Updated: April 2026
Anna Maria Island waterfront dining isn’t just about the view—it’s about how you experience it. From toes-in-the-sand tables on the Gulf to dockside grills where boats drift in for dinner, each spot offers a different version of island life.
Some restaurants are all about sunset front rows, others lean into casual fish-shack energy, and a few elevate the experience with polished, bayfront dining. This guide breaks it down so you can quickly find the kind of waterfront meal that fits your day on the island.
Best Waterfront Restaurants
Best toes-in-the-sand · The Sandbar Seafood & Spirits
Beachfront dining on the Gulf with full sunset views and true sand-between-your-toes seating.
Best upscale waterfront dining · The Chateau Anna Maria
Polished bayfront setting with marina views, craft cocktails, and refined coastal cuisine.
Best dockside seafood experience · Star Fish Company
No-frills, ultra-fresh seafood served at picnic tables beside a working waterfront.
Best unique/other dining · Island Ocean Star
A hibachi and sushi spot on Bimini Bay offering an interactive dining experience.
Toes-in-the-Sand Experience
Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
- 4000 Gulf Drive · Holmes Beach
- 941-778-0784
- 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Live Music · 5:30 PM to sunset
- Waterfront · directly on the Gulf
- Reservations · No
Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe is a laid-back beachfront spot right on the Gulf where you can dine with your toes in the sand and the ocean just steps away. It’s known for its relaxed, casual vibe and easygoing comfort food that works any time of day.
Menu favorites include fish and chips and hearty breakfast plates like country fried steak and eggs or the “All You Can Eat” pancakes, making it a simple, reliable stop for beachside dining from morning through sunset.
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
- 200 Gulf Drive North · Bradenton Beach
- 941-779-2222
- 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Happy Hour · 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM · inside bar only
- Waterfront · directly on the Gulf
- Reservations · Yes
The Beach House Waterfront Restaurant offers three distinct dining experiences—an air-conditioned indoor dining room, a scenic outdoor patio, and a true toes-in-the-sand beachfront section right on the Gulf. As featured in my As highlighted in my Ultimate Guide to the Best Toes-in-the-Sand Dining on Anna Maria Island, this spot delivers one of the island’s most immersive beachfront dining experiences.
The menu highlights fresh, locally sourced coastal dishes with favorites like crab cakes and the grouper sandwich. With direct beach access, sweeping Gulf views, and a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere, it’s a popular choice for both casual lunches and unforgettable sunset dinners.
Coquina Beach Cafe
- 2650 Gulf Drive South · Bradenton Beach
- 941-778-4757
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on the Gulf
- Reservations · No
Coquina Beach Cafe sits just steps from the Gulf, offering a relaxed beachfront setting where casual meals come with front-row ocean views. It’s an easy stop for a laid-back breakfast or lunch right by the water.
Start your morning with one of their many fresh breakfast options, or wind down after a day in the sun with fish tacos and light beachside bites. Cool off with a scoop of Hershey’s Ice Cream or a refreshing Sno Cone, or swing by the tiki bar for beer, wine, and frozen cocktails.
Sandbar Seafood and Spirits
- 100 Spring Avenue · Anna Maria
- 941-778-0444
- 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on the Gulf
- Reservations · No
Since 1979, the Sandbar has been one of Anna Maria Island’s most iconic beachfront dining spots, known for its true toes-in-the-sand setting and sweeping Gulf views. The menu focuses on fresh Florida seafood, with favorites like fish tacos and clam chowder, along with plenty of gluten-free, vegan, and kid-friendly options—also featured in my Ultimate Guide to Allergy Friendly Restaurants on Anna Maria Island,
Beyond the main restaurant, the Beachside Bites walk-up window offers quick breakfast items and smoothies, while Sweet Willy’s Ice Cream Shoppe serves up classic treats like waffle cones and sundaes, making the Sandbar an easy choice from morning through sunset.
Upscale Waterfront
Bridge Street Bistro
- 111 Gulf Drive South · Bradenton Beach
- 941-782-1122
- Sunday – Thursday · 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday · 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Happy Hour · Daily · 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Waterfront · panoramic Gulf views
- Reservations · Yes
Bridge Street Bistro is a popular waterfront spot known for its sweeping Gulf and beach views, especially from the upstairs dining area at sunset. It offers a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
The menu features crowd favorites like truffle parmesan fries, seafood mac and cheese, and key lime pie, along with options for both casual meals and special occasions.
