St. Augustine Beach pulls you in with sea air and sunset colors, but don’t let that distract you from its real power move: the seafood. This city isn’t just throwing shrimp on the grill and hoping for the best. Here, the menus read like poetry—fresh catches, clever flavors, a parade of Gulf and Atlantic treasures, all within earshot of rolling waves.
The first time I ordered blackened fish at a breezy beach shack, it hit me—good seafood isn’t complicated. It’s about freshness, skill, and a hint of salt still on your skin. Whether you’re a traveler hunting for the top spot, or a local keen to try something new, you’ll find real plates and honest reviews here, with a sharp focus on flavor, atmosphere, and variety. If you want to know where the locals send their friends—or where they guard the secret sauce—let’s get started.
1. Salt Life Food Shack
Salt Life Food Shack isn’t just close to the waves—it channels that energy right to your table. Panoramic ocean views and buzzing lounge areas make it easy to lose track of time here. My go-to order: the Tuna Poke Bowl. Always bright, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s a nod to their coastal flair and global influences.
Fish tacos and Garlic Parmesan Oysters offer a salty, satisfying bite, perfect for anyone craving variety. The fried shrimp basket is crispy and never greasy. Service is quick, the vibe is relaxed, and the crowd is a cheerful mix of families and locals. If you want seafood that’s as fresh as the view out the window, Salt Life more than delivers.
2. Sunset Grille
Sunset Grille feels like the kind of spot locals love to brag about. The laid-back decks—not to mention ocean breezes—set up the perfect beach-town meal. Family-owned and full of local pride, this place is both relaxed and welcoming.
What makes Sunset Grille stand out? Crab cakes and their signature shrimp and grits top the list. Crisp on the edges, tender inside, and seasoned just right—they taste like the best kind of vacation memory. I always find myself splitting the grilled mahi—fresh, flaky, and paired with bright sides.
This isn’t just a tourist stop; it’s a spot you’ll want to return to for honest flavors and casual comfort. Unfussy, flavorful, and local through and through.
3. Crabby’s Beachside
Crabby’s Beachside captures that barefoot, wind-in-your-hair feeling. Steps from the sand, this spot serves up breezy views and easygoing charm. There’s nothing rushed about grabbing lunch on the patio here, with ocean sights blending into every bite.
On my last visit, Bairdi Crab Legs stole the show. Sweet, meaty, and perfectly steamed, they feel like a beachside splurge. Mahi tacos and the fried shrimp are also customer favorites—fresh, zesty, and never overcooked.
The menu fits every mood, whether it’s a quick meal after a swim or a sunset dinner with friends. Crabby’s keeps things light and flavorful, just as a true beachside seafood spot should.
4. Seafood Kitchen Of St. Augustine
Seafood Kitchen Of St. Augustine sits off the main beach drag—unassuming, but always busy. This is the place locals mention when they talk about the real seafood scene. The kitchen’s been running strong since 1995, and you taste that experience in every dish.
I popped in for a late lunch and found the grilled grouper sandwich to be a highlight. It’s fresh, flaky, and put together without fuss—just simple, honest flavors. Platters of fried flounder and shrimp are crisp and light, not weighed down or greasy.
If you want a casual, no-pretense seafood experience in St. Augustine, this is the spot where flavor gets top billing and regulars keep coming back.
5. Beachcomber Restaurant
Beachcomber Restaurant holds a unique spot—literally right where A Street lets you walk onto the ocean. There’s nowhere else in St Augustine Beach where you can eat this close to the surf. The sound of waves and salty air only make the experience better.
I like to grab a table on the sand and order the blackened shrimp tacos. They pack a bright punch, with just enough heat to keep things interesting. The fresh catch sandwich is another top pick, grilled to perfection and always flaky.
The vibe is easy-going, from the flip-flop crowd to the menu full of classics. If toes-in-the-sand seafood is on your list, Beachcomber delivers every time.
