If you’re looking for the best kid friendly restaurants in Destin FL, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve put together a list of some of my family’s favorite spots that are perfect for families with small children. From pizza and burgers to seafood and Mexican cuisine, there’s something for everyone on this list. So pack your appetite and get ready to explore some of the best kid friendly restaurants Destin FL has to offer!
Below, you’ll find a curated list of my favorite family friendly places to eat in Destin, complete with addresses and operating hours to make planning your next family outing a breeze. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood by the beach or looking for a fun spot where the kids can play while you relax, these local favorites deliver. I’ve marked restaurants that include playgrounds with a 🛝, boat-accessible spots with a 🛥️, and pet-friendly patios with a 🐕—perfect for little adventurers, boat-loving families, and even your four-legged companions.
Please keep in mind that pet policies, hours and reservation policies can change, so I always recommend checking with the restaurant directly or visiting their official website for the latest updates.
Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Destin FL
1. Lulu’s: Kid friendly restaurants in Destin, FL
Lulu’s is a lively and entertaining spot near the beach, with both indoor and outdoor dining options. It’s near the Midbay Toll Bridge at Legendary’s on the bay. Lulu has a kid-friendly ambiance and adult entertainment such as live musical performances and some of your favorite drinks.
They have a diverse menu that includes appetizers & seafood, snacks, beverages, and drinks. Additionally, they have a children’s menu that makes ordering for your kids easy. Lulu’s food is delicious, which usually results in longer wait times.
📍4607 Legendary Marina Drive, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. No reservations required; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
🛝 LuLu’s Destin features a large outdoor beach area equipped with playground equipment and toys, allowing children to play safely while parents dine nearby.
🛥️ While LuLu’s Destin is situated by the water, it does not offer direct docking facilities for boats. We usually anchor offshore and wade in—so plan accordingly!
🐕 Registered service animals are permitted, pets are not allowed.
🌐 https://lulusfunfoodmusic.com
2. Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar and Grill
Fudpuckers is one of the original kid friendly restaurants in Destin, FL! It was one of the first to open on the new Emerald Coast Parkway in Destin in 1987. The brightly colored building serves as a visual representation of the owner’s self-proclaimed favorite “F” words: “Food, Fun, and Friends.”. Kids love contributing to the restaurant’s graffiti wall just as much as they enjoy viewing the live alligator farm.
The delicious kids’ menu includes non-alcoholic “kiddie cocktails” and milkshakes! Adults however enjoy the generously portioned seafood dishes, salads, and sandwiches. Your kids will have a blast at Fudpuckers, with large buildings to explore, newspaper-themed menus, teen nights, delectable cuisines, and games and puzzles.
📍20001 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Reservations are not required for general seating; however, private room reservations can be made by contacting the restaurant directly.
🛝 Fudpucker’s Beachside Bar & Grill offers a dedicated kids’ playground and is home to Gator Beach, where families can view and learn about live alligators.
3. The Back Porch Seafood & Oyster House
A staple since 1974, The Back Porch offers beachfront dining with stunning views. While parents savor fresh seafood, children can play in the sand within view. The relaxed atmosphere and delicious menu make it a favorite among families.
📍1740 Scenic Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Daily: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM. No reservations accepted; operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
🌐 https://www.theback-porch.com
4. Dewey Destin
For a taste of local history and fresh seafood, Dewey Destin’s is the place to be. With locations on the harbor and the bay, families can enjoy casual dining with picturesque views. The menu features a variety of seafood options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Dewey Destin’s Harborside
📍202 Harbor Boulevard, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Daily: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM. No reservations required; walk-ins are welcome.
Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant
📍9 Calhoun Avenue, Destin, FL 32541 (boat-friendly)
⏰ Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM. No reservations required; walk-ins are welcome.
🛥️ The original location at 9 Calhoun Avenue is accessible by boat. Boaters can dock and enjoy a meal while taking in views of Crab Island.
🐕 The original location at 9 Calhoun Avenue welcomes dogs at outdoor picnic tables in sandy areas
🌐 https://www.destinseafood.com
5. The Crab Trap: Kid friendly restaurant in Destin, FL
Situated directly on the beach, The Crab Trap offers a casual dining experience with a playground for kids. Parents can relax with a drink while watching their children play in the sand. The menu boasts a variety of seafood dishes, making it a hit with families.
📍3500 Scenic Highway 98 East, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. No reservations required; operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
🛝 The Crab Trap Destin provides a beach playground, allowing children to play in the sand while waiting for their meals.
🐕 Allows dogs in the outdoor bar area (limited menu available for outdoor bar, but you can order from the full menu and eat at the bar)
🌐 https://www.crabtrapflorida.com
6. McGuire’s Irish Pub
Known for its unique atmosphere adorned with over a million signed dollar bills, McGuire’s offers a diverse menu that appeals to all ages. Live music and special events add to the vibrant ambiance, making it a memorable dining spot for families.
📍33 Highway 98 East, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Daily: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM. No reservations accepted; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
🌐 https://www.mcguiresirishpub.com
7. Pompano Joe’s: Best kid friendly restaurants in Destin, FL
Renowned for its Caribbean-inspired seafood, Pompano Joe’s provides a vibrant atmosphere with beachfront views.Families can enjoy a relaxed meal while taking in the scenic beauty of the Emerald Coast.
📍2237 Scenic Gulf Highway, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
⏰ Daily: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM. No reservations required; operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
🐕 Offers pet-friendly outdoor seating pet area.
🌐 https://www.pompano-joes.com
8. Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House
Located on Destin’s harbor, Boshamps offers fresh seafood, outdoor dining with beautiful ocean views, and live music.The sand area, complete with hammocks and games, keeps kids entertained while parents unwind.
📍414 Harbor Boulevard, Destin, FL 32541
⏰ Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM, Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM. No reservations required; walk-ins are welcome.
🛥️ Boshamps provides docking facilities for boaters.
🐕 Boshamps features a pet-friendly outdoor deck where dogs are accommodated with water bowls.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of kid friendly restaurants in Destin FL, but the ones I’ve listed are some of our favorites. All of these restaurants offer a variety of food options. Most also offer activities and entertainment to keep your kids occupied. So, if you’re looking for a place to eat that will also keep your children entertained, any one of these restaurants is a great choice.
Since you are looking for best kid friendly restaurants in Destin Florida, I’d love to chat about your family photography needs! Click this link to view my work, and let’s start the conversation!
Are you looking for other Destin Florida resources? Check out the links below!
- COASTAL CRIB RENTALS MAKES YOUR VACATION A BREEZE
- 6 FUN THINGS TO DO IN DESTIN WITH TODDLERS
- WHERE TO FIND THE BEST ICE CREAM IN DESTIN
Andrea Krey is a premier photographer based in the Florida Panhandle, specializing in maternity, newborn, and family photography. Known for her artistic approach and attention to detail, she creates timeless images that families cherish for generations. Trained by industry experts and certified in newborn safety, Andrea ensures that your little one is handled with the utmost care. As a registered and insured business, Andrea Krey Photography LLC is committed to providing families with a seamless and stress-free experience. She has been named Best Newborn Photographer in Savannah Georgia several years in a row.
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