Travel Archives - dockaboat

Dockside Dining: Jacksonville, Florida

Dock Waters — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 06:18:02 +0000

If you’re looking for some great dockside restaurants to check out in Jacksonville, Florida, then you’re in luck. Jacksonville is the perfect place for those who love the boating life, with its proximity to the ICW, the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. So, let’s set sail and explore some of the best restaurants in the area that you can visit by boat!

1. Julington Creek Fish Camp

First, we have Julington Creek Fish Camp, which is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Hurricane Grill & Wings. They’ve got a lunch and dinner menu featuring grilled salmon, buttermilk pan-fried chicken, Baja-style fish tacos, seared tuna, and an extensive wine, beer, and cocktail selection. Dock your boat at nearby Julington Creek Marina (pier 3) and pop in for a bite to eat before heading back to your private boat slip rental.

2. Safe Harbor Seafood

If you’re looking for stunning views and fresh seafood, look no further than Safe Harbor Seafood. Watch the boats unload the catch of the day before the kitchen cooks it up into delicious items like tacos, po’ boys, soups, baskets, and bowls. You can even take some fresh seafood back to your private boat slip rental or have it prepared for you. There’s a small dock available for first come, first serve service.

3. Palms Fish Camp

Last but certainly not least, we have Palms Fish Camp, located on the St. Johns River and Clapboard Creek. This joint has been named one of Jacksonville’s top dock and dine destinations, and it’s easy to see why. With wraparound decks and outdoor dining, it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset while chowing down on fresh Florida seafood, brick oven pizza, tacos, and Low Country seafood boils. Be sure to save room for dessert, because their key lime pie, baklava, and bread pudding are to die for!

Whether you’re just passing through, cruising the Great Loop, or hanging out at a boat lift for rent, these dockside restaurants are definitely worth a visit. So, hop aboard your boat and set sail for some delicious eats in Jacksonville, Florida!

Views from the boat

Dockside Dining: Cocoa Beach, Florida

Dock Waters — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:42:30 +0000

Get ready to set sail to the sunny shores of Cocoa Beach, Florida for some dock and dine action. With plenty of waterways to explore, it’s the perfect destination for boaters looking to satisfy their hunger pangs. So grab your compass, hop on your vessel and let’s discover some amazing waterfront restaurants in Cocoa Beach!

First up, we have The Island Waterfront Bar and Grill. This hidden gem is located on the Banana River and boasts a covered deck with stunning waterfront views. Enjoy live music, delicious seafood, and tropical cocktails while watching the sunset. Dock your boat and get ready to experience the ultimate waterfront dining experience.

Next, we have Sunset Café Waterfront Bar and Grill, just across the river from The Island. This place is a great spot for happy hour with indoor and outdoor seating, daily live music and a cool kids’ menu. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and manatees as you enjoy a prime rib or a shrimp alfredo.

Looking for more waterfront dining options? Check out Island Time Marina & Restaurant. This spot offers a wide range of delicious eats from wings and tacos to hand-cut NY strip and tuna bowls. Take in the breathtaking waterfront views while enjoying some live music.

Last but not least, we have the Old Florida Grill & Oyster House. This hidden gem is perfect for seafood lovers, with Apalachicola oysters and fresh seafood on the menu. Take a seat at the outdoor deck or the waterfront tiki bar, where you can enjoy views of the Indian River Lagoon while sipping on specialty Bloody Marys.

So there you have it, folks! Whether you’re staying at a private boat dock rental or just passing through, these waterfront restaurants in Cocoa Beach are sure to delight your taste buds. Bon voyage and happy dock and dining!

Boat City Guides: Amelia Island, Florida

Dock Waters — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 08:35:12 +0000

Ahoy, mateys! If you’re in search of a unique destination for water-loving visitors and Great Loop travelers, look no further than Amelia Island, Florida! This small island, nestled between Jacksonville and the Georgia border, boasts a rich multicultural heritage, pirate past, and stunning natural scenery that will leave you feeling like you’ve discovered your own private paradise.

As you glide along the twists and turns of the Amelia River from your private boat dock rental, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in the sights and sounds of this charming coastal town. From fishing for big game fish to taking a sightseeing cruise, there’s no shortage of water activities to keep you entertained. And when you’re ready to stretch your legs, head over to Fernandina Beach for some sandy fun with the kids.

But that’s not all Amelia Island has to offer. Here are some more fun things to add to your itinerary:

1. Amelia Island Lighthouse:

Built in 1838, this iconic lighthouse is one of the oldest in Florida. It’s located on Egans Creek and guides ships into Fernandina Harbor. Book a tour to check out the inside of the lighthouse and learn a little history. Plus, you’ll get some great photos!

