Dolphin View Restaurant, New Smyrna Beach

Diners at Dolphin View Seafood often sense that they are being watched. The feeling is far from paranoid or unwelcome, however, as the prying eyes belong to seabirds and jumping dolphins. These creatures are common sights in the waters that border the eatery, where open-air seating affords views of their play. Wooden tables stand on the slats of a dock or the sandy expanse of the beach, framed by cloth canopies and hanging plants. In these environs, guests feast on plates of grilled fish, shrimp, and signature sandwiches, such as the Dolphin burger. The menu also features less ocean-centric options, including burgers, chicken entrees, and glasses of salt-free water.

For an even more immersive mix of food and scenery, guests can reserve spots on one of Dolphin View Seafood's dinner and river cruises. Each experience begins with an all-you-can-eat buffet at the open-air pavilion. After dinner, passengers embark by boat through the waterway, marveling at the coastal scenery and wildlife as they sip beer or wine.