The Chateau Anna Maria
- 5325 Marina Drive · Holmes Beach
- 941-238-6264
- Tuesday – Thursday · 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday · 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday · 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Happy Hour · 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Waterfront · bayside waterfront overlooking the Anna Maria Sound
- Reservations · Yes
The Chateau Anna Maria is an upscale bayside restaurant where European-inspired dining meets a refined coastal setting along the marina. It’s one of the island’s more polished waterfront experiences, ideal for date nights and special occasions.
The menu features beautifully presented seafood and premium steaks, with standout items like the seafood tower featured in my Ultimate Seafood Feast on Anna Maria Island. Inside, chandeliers and plush seating create an elegant atmosphere, complemented by serene marina views.
Island Ocean Star
- 902 South Bay Boulevard · Anna Maria
- 941-251-6940
- Tuesday – Sunday · 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Waterfront · directly on Bimini Bay with boat parking
- Reservations · Yes
Island Ocean Star offers a rare blend of authentic Japanese cuisine and peaceful waterfront dining along the edge of Bimini Bay. As the island’s only hibachi grill, it adds an interactive dining experience alongside a full menu of Japanese favorites, from fresh sushi and sashimi to tempura, teriyaki, and noodle dishes. It’s also featured in my Ultimate Guide to the Best Sushi on Anna Maria Island, making it a standout for sushi lovers.
Guests can enjoy sake or cocktails in the warm, elegant dining room or relax on the outdoor deck with tranquil bay views. The atmosphere is refined yet easygoing, making it a strong choice for date nights, family dinners, or waterfront dining with something a little different.
The Shore
- 800 Broadway Street · Longboat Key
- 941-259-4600
- 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Happy Hour · Daily · 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on Sarasota Bay with boat parking
- Reservations · Yes
The Shore Restaurant offers a modern coastal dining experience with sweeping waterfront views and a polished, contemporary feel. Its menu blends fresh, creative seafood with elevated American classics in a refined but approachable style.
Guests can enjoy indoor-outdoor seating that captures the breezy bayside atmosphere, along with a bar focused on inventive cocktails. It’s a versatile spot that works well for both casual lunches and relaxed evening dinners.
The Waterfront Restaurant
- 111 Bay Boulevard South · Anna Maria
- 941-778-1515
- Sunday – Thursday · 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday · 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Waterfront · views of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge
- Reservations · By phone for holidays only
Tucked along the shore of Anna Maria Island, The Waterfront Restaurant blends relaxed beachside vibes with refined, globally inspired New American cuisine. The menu is a vibrant celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local waters and purveyors. Highlights include the beloved grouper tacos, layered with blackened fish, jicama slaw, cheddar jack, and pico de gallo, as well as creative starters like fried green tomatoes, Kung Pao calamari, and baked brie.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the rotating daily menu showcasing rare and seasonal specialties, while land-based favorites like steaks and salads round out the offerings. And if you’ve spent the day fishing, bring your catch, the chefs will prepare it for you with flair and flavor.
Dockside & Waterfront Casual
Bridge Tender Inn Dockside & Tiki Bar
- 135 Bridge Street · Bradenton Beach
- 941-778-4849
- 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Live Music · Daily · afternoon and evening
- Waterfront · directly on the Intracoastal Waterway with boat parking
- Reservations · No
The Bridge Tender Inn and Dockside Bar has been a local favorite on Anna Maria Island since 1989, offering a fun, casual waterfront atmosphere right on the Intracoastal Waterway. Known for its dockside seating, lively tiki bar, and regular live music, it’s a relaxed spot to unwind after a beach day.
The menu features elevated pub-style favorites like Cajun grouper fingers, a classic Cuban, and Fred’s chicken livers for something a little different. It’s also dog-friendly, with a dedicated dog menu that includes a Doggie Burger, making it a laid-back stop for both people and pups.
Cortez Kitchen
- 4528 119th Street · Cortez
- 941-900-1506
- Sunday – Thursday · 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday · 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Live Music · Friday – Sunday evenings
- Waterfront · directly on the Intracoastal Waterway with boat parking
- Reservations · No
The Cortez Kitchen is a laid-back waterfront eatery in the historic fishing village of Cortez, known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and welcoming atmosphere. It has a relaxed, Old Florida feel that reflects its working waterfront surroundings.
