The Best Waterfront Restaurants You Can Pull Up to by Boat
There’s waterfront dining, and then there’s true South Florida waterfront living.
If you own a boat, you know the difference. It’s not just about sitting near the water. It’s about pulling up to the dock, stepping off, and walking straight into lunch, cocktails, or dinner as the sun sets over the Intracoastal.
And while new restaurants continue to open across Lighthouse Point, Pompano Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, only a select few are actually designed for that dock-and-dine lifestyle.
Here are some of the best spots right now where you can truly arrive by boat.
Lola’s On the Water
The Rusty Hook Tavern
https://www.facebook.com/therustyhooktavern/
A true local favorite for boaters. Casual, approachable, and easy to dock, The Rusty Hook is perfect for a laid-back stop when you’re out on the water.
Kaluz Restaurant
https://www.kaluzrestaurant.com/kaluz-fort-lauderdale/
If you’re looking for something a little more refined without losing dock access, Kaluz hits that balance perfectly. Clean design, great views, and a consistent experience make this a standout along the Intracoastal.
Shooters Waterfront
https://www.shooterswaterfront.com
G&B Dockside
A bit more under the radar, G&B Dockside is tucked inside a marina near 17th Street and offers a relaxed, local dock-and-dine experience. With available dockage and a quieter setting compared to some of the busier spots, it’s a great option if you’re looking to pull up, unwind, and enjoy the water without the crowds.
Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill
Located right along the Intracoastal, Bokamper’s is a go-to for a casual, high-energy dock-and-dine experience. With available dock space, outdoor seating, and a lively sports bar atmosphere, it’s a perfect stop for groups looking to tie up, grab a drink, and catch a game.
Blue Moon Fish Company
https://www.bluemoonfishco.com
For a more refined dock-and-dine experience, Blue Moon Fish Company offers an upscale waterfront setting just off Commercial Boulevard. Dockage is limited and it’s best to call ahead, but the payoff is a quieter, more intimate atmosphere with some of the best seafood and brunch options along the Intracoastal.
Maestro’s Ocean Club
https://www.maestrosrestaurants.com
One of the newer upscale additions to Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront, Maestro’s Ocean Club brings a luxury steakhouse and seafood experience to the Intracoastal. With nearby marina access, it’s a great option for those looking to transition from a day on the water into a more polished evening out.
15th Street Fisheries
https://www.15thstreetfisheries.com
A Fort Lauderdale classic and one of the most well-known dock-and-dine destinations in the area, 15th Street Fisheries sits inside a major marina with ample dockage for boaters. Known for its lively waterfront setting and tarpon feeding experience, it’s a must-visit stop that blends local tradition with true boating culture.
The New Wave: Marina Waterfront Dining
Pier Sixty-Six
https://www.piersixtysixmarina.com
One of the most exciting developments in Fort Lauderdale right now is the complete transformation of Pier Sixty-Six into a next-level waterfront destination.
For boaters, this is a major shift:
- Full-service marina
- Upscale dockage
- Multiple new dining concepts in one location
Inside Pier Sixty-Six:
- Calusso – Mediterranean-inspired, upscale waterfront dining
- Sotogrande – Spanish tapas with a marina-side atmosphere
- Pier Top – A reimagined icon offering panoramic views and elevated cocktails
This isn’t just one stop—it’s becoming a true dock-and-dine hub, and a glimpse into where Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront lifestyle is heading.
Ocean Prime
Located at Las Olas Marina, Ocean Prime represents the next wave of luxury waterfront dining in Fort Lauderdale. While not a traditional casual dock-and-dine stop, its marina setting and upscale atmosphere make it a strong option for boaters looking for a more elevated, destination-style dining experience.
What Makes These Spots Different
With so many new restaurants opening across South Florida, it’s easy to assume they’re all “waterfront.” But the reality is:
Not all waterfront restaurants are built for boaters.
The locations above stand out because they offer:
- Accessible dockage
- Easy Intracoastal access
- A seamless transition from boat to table
That’s what defines real South Florida living—and why these places continue to attract both locals and buyers looking to experience it.
Final Thoughts: It’s More Than Dining—It’s a Lifestyle
From casual marina stops in Pompano Beach to the elevated experience at Pier Sixty-Six, dock-and-dine isn’t just about where you eat—it’s about how you arrive.
It’s that freedom to spend the day on the water, pull up somewhere great, and feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
And for many buyers moving to South Florida, this lifestyle is a big part of the draw.
Thinking About Living This Lifestyle?
If you’re exploring waterfront homes, boat-friendly properties, or just want to better understand what areas offer the best access to this lifestyle, I’d be happy to help guide you.
Whether you're buying, selling, or just starting the conversation, let’s connect.
Connect With Joe Lanser
Joe Lanser, P.A.
Lanser-Caicedo Group
RE/MAX Direct
LanserHomeSales.com
[email protected]
954-864-4465