2. Fort Clinch State Park:

If you love history and outdoor recreation, this park is for you. Explore the rooms and grounds of the fort, go swimming, picnicking, kayaking, fishing, camping or shark tooth hunting. The park features a maritime forest with live oaks and hiking/bicycling trails. Birdwatchers will be happy to check out the array of birds found in the park, including bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, and Cooper’s hawks.

3. Amelia Island Museum of History:

Discover a boatload of local history at the Amelia Island Museum of History. Located in the former Nassau County Jail, exhibits range from the Timucua Native American tribe, Spanish and French explorers and the Civil War to pirates, Victorian-era residents, and present-day life on Amelia Island. Step aboard the Margery, an interactive pirate ship, and visit a recreated jail cell. Don’t miss the history garden with native plants!

4. Amelia Island State Park:

Located at the south end of Amelia Island, this state park offers more than 200 acres of salt marshes, maritime forests, and long stretches of sandy beach for recreation and wildlife viewing. Spend the day fishing, swimming, birdwatching, and nature viewing, or go horseback riding with Kelly Seahorse Ranch. The park is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, so keep an eye out for willets, royal terns, piping plovers, and osprey. And don’t forget to check out the fishing pier, tackle shop, paved bicycling path, and outdoor shower.

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for some fun in the sun, Amelia Island has something for everyone. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to dock at one of the private boat slips for rent and explore all that this hidden gem has to offer. And if you find any other hidden treasures along the way, let us know!

Views of Amelia Island

Dockside Dining: Fort Pierce, Florida

Dock Waters — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 06:16:12 +0000

If you’re looking for a charming Old Florida experience, look no further than Fort Pierce. This picturesque destination offers some of the best dockside dining and sunset viewing experiences in the state. The area is home to a variety of waterfront restaurants that serve up fresh seafood, local produce, and tropical cocktails, all while offering stunning views of the water.

Located on the Atlantic Coast between Vero Beach and Stuart, Fort Pierce is a great spot to stop on a Great Loop adventure or as a convenient anchorage at a private boat dock rental. So, fire up the engines, set sail, and check out these must-visit dock-and-dine restaurants in Fort Pierce.

1. Cobb’s Landing

Located near the Fort Pierce City Marina, Cobb’s Landing offers a tropical-themed atmosphere with a menu that includes tacos, seafood gumbo, salads, burgers, pasta, seafood, a raw bar, and a large selection of cocktails and wine. The tiki bar is a popular spot to unwind after a day of fishing, diving, cruising, or watersports.

2. 12A Buoy

At 12A Buoy, located at Fisherman’s Wharf, you can enjoy a rustic and laid-back ambiance while indulging in menu selections like pasta, seafood, black Angus New York strip, lobster, rack of lamb, and yellowfin snapper. Choose between indoor or outdoor dining to soak up the Florida sunshine.

3. Crabby’s Dockside Fort Pierce

For fresh Florida grouper and rum punch, Crabby’s Dockside Fort Pierce is a must-visit. Located at Cobb’s Landing, near the Downtown Farmers’ Market of Fort Pierce and across from the Manatee Observation and Education Center, the large menu offers a variety of pasta, hand-tossed pizza, tacos and bowls, fish and seafood, burgers, and shrimp po boy sandwiches. The restaurant overlooks the Indian River Lagoon and the Fort Pierce Inlet, providing easy access to private boat lift rentals, marinas, and local attractions.

4. On the Edge Bar & Grill

On the Edge Bar & Grill, located at Dockside Marina and Resort, is a family-owned restaurant with boat and dinghy slips for guests. Pull up to the dock and enjoy live music in the open-air thatched roof setting. The marina has 58 slips for boats up to 50 feet, making it a convenient stop for boaters. The menu features a selection of fritters, Thai rock shrimp, seared ahi tuna, and wings.

5. Little Jim Bait & Tackle

At Little Jim Bait & Tackle, you can get your live and frozen bait and then indulge in a bite of seafood and live music. The menu offers house-made clam chowder, peel-and-eat shrimp, subs, salads, Cuban and Philly steak sandwiches, tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and a variety of tropical drinks. Located on Jim Island on N. Causeway/A1A headed to Ft Pierce Inlet State Park, this dog-friendly restaurant was once a military shack in World War II and is now a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

So there you have it, five must-visit waterfront restaurants in Fort Pierce that offer delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views of the water. If you’ve been to any of these restaurants, let us know which ones are your favorites!

