Waterfront Restaurants on Siesta Key

January 23, 2026

When it comes to your beach vacation, you want to have a stellar view of the water at all times, whether you’re starting the day with breakfast or grabbing dessert to finish off the evening.

Tons of Siesta Key waterfront restaurants that allow you that picturesque view along with a great meal.

Here are a few of the best waterfront restaurants we recommend you check out while you’re staying in one of our Siesta Key beach house rentals!

dining table and view
Photo: Unsplash

The Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill

The Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill provides the perfect combination of upscale casual. Their atmosphere is refined but still welcoming to all who enter, and you’ll immediately be amazed at the incredible view of the water. You’ll be greeted with a smile by the friendly staff, who can start you off with appetizers like smoked fish dip, island nachos, stuffed mushrooms, and more.

When you’re ready to move on to your main course, the menu here is full of sandwiches, fresh catches, pasta, steak, and chicken options. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the shrimp and mussels fra diavolo, the mojo chicken tacos, and the Siesta shrimp. Whatever you choose, don’t forget about dessert! Go for the classic Key lime pie, or be adventurous with the raspberry lemon cheesecake. Everything is made with only the highest quality ingredients, guaranteeing you a fantastic meal every time.

You can pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine menu for the ideal complement to your dish. For the most bang for your buck, stop by Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for happy hour! You can get well drinks and house wine for $1 off, as well as $6.50 appetizers and reduced prices on domestic drafts. All of these incredible offerings come with a stunning view and delightful live music. What more could you
ask for?

The Boatyard Waterfront Bar and Grill is located at 1500 Stickney Point Road in Sarasota. They are open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Turtles

Searching for the ultimate family-friendly meal experience? Come visit Turtles, a Siesta Key staple that’s been a favorite of locals since 1986. Turtles is a bright and colorful place where you can truly relax and unwind. Make some lasting memories with your loved ones while enjoying fresh seafood and a stunning view of the waters of Little Sarasota Bay. If you’re seeking a casual and fun dining experience, look no further!

Start your meal with an incredible appetizer like the calamari or bang bang shrimp. For your entrée, you can choose a mouthwatering seafood option like the potato-crusted haddock, sea scallops, or coconut Mahi Mahi. More in the mood for a land option? Try the 6oz filet mignon or orange pecan chicken. You can even get the best of both worlds with a combination platter like the Turtles Steak and Shrimp! There’s also a wide range of sandwiches and pasta options to choose from, so you can satisfy any craving.

When it comes to drinks, go for one of the signature cocktails like the Turtles Rum Runner or the Turtles Cosmo. They even have ice cream drinks for a refreshing treat, as well as non-alcoholic versions, so no one gets left out! There’s truly no better place to go to make sure your entire group has a great time.

Turtles is located at 8875 Midnight Pass Road in Sarasota. They’re open daily, every single day of the year, from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Ophelia’s on the Bay

You might be thinking of planning a romantic evening out to one of the more upscale Siesta Key restaurants while you’re in town. Ophelia’s on the Bay is the perfect place to bring your sweetheart for great food and an equally impressive view of the water. Ophelia’s has been serving guests since 1988 and is undoubtedly a local favorite. As soon as you enter, you’ll find the stunning glass-walled dining rooms, as well as the open-air patio outside. No matter where you sit, you will have an uninterrupted view of the water.

Ophelia’s on the Bay is continuously changing their menu to use only the freshest ingredients. However, you can rest assured that every dish is prepared with the utmost care. Recent favorites have included appetizers like the drunken Maine lobster bisque and the eggplant crepes, as well as entrée options such as the Gulf yellowtail snapper and the rack of Thomas’ Farms all-natural lamb. Don’t forget to finish with a decadent signature dessert like the warm molten Madagascar chocolate cake or Ophelia’s signature Key lime pie! 

Of course, no romantic meal is complete without a perfect pairing of wine. The wait staff at Ophelia’s will be happy to help you with your selection of red or white wine from their menu. They have varieties from across the world that are sure to satisfy any palate. All in all, a meal at Ophelia’s on the Bay is one that’s sure to stick with you for years to come.

Ophelia’s on the Bay is located at 9105 Midnight Pass Road in Sarasota. They are open every evening from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended and can be made on their website.

Siesta Key Vacation Rentals

We can’t wait to welcome you and your family to our gorgeous properties on Siesta Key Beach, Florida. Contact us today to get started!

Casey Key Fish House

When you’re in Siesta Key Beach, Florida, take the time to visit the neighboring town of Osprey and have a meal at the Casey Key Fish House. This casual eatery is situated right on the water. It offers a family-friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere that your group is sure to love. The restaurant is so close to the water, in fact, that you can book a jet ski tour or rent watersports equipment right on site!

When it comes to the food, it can’t get any fresher. Start with a salad, the classic New England clam chowder, or appetizers like calamari, mussels, or smoked Mahi fish dip. Then, choose a basket with crab cakes, battered shrimp, chicken fingers, and more, or go for a full-blown dinner entrée like diver scallops with citrus sauce or pan-seared grouper. Of course, you can’t leave without trying the pie of the day!

Alongside incredible food and a fantastic view of the water, Casey Key Fish House hosts live music every single weekend! Come out to enjoy live entertainment from the Tiki Bar every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, allowing guests to hear some of the best local acts in town.

Casey Key Fish House is located at 801 Blackburn Point Road in Osprey. They are open daily from 11:30 a.m. until close. They close the day after Labor Day until the last Friday in September. 

Siesta Key Vacation Rentals

This is only the beginning of the best waterfront restaurants near Siesta Key. You can also find tons of great bars to enjoy a drink with your friends or pet-friendly eateries where your furry friend can come, too! But before you can come to try all these great establishments, you’ll need a place to stay! Contact us today to learn more about our Siesta Key condo rentals and start booking your dream Florida vacation.


Island Sun

This cozy three-bedroom home sleeps twelve. There are many amenities including a private balcony, pool and billiards table. Check out Island Sun!


Tarpon Villa

A private pool and all the comforts of home are offered at Tarpon Villa. This four-bedroom sleeps twelve. View Tarpon Villa.


Aruba

Ground-level home with private heated pool on sought-after Siesta Key. Aruba is a three-bedroom that sleeps twelve.