Few things are more relaxing than a day spent lying on the beach, whether it’s a summer day trip or a midwinter getaway. And while there’s something to be said for packing a picnic to enjoy on in the sand, sometimes you want to eat, drink, and take in the sun without doing any of the work—or keeping an eye on the encroaching tide.
Luckily, there’s no shortage of beachside restaurants where one can drink or dine while listening to the waves lap against the shore or glimpsing a once-in-a-lifetime sunset. Better yet, some of these splendid spots will let you leave dry land behind by dining perched above the ocean itself.
So whether you daydream about sipping a daiquiri on the sand or eating seafood by the shore, here’s a global view of some of the world’s best beachside and waterfront restaurants. From Italy to India and from Saint Bart’s to the Seychelles, you’re sure to find a hidden gem, no matter your plans or your palate.