The menu features simple, fresh-off-the-boat favorites like jumbo shrimp cocktail and grouper sandwiches, with live music often adding to the casual dockside vibe.
Mar Vista
- 760 Broadway Street · Longboat Key
- 941-383-2391
- 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on Sarasota Bay with boat parking
- Reservations · No
Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub welcomes boaters with its private dock and 14 slips, making it a standout featured in my Ultimate Guide to Anna Maria Island Restaurants with Boat Parking. Set beneath shady buttonwood trees, guests can dine on the covered patio, along the waterfront, or even on a small private beach with relaxed Old Florida charm.
The menu ranges from fresh-caught seafood to burgers and seasonal specials, paired with tropical cocktails, wine, and craft beer. With a laid-back dockside atmosphere and true boat-up access, it’s a classic waterfront stop whether you arrive by land or sea.
Star Fish Company
- 12306 46th Avenue West · Cortez
- 941-794-1243
- Tuesday – Saturday · 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday & Monday · 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on Sarasota Bay with boat parking
- Reservations · No
Star Fish Company is a beloved, no-frills fish shack and market serving ultra-fresh Gulf seafood right on the waterfront in nearby Cortez. Dining is casual—order at the counter, then grab a seat at a picnic table or along the dock to enjoy working waterfront views. It’s also featured in my Ultimate Guide to Fish Dip on Anna Maria Island, where the smoked fish dip is a standout for seafood lovers.
The menu highlights the day’s fresh local catches, including grouper sandwiches, stone crab claws, conch fritters, and smoked mullet, all prepared simply to let the seafood speak for itself. With its old-Florida charm and dockside setting, it delivers one of the most authentic waterfront dining experiences on the island.
Swordfish Grill
- 4628 119th Street West · Cortez
- 941-798-2035
- 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Happy Hour · Monday – Saturday · 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Live Music · Daily · evenings · Saturday & Sunday additionally in afternoon
- Waterfront · directly on the Intracoastal Waterway with boat parking
- Reservations · Yes
Swordfish Grill & Tiki is a lively waterfront spot offering fresh-off-the-boat seafood, tropical drinks, and live music on a spacious tiki deck overlooking Sarasota Bay. The menu highlights local catches like grouper sandwiches, coconut shrimp, stone crab claws, and scallops.
With boat access and indoor-outdoor seating, it’s an easygoing place where guests can enjoy breezy water views and a relaxed, open-air atmosphere. Its focus on fresh seafood and community feel gives it a true Old Florida waterfront vibe.
Tide Tables Restaurant
- 12507 Cortez Road West · Cortez
- 941-567-6206
- 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on the Intracoastal Waterway
- Reservations · No
Tide Tables is a laid-back dockside restaurant and bar tucked along the Intracoastal Waterway near the Cortez Bridge, known for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood and relaxed Old Florida feel. It’s also featured in my Ultimate Guide to the Historic Cortez Fishing Village, reflecting its place in one of the area’s most historic waterfront communities.
The menu includes favorites like grouper sandwiches, fish tacos, and peel-and-eat shrimp, best enjoyed in its open-air seating with passing boats and sunset views. With a casual vibe, friendly service, and boat access, it’s a classic stop for both locals and visitors exploring the water.
Beach Bars & Island Hangouts
Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier
- 200 Bridge Street · Bradenton Beach
- 941-778-2662
- 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on the Intracoastal Waterway with boat parking
- Reservations · No
Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier is a laid-back, family-friendly seafood spot offering fresh seafood and beautiful Intracoastal Waterway views. With breezy outdoor seating, colorful nautical décor, and boat access, it delivers a relaxed waterfront experience that captures the island’s easygoing spirit.
Known for its standout oyster selection—also featured in my Ultimate Guide to Oysters on Anna Maria Island—guests can enjoy options like roasted oysters with tequila lime, along with lobster bisque and crispy coconut shrimp with apricot horseradish sauce. Whether arriving by boat, car, or on foot, it’s a casual, dependable waterfront stop with plenty of flavor and views.
