SALTWATER DECK

Description

Look, I gotta tell ya – this place caught me completely off guard. First time I walked into Saltwater Deck, the ocean breeze hit different. It’s one of those spots where the Atlantic basically becomes your dinner date. The restaurant sits right on the water’s edge, and I mean RIGHT there. You can practically high-five the seagulls from your table (though I wouldn’t recommend it – those guys can get pretty grabby with your fish tacos).

The whole setup reminds me of those cool California beach spots, but with a distinctly Florida twist. The indoor-outdoor layout is genius – they’ve got these massive sliding glass doors that open up completely when the weather’s nice, which is pretty much always in these parts. And the deck? It’s not just some afterthought – it’s literally what the place is named after, and for good reason.

Key Features

• Expansive waterfront deck with panoramic ocean views
• Fresh-catch seafood menu that changes daily based on local fishing boats
• Craft cocktail bar specializing in tropical drinks
• Live music on weekends featuring local artists
• Raw bar with fresh oysters and clams
• Climate-controlled indoor seating area with floor-to-ceiling windows
• Private event space for special occasions
• Kid-friendly menu options
• Happy hour specials during sunset hours
• Sustainable seafood practices and partnerships with local fishermen

Best Time to Visit

Here’s the inside scoop – sunset is absolutely prime time at Saltwater Deck. But honestly? That’s when everyone and their mother shows up. I’ve found that late afternoon, around 3-4pm, is actually the sweet spot. The lunch rush has died down, you can snag one of those coveted deck tables without a wait, and you’ll still catch some gorgeous views before the evening crowd rolls in.

During summer months, try to grab a table before 11:30am for lunch – you’ll beat both the heat and the crowds. Winter afternoons are magical here, especially on those clear, crisp days when the ocean looks like glass. And if you’re coming during peak season (December through April), definitely make reservations, especially for dinner.

How to Get There

Getting to Saltwater Deck is pretty straightforward, though first-timers might miss the turn – I sure did! From the main beach road, you’ll want to look for the big blue marina signs. The restaurant’s actually tucked behind some boats, which is part of its charm but can make it tricky to spot. There’s plenty of parking in the main lot, but during peak hours it fills up fast. Pro tip: there’s additional parking behind the marina that most folks don’t know about.

If you’re taking public transport, the beach trolley stops right at the marina entrance. For those staying at nearby hotels, it’s usually a quick 5-10 minute walk along the beach boardwalk. Water taxi service is also available – definitely the most fun way to arrive!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, let me share some hard-earned wisdom from my countless visits here. First off, make reservations if you’re planning on dinner, especially if you want outdoor seating. The hostess told me they keep some tables for walk-ins, but why risk it?

Dress code is beach casual, but throw a light jacket in your bag – the ocean breeze can get chilly even on warm days. I learned that one the hard way! If you’re into photography, bring your camera – the sunset views are incredible, and sometimes dolphins play right off the deck during dinner.

The menu changes daily based on the catch, so don’t get your heart set on something you saw online. Ask your server about the fresh catch – they know their stuff and can guide you to the best options. Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays, with some pretty sweet deals on drinks and appetizers.

If you’re coming with kids, request a table away from the bar area, especially during evening hours when it gets lively. They’ve got these awesome fish-spotting guides at the host stand – grab one for the little ones to keep them entertained.

Oh, and one last thing – if you see the lobster mac and cheese on the specials board, order it. Trust me on this one. It’s not always available, but when it is… well, let’s just say it’s worth breaking your diet for!

Location

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