The Absolute Best Seafood Restaurants in Fernandina Beach [Updated 2025]

With my taste buds primed and a sense of adventure in my heart, I’ve explored the nooks and crannies of this charming coastal town, uncovering some true hidden gems along the way. After savoring countless shrimp tacos and slurping down bowls of clam chowder, I’ve narrowed it down to twelve standout spots that are sure to tantalize your palate.

You can trust my expertise because I’ve not only dined at these restaurants but have also chatted with the chefs and locals who know the ins and outs of Fernandina’s seafood scene. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the best seafood this beautiful beach town has to offer!

Salt Life Food Shack

Highlights
Rooftop bar with ocean view
Unique spicy tuna roll
1/2 price oysters on Thursdays
Fresh and tasty seafood
Great service

Salt Life Food Shack in Fernandina Beach is an absolute gem that serves up delicious seafood with a side of vibrant coastal vibes. Upon entering, I was immediately drawn to the rooftop bar, which boasts a stunning view of the ocean—a perfect backdrop to indulge in fresh culinary creations.

The seafood selection is tantalizing, and I couldn’t resist trying their spicy tuna roll, a delightful twist that danced on my palate. Each bite bursts with freshness, making it clear that the quality of ingredients is paramount. And if you're dropping by on a Thursday, make sure to snag their 1/2 price oysters, which are as fresh as they come and a local favorite.

What truly stood out during my visit was the exceptional service. Staff members are not only friendly but also genuinely eager to share their recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether you’re sipping a cold drink at sunset or savoring a plate of their fresh seafood, Salt Life Food Shack checks every box for a stellar meal by the beach. This is undoubtedly a top contender on my list of the best seafood restaurants in Fernandina Beach! 🌊🍽️

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Salt

Highlights
Stunning ocean views
Exceptional service
Beautifully presented dishes
Amazing appetizers and desserts
Unique cooking techniques

Salt is a culinary gem that truly captures the essence of the sea right here in Fernandina Beach. As soon as you step through its doors, the breathtaking ocean views welcome you, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience. The atmosphere is vibrant and inviting, a perfect blend for both casual visitors and special occasions.

I was particularly impressed by the exceptional service—the staff was attentive without being overbearing, ensuring my dining experience was seamless. Now, let's talk food! The dishes are beautifully presented, almost too pretty to eat, but trust me, you’ll want to dive in. I recommend starting with their amazing appetizers, which are bursting with flavor and showcase unique cooking techniques that bring a refreshing twist to classic seafood.

And don’t skip dessert! The sweet endings are just as memorable as the savory beginning, inviting a playful indulgence that rounds out the meal perfectly. If you find yourself craving fresh, creative seafood in a stunning setting, Salt is a must-visit that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy! Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family outing, you’re in for a treat!

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The Boat House

Highlights
Great live music ambiance
Exceptional hanger steak
Delicious crab cake appetizer
Friendly and accommodating staff
Reasonable meal prices

When I stepped into The Boat House, I was immediately enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere, accentuated by great live music that created a lively backdrop for my dining experience. As a seafood aficionado, I couldn't resist trying the crab cake appetizer, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Each bite was a delightful fusion of flavors, showcasing the freshness of the local ingredients.

While seafood was the star of the menu, I also ventured beyond the ocean’s bounty and sampled their exceptional hanger steak. It was juicy, perfectly seasoned, and surprisingly tender—definitely a standout for a restaurant prominently featuring seafood.

The icing on the cake was the friendly and accommodating staff. They paired their helpfulness with genuine smiles, making it feel like I was dining with friends rather than just out for a meal. All of this at reasonable prices!

After indulging in such delicious fare, I left The Boat House not just satisfied but excited to return. If you’re in Fernandina Beach, this gem deserves your attention for an unforgettable evening of food and fun!

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Kitchen 251

Highlights
Unassuming fish shack decor
Home town service
Perfectly prepared dishes
Fresh stone crab legs
Huge fried fish sandwich

Kitchen 251 is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Fernandina Beach, boasting an unassuming fish shack decor that instantly makes you feel at home. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with hometown service that made me feel right at ease, as if I had stumbled upon a local secret.

Now, let’s talk about the food! The menu is a delightful array of perfectly prepared dishes, but the standout for me was the fresh stone crab legs. They were succulent, flavorful, and a true testament to the quality of seafood you can expect here. I also indulged in their huge fried fish sandwich, which was a treat—a crispy exterior and tender fish inside that made each bite a mouthwatering delight.

