11 Long Island Waterfront Restaurants That Families Must Try – 2025 Guide
The only thing better than a backyard barbecue is a dinner overlooking the Atlantic Ocean or the Long Island Sound. Picture it: A drink in your hand, a delicious meal in front of you, a gorgeous cotton candy sky, and a couple of quiet, well-behaved kids. (Hey, a parent can dream!) Sounds like the perfect night, right?
There are plenty of Long Island restaurants on the waterfront, to make this dream a reality. Here, the best family-friendly eateries with views.
Louie’s Oyster Bar and Grille
395 Main St, Port Washington
This Port Washington mainstay is a classic restaurant on water on Long Island, and serves up local seafood in a casual diner-style atmosphere with a pristine view of the Manhasset Bay.
Anchor Down
1960 Bayberry Ave, Merrick
Fresh local seafood is served at this waterfront restaurant in Long Island, alongside live music and unobstructed views of the East Bay.
Harbor Mist Restaurant
105 Harbor Rd, Cold Spring Harbor
This two-story restaurant is tucked within a quiet cove inside Oyster Bay. Dine in for on Mondays or Tuesdays from 4-9pm for 50 percent off your dinner bill. Enjoy waterfront dining on Long island on a budget at this spot.
Bayhouse
155-57 Bayview Ave, Rosedale
This waterfront locale was completely renovated after being devastated during superstorm Sandy. The large deck of this Long Island restaurant on water makes it a great place to meet a group for a casual seafood dinner.
Inlet Seafood Restaurant
541 East Lake Drive, Montauk
This two-story waterfront restaurant, owned by two fishermen, features inlet views, so you can watch the boats coming and going. The menu at this crowd-favorite includes American seafood and sushi.
Cowfish
258 E Montauk Hwy, Hampton Bays
This Long Island waterfront restaurant offers seafood and sushi, and is located conveniently off the Montauk Highway and has sweeping views of the canal.
Jordan’s Lobster Farm
1 Pettit Pl, Island Park
In business since 1938, this is one of the best Long Island waterfront restaurants and is also a favorite spot among locals and vacationers. They’re known for their lobsters and crab, but have a long list of other seafood options, too.
Salt on the Water
3100 Whaleneck Dr, Merrick
This new waterfront restaurant features plenty of outdoor seating. Guests will love the happy hour, live music, and, of course, the seasonal seafood menu.
Rumba
43 Canoe Place Rd, Hampton Bays
This waterfront dining on Long Island is favorite and popular, because it’s accessible by boat and is known for its tropical tiki-inspired vibe.
Navy Beach
16 Navy Rd, Montauk
Located on 200-feet of private beach, this waterfront mainstay has both indoor and outdoor dining options—some of which are right on the sand!
The Beacon
4454, 8 W Water St, Sag Harbor
Thanks to sweeping views of the Sag Harbor Bay, this waterfront Long Island restaurant is a favorite for cocktails, dinner, and weekend brunch.
Image: Waterfront view at Louies Oyster Bar & Grille
Credit: Maria Mazzola
