There’s nothing quite like dining by the water, and South Jersey is home to some of the most scenic waterfront restaurants on the East Coast. From dockside seafood shacks to elegant bayfront bistros, these coastal gems offer more than just delicious food—they serve up unforgettable views, breezy vibes, and the perfect backdrop for your summer days and nights. Whether you’re arriving by boat, looking for live music with your meal, or simply craving fresh, local seafood with a side of sunset, these South Jersey waterfront spots deliver the ultimate Shore dining experience. Dive into our guide to discover your next favorite place to eat, drink, and unwind by the ocean or the bay.
Surrounded by natural beauty, this rustic seafood spot is a favorite for boaters and locals alike. With bold flavors and a unique location near a wildlife preserve, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and dining.
41 Oyster Creek Rd, Leeds Point 609-652-8565 http://oystercreekrestaurant.com/
Set along the scenic Mullica River, Sweetwater offers a lively waterfront setting with outdoor dining, live entertainment, and riverfront views. It’s a go-to spot for laid-back meals, celebrations, and soaking in the summer atmosphere.
2780 7th Ave, Sweetwater 609-668-1545 https://sweetwaterriverdeck.com/
Motts Creek Inn is a casual bayside restaurant known for its welcoming vibe, dockside views, and pub-style menu. Whether arriving by car or boat, guests enjoy good eats and relaxing coastal charm.
200 N Motts Creek Rd, Galloway 609-652-1555 https://www.mottscreekbar.com/
This cozy, old-school eatery has been serving up hearty breakfast and seafood plates for decades. Loved by locals, Pirates Den blends comfort food with a warm, friendly setting just steps from the beach.
1219 E Brigantine Ave, Brigantine 609-266-1927 https://www.facebook.com/piratesdenbrigantine/
Tucked inside Vassar Square, this charming bistro serves creative takes on breakfast and lunch classics in a bright, beachside setting. It’s a local favorite for both casual coffee dates and cozy evening dinners.
4800 Boardwalk, Ventnor City 609-428-7116 https://www.thequeenbeanbistro.com/
Summer Salt is a seasonal BYOB spot on the Avalon Boardwalk offering a thoughtfully crafted four-course prix fixe menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With its cozy indoor dining room, covered patio, and breezy outdoor terrace, it’s the perfect place to enjoy rustic, coastal-inspired cuisine in a relaxed setting.
2800 Boardwalk, Avalon 609-796-2096 https://www.summersaltavalon.com/
Dockside Kitchen brings a fresh twist to brunch and seafood dining right on the bay. Known for its lobster dishes and serene views, it’s a top choice for waterfront mornings in Ocean City.
228 Bay Ave, Ocean City 609-399-5588 https://docksidekitchen.com/
With roots dating back over a century, The Deauville Inn blends historic charm with a modern coastal menu and beautiful views of the bay. It’s a top-tier destination for waterfront dining between Ocean City and Sea Isle.
201 W Willard Rd, Strathmere 609-263-2080 https://deauvilleinn.com/
Carmen’s is a beloved bayside eatery known for its fresh seafood, outdoor seating, and welcoming atmosphere. From crab legs to pasta dishes, it’s the perfect spot for casual waterfront dining in the heart of Sea Isle.
343 43rd Pl, Sea Isle City 609-263-3471 https://www.carmenhascrabs.com/
A beachfront gem in Brigantine, LaScala’s Beach House serves up coastal Italian-American fare with ocean views and a laid-back vibe. From wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood, every meal feels like a mini vacation.
1400 Ocean Ave, Brigantine 609-266-7731 https://lascalasbeachhouse.com/
Overlooking the Rancocas Creek, Carlucci’s is known for its classic Italian cuisine, elegant setting, and scenic patio. It’s a popular choice for date nights, celebrations, and anyone craving hearty pastas and riverside views.
876 Centerton Rd, Mt Laurel Township 856-235-5737 https://carlucciswaterfront.com/
This bayside spot combines casual crab house fare with sunset views and a lively bar scene. Known for its signature orange crushes and dockside seating, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers at the Shore.
1 Fish Dock Rd, Wildwood Crest 609-522-1341 https://www.twomilelanding.com/
The Wharf delivers a vibrant mix of live music, seafood, and bayfront views in a family-friendly atmosphere. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for everything from happy hour to dinner with a view.
708 W Burk Ave, Wildwood 609-522-6336 https://thewharfnj.com/
Perched over the water, Sunset Pier serves up breakfast, lunch, and smoothies with unbeatable sunset views. It’s a low-key, cheerful place to grab a bite before or after the beach.
