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Waterfront Restaurants on Long Island

  • Writer: Admin
    Admin
  • Jun 8, 2021
  • 4 min read

Updated: Mar 17

Long Island is known for its stunning waterfront views and incredible dining experiences. Whether you're on the South Shore, North Shore, or the East End in locations like Montauk and The Hamptons, you're never far from the water. From oceanfront fine dining to casual dockside seafood spots, Long Island offers countless restaurants where you can enjoy breathtaking views while indulging in fresh seafood and expertly crafted dishes.



Long Island is home to some of the best waterfront restaurants in New York, offering fresh seafood, stunning views, and unbeatable dining experiences. Whether you're looking for a romantic sunset dinner, a lively happy hour, or a casual seafood shack, there's something for everyone. Here's your ultimate guide to the best waterfront restaurants on Long Island that you need to add to your bucket list.


Best Waterfront Restaurants in Nassau County


1. Jordan’s Lobster Farms – Island Park

Keywords: Jordan’s Lobster Farms, best seafood in Island Park, Long Island lobster restaurantA Long Island staple since 1938, Jordan’s Lobster Farms serves up fresh, high-quality seafood year-round. Enjoy steamed lobsters, raw bar selections, and a casual dining experience on their waterfront patio.

2. Salt on the Water – Merrick

Keywords: waterfront restaurant Merrick, new American cuisine Long Island, seafood restaurant with sunset viewsLocated in the heart of Nassau County, Salt on the Water offers waterfront dining with stunning sunset views. Pair your meal with a fresh seasonal cocktail and arrive by car or boat.

  • Address: 3100 Whaleneck Drive, Merrick, NY

  • Phone: (516) 442-7470


3. The Buoy Bar – Point Lookout

Keywords: best seafood restaurants in Long Island, Point Lookout restaurants, waterfront dining Nassau CountyThis quaint seafood spot sits on Reynolds Channel and is perfect for a summer evening meal. With outdoor dockside dining, The Buoy Bar offers excellent sunset views, seafood platters, and tropical cocktails.

  • Address: 72 Bayside Drive, Point Lookout, NY

  • Phone: (516) 432-3975


4. Rachel’s Waterside Grill – Freeport

Keywords: Nautical Mile Freeport restaurants, best seafood Freeport NY, waterfront dining Long IslandA go-to spot on Freeport’s Nautical Mile, Rachel’s Waterside Grill serves up fresh seafood with a creative twist. Try their famous seafood paella or lobster mac & cheese while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

  • Address: 281 Woodcleft Avenue, Freeport, NY

  • Phone: (516) 546-0050


Best Waterfront Restaurants in Suffolk County


5. The Oar Steak & Seafood Grille – Patchogue

Keywords: Patchogue seafood restaurants, best steak and seafood Long Island, waterfront dining PatchogueA favorite in Patchogue, The Oar delivers exceptional steak and seafood. From Lobster Fest Mondays to Dock to Table Tuesdays, there’s always something special on the menu.

  • Address: 264 West Ave, Patchogue, NY

  • Phone: (631) 654-8266


6. The Lakehouse – Bay Shore

Keywords: best fine dining Long Island, waterfront restaurant Bay Shore, Great South Bay restaurantsFor an upscale dining experience, The Lakehouse is a must. Overlooking the Great South Bay, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic night out or a special occasion.

  • Address: 135 Maple Ave, Bay Shore, NY

  • Phone: (631) 666-0995


7. Flynn’s – Fire Island

Keywords: Fire Island nightlife, best seafood Fire Island, waterfront bar Fire IslandA legendary Fire Island restaurant, Flynn’s is known for its live music, happy hour, and stunning bayfront location.Take a ferry ride over and enjoy an unforgettable summer experience.

  • Phone: (631) 583-5000


Best Waterfront Dining in The Hamptons & Montauk


8. Scarpetta Beach – Gurney’s Montauk Resort

Keywords: best Italian restaurants in Montauk, oceanfront dining Montauk, fine dining HamptonsLocated in Gurney’s Montauk, Scarpetta Beach is an elegant Italian restaurant offering signature pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and a world-class wine list—all with panoramic ocean views.


9. Navy Beach – Montauk

Keywords: best beach bar Montauk, Montauk sunset dining, casual waterfront restaurantWith laid-back vibes and beachside dining, Navy Beach is the ultimate spot for fresh seafood, cold drinks, and breathtaking sunsets over Fort Pond Bay.


Best Beachside & Casual Waterfront Spots


10. The Boatyard – Tobay Beach

Keywords: best summer bars Long Island, Tobay Beach restaurants, live music Long IslandThis lively venue features live music seven days a week and multiple food stations, including a taco bar, raw bar, and pizza bar. A must-visit summer hotspot!

  • Address: 1 Ocean Parkway, Massapequa, NY

  • Phone: (516) 324-8474


11. Salt Shack Seaside Grill – Babylon

Keywords: beachfront dining Long Island, best bars on Long Island beaches, live music Long IslandLocated at Cedar Beach, Salt Shack is known for its beachside dining, tropical cocktails, and live music scene. A summer favorite!


12. Smuggler Jack’s – Massapequa

Keywords: waterfront bar Massapequa, seafood restaurant Massapequa, Long Island casual diningOffering a laid-back atmosphere with a great selection of seafood and cocktails, Smuggler Jack’s is a local favorite for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

  • Address: 157 Forest Ave, Massapequa, NY

  • Phone: (516) 798-6000


Plan Your Next Long Island Waterfront Dining Experience

Whether you're in Nassau County, Suffolk County, or venturing to Montauk and The Hamptons, these waterfront restaurants offer unforgettable dining experiences. From casual seafood shacks to fine dining with ocean views, there’s something for every taste and occasion.

Looking for more Long Island bucket list experiences? Follow @bucketlistli on Instagram for the latest events, food guides, and local must-visit spots.


Interested in Partnering with Bucket List - Long Island?

Do you own a Long Island restaurant, event space, or business? Contact us today to collaborate and get featured!

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