What I appreciated most was the unpretentious atmosphere; the focus here is clearly on delicious seafood, rather than flashy gimmicks. Kitchen 251 is ideal for those seeking an authentic coastal dining experience. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, I can wholeheartedly recommend this spot for an unforgettable seafood adventure! Dive into this treasure—you won’t regret it!

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Timoti's Seafood Shak

Nestled in the heart of Fernandina Beach, Timoti's Seafood Shak is an absolute gem. Its laid-back vibe and colorful decor make it an inviting spot to indulge in fresh catches. I savored their blackened fish tacos, bursting with flavor and drizzled in zesty sauces that danced on my palate. The friendly staff treated me like family, enhancing the overall experience. Don't overlook their house-made sauces, which add a delightful twist to every bite! If you’re craving a seafood fiesta in a casual setting, Timoti's is definitely a must-visit that will leave you smiling and satisfied.

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Salty Pelican Bar & Grill

I recently enjoyed a delightful dining experience at the Salty Pelican Bar & Grill in Fernandina Beach. This vibrant spot captures the essence of coastal dining with its lively atmosphere and ocean-inspired decor. I savored their grilled shrimp tacos, bursting with flavor and complemented by fresh slaw. The sunset views from the patio only added to the charm, creating a perfect backdrop for my meal. The friendly staff truly made me feel at home, and the craft beers were an excellent pairing. If you’re in the mood for a fun, casual seafood experience, Salty Pelican is definitely worth a visit!

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Down Under Restaurant

I had the pleasure of dining at Down Under Restaurant in Fernandina Beach, and it was a delightful culinary adventure! Nestled by the waterfront, the rustic charm instantly sets the mood. The blackened shrimp tacos were a personal favorite, bursting with flavor and served with a zesty lime crema. Their signature crab cakes were a heavenly blend of sweet crab meat and subtle spices, bringing a taste of the ocean to my table. The laid-back atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff, truly makes this spot feel like a home away from home. I can’t wait to return for another round of deliciousness!

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The Crab Trap

The Crab Trap is a delightful seaside gem that truly encapsulates the essence of coastal dining. As I stepped in, the aroma of fresh seafood welcomed me, making my mouth water. I couldn't resist ordering the crab cakes, which were delightfully crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside. The oceanfront view added an extra touch of magic, turning my meal into a special occasion. Service was friendly and attentive, making me feel right at home. If you’re in the mood for a casual yet memorable seafood experience, this place is a must-visit in Fernandina Beach!

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The Hidden Crab

Nestled away from the bustling streets, The Hidden Crab is a delightful seafood gem that truly surprised me. The moment I stepped in, the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel at home. I indulged in their signature crab cakes, which were perfectly crispy on the outside and packed with succulent crab meat on the inside. The creamy shrimp and grits were divine, bursting with flavor that danced on my palate. If you’re on the hunt for a charming spot to enjoy fresh seafood, look no further than The Hidden Crab—it's worth seeking out!

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Coquina

Nestled by the shore, Coquina serves up an unforgettable seafood feast. As I stepped in, the inviting atmosphere meshed perfectly with the ocean breeze. I delighted in their grilled mahi-mahi, fresh and bursting with flavor, accompanied by a zesty mango salsa that danced on the palate. The shrimp and grits made my taste buds sing, rich and creamy with just the right kick. Enthusiastic service added to the charm, making me feel right at home. If you're craving a taste of the sea, Coquina is a must-visit gem in Fernandina Beach that promises both quality and comfort!

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Shucker's Oyster Bar & Grill

Shucker's Oyster Bar & Grill is a delight for any seafood lover. From the moment I walked in, the casual, beachy vibe set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. I kicked things off with their freshly shucked oysters, which were plump and briny, making my taste buds dance! The shrimp and grits were equally impressive—rich and creamy, with just the right amount of spice. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, and the laid-back atmosphere was perfect for relaxing. If you're in Fernandina Beach, don't miss this gem—it's a true seafood haven!

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Atlantic Seafood Restaurant

Nestled near the bustling marina, Atlantic Seafood Restaurant dazzled my taste buds with its fresh and flavorful offerings. I kicked off my culinary adventure with the Mahi Tacos, delightfully crisp and bursting with zesty salsa that danced on my palate. The star of the evening was the signature shrimp platter, perfectly sautéed and accompanied by homemade cocktail sauce that had me swiping my fries for more. The charming atmosphere and friendly service made every bite enjoyable. For seafood lovers seeking a true Fernandina Beach gem, Atlantic Seafood is an experience you’ll want to dive into!

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