Restaurants plz. No tourist traps

Question

Any recommendations for good seafood? Can be a hole in the wall. Ocean view would be perfect!!

Thank you

Answer

The Destin, Miramar Beach, and Sandestin area is full of excellent seafood spots, ranging from casual “hole-in-the-wall” joints to upscale dining, many offering ocean views. Since you’re looking to avoid tourist traps, here are some local favorites and hidden gems:

The Back Porch (Destin) – Iconic beachside spot known for fresh Gulf seafood and a casual vibe. Great views of the beach, especially around sunset. Try their chargrilled oysters and shrimp baskets.
AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar (Destin Harbor) – Casual and lively with an authentic local feel. Excellent for oysters, fried shrimp, and seafood platters. Some tables offer water views.
Boathouse Oyster Bar (Destin Harbor) – Small, friendly spot with fresh oysters, Gulf fish, and a laid-back harbor view.

For more off-the-beaten-path or hole-in-the-wall experiences:

Pompano Joe’s (Destin) – Colorful, Caribbean-influenced seafood on the beach. Oceanfront seating and a fun, casual atmosphere. Great for grouper sandwiches and tropical cocktails.
Harbor Docks (Destin) – Local favorite with fresh-caught seafood straight from the Gulf. Not flashy, but high-quality dishes. You can watch the fishermen unload right from the dining area in the harbor.
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill (Destin/Sandestin) – Family-friendly, casual beach dining with a fun, quirky atmosphere. Ocean view tables available, plus a good mix of seafood and local favorites.

If you’re willing to drive a bit within the Sandestin area:

Marina Café (Sandestin) – Upscale yet relaxed dining on the bayou with stunning water views. Excellent seafood selection, from fresh fish to shrimp and scallops.
Seagar’s Prime Steaks & Seafood (Destin/Sandestin) – Slightly more upscale, but fantastic seafood and steak. Beautiful Gulf views from select tables.

Tips for dining in the area:

Arrive early or make reservations if you want the best ocean-view tables, especially during peak seasons.
Ask locals for daily specials; many smaller spots feature the freshest catches of the day.
Lunch can sometimes be less crowded and still offer the same quality seafood as dinner.

Overall, these choices give you a balance of casual, authentic seafood experiences and scenic spots without the typical tourist-heavy traps. You can enjoy local flavors and still catch beautiful views of the Gulf.