86th St, Sea Isle City 609-263-5200 https://sunsetpiersic.com/
Tuckahoe Inn is a longtime favorite for its nautical charm, hearty American menu, and cozy tavern vibe. With water views and friendly service, it’s ideal for a casual night out or family dinner.
1 Harbor Rd, Marmora 609-390-3322 https://tuckahoeinn.com/
Located just steps from the beach, this small breakfast and lunch spot is known for hearty plates and friendly service. It’s a great place to fuel up before a day of sand and sun.
32nd St, Avalon 609-967-8144 https://www.facebook.com/FishinPierGrille/
Set just off the beach, The Sandbar Village offers tiki-style drinks, live music, and an energetic outdoor vibe. It’s a fun summer hangout with a rotating food menu and relaxed seating.
125 79th St, Avalon 609-967-2116 https://www.thesandbaravalon.com/
A boardwalk staple, Clancy’s offers ocean views, family-friendly favorites, and generous portions. It’s a solid pick for everything from burgers and seafood to cocktails by the waves.
1244 Boardwalk, Ocean City 609-398-3344 https://clancysrestaurantgroup.com/
Wonder Bar is a waterfront hangout known for its dog-friendly deck, casual menu, and live music events. Located just off the bay, it’s a favorite for happy hour and relaxed nights out.
3701 Sunset Ave, Atlantic City 609-344-8888 https://wonderbaracnj.com/
Water Lily blends elegant presentation with fresh, flavorful Japanese cuisine, including sushi, hibachi, and more. With a sleek interior and attentive service, it’s a great choice for a refined dinner by the shore.
9709 3rd Ave #1932, Stone Harbor 609-830-3237 https://www.instagram.com/waterlilystoneharbor/
Set at the northern tip of the island, The Inlet offers fresh seafood, cocktails, and panoramic water views. Its rooftop bar and live entertainment make it a standout for day-to-night dining.
101 E Walnut Ave, North Wildwood 609-600-2799 https://www.theinletnww.com/
A breezy bayside escape, Lazy Bass is known for its tropical cocktails, casual bites, and beachy atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where flip-flops are welcome and sunsets steal the show.
5 Old N Wildwood Blvd, North Wildwood 609-827-5299 https://www.lazybass.com/
This waterfront BBQ and seafood joint offers smoked meats, daily specials, and unbeatable views of the marina. With its rustic-meets-coastal vibe, it’s a relaxed spot for hearty eats and cold drinks.
231 W 10th Ave, North Wildwood 609-522-0977 https://thesurfingpig.com/
Perched right on the water, McGlade’s offers casual dining with ocean breezes and Cape May views. Known for seafood platters and laid-back charm, it’s a classic stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
722 Beach Ave, Cape May 609-884-2614 https://www.mcgladesonthepier.com/
Short for “Younger Brother,” The YB is a sleek, modern bistro offering inventive American fare steps from the beach. With seasonal ingredients and stylish decor, it’s a cozy, upscale choice in Cape May.
314 Beach Ave, Cape May 609-898-2009 https://kararestaurantgroup.com/yb/
Overlooking the beach, The Cove offers casual coastal fare and a patio with front-row seats to the sunset. It’s a favorite for relaxed dining with a view after a day on the sand.
405 S, Beach Ave, Cape May 609-884-5159 https://www.facebook.com/TheCoveRestaurantCapeMay/
Fish House in Cape May is a relaxed, no-frills seafood market and eatery offering freshly prepared favorites like fried platters, steamed clams, and crab cakes. It’s a local go-to for casual, coastal comfort food and takeout straight from the dock.
502 Sunset Blvd, Cape May 609-699-5696 https://www.fishhousecapemay.com/
Harpoons offers a laid-back beachfront experience with fresh seafood, tiki drinks, and live music. It’s a go-to for watching the sun dip into the bay with a plate of fish tacos in hand.
91 Beach Dr, North Cape May 609-886-5529 https://harpoonsonthebay.com/
Located right on the waterfront, Boathouse Restaurant offers stunning marina views, a casual coastal atmosphere, and a menu full of fresh seafood, steaks, and classic favorites. With live music, outdoor seating, and daily happy hour, it’s a go-to spot for relaxing with friends and family at the Shore.
506 W Rio Grande Ave, Wildwood 609-729-5301 https://boathousewildwood.com/
George’s Place blends Greek-inspired dishes with American comfort food in a relaxed, welcoming setting near the bay. From their famous banana French toast to savory dinner entrées, this BYOB favorite offers flavorful meals and friendly service, whether you dine indoors or out.
6200 Park Blvd, Wildwood Crest 609-600-3928 https://kararestaurantgroup.com/georges-home/
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