Daiquiri Deck
- 107 Bridge Street · Bradenton Beach
- 941-253-3300
- Sunday – Thursday · 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday · 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Happy Hour · Daily · 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM · 8:00 PM to close
- Live Music · Friday, Saturday & Sunday · call for times
- Waterfront · Gulf views
- Reservations · No
Daiquiri Deck is a lively, laid-back rooftop and waterfront-style spot known for its wide variety of frozen daiquiris and casual coastal vibe. It’s a popular hangout for both locals and visitors looking to unwind with drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
The menu includes casual favorites like Florida gator bites, conch fritters, and a lobster roll with tarragon dill aioli, alongside a full lineup of frozen drinks such as Banana Slider, Electric Lemonade, and Frosé. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an easygoing place for sunset views, live music, or a fun happy hour stop.
Gulf Drive Cafe & Kokonut Hut
- 900 Gulf Drive North · Bradenton Beach
- 941-778-1919
- Cafe · Sunday – Thursday · 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Cafe · Friday & Saturday · 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Hut · Daily · 7:00 AM to Midnight
- Live Music · Daily · 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on the Gulf
- Reservations · No
Gulf Drive Cafe & Kokonut Hut is a popular beachfront spot on Anna Maria Island offering sweeping Gulf views and a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. It’s a go-to for breakfast, lunch, and sunset drinks with a classic island vibe.
The café serves hearty breakfast favorites like stuffed French toast and omelets, along with seafood platters, island-style tacos, and tropical cocktails. With toes-in-the-sand seating, live music, and ocean breezes, it delivers a laid-back beachfront experience from morning through sunset.
Island Time Bar & Grill
- 111 Gulf Drive South · Bradenton Beach
- 941-782-1122
- Wednesday – Saturday · 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday – Tuesday · 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Waterfront · Gulf views
- Reservations · No
Island Time Bar & Grill is a lively open-air spot just steps from the Gulf, serving casual coastal fare in a relaxed, beachside setting. It’s known for its easygoing atmosphere and colorful patio seating that captures a classic island vibe.
The menu features fresh seafood tacos, burgers, and tropical drinks, making it a simple, affordable stop after a day at the beach. With no reservations and a laid-back feel, it’s a straightforward choice for sunset views or a casual bite.
North Shore Cafe
- 304 Pine Avenue · Anna Maria
- 941-900-2671
- Monday & Wednesday – Friday · 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday · 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Waterfront · directly on a canal
- Reservations · No
North Shore Cafe is a charming spot known for its healthy menu, stylish aesthetic, and relaxed island vibe. It serves artisan coffee, specialty teas, smoothies made with whole fruit, acai bowls, and light bites made with quality ingredients. They have options for adult beverages including mimosas and wine.
Patrons can enjoy their meals in a picturesque outdoor setting overlooking a canal, complete with yard games like corn hole and a vibrant Anna Maria mural perfect for photos. The café also has a small boutique section, adding to its cozy, curated feel.
Wicked Cantina Bradenton Beach
- 101 7th Street North · Bradenton Beach
- 941-281-2990
- 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM
- Happy Hour · Monday – Saturday · 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Happy Hour · Sunday · 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Live Music · Daily 6:00 – 9:00 PM · Sunday additionally 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Waterfront · Gulf views
- Reservations · No
Wicked Cantina is a vibrant waterfront spot known for serving some of the best Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine on Anna Maria Island, and it’s featured in my Ultimate Guide to Mexican Restaurants on Anna Maria Island. The menu is full of bold, satisfying flavors—from carnitas street tacos and sizzling fajitas to grouper tacos and the signature Wicked Burrito, all best paired with a classic margarita on the breezy beachfront patio.
It also offers a popular brunch with hearty breakfast burritos and a wide range of clearly marked gluten-free options. Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, lunch, or sunset drinks, it delivers a lively, laid-back dining experience right by the water.
Conclusion
Waterfront dining on Anna Maria Island is more than just a meal—it’s an experience shaped by salt air, sunset skies, and the easy rhythm of island life. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, watching boats drift by from a dockside table, or settling in for a relaxed bayfront dinner, each spot offers its own distinct view and atmosphere.
For even more standout places to eat, from hidden gems to local favorites beyond the water, explore my full Anna Maria Island Restaurant Guide and discover your next must-visit spot.
Until next time …
· izzy