6. Mango Mango’s Caribbean Grill & Bar
Mango Mango’s Caribbean Grill & Bar brings a tropical pop to St. Augustine Beach. Colorful décor and reggae in the background make it feel like an instant getaway. Every meal here feels like a passport stamp for your tastebuds.
My favorite? The “Mahimahi St. Croix”. Blackened fish served over rice with their signature mango salsa—it’s sweet, spicy, and pure island comfort. The Coconut Shrimp is crispy bliss, a perfect pairing with house-made sauces.
This is the place when you want something bright and different. For seafood that sings with citrus and spice, Mango Mango’s gets every detail right.
7. World Famous Oasis Restaurant
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World Famous Oasis Restaurant lives up to its name as the local hub for good times and great food. With live music most nights and a true “come as you are” attitude, it draws everyone from surfers to night owls. The menu stretches from sunrise breakfasts to late-night bites.
The real highlight is the Raw Bar. Picture this—iced platters of oysters, clams, and shrimp, all fresh and ready for a squeeze of lemon. I keep coming back for the fish tacos, bright with slaw and a fresh kick of lime, perfect for a laid-back dinner.
If you’re after variety and a lively vibe, Oasis is where seafood and local culture collide—no reservations, just good food and fun.
8. The Elkhouse Eatery
The Elkhouse Eatery slips a bit of creative spark into St. Augustine Beach’s dining lineup. Tucked away from the main crowds, it’s one of those places where regulars nod hello and newcomers feel right at home. Candlelit tables and friendly servers set a relaxed but special mood for dinner.
The menu balances comfort with curiosity, especially with their seafood pasta. Plump shrimp and scallops in a delicate sauce hit all the right notes. The catch of the day is always worth a try, often paired with inventive sides that put a twist on local flavors.
If you want seafood with real flair, Elkhouse delivers big flavors without losing that neighborhood feel.
9. Nalu’s Tropical Takeout
Nalu’s Tropical Takeout gives you island vibes before you even take a bite. This cheerful, low-key spot is perfect for a quick seafood fix with real tropical flair. If you’re headed to the sand, their takeout keeps everything fresh for the perfect beach picnic.
I’m always drawn to the ahi tuna poke bowl. The quality and generous portions put bigger restaurants to shame. Fish tacos, piled high with slaw and bright flavors, are another can’t-miss—easy to eat on the go and full of zesty punch.
If you want something fast, flavorful, and a little different from the usual, Nalu’s stands out with bold, honest ingredients every time.
10. Sushi Zento & Grill
Sushi Zento & Grill is where the beach meets Japan without missing a beat. The sleek, freshly remodeled space feels inviting, whether you’re in for a quick roll or a full hibachi dinner. There’s something calming about heading here after a day in the sun—every plate is a work of art.
Start with the salmon sashimi or yellowtail nigiri. The freshness is impossible to ignore, and the delicate slicing really lets every flavor shine. The Zento Roll, topped with fresh tuna and avocado, wins points for creativity and texture.
For seafood that’s light, elegant, and a notch above the usual beach fare, Sushi Zento makes every bite count.
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is St Augustine Beach famous for?
St. Augustine Beach is known for its fresh shrimp, grouper, mahi-mahi, oysters, and crab. Many places focus on fish tacos, shrimp platters, and creative local catches.
Are there any seafood spots directly on the beach?
Yes, Beachcomber Restaurant is the only spot truly right on the sand, so you can enjoy waves with your meal.
Which seafood restaurants are best for families?
Salt Life Food Shack, Sunset Grille, and Crabby’s Beachside are all family-friendly, casual, and offer menus kids and adults will enjoy.
Any places offering seafood with international flavors?
Try Mango Mango’s Caribbean Grill & Bar for island-inspired dishes, or Sushi Zento & Grill for Japanese seafood done right.
Where can I find great seafood takeout near the beach?
Nalu’s Tropical Takeout is known for quick, fresh seafood meals perfect to eat by the shore.
Are vegetarian or gluten-free options available at seafood restaurants?
Most spots, including Salt Life Food Shack, Mango Mango’s, and World Famous Oasis, offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free picks alongside seafood favorites.