doc Ford's combines Caribbean flavors with fresh local seafood. Located at 708 Fishermans Wharf, the restaurant is just a short walk from the Salty Sam's Marina docks, making it easily accessible for boaters.

The Yucatan Shrimp is their signature dish – peel-and-eat shrimp marinated in a spicy, garlicky butter sauce that leaves diners coming back for more. Their Island Mojito makes for the perfect refreshing accompaniment while enjoying the waterfront views.

Doc Ford's offers an upscale casual environment with a vibrant bar scene and tasteful nautical decor. The restaurant features memorabilia from White's novels alongside stunning waterfront views, creating an atmosphere that's both sophisticated and welcoming.

Matanzas on the Bay

Situated on Matanzas Harbor at 416 Crescent St, this waterfront gem offers panoramic views of the bay and the shrimp boat fleet. Matanzas on the Bay has its own marina with complimentary docking for diners, making it especially convenient for those arriving by water.

Their fresh catch of the day prepared to your liking is always a sure bet, showcasing the region's bounty. The bay shrimp & scallops pasta and the blackened mahi tacos have also developed loyal followings among locals and tourists alike.

The restaurant offers a tropical and laid-back setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The upstairs deck is especially popular, offering stunning views of the harbor and the perfect vantage point for watching dolphins play as the sun sets over the water.

Nervous Nellie's

A Fort Myers Beach institution located at 1131 1st St, Nervous Nellie's offers a fun, vibrant atmosphere with extensive waterfront seating. The restaurant is situated at Snug Harbor Marina, where free dockage is available for dining patrons.

Their seafood combo platters are perfect for sampling multiple local specialties in one sitting. Don't miss the conch fritters as an appetizer and be sure to save room for their key lime pie – a Florida classic done right.

Nervous Nellie's is known for its lively and colorful atmosphere with waterfront views from nearly every table. Upstairs, Ugly's Waterside Bar offers a more relaxed vibe with craft cocktails and panoramic views of Matanzas Pass, perfect for watching the boat traffic while enjoying a cold drink.

Experience the Best of Fort Myers Beach

One of the greatest joys of chartering a boat in Fort Myers Beach is the freedom to explore the area's waterways and discover these exceptional waterfront dining destinations. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day on the water, adding a meal stop at one of these restaurants elevates your boating experience.

At Seadipity Adventures, we specialize in creating customized charter experiences that can include stops at these fantastic waterfront eateries. Our knowledgeable captains can recommend the perfect restaurant based on your preferences and handle all the navigation and docking, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the journey and the destination.

Ready to experience the ultimate "dock and dine" adventure in Fort Myers Beach? Contact us today to book your custom charter and discover why our waterfront restaurants are as much a part of the local charm as our beautiful beaches and abundant marine life.