Best Seafood Restaurants in Jacksonville

Living this close to the ocean comes with one rule. The seafood better be fresh, or what are we even doing here?

Jacksonville has the goods. From dockside shrimp shacks to white-tablecloth oyster bars, here is where locals actually go when they want the good stuff.

Dockside and Casual

Safe Harbor Seafood, Mayport

Dock-to-table done right. You can watch the boats unload while you eat Mayport shrimp and a blackened mahi sandwich. Casual, busy, and worth the wait.

Singleton's Seafood Shack, Mayport

A true Jacksonville classic. Weathered, woodsy, and full of local history. Order it simple and fried, then soak in the old-Florida feel.

Dockside Seafood, Jax Beach

Right by the boat ramp with marsh and boat views. Shrimp baskets, oysters, and fried flounder the locals swear by. Save room for the key lime pie.

Sit-Down and Upscale

The Blue Fish, Avondale

The move for date night or a treat. Oysters from both coasts, a real wine list, and a pretty courtyard. A step up without being stuffy.

Julington Creek Fish Camp, Mandarin

Florida seafood with a Southern twist. Catch of the day, ceviche, and a creekside feel. Easy choice on the south side.

How to Eat Seafood Like a Local

• Ask what came in fresh that day and order that.
• Go early on weekends, since the good docks fill up fast.
• Hours shift by season, so call ahead at the smaller shacks.

Eating your way around town? See our full guide to the best restaurants in Jacksonville and the best spots at Beaches Town Center. Making a coast day of it? Compare the best beach towns near Jacksonville first.

Hooked on the coast? Our Jacksonville coloring book features local landmarks, shrimp boats and all.

Pick a dock, order the catch of the day, and thank the Atlantic later.