If you are coming to Destin, Florida for a Swim with Dolphins program, which is 1 hour away by car in Panama City Beach, and this vacation destination is known for its beautiful beaches, emerald-green waters, and family-friendly atmosphere, is also home to a wide variety of restaurants that cater to families. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, classic American dishes, or something more adventurous, Destin has plenty of dining options that offer delicious food, welcoming environments, and kid-friendly menus.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best family restaurants in Destin, FL, to help you find the perfect spot to enjoy a memorable meal with your loved ones.
For a classic seafood experience with unbeatable views of the Gulf of Mexico, The Back Porch is a must-visit for families in Destin. This iconic restaurant has been a local favorite since 1974, known for its fresh seafood, laid-back atmosphere, and beachfront location.
Kid-Friendly Menu: The Back Porch offers a great kids’ menu with options like popcorn shrimp, chicken tenders, and cheeseburgers, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will be satisfied.
Outdoor Seating: The outdoor seating area gives families the opportunity to dine while enjoying breathtaking views of the beach. Kids can even play in the sand while waiting for their food, making it a fun and relaxing dining experience.
Fresh Seafood: While the kids enjoy their favorites, parents can indulge in the fresh catch of the day, delicious crab legs, or the famous chargrilled amberjack.
Whether you’re stopping in for lunch or dinner, The Back Porch offers a casual dining experience that allows families to savor some of the best seafood in Destin while enjoying the coastal scenery.
Address: 1740 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open ⋅ 11am to 9 PM
Phone: (850) 837-2022
If you’re looking for a family restaurant that’s all about fun, LuLu’s Destin is the place to be. Owned by Lucy Buffett (sister of singer Jimmy Buffett), this lively waterfront restaurant offers more than just great food – it’s an entertainment destination for families.
Kid-Friendly Attractions: LuLu’s has a beach area, a ropes course, and a large play area to keep the little ones entertained while parents relax. There’s even an arcade and live music to add to the fun.
Allergy-Friendly Menu: LuLu’s takes pride in offering a variety of allergy-friendly menu options, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and shellfish-free meals. This makes it a safe and inclusive choice for families with dietary restrictions.
Delicious Food: The menu offers a range of options, from fresh seafood dishes like fish tacos and fried shrimp to burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The kids’ menu includes classic favorites like mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and chicken fingers.
LuLu’s is a destination that combines great food with entertainment, making it the perfect spot for families looking for a fun, memorable dining experience in Destin.
Address: 4607 Legendary Marina Dr, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: 11am to 9pm
Phone: (850) 710-5858
For families looking for a more local, down-to-earth dining experience, Harbor Docks is a great choice. Established in 1979, this family-owned seafood restaurant and sushi bar is known for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Fresh, Local Seafood: Harbor Docks prides itself on serving some of the freshest seafood in the area, with much of it sourced directly from the Gulf. Families can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, shrimp and grits, and sushi rolls.
Casual Atmosphere: The laid-back, casual setting makes Harbor Docks a great spot for families who want to enjoy a delicious meal without the formality of fine dining. The waterfront views of Destin Harbor add to the relaxing atmosphere.
Varied Menu: From fresh Gulf fish to sushi and steaks, Harbor Docks has something for every palate. The kids’ menu includes options like chicken tenders, fried shrimp, and grilled cheese.
Harbor Docks offers a taste of Destin’s local flavor and a welcoming environment that families will appreciate, whether you’re in the mood for seafood or sushi.
Address: 538 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: Open ⋅ 11am to 10pm
Phone: (850) 837-2506
Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill is a fun, family-friendly restaurant that offers a lively atmosphere and a unique twist – the chance to see live alligators! While the food is delicious, the main attraction for many families is the restaurant’s onsite alligator exhibit, Gator Beach.
Interactive Fun: At Gator Beach, kids can safely feed and hold baby alligators, making this a dining experience they won’t forget. Fudpucker’s also has an arcade and outdoor play area to keep the little ones entertained.
Extensive Menu: The menu at Fudpucker’s features a wide variety of options, including burgers, seafood, sandwiches, and salads. The kids’ menu offers classic favorites like chicken tenders, pizza, and grilled cheese.
Casual Dining: The laid-back, colorful atmosphere is perfect for families who want to relax and have a good time while enjoying their meal. The restaurant’s quirky decor and fun ambiance make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Fudpucker’s is more than just a restaurant – it’s a family-friendly destination that combines great food with entertainment, making it a must-visit for families in Destin.
Address: 20001 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: 11am to 9pm
Phone: (850) 654-4200
For a truly unique dining experience in Destin, McGuire’s Irish Pub is a local institution known for its hearty Irish-American fare, lively atmosphere, and fun quirks like dollar bills hanging from the ceiling.
Kid-Friendly Vibes: McGuire’s is a family-friendly pub with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kids will love the restaurant’s playful decor, including over a million signed dollar bills attached to the ceiling and walls.
Hearty Menu: The menu is packed with hearty dishes like steaks, burgers, and traditional Irish fare like shepherd’s pie and corned beef. McGuire’s is famous for its burgers, which are made with high-quality beef and served in generous portions.
Live Entertainment: The restaurant often features live Irish music, which adds to the fun and lively atmosphere. While enjoying their meal, families can tap their feet to the sounds of traditional Irish tunes.
McGuire’s Irish Pub is the perfect spot for families looking for a unique and memorable dining experience with delicious food and a fun atmosphere.
Address: 33 US-98, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: 11am to 2am
Phone: (850) 650-0000
If you’re looking for a family-friendly breakfast or brunch spot in Destin, The Donut Hole is a must-visit. Known for its mouth-watering donuts, hearty breakfast plates, and freshly baked pies, The Donut Hole is a local favorite for a reason.
Delicious Breakfast and Brunch: Families can enjoy a wide range of breakfast and brunch options, including pancakes, omelets, biscuits and gravy, and, of course, freshly made donuts. The Donut Hole’s breakfast menu is extensive, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Kid-Friendly Treats: In addition to their famous donuts, The Donut Hole offers a selection of pies, cakes, and other baked goods that kids will love. Grab a few donuts to-go for a sweet treat later in the day.
Casual Atmosphere: The Donut Hole has a cozy, diner-like atmosphere, making it a relaxed spot for families to start their day in Destin.
With its laid-back vibe and delicious breakfast options, The Donut Hole is the perfect place to enjoy a family meal before heading out to explore all that Destin has to offer.
Address: 635 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
Hours: 6am to 10pm
Phone: (850) 837-8824
Destin, Florida, is home to a wide variety of family-friendly restaurants that offer everything from fresh seafood and hearty comfort food to fun, interactive dining experiences. Whether you’re craving a beachfront seafood meal, a fun atmosphere with live entertainment, or a casual breakfast spot, Destin has something for every family’s taste and preference.
The next time you’re in Destin to swim with the Dolphins with your family, be sure to check out some of these top family-friendly restaurants for a memorable and delicious meal.
