Finding great seafood in Fort Walton Beach is a bit like strolling the pier at dusk: full of possibilities, and more than a few pleasant surprises. The shoreline hums with hidden gems and local favorites, each with its own style. Whether you crave crisp fried shrimp, fresh-caught grouper, or a low-key place for oysters with friends, this town never keeps you guessing for long. You only need to know where to look.
After sampling my way through packed porches and quiet waterfront corners, I can tell you: there is no shortage of seafood worth your time here. I’ve watched the sunset from a dock while savoring blackened fish that could turn a bad day around. If you want the best seafood spots in Fort Walton Beach, I’ll guide you to places locals trust, visitors crave, and no one leaves hungry. Ready to dig in? Let’s find your new favorite.
1. Stewby’s Seafood Shanty
+1 850-374-3765
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty doesn’t try to wow you with flash. Instead, it lets the seafood speak for itself. This spot is friendly, unfussy, and always smells like someone just fried up the catch of the day. Each time I visit, the hush puppies and grilled fish sandwich pull me right back to my first time there—simple, hot, and full of flavor.
The menu is built on fresh, local finds. If you order the fried shrimp or the classic fish tacos, you’ll taste the Gulf right away. Stewby’s stands out for its quick service and food that never tastes rushed. Families, out-of-towners, and locals rub elbows here, and everyone leaves with a new favorite dish.
2. Stewby’s Seafood Shanty
Set on Racetrack Road, Stewby’s Seafood Shanty feels like your go-to neighborhood spot for fresh local seafood. It’s quick, relaxed, and every bit as welcoming if you’re grabbing a solo lunch or feeding a hungry crew. I once ducked in, rain pouring down, and left with hot fried shrimp that tasted as if my favorite uncle just whipped them up behind the counter.
The drive-thru makes this spot a top pick when time is tight, but you trade nothing for speed. The fish comes straight from Destin’s boats, and it shows in every bite. Their grilled grouper and fried shrimp baskets are hard to top—crisp, flavorful, never greasy.
Prices are steady, and even the hush puppies get regulars talking. Stewby’s is proof that fast and fresh seafood in Fort Walton Beach is more than just a local myth.
3. The Shack – Original Waterfront Crab Shack
The Shack sits right on the water, catching every last bit of sunlight as it fades over the Santa Rosa Sound. There’s always a buzz—families laughing, locals swapping boat stories, and seafood lovers elbow-deep in steamed crab legs. My first visit was on a breezy evening, the kind where you can hear gulls and forks clatter in the same moment. I stayed longer than planned, just soaking up the vibe.
The crab legs here are the main event, best ordered fresh and steamed, with just enough spice. Their gumbo is generous with Gulf seafood, while the fried fish platter brings out their Southern roots without weighing you down.
If you want a spot that serves up good times and great seafood, right on the water, The Shack never disappoints. It’s casual, fun, and made for sharing.
4. Old Bay Steamer
Old Bay Steamer is where you go when you want seafood that lets its natural flavors shine. Walk in and you’ll notice the aroma—spiced, buttery, and inviting. My go-to move is to gather friends and split the seafood platter. It’s stacked with snow crab, shrimp, mussels, and fresh corn, perfect for sharing with people who know how to roll up their sleeves.
Their steaming technique brings out the best in each piece of seafood. No heavy sauces, just the right amount of seasoning. The atmosphere feels unfussy and relaxed, which matches the straightforward food. Try their signature “Shellfish Platter” or opt for a bowl of steamed shrimp if you want to keep things classic.
At Old Bay Steamer, it’s all about letting Gulf seafood speak for itself.
5. Floyd’s Shrimp & Steak House
Floyd’s Shrimp & Steak House draws crowds for a reason—many come for their famous all-you-can-eat fried shrimp, and few leave disappointed. My last visit had me tucked by a window, watching the sun dip low over the sound. The servers kept platters of shrimp coming, each one golden and crisp, never heavy.
If you prefer something less endless, try their seafood platter. It features local favorites, from flaky grouper to grilled shrimp, capturing pure Gulf flavor. Their baked oysters are another solid pick, generously topped without masking the seafood’s freshness.
What makes Floyd’s shine is a casual charm and a commitment to keeping things fresh, friendly, and full of flavor. It’s an easy place to linger.
