As summertime approaches, boating enthusiasts look forward to combining their love for the water with their passion for delicious food. Dock and dine restaurants provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds. These waterfront dining establishments allow you to make the most of your adventures by offering impressive cuisine, refreshing drinks, and stunning views. Below we have compiled a list of some of the best waterfront restaurants you can visit via boat along with the reasons that make each of them so extraordinary.
New England
1. The Boathouse Restaurant – Wakefield, Rhode Island
Located on Boathouse Road in the Natural Preserve of Potter Pond, The Boathouse Restaurant is an upscale waterfront dining experience. The restaurant’s impressive seafood menu features locally sourced and natural ingredients. It even accommodates large parties and events. With access to the pond via their marina, it is a fantastic dock and dine destination.
2. Champlin’s Seafood – Narragansett, Rhode Island
Champlin’s Seafood is a go-to spot for those looking for fresh seafood dishes with a more casual atmosphere. Known for the clam shack vibe, you can visit by boat along the Great Salt Pond saltwater channel. This popular destination is perfect for families to enjoy a fun day out at the water.
Florida
3. Gilbert’s Resort – Key Largo, Florida
Located at Mile Marker 108 on the Overseas Highway, Gilbert’s Resort offers a unique Florida Keys experience. You can dock your boat and indulge yourself in their famous Blackened Mahi Sandwich or indulge in food from their Tiki Bar. Here, you will experience an authentic and laid back atmosphere while enjoying panoramic views of the bay.
4. Guanabanas – Jupiter, Florida
Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Loxahatchee River is Guanabanas, a tropical-themed restaurant with colorful decor and soothing live music. You can dock your boat at their existing pier and get carried away by the relaxed atmosphere. They are known for their seafood dishes, tasty cocktail menu, and lush outdoor seating which makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner.
Chesapeake Bay, Maryland
5. Cantler’s Riverside Inn – Annapolis, Maryland
This classic, family-owned crab house offers an authentic Maryland crab experience. Boaters can reach Cantler’s Riverside Inn via Mill Creek and enjoy a meal of steamed crabs on the deck while taking in views of the water. Cantler’s provides a relaxed environment where large groups can gather to savor local seafood favorites and cold beverages.
6. The Narrows – Grasonville, Maryland
Situated on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, The Narrows offers an upscale menu containing fresh seafood dishes, steaks, and poultry. The restaurant is accessible by boat, and there’s ample dockage at Mears Point Marina. The Narrows’ casual bar and dining options make it a great spot for any occasion.
The Great Lakes
7. The Waterfront – Erie, Pennsylvania
The Waterfront is a casual dining hotspot that offers spectacular views of Presque Isle Bay. Boaters can dock at Wolverine Park Marina and enjoy a variety of dishes including seafood, pasta, steaks, and more. They also offer live entertainment, making for a fun-filled atmosphere.
8. Pier 290 – Williams Bay, Wisconsin
Located on Lake Geneva, Pier 290 is the epitome of upscale lakeside dining. Their locally sourced menu emphasizes sustainability, and emphasizes dishes that feature ingredients from their on-site garden. Boaters can dock at Gage Marine and enjoy outdoor dining with fire pits and a relaxing ambiance.
Whether you are an experienced boater or a newfound enthusiast, dock and dine restaurants cater to everyone’s needs. The waterfront dining scene offers a perfect combination of stunning views, quality cuisine, and delightful atmosphere. Next time you go on a boating adventure, be sure to tie up at one of these amazing dock and dine destinations.
