Looking for the best waterfront restaurants in Nassau County? You're in for a treat. From lobster shacks with ocean breezes to trendy taco bars overlooking the bay, Nassau County offers a dazzling mix of coastal cuisine and panoramic waterfront views. Whether you arrive by boat, flip-flops, or beach cruiser, these restaurants combine delicious food, great vibes, and stunning scenery.
Read on for the top waterfront restaurants in Nassau County, plus standout menu items you won’t want to miss.
The Boat Yard at Tobay Beach – Massapequa
1 Ocean Pkwy, Massapequa | theboatyardny.com
Set on the tranquil bay side of Tobay Beach, The Boat Yard offers a breezy, casual experience at its outdoor food hall, featuring five international kiosks. Whether you're craving fish tacos from La Playa Taco Bar, a fresh salad bowl from Bayside, or a juicy burger from Dockside Grill, this spot has something for everyone.
Must-Try: A lobster roll from Rudy’s Raw Bar and a frozen cocktail from the Surf Shack next door.
Buoy Bar & Scotty’s on the Bay – Point Lookout
72 Bayside Dr, Point Lookout | buoybarli.com
A laid-back destination on Reynold’s Channel, Buoy Bar and Scotty’s on the Bay serve up beachy bites in a flip-flop-friendly setting. Enjoy lobster BLT sliders or grilled mahi mahi with coconut rice at Buoy, or head to Scotty’s for a more casual scene featuring fried clams and burgers right on the sand.
Must-Try: Ceviche and a frozen drink at sunset.
Butler’s Flat – Port Washington
86 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington | butlersflat.com
In Brewer Capri Marina West, Butler’s Flat is a charming New England-style seafood shack with unobstructed views of Manhasset Bay. Think clam chowder, stuffed quahogs, and overflowing lobster rolls.
Must-Try: Their signature crab roll and Old Bay fries.
Clam Bar at Bridge Marine – Bayville
40 Ludlam Ave, Bayville | bridge-marina.com/the-clam-bar
This hidden gem in Bayville boasts a floating dock and a rustic atmosphere perfect for casual seafood feasts. Whether you arrive by boat or car, the fresh harbor clams, chowders, and seafood platters are worth the trip.
Must-Try: Local littlenecks on the half shell and a classic burger.
Dirty Taco + Tequila – Port Washington
10 Matinecock Ave, Port Washington | dirtytacoandtequila.com
Set inside the Manhasset Bay Marina, Dirty Taco + Tequila is one of Nassau’s most stylish waterfront eateries. The bold Asian-fusion tacos and inventive margaritas match the stunning marina views.
Must-Try: Vietnamese shrimp taco + watermelon basil margarita.
Lazy Lobster – East Rockaway
10 Front St, East Rockaway | lazylobsterny.com
More than just a restaurant, Lazy Lobster is a waterfront party. Grab a picnic table, enjoy a lobster roll, and sip a Lazy Lobster frosé while soaking up the East Rockaway canal views.
Must-Try: Lobster nachos and Grandpa Marco’s famous sangria.
Nino’s Beach – Port Washington
43 Orchard Beach Blvd, Port Washington | ninosbeach.com
Elegance meets nautical charm at Nino’s Beach, one of the most upscale waterfront restaurants in Nassau County. Dine on a deck over Manhasset Bay with a menu featuring homemade pastas, hamachi crudo, and seared big eye tuna.
Must-Try: Grilled octopus and a handcrafted cocktail from the oyster bar.
Off the Hook – Freeport
195 Woodcleft Ave, Freeport | offthehooknyc.com/long-island
On Freeport’s iconic Nautical Mile, Off the Hook fuses Caribbean flair with fresh seafood. Try everything from tequila-chorizo mussels to fried red snapper and tamarind-glazed chicken.
Must-Try: Shrimp mofongo and a tropical mojito.
Peter’s Clam Bar – Island Park
600 Long Beach Rd, Island Park | petersclamhouse.com
Peter's Clam Bar has been a staple since 1939, delivering an old-school experience with unbeatable water views. From raw oysters to fried seafood platters, there’s something for every seafood lover.
Must-Try: King crab pot or classic fried shrimp platter.
Point Lookout Clam Bar – Point Lookout
99 Bayside Dr, Point Lookout | pointlookoutclambar.com
This dockside eatery is a seafood lover’s dream, offering clam strips, lobster rolls, and chowders steps from where the boats unload. The umbrella-covered tables make this a great summer lunch spot.
Must-Try: Freshly shucked clams and a cold beer by the bay.
Salt – Merrick
3100 Whaleneck Dr, Merrick | saltonthewater.com
With a prime spot along the Merrick waterfront, Salt blends lounge vibes with fine cuisine. Their Thai calamari, short rib sliders, and filet mignon pair beautifully with their extensive cocktail list and views.
Must-Try: Fried chicken & waffles with a spiked lemonade.
The Sunset Club at Tappan Beach – Sea Cliff
Tappan Beach, Sea Cliff | Online Ordering Only
True to its name, The Sunset Club offers golden hour dining on the sands of Tappan Beach with a unique QR-code ordering system. The menu varies, but think lobster rolls, frosé, and beach-friendly tacos in a scene that mixes Hamptons glam with retro Miami flair.
Must-Try: Lobster grilled cheese and a signature cocktail while your toes are in the sand.
Final Thoughts on the Best Waterfront Restaurants in Nassau County
This list is your ultimate guide if you’re looking for the best waterfront restaurants in Nassau County. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner with water views, a lively happy hour spot, or a casual seafood lunch after a day at the beach, these waterfront restaurants deliver.
Looking for more reasons to live near these amazing spots? Check out the most walkable towns in Nassau County.
