If you are hunting for an authentic Florida waterfront dining experience off the I-95 corridor, 12A Buoy in Fort Pierce is a true hidden gem. Doris and I pulled in during our WTF Snowbird Series travels and discovered the ultimate coastal hole-in-the-wall, operating out of a tiny kitchen where everything is made completely from scratch. Doris started with a perfect mango mimosa alongside a refreshing gazpacho, while I dove into a perfectly seasoned conch chowder. For our main courses, the rich lobster mac and cheese and flash-fried butterflied shrimp with cheesy grits proved that big, unforgettable flavors can come from the smallest kitchens.

It is easy to see why foodies and locals rave about this vibrant spot on Fisherman’s Wharf. Reviewers consistently praise 12A Buoy for its laid-back marina atmosphere, top-tier fresh seafood, and fan-favorite staples like their “world-famous” garlic bread and bacon-wrapped scallops. Whether you are coastal cruising through St. Lucie County or taking a highway detour for exceptional seafood, this casual waterfront haven deserves a spot at the top of your travel itinerary.

Location: 12A Buoy 22 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Pierce, FL 34950

If you are searching for an authentic vintage Florida dining experience near Daytona, Down the Hatch Seafood Company in Ponce Inlet is an unbeatable waterfront destination. Doris and I made a point to stop by during our WTF Snowbird Series travels, and this historic 1940s fishing camp delivered unmatched coastal charm. Set right on the Intracoastal Waterway near the iconic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, we enjoyed spectacular boat views alongside truly creative culinary offerings—most notably The Shrimp Boat (sautéed shrimp in a rich cheese sauce served inside a toasted bread boat) and a perfectly seasoned, blackened Black Grouper Catch of the Day Sandwich, accompanied by generous tropical cocktails like the Island Mule and Fantasy Island.

It is easy to see why visitors and local regulars rave about Down the Hatch, frequently singling out their Hatch Famous Smoked Fish Dip and rich She Crab Soup as must-try coastal staples. Combined with unbeatable Intracoastal breezes, a relaxed open-air vibe, and top-tier fresh catches, it stands out as one of the best waterfront seafood spots along the entire route. Whether you are exploring the nearby lighthouse or taking a scenic detour off the highway, put this historic landmark on your travel bucket list.

Location: Down the Hatch Seafood Company

4894 Front Street, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127

downthehatchseafood.com

If you are traveling along the I-95 corridor through St. Augustine, Florida, a stop at the iconic Columbia Restaurant on St. George Street is essential. Doris and I pulled off the highway here for our WTF Snowbird Series travels, and walking inside instantly sets the stage with exposed historic brick, flamenco music playing low, and white-coated waiters delivering unmatched old-world professionalism that rivals their famous Ybor City flagship.

Dine-in guests and food lovers routinely praise the spot for its rich history and incredible culinary consistency. Highlights like the signature “1905” Salad tossed right at your tableside, sizzling Gambas al Ajillo, perfectly pressed Cuban sandwiches, savory black beans, sweet plantains, and rich white chocolate bread pudding make it clear why this remains Florida’s premier destination for authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine.

Location: Columbia Restaurant 98 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

If you are navigating the I-95 corridor through St. Augustine, Florida, St. Mary’s Seafood is the ultimate unpretentious road-trip discovery. Doris and I stopped in here while filming our WTF Snowbird Series, and it instantly won us over with its genuine local charm. We tackled the massive fried seafood platter for two—piled high with huge, snappy shrimp, crisp, perfectly breaded oysters, and flaky flounder alongside fries, fresh coleslaw, and addictive hush puppies—and the portions were so overflowing we easily packed half away for lunch the next day.

It is easy to see why diners rave about the incredible value here, with feast-sized portions that completely blow standard tourist-strip options out of the water. Surrounding tables were buzzing over the crispy Fried Green Tomatoes, and despite a packed dining room, the staff delivered lightning-fast, warm Southern service. For travelers craving authentic coastal Florida flavor without the tourist markup, this hidden gem deserves a top spot on your highway itinerary.

