Savor flavors of the beach: Waterfront dining in Miami
From beachside brunches to Art Deco architecture on Ocean Drive, discover Miami’s waterfront dining scene plus practical tips for every view.
Edited by Karen Johanson | December 11, 2025
Dining near the sand or boardwalk is key to your Miami culinary experience. Make the most of your trip with shoreline, bayside, and riverfront views paired with delicious meals from world-class kitchens.
South Beach spots on the sand
South Beach is home to Miami’s classic beachside dining, where tables are steps from the Atlantic. Upscale Nikki Beach in the SoFi (South of Fifth) district features tables set directly on the sand for an immersive oceanfront experience. Early brunch hours offer cooler breezes, while sunset brings a festive crowd and golden light. Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach is your closest base for exploring these true oceanfront spots, with easy beach access, spacious suites, spa services, and a pool deck for post-meal relaxation.
Mid Beach boardwalk brunch views
Mid Beach is perfect for a laid-back brunch or lunch with boardwalk-facing patios and direct Atlantic views. Enjoy a refreshing brunch at Wilde on the Porch with the whole family and take advantage of shaded tables during midday. If you’re visiting during Florida’s stone crab season (October through May), expect specials featuring this delicacy at local restaurants. In the summer, afternoons typically bring stronger sun and occasional showers, so plan for backup indoor seating. Hilton Garden Inn Miami South Beach is centrally located for exploring Mid Beach, with soundproofed guest rooms, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and easy access to the boardwalk’s best dining spots.
Sunny Isles ocean vistas
Sunny Isles Beach is known for its long promenades, ocean-facing terraces, and family-friendly vibe. Seafood-forward venues like Mykonos Kitchen & Bar line the shore, with reservations at sunset especially popular for dinner. Explore via the free SIBshuttle or your private car, using valets and public lots to simplify parking. Walkability between restaurants means you can explore more than one spot in an evening. Afterwards, treat yourself to a stay at The Sunny Miami Sunny Isles Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, located right on the beach. This charming hotel features spacious suites and rooms with panoramic ocean views, curated activities, and easy access to the sand for effortless beach days.
Bayside and riverfront favorites
For sunset skyline views and a change of pace from the Atlantic, Miami’s bayside and riverfront restaurants deliver memorable dining along Biscayne Bay and the Miami River. Rusty Pelican and Joia Beach are local favorites for golden-hour seating and boat-watching on Biscayne Bay. Those who are exploring the Miami River by boat can dock and dine at Ella on the River. Reservations are recommended for prime sunset tables. Rideshare options and paid parking make transportation logistics easy. Hilton Miami Downtown is a convenient base for exploring these waterfront alternatives, featuring spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Biscayne Bay’s dining scene.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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