Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Destin (Local's Guide)
Finding a place to eat with kids in Destin doesn't have to mean settling for mediocre food or stressful environments.
Destin is packed with dining options, but for families, the "best" spots offer a mix of great views, quick service, and a relaxed atmosphere where a little noise is perfectly okay. Whether you want to eat with your toes in the sand or grab a quick pizza for a condo movie night, we've got you covered.
In this guide:
• Top 6 kid-approved restaurants in Destin & FWB
• Best spots for sunset views and easy logistics
• Where to find the best local ice cream
Planning your trip? Start with our complete hub:
Our Top Family Restaurant Recommendations
1. The Back Porch (Beachfront Classic)
The quintessential Destin dining experience.
Families love this because:
• Beachfront Location: Kids can play in the sand while you wait for a table.
• Kids' Meals: Served on a souvenir frisbee they can keep.
• Vibe: Casual, loud, and welcoming.
• Local Tip: Go early! Peak season waits can be 1-2 hours.
2. Stewby’s Seafood Shanty (Okaloosa Island)
Fresh, fast, and affordable local seafood.
Families love this because:
• Quick Service: Order at the counter, perfect for hungry kids who can't wait.
• Casual Setting: Outdoor picnic tables mean less stress about messes.
• Value: Some of the best prices for fresh local fish in the area.
3. Merlin’s Pizza (Easy To-Go)
The local go-to for a "night in" at the condo.
Families love this because:
• Reliability: Consistently high-quality pizza with fast delivery or easy pickup.
• Logistics: Perfect for arrival night when everyone is too tired to sit in a restaurant.
4. McGuire’s Irish Pub (The "Experience" Spot)
A massive, high-energy pub that kids find fascinating.
Families love this because:
• The Decor: Thousands of dollar bills hanging from the ceiling and walls.
• The Portions: Massive. The burgers and steaks are legendary.
• Vibe: It’s loud enough that your kids won't be the loudest ones there.
5. Dewey Destin’s Bayside (Sunset & Sweets)
Old Florida charm with the best view in town.
Families love this because:
• The View: Unbeatable sunset views over the bay and Crab Island.
• The Dock: Kids can watch fish from the dock while waiting.
• The Treats: They offer ice cream and snowballs (shaved ice) right on site.
6. Pounders Hawaiian Grill (Fort Walton Beach)
A hidden gem worth the short drive over the bridge.
Families love this because:
• Affordability: Healthy, yummy, and easy on the wallet.
• Less Crowded: Usually less chaotic than Destin Harbor spots.
• The Dessert Bonus: It’s close to Pink Coyote Ice Cream, which has incredible homemade flavors.
Restaurant Map & Logistics
• Harbor Area: Most concentrated area for dining, but highest traffic.
• Okaloosa Island: Often easier parking and slightly shorter waits.
• FWB (Fort Walton Beach): Great for avoiding the "tourist trap" crowds and prices.
Keep Planning Your Destin Family Vacation
Use these guides to continue planning:
• Things to Do in Destin With Kids
• Best Beaches in Destin for Families
From fresh grouper to easy pizza nights, Destin makes it easy to keep the whole family fed and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Destin restaurants have playgrounds?
Lulu’s and The Crab Trap (at James Lee Park) are famous for having actual playground equipment/sand play areas adjacent to the dining decks.
Do I need reservations in Destin?
Most casual family spots are first-come, first-served. For big groups during summer, expect to wait. Use apps like OpenTable or Yelp Waitlist when available.