Surrounded by water, Miami is a tropical paradise with a diverse food scene. And there’s no better way to experience the Magic City’s unique vibe than with a table by the sea. Interestingly, there aren’t as many waterfront restaurants as one would expect. But these exceptional spots are worth seeking out for their incredible views and cuisine. Whether it’s on Biscayne Bay, the Miami River, or leading out to the Atlantic Ocean, here are a few of our favorites for seaside sips and bites.

While America’s Riviera boasts many restaurants along Ocean Drive, you can’t actually see the ocean from these venues. Instead, those in the know head to 

, the South of Fifth steak and seafood emporium with the most breathtaking vista of Government Cut, the waterway that leads into the Atlantic Ocean. Order the Shellfish Tower, Crab Cakes, Bone-in Ribeye, and Truffled Mac & Cheese—and wash it down with a bottle of rosé, of course. Plus, when the cruise ships are in action, they glide by like mini cities on their way to exotic ports.

For seafood in a more chilled-out environment, locals love 

 on South Beach, which is also situated South of Fifth. Enjoy live music, seasonal stone crab specials, classic frozen cocktails, and stunning sunsets melting into Biscayne Bay. There’s water as far as the eye can see at 

. With a beach club feel, guests spend the afternoon sipping Frozé, sharing salads, and soaking in the sun-kissed ambiance. The sunsets are legendary, too.

Grittier and, of late, on-trend, the restaurants on the Miami River have become sceney spectacles, especially on Sunday Funday! Leading the way is 

, which turned this sleepy waterway into a non-stop party. Yachts pull up with a bevy of beauties on board, extending the fun from the outdoor dining room to the dock. While the dishes can get pricey here—and deservedly so—don’t miss their Sunset Happy Hour menu with $2 oysters, $3 shrimp cocktail, and $10 cocktails.

 brings nightlife energy to the mix with its over-the-top Champagne deliveries igniting the entire alfresco space and scored by passionate DJs. The Greek-themed cuisine keeps the models and moguls satiated in between dancing and drinking magnums of Dom Pérignon.

For a taste of the original Miami River experience, check out the more low-key (and affordable) 

. Serving fresh fish since 1966, this casual eatery is known for homestyle cooking, friendly service, and a laidback attitude. Request a riverside table, order oysters and shrimp, and watch the fishing boats go by. Bonus, there’s a seafood market for cooking at home later.

Where the Miami River meets Biscayne Bay is where you’ll find 

, a gourmet Japanese restaurant known for its pristine sushi and seafood. While most diners clamor to mingle in the buzzy main dining room, their outdoor patio offers expansive views of Downtown Miami and the Bay.

. Ostensibly a marina for mega yachts, this beautiful bayside destination is open during the week for dinner and on the weekends for Brunch through Dinner. Heavy on shared seafood platters and oversized Tomahawk steaks, this lounge-like scene is meant to be savored with groups of friends.

The newest spot that everyone is talking about is 

, which is on the northwest side of the MacArthur Causeway. It’s a Tulum-meets-Mediterranean-style beach club with panoramic views of Miami’s skyline and Biscayne Bay. The menu spans international flavors with dishes like Turkish Octopus, Spanish Boquerones, Greek Salad, and Lamb Chops.

The Deck at Island Gardens

Best Waterfront Restaurants in Miami

Oleta River State Park is Florida's largest urban park, sitting along the Biscayne Bay. This park is especially popular for biking and kayaking, as well as fishing and swimming. The park is just 30 minutes from downtown Miami but feels a world away. You'll find 15 miles of off-road bike trails and plenty of space for a post-bike picnic along the Bay. The Oleta River State Park also features a stretch of the massive 1,515-mile Florida Cicumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. 

Morningside Park is located on the Upper East Side along Biscayne Bay. This waterfront park features tennis courts, a pool, walking paths, launches for kayaks or sailboats, and more. Morningside Park is not only perfect for a day out on the water, but it's also a great afternoon picnic spot too. 

Located in Coconut Grove, Alice Wainwright Park is a unique ecosystem right along the Biscayne Bay. This park is the perfect retreat from the hustle of the city, where you can unwind amid the Tropical Hardwood Hammock. Alice Wainwright Park features benches along the water, a basketball court, outdoor gym, playground, picnic shelters, and more. You'll likely see a lot of locals with their four-legged friends at this dog-friendly park.

Sitting at the southernmost point of Miami Beach, the South Pointe Pier Park boasts walking paths, picnic spots, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. There is a small cafe, restrooms, showers, and an observation deck at this park, as well as plenty of grassy space to unwind. There are tons of park benches to look out at the water or take in a sunset over the city of Miami. 

Small but still a great gem in Edgewater, Margaret Pace Park is the perfect spot to take in the views of Biscayne Bay. Here you'll find tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, an outdoor gym, walking paths, and plenty of green space for a picnic or to take in the views. Enjoy views of the Venetian Islands and Miami Beach from this park.

Get Some Fresh Air at the Best Parks in Miami

Miami is one of those cities you can't fully explore during a one-and-done trip. Many people visit and decide to come back for more. If you want the road less traveled this time around, check out these unique things to do in Miami. 

Take a day trip to Rapids Water Park and Lion Country Safari, or stay in the city limits with a Wynwood Graffiti Tour and a visit to Miami Brewing Company. Whatever you choose to do, we hope you choose Sextant Stays as your home base.

 for the day. South Florida’s largest water park spans over 30 acres and boasts 42 attractions, including a wave pool, 7-story speed slides, raft rides, and a lazy river. Even better, they offer deals for discounted rates from 4-7 pm on certain days.

There’s only one thing better than the zoo: Florida's 

! Lion Country Safari is one of the attractions that every Floridian agrees is a must-visit. Enjoy two sections: the drive-through cageless safari and the walk-through amusement park. And the icing on the cake: you can see Tonk, the rare baby chimpanzee born at the beginning of 2022.

Here's a party conversation starter — who else can say they held an alligator? That's exactly what you can do at the 

. On the Alligator Encounter Tour, you meet baby alligators and crocodiles, hold an alligator over three feet long, and feed over 250 gators. You can also hop on an airboat ride through the Everglades and see a show.

: by foot or golf cart. Visit and discuss the contemporary art and murals, and learn more about the history of the Wynwood art scene. 

ony Goldman, a community revitalizer and developer, created the Wynwood Walls with the goal to create a center for people to explore and expose them to the underappreciated genre of graffiti and street art. Over 80,000 square feet of the walls are covered with art from American and international artists — a true glimpse into the cultural melting pot that is Miami.

But because it’s outside, don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

There’s no better review than the one that Conde Nast gave this brewery: “​​The whole place feels a bit like a block party, where the beer is cold and everyone is welcome.” Treat yourself by ordering a flight with a unique appetizer like guava wings. As for the beer, the 

rotates its flavor lineup throughout the year. Sip on a fruity beer in the summer, and enjoy a full-bodied pumpkin beer in the fall. This is the place to kick back and relax after a day full of activities.