Where We're Eating: The Deckhand Social, New Restaurant On The East End of Panama City Beach

As a food lover always on the hunt for new dining experiences during vacations, I was excited to hear about the opening of The Deckhand Social. Conveniently situated on the east end of Panama City Beach, just a short drive from the Joy Coastal condo, this restaurant seemed like the ideal spot for a refreshing bite after a sun-soaked day.

The Deckhand Social offers more than just food; it presents a vibrant atmosphere, a lovely marina view, and plenty of entertainment options for guests. With seating indoors, outdoors, and on the pool deck, it truly has something to cater to every preference.

A Relaxed Vibe

Upon entering The Deckhand Social, I immediately felt welcomed by its relaxed ambiance. The bright, nautical decor aligned perfectly with its waterfront location. Guests can choose from indoor seating or a spacious pool deck based on what they prefer or how they feel that day. I decided on the pool deck, where the sunset painted the sky in warm hues—a magical backdrop for dinner.

Relaxing pool deck seating at The Deckhand Social

The drink selection is impressive, featuring a full bar indoors as well as a poolside bar serving refreshing cocktails and local craft beers. A perfect way to kick off the evening!

The Menu: A Flavorful Adventure

The menu at The Deckhand Social is as appealing as it is diverse. Offering everything from fresh salads to hearty seafood dishes, there truly is something for everyone.

We started with their highly recommended she-crab soup, which stood out for its creamy texture and rich flavor, setting a high bar for the rest of our meal.

Next, we tried the strawberry chicken salad. Not only was it a beautiful dish, but it was also a refreshing choice for the warm evening.

The Mahi Mahi Caesar salad was another standout. The fish was grilled to perfection, and the Caesar dressing was just right—not overpowering yet full of flavor. A visit to The Deckhand Social shows just how it aims to rank among the top restaurants in Panama City Beach, Florida.

For shrimp lovers, the grilled shrimp on the menu is a must-try. These shrimp were juicy with a hint of smokiness, adding depth to our meal. To cap off our dining adventure, we indulged in sweet potato soufflé and blue crab mac and cheese. Both dishes were heavenly—the soufflé was rich and sweet, while the mac and cheese was luxuriously creamy.

A Great Atmosphere for Everyone

A highlight of The Deckhand Social is its vibrant atmosphere, designed for both families and adults looking to unwind. With big-screen TVs playing games both indoors and outdoors, it’s an excellent place for sports fans to keep up with their favorite teams.

The blend of a lively restaurant vibe and the tranquil marina view created a relaxing environment—an ideal setting.

We also enjoyed looking at the gift shop after dinner!

Wrapping Up: A Must-Visit Spot

After our visit, I can confidently say that The Deckhand Social is a fantastic addition to the dining options on the east end of Panama City Beach. Whether you’re seeking a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner by the water, this restaurant caters to all.

With its cozy ambiance and thoughtful menu, it’s easy to see why The Deckhand Social is quickly climbing the ranks among the best restaurants in Panama City Beach, Florida. If you happen to be in the area, make sure to stop by and enjoy a meal; you certainly won't regret it!

I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into my experience at The Deckhand Social. If you have any favorite dishes or dining spots in Panama City Beach, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!