Footsteps away from the vast ocean, lies a cluster of some of the best Amelia Island seafood and sushi restaurants you need to check out on your Amelia Island vacation. Scope out your catch of the day at one of Seafood Row’s delicious fin-inspired eateries. There’s a vibe to suit all, an oyster for everyone and if you’re lucky, a scenic ocean vista to gaze at too…
Salty Pelican Bar and Grill
Situated on the Amelia Island downtown waterfront, Salty Pelican Bar and Grill is an open eatery serving up a great selection of fresh local seafood and traditional American cuisine. A must-try is their signature dish – the Broiled Oysters.
But their full spread includes Buffalo wings, potato spring rolls, and Salty Pelican stuffed burgers. Head over to the Bloody Mary Bar afterward to sample a fine craft beer or hand-made cocktail.
Its stellar waterfront location also means Salty Pelican offers magnificent sunset scenery. But head down early to lock down a top spot, as they don’t accept reservations. Space is open every day from 11 am to 11 pm.
What’s more, there’s plenty of social entertainment on offer too. Home to 15 of the largest HD TVs on the Island, Salty Pelican Bar and Grill is a hive of activity during popular sporting seasons.
Live music and weekly trivia sessions also make it a dynamic and exciting space to take the whole family. Combined with a decent all-around price tag, you’re hard-pressed to find a more suitable island venue.
Crab Trap
For the past 30 years, the family-owned Crab Trap has been a Fernandina Beach landmark famed for its fried fare and shellfish. Ideal for casual family dining, this nautical-themed mainstay boasts an eclectic ambiance and a menu to match.
Steak staples cater to the meat-lovers, but the must-try specialties include fresh local shrimp and smoked fish dip and wings. Be sure to check out their daily-changing fresh catch specials too.Known to house some of the best tasting seafood on the island, you may just forgive the slightly more expensive price range.
Visit during Happy Hour to fully exploit the offerings – their upstairs Sunset Bar also makes for a sensational terrace to recline in. No reservations are needed to enjoy lunch or dinner from Mondays – Friday (4:30pm-9pm), or over the weekend (11am-9pm), but Crab Trap do like to be notified in advance for parties of 10 people or more.
Marina Seafood Restaurant
One of the oldest Amelia Island seafood restaurants, Marina is located steps from the harbor front – making it a fantastic eatery to visit on location alone. Winning sunset views can be seen from the upstairs deck, but these seats are hard to come by if you’re not savvy with arrival time.
A favorite amongst locals, Marina’s top dishes include fried fish, Southern-style sides and low country entrees – all served amidst nautical decor. Open daily for lunch and dinner from 11am-9pm, and securing an average spend of $15-$20 per person, Marina Seafood Restaurant is the ultimate spot to grab a taste of true Florida.
Brett’s Waterway Cafe
Expect a fantastic view overlooking Fernandina Harbor and Amelia River’s marina from Brett’s Waterway Cafe. This casual dining scene features a full bar, extensive wine list, and daily-changing seafood specials. Delicacies include Cajun cobia and shrimp and blackened flounder sandwich. While options for more Southern-style cuisine – such as fried green tomatoes – cater to other tastes.
Prices stretch from mid-range to expensive, but it’s worth it for the scenic waterfront backdrop and quality of fresh fish on offer. Open daily from 11:30am-2: 30 pm, and then again at 5:30pm-8: 30 pm, Brett’s Waterway Cafe is a must for many a vacationer.
Timoti’s Seafood Shack
Passionate about fresh flavor and supporting the local fishing trade, Timoti’s Seafood Shack is a vibrant eating zone ideal for all the family. Wild-caught fin fare takes center stage, while shrimps, oysters, lobster rolls and fish tacos remain firm favorites. Whatever the grub, Timoti’s ensure they honor the local fishermen’s integrity – vowing to do them justice in both flavor and experience. Head on over to this historic district if you’re looking to be pampered!
Prices are strikingly reasonable for a resort town. Guests order their chosen dish at the window before heading to an al fresco courtyard to indulge – where shared, open tables create a friendly, communal atmosphere. Located in downtown Amelia Island, Timoti’s Seafood Shack is open daily from 11am-8pm.