We’re a seaside city, so what better plan for a summer evening than to spend time cooling off by the water at one of the many waterfront spots Miami has to offer? From seafood shacks to the most refined of waterfront enclaves, these beautiful spots are great for grabbing a bite to eat while gazing out onto the sea or bay! Check them out:
1. Baia Beach Club, South Beach
This waterfront oasis at the Mondrian South Beach features breathtaking skyline views and Bohemian chic decor. There’s several outdoor dining options to choose from, such as The Deck, The Terrace and The Greenhouse in which you can enjoy incredible craft cocktails and Mediterranean food for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
Find it at 1100 West Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
2. Amara at Paraiso, Edgewater
For a quintessential waterfront dining experience in the city, head to Amara at Paraiso. At this piece of paradise, you’ll be able to experience South Florida’s diverse food culture with some of the best Latin American dishes made with coastal ingredients. As a bonus, the restaurant also boasts some of the best water views.
Find it at 3101 NE 7th Ave, Miami, FL 33137.
3. La Mar by Gastón Acurio, Brickell
At La Mar, you’ll be able to enjoy the authentic and diverse flavors of Peruvian gastronomy in all its glory, from more upscale novo-Andean dishes to Asian-Peruvian fusion. This top-notch cuisine, from signature cebiches to grilled anticuchos, comes with a side of the most perfect backdrop, of course!
Find it at 500 Brickell Key Dr, Miami, FL 33131.
4. Lido Bayside Grill, Miami Beach
Located at the very end of The Standard Spa hotel, Lido boasts extraordinary views of Biscayne Bay. Sip on all the frosé your heart desires while you enjoy vibrant coastal dishes (including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options) in style.
Find it at 40 Island Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
5. Rusty Pelican, Key Biscayne
Talk about sparkling skyline views! The historic Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne is an absolute must-try when it comes to waterfront dining in Miami. Serving up plenty of great, locally sourced seafood and a classy atmosphere, it’s the most famous restaurant in Key Biscayne for anything from brunches to weddings.
Find it at 3201 Rickenbacker Cwy, Key Biscayne, FL 33149.
6. Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market, Downtown
It’s safe to say that seafood and waterfront views go hand in hand and Garcia’s is one of the best spots in the city to do just that. Located by the Miami River, this lovely spot has been a prime destination for savoring the freshest catch since 1966 (especially stone crabs during the season)!
Find it at 398 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128.
7. Casadonna, Edgewater
Newly opened in the waterfront building that houses the historic Women’s Club and Klaw, Casadonna is bringing a taste of la dolce vita to Miami. This coastal Italian-inspired restaurant is David Grutman’s (Groot Hospitality) newest venture, in partnership with Tao Group, and features an elegant and leafy ambiance with rattan chairs and pink and mint cushions. Have a taste of their crispy young artichoke and handcrafted pastas off the Riviera-style menu while sipping on a perfect aperol spritz!
Find it at 1737 N Bayshore Dr 1st Floor, Miami, FL 33132.
8. Seaspice, Downtown
On the banks of the Miami River lies Seaspice, the premier waterfront spot known for its views and celebrity sightings. Offering its fair share of party vibes, this brasserie and lounge also offers a variety of seafood dishes, endless cocktails and premium bottle service.
Find it at 412 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128.
9. The Deck at Island Gardens, Watson Island
Brunch buffets, seafood towers, sunset happy hours and views of passing yachts amid downtown Miami’s flashy skyline are what The Deck at Island Gardens is all about. Perched on the edge of Biscayne Bay, this chic spot serves Mediterranean dishes and hosts live performers on weekend nights. There are plenty of dining tables to take in the views with your meal, but you can also relax in a private cabana!
Find it at 888 Mac Arthur Cswy, Miami, FL 33132.
10. Ocean Social, Miami Beach
This breezy waterfront perch at the legendary Eden Roc, helmed by Chef Tristen Epps, serves elevated seafood dishes with diverse Caribbean and global influences. With unparalleled views of the sea and sky, this spot is perfect for your next upscale lunch, dinner, sunset cocktails or upcoming special event!
Find it at 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140.
11. Kiki on the River, Downtown
A Mediterranean oasis positioned by the Miami River, Kiki is perfect for cozying up in one of their plush banquettes and feasting on mouthwatering Greek food while basking in the warmth of the city sunsets. The restaurant offers a selection of time-honored Greek favorites and innovative dishes made from scratch in-house. Arriving by boat is also highly encouraged!
Find it at 450 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128.
12. American Social, Brickell
Overlooking the river, you can’t go wrong with American Social for a boozy weekend brunch or an unforgettable game day with friends. The restaurant boasts a patio spanning 3,000 square feet for diners to take in the views of the skyline and passing yachts while indulging in elevated American cuisine, in addition to wine, beer and inventive cocktails to cool down on a hot day.
Find it at 690 SW 1st Ct, Miami, FL 33130.
13. Joia Beach, Watson Island
If you’re looking for Tulum vibes and a place to dip your toes in the sand while enjoying a cocktail or two, Joia Beach is your answer. Serving as both a restaurant and a beach club, you can dine on their European-inspired menu directly on the sand with open views of Biscayne Bay. The music is just as impressive, with live DJs keeping the party atmosphere alive.
Find it at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami, FL 33132.
14. Cantina Beach, Key Biscayne
Set against the backdrop of the endless Atlantic and casually sophisticated decor, the city’s oceanfront Mexican restaurant sits in the heart of The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. They’ve got a large menu of tasty tacos and quesadillas, fish ceviche made with fresh catch, guacamole prepared tableside and hearty plates like roasted chicken mole and enchiladas.
Find it at 455 Grand Bay Drive Key Biscayne, Miami, FL 33149.
15. Bayshore Club, Coconut Grove
What was once a Pan Am seaplane terminal and the former home of Scotty’s Landing, now offers visitors panoramic views of Biscayne Bay by way of this breezy restaurant and bar. In fact, there isn’t a single bad seat in the house thanks to its stadium-style seating, meaning every diner can enjoy picturesque views no matter where they sit! Dishes here are more seafood-leaning.
Find it at 3391 Pan American Dr, Miami, FL 33133.