Inlet Beach is a popular area for vacationers and beachgoers, and the market for Inlet Beach real estate is especially hot these days. Part of the reason why people are flocking to the area is because of its supreme dining choices. Many of the area’s best establishments are located close to the shore, so stop by one of these five restaurants next time you build up an appetite after a day in the sun.

The name “shaka” comes from a Hawaiian word that means “to hang loose,” and that’s exactly what you’ll experience when you visit Shaka Sushi & Cocktail Bar. Located near the Shoppes at Inlet, this restaurant is known for their welcoming and positive vibes. The team of sushi chefs, led by head chef James Sargent, has worked together to create an excellent menu full of delicious sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, along with a premier selection of small plates and entréees. Each sushi roll is rolled fresh daily, and you’ll immediately taste the difference. Signature roll choices include the Double Red Flag, filled with smoked salmon and avocado, as well as The Pipeline, which features tuna, tempura, and aioli. The bar offers plenty of sake, wine, beer, and liquor options, and you can enjoy your meal inside or outside. The restaurant opens daily from 4 PM until 9 PM. Come before 6 PM to enjoy happy hour specials on drinks, sushi rolls, and small plates. Visit their website to see their full menu or to book a private event for ten or more guests. They have a special menu with gluten-free options in addition to a customer rewards program.

If you’ve ever visited Madrid or Barcelona, you’ve experienced the delicious flavors and unique passion of their popular tapas restaurants. La Crema | Tapas & Chocolate began with a similar goal in mind. Like Barcelona, Inlet Beach sits near the sea with a similar climate. Located near the Main Street courtyard, come by this restaurant to enjoy a dining experience that’s unique, relaxed, and delicious. Try the crab cakes or the Malaga shrimp during the main course, and make sure to save room for the chocolate fondue or La Crema Latte. General manager Andrew Preble is passionate about high-quality food, craft beer, and fine wine. There may be a wait when you visit, but the appetizer-style plates and excellent desserts will make the entire experience well worth it. La Crema | Tapas & Chocolate is open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily.

Unlike other fine-dining restaurants, Edward’s Fine Food & Wine encourages guests to dress casually. They want you to enjoy your meal in a relaxed environment, and they understand that you’re probably pairing your meal with a trip to the beach. They’re well-known for their excellent food choices, award-winning wine menu, and top-notch customer service. Popular dishes include the Simply Grilled Grouper, which is served with haricot verts and baby potatoes, and the pan-seared redfish with succotash and tomato. Kids of all ages are welcome, but make sure you arrive early if you have a large party because this restaurant doesn’t accept reservations. Edward’s Fine Food & Wine is open from 11 AM to 3 PM Wednesday through Sunday for lunch, and from 5 PM to 9 PM daily for dinner. On Fridays and Saturdays, the dining room and kitchen are open until 10 PM.

Lola Coastal Italian offers a wide selection of creative seasonal dishes, each designed by certified master chef Tom Catherall. His 50 years of experience are reflected in each of the delicious offerings you’ll enjoy. Experience full-service dining at the bar, or visit the cashier to request a table inside or outside. The cashiers have extensive knowledge of the menu and can help you decide on your meal choice and a wine to pair with it. Many guests choose the chicken parma or chicken piccata, while seafood lovers may find the jumbo lump crab cake or the Destin shrimp scampi especially appealing. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, but feel free to stop by after 5 PM on any day except Sunday.

Restaurant Paradis focuses on coastal cuisine and uses inspiration from various regions to craft each of their innovative dishes. Many of their dishes include fresh-caught gulf seafood and a unique twist on common ingredients. Top choices include the bacon, horseradish, and lobster-encrusted grouper, which is served with roasted red bell pepper beurre blanc, and the Gulf Coast snapper topped with a balsamic reduction and served with roasted vegetables. Since they value using locally-sourced ingredients in their dishes, specific selections may vary based on the season. Restaurant Paradis also produces their own sparkling and still waters in-house, where each is filtered to 0.5 microns. Visit their website to make a reservation.

With so many restaurants to choose from, you may find that a short visit to Inlet Beach doesn’t give you enough time to fully experience all that the area has to offer. If you’re looking to buy or sell property in the area, reach out to Hilary Farnum-Fasth and Jacob Watkins. Their vast knowledge of the Inlet Beach real estate market will be a tremendous asset throughout the entire process, and they love utilizing their proven negotiating skills to get the best deal for each of their clients. They would love to hear from you and answer any questions that you may have.