Waterfront Dining Near Ocala
Fresh seafood, sunset views, and laid-back lakefront vibes — discover the best waterfront and scenic restaurants in the Ocala and Marion County area.
Waterfront Dining Near Ocala
While downtown Ocala is inland, the greater Marion County area has excellent waterfront dining options along Lake Weir, the Ocklawaha River, and near the natural springs. Lake Weir — a 5,600-acre lake about 25 minutes southeast of downtown — is the top waterfront dining destination, with Gator Joe's Beach Bar being the most popular spot. Several other scenic eateries offer outdoor patios with water or nature views within a short drive of Ocala.
Best Waterfront & Scenic Restaurants
Gator Joe's Beach Bar & Grill
Casual lakefront bar and grill with outdoor deck seating directly on Lake Weir
Known For: Gator bites, fresh fish tacos, burgers, cold beer on the dock
View DetailsGeorgie's Lakeside
Family-friendly waterfront dining with scenic lake views and a relaxed atmosphere
Known For: Southern comfort food, fried seafood baskets, weekend specials
View DetailsSam St. John's Seafood
Local institution serving fresh Florida seafood in a casual, no-frills setting
Known For: Catfish, frog legs, rock shrimp, mullet — Old Florida classics
View DetailsBlue Gator Tiki Bar & Restaurant
Tropical-themed outdoor bar with live music, tiki cocktails, and a laid-back patio
Known For: Blackened fish, coconut shrimp, island drinks, wings
View DetailsKen's Seafood Restaurant
Long-standing local favorite known for generous portions of fresh seafood
Known For: Fried shrimp, grouper, crab legs, oysters, family platters
View DetailsSwampy's Bar & Grille
Casual rustic eatery with Florida backwoods charm and live music weekends
Known For: Smoked meats, fried catfish, wings, craft cocktails
View DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Are there waterfront restaurants in Ocala Florida?
Yes, while Ocala is inland, several excellent waterfront restaurants are located on nearby lakes and rivers within 15-30 minutes of downtown. Gator Joe's on Lake Weir, Georgie's Lakeside, and several springs-area eateries offer scenic water views with great food. Lake Weir is the most popular waterfront dining destination near Ocala.
What is the best lakeside restaurant near Ocala?
Gator Joe's Beach Bar & Grill on Lake Weir in Ocklawaha is widely considered the best lakeside restaurant near Ocala. It features deck seating directly on the water, live music on weekends, fresh seafood, and a casual beach-bar atmosphere. It is approximately 25 minutes southeast of downtown Ocala.
Can you eat by the water in Ocala?
You can dine by the water at several locations near Ocala including Gator Joe's on Lake Weir, Georgie's Lakeside, and casual eateries near Silver Springs and Rainbow Springs. While downtown Ocala does not have waterfront dining, the scenic lake and spring-fed river restaurants are a short drive away.
Where is Lake Weir near Ocala?
Lake Weir is located approximately 20 miles southeast of downtown Ocala in the Ocklawaha area. It is one of the largest lakes in Marion County at over 5,600 acres and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. The drive from downtown Ocala takes about 25-30 minutes.
Do any Ocala restaurants have outdoor patios with views?
Several Ocala-area restaurants offer scenic outdoor dining. Gator Joe's has a lakefront deck on Lake Weir, Blue Gator has a large tiki-themed patio, and downtown restaurants like Brick City Southern Kitchen and The Gathering Cafe offer pleasant courtyard and sidewalk seating in the historic downtown district.