Whether your too busy to cook or just wanting to get out of the house to enjoy a meal you didn’t have to cook, dining with a view is always a treat. Even better is being able to feel the wind in your hair and smell the salty air as you cruise along the beautiful waters of the Georgia coast to get there. We visited several local dock and dine locations around the area and found some of the best fresh seafood one can only get on the coast. While boating to your favorite restaurant is fun, there are several things we recommend you keep in mind to ensure the best experience.

TIPS

• Sunscreen is a must to keep from looking like the lobster you plan to eat.

• To avoid looking wind blown, wear a hat or something to keep your hair in place as you cruise, this includes you, gentlemen.

• Wear your sunglasses to protect the lenses used to view our beautiful coast for years to come.

• Depth finders come in very handy as the waters can be tricky to navigate, especially to the novice boater.

• Life Jackets and other safety equipment are essential.

• A working radio or fully charged cell phone is another must have. Being able to call for help is sometimes pertinent (a Sea Tow membership is an added bonus, if you have ever had a mechanical issue on the water, you already know, they make getting back to land much easier).

Our trips included a stop at these restaurants. All are accessible by car if you aren’t into the idea of boating!

PICKS

Tubby’s Tank House Thunderbolt We docked at Safe Harbour Marina. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a dockhand who showed us where to park. The marina had clean restrooms and a friendly and helpful staff. We saved money with proof of parking there, too. It was a short walk down the road to Tubby’s. The outside atmosphere was relaxing and laid back. The drinks were delicious and the fried oysters and shrimp were a hit.

Sunbury Crab Company  This coastal restaurant has its own dock with free parking for patrons. As you walk up to the eclectic and colorful salt cured building, the beach vibe begins to sink in immediately. There is a mix of outdoor and indoor seating, with views of the river from almost all tables. The fried shrimp were very fresh, lightly-battered, and seasoned to absolute perfection. The Tuna Tower and Crispy Scored Flounder were also big crowd pleasers. It’s been said that they have one of the best steaks around and we would have to agree with that. If you’re thirsty and like coconut rum, we recommend the Sea Foam—it tastes like vacay!

Skippers’ Fish Camp Oyster Bar and Grill On the banks of the Darien River, the riverfront restaurant offers large outdoor areas which are great for kids to have a place to move around a little after jumping off the boat. The kids loved watching the turtles in the pond and even spotted several gators in the river. We dined in the oyster bar where the atmosphere was upbeat yet laid back. The raw oysters were fresh and enjoyed by all in our crowd, even the kiddos. We were served an abundant supply of fresh locally caught sweet Georgia Shrimp and did not leave hungry. After you eat, we recommend walking over to Waterfront Wine & Gourmet for an adult beverage overlooking the Darien River. They specialize in wines from all over the world and craft beer. If you have room, grab a cheese plate to enjoy with your wine.

Plant Riverside district Docking is available at the City of Savannah’s Public Docks on River Street. This dock is first-come, first-served. Savannah Marketplace has a private dock. (Reservations are required and there is a 35-foot minimum vessel size and overnight stay requirement). We took the family and spent the day exploring Plant Riverside and all that it has to offer. Between immersing ourselves inside under the giant dinosaur display, playing outside in the fountains, and listening to live music, we were fully entertained. There are several restaurants offering a vast array of cuisines from sushi to pizza to gourmet plates at Stone and Webster Chophouse on property.

Fish Tales Docking is a breeze and right in front of the restaurant and tiki bar, as is the marina, so fueling up is made easy as well. The tiki bar was jamming with large fans keeping the crowd comfortable. We made this trip on a Thursday and caught their Sunset Party with awesome live music. The environment was very laid back and kid friendly. The blackened fish tacos were the crowd favorite and the world famous hushpuppies with honey butter are addictive.

Marker 107 Dock just a few feet from the restaurant. There is seating inside or outside on the screened-in porch, and the views from the porch are gorgeous. If you are lucky enough to catch a full moon, watching it rise is an experience you won’t forget. The atmosphere is a little more upscale than some of the other dock and dine locations, but they welcome the boater in shorts and flip flops. The fried green tomatoes and seared Ahi tuna were spot on, and the Seafood Dip is an all-time favorite.