Location:

St. Mary’s Seafood

705 Hortons Trace, St. Augustine, FL 32095

During our WTF Snowbird Series trip along the I-95 corridor, Doris and I made a memorable pitstop at Murray Brothers Caddyshack in St. Augustine, Florida. Stepping inside felt like walking right onto the iconic movie set, complete with clever golf decor, a lively bar hum, and top-notch hospitality from an efficient, friendly crew. We thoroughly enjoyed sharing a BLT chicken sandwich, blackened salmon, and their famous loaded “golf-ball” potatoes topped with cheddar and bacon. Paired with a solid pour from the bar and an order of crispy gopher balls with zesty horseradish sauce, it was the ultimate spot to “Eat, Drink, and Be Murray.”

Patrons and travelers loved this location for its fun, energetic atmosphere and crowd-pleasing comfort food, making it a beloved destination near the World Golf Village. It is a genuine loss for the local food scene and I-95 travelers alike now that this iconic spot has permanently closed its doors.

Location: Murray Brothers Caddyshack 455 S. Legacy Trail E106, St. Augustine, FL 32092 (Permanently Closed)

Looking for a standout dining spot along the coast? Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille in historic St. Augustine is an absolute home run for seafood lovers. Doris and I stopped in during our WTF Snowbird Series travels down the I-95 corridor, and the entire experience was flawless. From the second-floor windows framing postcard views of the bay to the lively New Orleans energy and courtyard live music, it delivers an unbeatable atmosphere paired with outstanding Southern coastal cuisine.

The food is the real star here, with locals and travelers alike raving about the rich, velvety she-crab soup, crispy calamari with fried green beans, and attentive, high-end service. I ordered the blackened redfish—featuring a perfectly charred crust and buttery tender center—while Doris loved her meal just as much. Whether you’re road-tripping through North Florida or exploring St. Augustine, put this top-rated coastal gem right at the top of your travel list!

Location: Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille 46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

If you are cruising down the Florida coast or looking for an authentic waterfront dining spot near Daytona Beach, Boondocks Restaurant in Wilbur-By-The-Sea (Ponce Inlet) is a true hidden gem along our WTF Snowbird Series route. Doris and I pulled up to this classic open-air inlet staple, and the vibe is as fresh as the seafood. We started with a massive one-pound pile of J.O.-seasoned peel-and-eat shrimp, followed by a fresh blackened salmon Caesar salad for Doris and a thick, perfectly spiced blackened grouper sandwich for me.

Local reviewers and travelers frequently rave about Boondocks’ oversized portions, standout “Net Breaker” platters, and unbeatable sunset views right off the deck. With its relaxed tiki-bar atmosphere, live music, and family-friendly fish feeding from the dock, it delivers an authentic, laid-back Sunshine State experience that every road-tripper should add to their itinerary.

Location: Boondocks Restaurant

3948 S Peninsula Dr, Port Orange, FL 32127

If you are exploring the Florida coast near Daytona Beach, Off The Hook at Inlet Harbor in Ponce Inlet is an incredible coastal detour along the I-95 corridor. Doris and I stopped in as part of our WTF Snowbird Series travels and immediately fell for the vibrant waterfront energy. Nestled right near the historic lighthouse, this spot features an amazing tiki bar vibe, energetic live music, and the unique option to have them cook your own fresh catch straight off the boat.

Diners consistently rave about their fresh coastal menu—especially the spectacular raw oysters, crisp shrimp tacos, and peel-and-eat shrimp. The blackened tuna served over savory wasabi mashed potatoes is a standout crowd-pleaser that reviewers call an absolute must-order. Whether you pull up for the incredible ocean-fresh seafood, cold drinks, or sweeping sunset views over the water, this Ponce Inlet gem delivers the quintessential Florida dining experience.

Location:

Off The Hook at Inlet Harbor

133 Inlet Harbor Rd, Ponce Inlet, FL 32127