6. Angler’s Beachside Grill
+1 850-796-0260
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Angler’s Beachside Grill sits right at the pier, where morning walks blend into long, easy afternoons. There’s a relaxed rhythm here: kids darting to the water, locals swapping stories, and plates stacked with classic coastal fare. On my last visit, I kicked back with grilled fish tacos while the sea breeze carried away any thought of work.
What sets Angler’s apart is food that matches the view. The grilled shrimp platter brings out the Gulf’s flavor, fresh and simply seasoned. If you’re hungry at sunrise, their seafood omelet is a favorite with early risers.
From all-day brunch to dinner with a view, Angler’s is a spot made for lingering—with the pier always just steps away.
7. The Gulf on Okaloosa Island
The Gulf on Okaloosa Island feels designed for unhurried days and unbeatable views. Built from repurposed shipping containers and draped in sea breezes, it’s a little slice of coastal life. I once spent a lazy afternoon here with friends, the sound of waves mixing with the chatter of happy diners.
The fried grouper sandwich is the standout—crisp, flaky, and packed with fresh Gulf flavor. For something lighter, their seasonal salads and grilled fish plates impress without overcomplicating things. The Gulf’s menu changes with what’s freshest, but seafood always takes center stage.
If you want to dine where the water is inches away and the food is as local as the scenery, The Gulf delivers every time.
8. Hightide Restaurant & Oyster Bar
+1 850-244-2624
See Menu
Hightide Restaurant & Oyster Bar is the kind of spot where time slows down and everyone seems to know each other. Stepping inside, the buzz of families and groups fills the air over plates piled high with the catch of the day. My last meal here included oysters, shucked to order, and a bowl of seafood gumbo so rich it could stand in for dinner on its own.
Their oysters are legendary, offered on the half shell, steamed, or fried. If you want more variety, the seafood platters give a tour of Gulf flavors. Don’t skip the oyster chowder for a creamy, briny start to your meal.
Family-owned for decades, Hightide’s no-frills charm and dedication to fresh seafood keep loyal locals and newcomers coming back.
9. The Crab Trap – Fort Walton Beach
The Crab Trap rises above the beach, drawing in beachgoers with breezy views and that unmistakable Gulf Coast energy. On my last visit, sandy feet and all, I found myself drawn to their award-winning gumbo—a bowl brimming with seafood and just the right kick of spice.
The wild Alaska crab legs are a showstopper, always fresh, sweet, and generously portioned. If you like to share, their seafood platters let you taste a bit of everything with friends or family. The setting alone would be enough, but the food is easily as memorable as the sunsets stretching across the Boardwalk.
If your idea of the best seafood involves sand, sea air, and plenty of flavor, The Crab Trap covers all the bases.
10. Rick’s Crab Trap
Rick’s Crab Trap captures that classic, laid-back seafood house feel the moment you step in. No need to dress up—just show up hungry. I remember sitting near the windows, watching locals stop by for what felt like a ritual family meal, the tables full of baskets and laughter.
The menu is loaded with Gulf favorites, but the crab legs and blackened grouper sandwich really shine. Order the crab legs if you’re after something sweet and hearty; go for the grouper if you love spice and tender fish. Their platters offer a tour of the coast with shrimp, fish, and more piled high.
Rick’s is honest, full of flavor, and all about giving you the real Fort Walton Beach experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Fort Walton Beach known for?
Fort Walton Beach is known for its fresh Gulf shrimp, grouper, oysters, and blue crab. Many spots feature daily catches that arrive straight from Destin’s docks.
Are there any waterfront seafood restaurants in Fort Walton Beach?
Yes, plenty. Restaurants like The Shack, The Crab Trap, Angler’s Beachside Grill, and The Gulf on Okaloosa Island all offer beautiful water views along with their seafood menus.
Is it easy to find seafood restaurants with gluten-free options?
Definitely. Most of the top-rated spots, including Old Bay Steamer and Hightide Restaurant & Oyster Bar, offer gluten-free choices and are happy to guide you through the menu.
Do you need a reservation for popular seafood places?
It depends on the season and time. During peak dinner hours or weekends, it’s smart to call ahead, especially for waterfront restaurants.
Where can I find family-friendly seafood dining?
Stewby’s Seafood Shanty, Floyd’s Shrimp & Steak House, and Angler’s Beachside Grill are all family-friendly, with kids’ menus and casual settings that work for all ages.
Which seafood dishes should I try first in Fort Walton Beach?
Start with fried Gulf shrimp, blackened grouper, a seafood platter, or steamed crab legs. These dishes are local classics and showcase the area’s best flavors.
