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 out some of the best waterfront dining spots in Miami below:
Rusty Pelican

Talk about stunning skyline views! The historic Rusty Pelican in Key Biscayne is an absolute must when it comes to waterfront dining in the city. Serving up plenty of great, locally sourced seafood and a classy atmosphere, it’s the most well-known eatery for anything from brunches to weddings.
Amara at Paraiso

For a quintessential waterfront dining experience in Edegwater, head to Amara at Paraiso by James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Schwartz. 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.
Baia Beach Club

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 tasty craft cocktails and Mediterranean food for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
Seaspice

On the banks of the Miami River lies Seaspice, the premier waterfront spot known for its views and celebrity sightings (think Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyonce, Jay Z, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, David Beckham, Shakira, Sofia Vergara and plenty more). Offering its fair share of party vibes, this brasserie and lounge also offers a variety of seafood dishes, endless cocktails and premium bottle service.
Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market

It’s safe to say that seafood and waterfront views go hand in hand and Garcia’s is one of the best spots to do just that! Located by the Miami River, this lovely joint has been a prime destination for savoring the freshest catch since 1966 (especially stone crabs during the season)! It was even praised by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain when he toured the city.
Lido Bayside Grill

Located at the very end of The Standard Spa hotel, Lido Bayside Grill boasts a laid-back tropical atmosphere and extraordinary views of Biscayne Bay. Sip on all the crisp cocktails your heart desires while you enjoy vibrant coastal dishes (including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options) in style.
Klaw Miami

Boasting Edgewater’s only rooftop bar, Klaw welcomes diners to enjoy a crisp breeze complemented by handcrafted cocktails and delicious bites. The sophisticated surf-and-turf restaurant is nestled within the historic Miami Woman’s Club building, serving everything from Norwegian King Crab (flown from Norway’s Barents Sea and kept in-house to ensure peak freshness) to dry-aged USDA Black Angus and Kobe beef enticing any steak lover’s palate.
Casadonna

Newly opened in the building that houses the historic Women’s Club and Klaw, Casadonna brings 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 pink and mint cushions. Have a taste of their handcrafted pastas off the Riviera-style menu while sipping on a perfect aperol spritz!
Kiki on the River

A romantic Mediterranean oasis positioned by the Miami River, Kiki is perfect for cozying up in a plush banquette 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. By day, you can expect to find sophisticated dining, but by night, the venue transforms into a party destination complete with live DJs and twirling napkins. Arriving by boat is also highly encouraged!
American Social

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.
Joia Beach

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.
CASA NEOS

Spanning 30,000 square feet, this Mediterranean destination in downtown Miami serves as a restaurant, lounge and beach club all rolled into one. From waterside brunches that transform into Sunset Rituals celebrations to electrifying late-night experiences, CASA NEOS is the place to be.
Ocean Social

This breezy waterfront perch at the legendary Eden Roc 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!
Bayshore Club

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.
Cantina La Veinte

If you’re looking to pair scenic waterfront views with bold Mexican flavors, this upscale destination in Brickell Bay is worth adding to your list. Beyond its refined cuisine and handcrafted cocktails, Cantina La Veinte keeps the energy going with its signature Cantina Sessions, featuring live bands every Thursday and Saturday evening, as well as weekly specials like Happy Hour and its popular Sunday Brunch.