Destination GuideMarch 23, 2026 · 6 min read
Best Seafood Restaurants Near Panama City Beach Vacation Rentals
There's something magical about sitting down to a plate of perfectly prepared Gulf seafood after a sun-soaked day on Panama City Beach's sugar-white sands. The salt air, the sound of waves in the distance, and the unmistakable taste of fish that was swimming just hours ago, this is what a true beach vacation tastes like. At Ascent Cohosting, we believe that discovering incredible local dining is just as essential to your PCB experience as finding the perfect beachfront accommodation.
Whether you're craving butter-drenched crab legs, crispy fried grouper, or the freshest oysters on the half shell, Panama City Beach delivers an impressive seafood scene that rivals any coastal destination. This guide breaks down the best seafood in Panama City Beach so you can plan your culinary adventures around your vacation rental near the beach.
When locals want the freshest catch without the fuss, they head straight to Buddy's Seafood Market. This beloved establishment has earned its reputation by keeping things simple: impeccably fresh seafood, prepared with care, and served in a no-frills atmosphere that lets the food do the talking. Their market counter displays the day's offerings, so you can see exactly what you're getting before it hits your plate.
What makes Buddy's special is the dual experience, you can grab ready-to-eat seafood dishes or purchase fresh fish, shrimp, and shellfish to prepare in your rental's kitchen. Many Ascent Cohosting properties feature fully-equipped kitchens with ovens and refrigerators, making it easy to channel your inner chef with Buddy's premium ingredients.
A Panama City Beach institution since 1967, Captain Anderson's has been serving up Gulf Coast classics to generations of beach visitors. Their waterfront location offers stunning views of Grand Lagoon, and watching the fishing boats come in while you dine adds authenticity to every bite. The Greek-influenced menu sets them apart, with dishes like chargrilled grouper and their famous crab cakes drawing crowds year after year.
Pro tip: arrive early for dinner service to snag a window seat and catch the sunset over the marina. The wait can get long during peak season, but the combination of atmosphere and exceptional seafood makes it worthwhile.
For a more casual vibe with equally impressive seafood, Finn's delivers Caribbean-inspired dishes with a Gulf Coast twist. Their fish tacos have achieved near-legendary status among PCB regulars, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for families or groups who want quality without formality. The poke bowls and coconut shrimp are crowd favorites that pair perfectly with their tropical cocktail menu.
If you're serious about oysters, Hunt's is your destination. This family-owned spot has been shucking since 1966 and shows no signs of slowing down. The raw bar features Gulf oysters prepared every way imaginable, raw, chargrilled, Rockefeller, or their signature Hunt's style. It's a dive in the best possible way, where the focus stays firmly on incredible shellfish and cold drinks.
Nothing complements fresh seafood quite like dining with water views. Panama City Beach offers numerous restaurants where you can watch dolphins play, pelicans dive, and boats cruise by while you enjoy your meal.
Schooners sits directly on the beach, earning its nickname as "The Last Local Beach Club." Their grouper sandwich and Gulf shrimp are excellent, but the real draw is eating with your toes practically in the sand. Live music often accompanies dinner, creating that quintessential beach vacation atmosphere.
Sharky's Beachfront Restaurant offers a similar beachside experience with an extensive menu featuring everything from raw bar selections to elaborate seafood platters. Their location near Pier Park makes it convenient if you're planning a day of shopping and entertainment, check out our guide to romantic activities for couples to make the most of your PCB evenings.
After indulging in waterfront dining, retreat to somewhere special like this Luxury Beach House with Private Pool. The private pool offers the perfect spot to relax after a satisfying seafood feast, and the spacious layout accommodates families or groups traveling together.
Beyond the well-known establishments, Panama City Beach harbors some lesser-known spots where locals gather for exceptional seafood without the tourist crowds.
Dee's Hang Out might look unassuming from the outside, but their smoked fish dip and fried mullet have developed a cult following. It's the kind of place where regulars know each other by name and the portions are generous.
The Wicked Wheel combines a massive bar with surprisingly good seafood offerings. Their steamed snow crab and peel-and-eat shrimp specials make it a great spot for groups who want to share platters family-style.
Saltwater Grill offers a more upscale experience without feeling stuffy. Their commitment to sourcing local seafood shines through in dishes like pan-seared snapper and their signature crab-stuffed flounder. It's an excellent choice for special occasion dinners during your stay.
If you're visiting during unpredictable weather, these restaurants make perfect destinations when you need indoor activities in Panama City Beach. A long, leisurely seafood lunch beats sitting inside watching the rain.
Timing matters. The freshest catches arrive in the morning, so lunch often features the day's best selections before the dinner rush depletes inventory. Many restaurants also offer early bird specials between 4-6 PM with reduced prices on popular dishes.
Ask what's local. Gulf grouper, red snapper, amberjack, and triggerfish are regional specialties worth seeking out. If a server mentions something was caught that morning, that's your cue to order it.
Make reservations for dinner. Popular spots like Captain Anderson's and Saltwater Grill fill up quickly, especially during summer months and holiday weekends. Plan ahead, particularly if you're visiting during Easter weekend or other peak travel times.
Consider cooking in. If you've picked up fresh catch from Buddy's Seafood Market or another local fish market, take advantage of your vacation rental's kitchen. Grilling fresh grouper on a patio while watching the sunset creates memories that rival any restaurant experience.
For larger groups looking to combine restaurant visits with home-cooked seafood feasts, this 12BDR Luxury Estate For Large Groups provides ample space for everyone. There's nothing quite like gathering around a big table with family and friends, sharing platters of fresh Gulf seafood you've prepared together.
Panama City Beach's seafood scene rewards exploration. Beyond the establishments mentioned here, you'll discover countless other gems scattered along the coast. Many visitors find their new favorite spot simply by following their nose or asking a local for recommendations.
The best strategy? Mix it up. Try a casual lunch at Buddy's Seafood Market one day, splurge on a waterfront dinner at Captain Anderson's the next, and round out your trip with a DIY seafood boil at your rental. The variety ensures you'll experience everything that makes Panama City Beach seafood restaurants so beloved.
Don't forget to explore beyond just dining, the best family activities in Panama City Beach include fishing charters where you can catch your own dinner, creating the ultimate farm-to-table (or sea-to-table) experience.
From market-fresh catches at Buddy's Seafood Market to upscale waterfront dining with Gulf views, Panama City Beach delivers a seafood experience that satisfies every craving and budget. The key is pairing incredible meals with comfortable accommodations that feel like home.
Ascent Cohosting offers a carefully curated collection of vacation rentals throughout Panama City Beach, many featuring full kitchens perfect for preparing your fresh seafood finds. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a group getaway, we have properties positioned perfectly for exploring PCB's vibrant dining scene.
Ready to taste the best seafood Panama City Beach has to offer? Browse our Panama City Beach vacation rentals and book your Gulf Coast culinary adventure today. The grouper is waiting.