Little Jim Bait and Tacos Blackened Mahi Tacos. 
Image Copyright© treasurecoastfoodie.com

Must sees in Fort Pierce, FL

National Navy UDT-Seal Museum © Credit: Fort Pierce on Google

Boat City Guides: Apalachicola, Florida

Dock Waters — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 09:20:12 +0000

Are you looking for a fun-filled adventure on the high seas (or at least on the water)? Look no further than Apalachicola, a charming small town located in the Florida Panhandle. Not only is it world-famous for its delicious oysters, but there are also plenty of activities and attractions to keep you and your crew entertained while boating around the area.

First up, the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve, where you can explore over 246,000 acres of diverse plants and animals. Whether you want to trek on foot, paddle by kayak, or take a scenic boat tour, there’s something for everyone. Plus, the informative visitor center will give you a deeper understanding of the ecology and history of the area.

John Gorrie Museum State Park

Next, set sail for the John Gorrie Museum State Park, where you can learn about the life and work of Dr. John Gorrie, the inventor of the first mechanical refrigeration system. Take a tour of the historic building where Gorrie conducted his experiments and check out the exhibits on the history of refrigeration and air conditioning (thank you, Dr. Gorrie, for keeping us cool!).

Apalachicola Historic District

For those who appreciate architecture, head to the Apalachicola Historic District, where you can stroll past more than 900 historic buildings dating back to the 19th century. From cotton warehouses to Victorian homes and even a sponge exchange, the district is a treasure trove of architectural gems. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and galleries to keep you entertained.

Apalachicola River

For some outdoor fun, take your boat out on the Apalachicola River. With plenty of outfitters offering rentals and guided tours, you can fish, kayak, and boat to your heart’s content. If you prefer to hike, nearby Tate’s Hell State Forest offers miles of scenic trails through pine forests and wetlands.

St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge

For wildlife lovers, make your way to the St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge on St. Vincent Island. Home to many rare and endangered species, the refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Whether you prefer to explore on foot, by bike, or on a boat tour, there’s plenty to see and discover. Plus, the well-maintained beaches make it a great place to relax and soak up the sun.

Apalachicola Maritime Museum

Last but not least, the Apalachicola Maritime Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of boats and the sea. With exhibits on boatbuilding, commercial fishing, and the maritime history of the Gulf Coast, you’ll be transported back in time. Don’t forget to take a tour of the museum’s boatyard and see Apalachicola craftsmen at work building and restoring traditional wooden boats.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your crew, hop on your boat, and set sail for Apalachicola. With so much to see and do, you’ll never want to leave! And don’t forget to let us know what you find on your nautical adventure. Ahoy!

Boat City Guides: Apollo Beach, Florida

Dock Waters — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 06:08:30 +0000

Ahoy there, fellow boaters! If you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State and looking for a laid-back boating destination, then Apollo Beach is the perfect spot for you. This hidden gem is located along the Florida Gulf Coast, just south of Tampa, and is nestled on the shores of Tampa Bay and Hillsborough Bay. With its crystal-clear waters, Apollo Beach is a paradise for boating enthusiasts, and there are plenty of things to do in and around this charming little town. Although Apollo Beach may not have many famous attractions, it’s a fantastic place to explore by boat, with its private boat docks for rent. And let’s be honest, sometimes all you need is a relaxing day out on the water. But if you’re looking for something more, you can explore the area’s local restaurants, small shops, wildlife attractions, or take a day trip to nearby beaches like St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach, Indian Rocks Beach or Honeymoon Island. Or, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can go fishing or snorkeling on the Gulf of Mexico, which is easily accessible from Apollo Beach.

Manatee Viewing Center

One of the top things to do in Apollo Beach is visiting the Manatee Viewing Center, located at Tampa Electric. This unique attraction is a must-visit if you’re a fan of these adorable sea creatures. The center is particularly popular with manatees in the winter months when they come to bask in the warm waters. The Manatee Viewing Center features a tidal walk and boardwalk trails, observation tower, a ray touch tank, a gift shop, and an education center where you can learn more about these gentle giants. And if you’re a bird watcher, you’ll be pleased to know that the center is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, where you can spot a variety of winged creatures.

Apollo Beach Nature Preserve

Another must-visit spot in Apollo Beach is the Apollo Beach Nature Preserve, which spans across 63 acres of land. This natural oasis is a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. You can hike through nature trails, go fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, have a picnic, or enjoy stunning views of the St. Pete and Tampa skylines from the observation tower. And if you have a furry friend with you, don’t forget to visit the dog-friendly beach.

So, whether you’re passing through or staying at a private boat slip rental, Apollo Beach is a boater’s paradise that’s worth exploring. With its serene waters, breathtaking views, and unique attractions, this charming little town will steal your heart in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunscreen, hop on your boat, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Florida’s West Coast! Happy boating!