For boaters, a day on the back bays does not have to end when hunger strikes. From casual tiki bars and seafood institutions to hidden creekside hangouts, plenty of waterfront restaurants welcome guests arriving by water.
Whether you are looking for a frozen cocktail at sunset, fresh seafood after a day of fishing or a laid-back lunch between trips around the bay, here are eight South Jersey spots where getting there can be half the fun.
Crabby Jack’s, Somers Point
Perched on Great Egg Harbor Bay behind the longtime Crab Trap restaurant, Crabby Jack’s is made for warm summer afternoons.
The seasonal outdoor bar and restaurant welcomes guests arriving by car or boat and serves seafood, sandwiches, salads and cold drinks overlooking the water. During the summer, live entertainment adds to the easygoing atmosphere seven nights a week.
For boaters cruising between Ocean City and Somers Point, it is an especially convenient place to pull in, grab something casual and enjoy the breeze before heading back onto the bay.
Wonder Bar, Atlantic City
Atlantic City visitors do not have to step into the casinos to find a party.
Wonder Bar sits directly on the bay and encourages guests to arrive by land, boat or even WaveRunner. Diners can settle onto the waterfront deck, grab a drink at the tiki bar or head inside, where the renovated bar still overlooks the water.
The atmosphere is casual and energetic, making Wonder Bar a natural stop for boaters looking for burgers, seafood, cocktails and live entertainment without straying far from the Intracoastal Waterway.
The Point, Somers Point
For a little tropical escapism without leaving South Jersey, steer toward The Point in Somers Point.
The original Point location opened in 2019 at 998 Bay Ave. and combines white sand, tiki décor, fire pits, live music and open-bay views. Its menu leans toward casual island-style fare accompanied by creative cocktails and frozen drinks.
Most importantly for boaters, make sure you are heading to the Somers Point location. The Point confirms that its Somers Point property has a boat dock, while its Sea Isle City and Wildwood locations do not.
Tuckahoe Inn, Beesleys Point
Just across the bay from Ocean City, the Tuckahoe Inn offers a slightly more traditional waterfront dining experience.
The family-owned restaurant has been welcoming diners since 1963. The menu includes seafood alongside American favorites, while the waterfront setting offers expansive views across the bay.
During the summer, the Back Bay Cafe adds a more casual option with live music overlooking the water. Boaters can arrive directly from the bay, with complimentary docking offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Deauville Inn, Strathmere
The Deauville Inn has turned dock-and-dine service into an experience of its own.
Located on the bay in Strathmere, the historic restaurant features several waterfront spaces, including its dining room, Oyster Bar, Sunset Deck and Sandbar. But boaters may be most interested in its docks.
The Deauville offers 36 slips accommodating a range of vessels, along with dockhands who help boaters tie up. Guests can even order from the restaurant’s full food and drink menu and have their meal delivered directly to their boat. Slip reservations are available in advance.
Add in a private beach and sunsets across the bay, and it is easy to turn dinner into an all-afternoon affair.
Motts Creek Inn, Galloway
Hidden among the marshes of Galloway Township, Motts Creek Inn feels worlds away from the busy Shore towns.
The casual creekside restaurant sits along Motts Creek, surrounding diners with marshland and wide-open views. Guests can arrive by boat and tie up before heading to the deck for a relaxed meal.
The menu keeps things unfussy, with burgers, sandwiches, seafood, peel-and-eat shrimp and other bar favorites.
Motts Creek is particularly appealing for boaters who prefer their waterfront dining with a little less polish and a little more character. It is the kind of place where a boat ride through the marsh is just as memorable as the meal waiting at the end.
The Deck at Golden Nugget, Atlantic City
For boaters looking to trade a quiet afternoon on the water for Atlantic City nightlife, The Deck at Golden Nugget offers an easy transition.
The seasonal Bayfront Bar & Restaurant sits at the water’s edge at Golden Nugget Atlantic City, alongside the marina. The outdoor venue serves food, frozen drinks and cocktails while hosting live entertainment and themed nights throughout the summer.
The setting offers something distinctly different from the casino experience inside. Instead of gaming tables and slot machines, guests get marina views, passing boats, music and open air.
It makes for an especially fun final destination after spending the day cruising the waterways around Brigantine and Atlantic City.
Make dinner part of the boat ride
One of the pleasures of boating around South Jersey is discovering just how connected its Shore communities are by water.
A trip that might involve traffic lights, bridges and summer congestion by car can become a scenic ride past marshes, islands, waterfront homes and fishing boats.
Docking policies, available slips, tides and water depths can change, particularly during busy summer weekends, so boaters should check directly with a restaurant before departing and never assume space will be available.
Then point the bow toward dinner.
After all, when you can arrive at the restaurant by boat, even an ordinary meal feels like part of a summer adventure.
Sarah Fertsch of Egg Harbor Township holds a Bachelors of Arts in Public Relations. She is a locally renowned poet, storyteller, and dog lover.
