Aside from the sunny days, warm temperatures, and the beauty of our white sand beaches framing the emerald waters of the Gulf, life in Fort Walton Beach is pretty much like the one you live wherever you hail from—except for the food! We’ve traveled the world, and whenever we try seafood anywhere else but right here in the panhandle, we return disappointed and unsatisfied. Once you taste the sweet treats from the sea offered by AJ’s Oyster Shanty, you’ll understand exactly what we are saying! Open every day of the week from 11 AM until 11 PM and offering live entertainment, the Shanty is an experience you won’t ever forget!
AJ’s Oyster Shanty –
Located at 108 Santa Rosa Boulevard
The sprawling wood structure that houses AJ’s Oyster Shanty in Fort Walton Beach can be seen from just about anywhere on the island, and while it doesn’t exactly have Gulf views, the scent of the sea and the kiss of Gulf breezes will remind you that you only have to cross the road to catch a glimpse. Located on Okaloosa Island, the large patio area strung with lights offers a sweet spot to relax and recharge over a great meal. Inside, wood floors lead the way to colorful chairs and bar stools that are comfortable and inviting. The waitstaff offers impeccable service and a friendly vibe that is representative of the Fort Walton Beach lifestyle, while prices are reasonable and fit into vacation budgets of all sizes.
Time spent at AJ’s Oyster Shanty promises to be memorable no matter who you arrive to dine with. That’s mostly because this eatery is known and loved for its vibrant vibe and laid-back atmosphere that makes it a fan-favorite stop amongst locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a full-fledged and satisfying meal or you’re just dropping by for starters and cocktails with friends, it’s a place that often finds guests lingering longer than they planned in the name of flavor and fun! Don’t be surprised if after a visit, you find yourself looking for places to pencil in a return meal elsewhere on your packed itinerary.
The Menu
Surprise! The menu at AJ’s is primarily filled with seafood, but there are a few chicken and beef dishes for the landlubbers in your group. Featuring the oysters for which they are named, the menu offers sandwiches that include a delicious Philly cheese steak, lunch specials with fried seafood, coleslaw, fries, and hushpuppies, and even burgers and steaks! Enjoy a seafood po’ boy with a cold beer as you listen to a local band play their hearts out; as the sun sinks into the sea, you’ll know life just doesn’t get any better than this! Also offering a late night menu with more delicious goodies that include crawfish dip, fried pickles, and our personal favorite shrimp spring rolls, it’s their children’s menu that grabs the hearts of parents from all over the world. Offering more than chicken tenders and burgers, your child will actually get to choose from nine different menu items! The fish toes will make them giggle, but don’t worry; this seafood dish tastes so good there won’t be any trouble getting them to clean their plates!
Places to Check Out Nearby
A few signs of a great eatery include fantastic flavor and entertainment infused into the experience. While AJ’s Oyster Shanty has plenty of both to offer up in abundance, dining here also comes with the added benefit of finding yourself close to some fun landmarks and activities to enjoy when dinner is done. Just across the way, Ross Marler Park provides the perfect place to enjoy an evening stroll complete with tropical surroundings and if you time things just right, an amazing sunset to match. Of course, if you’re looking for a more guided after-dinner experience, Crab Island Watersports isn’t far away either. This company specializes in boat rentals headed to Crab Island but can also accommodate requests for specialized sunset cruises if you’re up for an evening to remember. Sail into some spectacular moments and make sure you have your camera ready to capture it all. There’s always a chance that a dolphin or two might be spotted along the way.
If you’re willing to go a bit further after dinner, taking an evening walk along the Okaloosa Fishing Pier is always worth your while. This iconic landmark stretches out over beautiful blue waves and provides an unsurpassed panoramic view that’s sure to inspire. In the evenings, you can also walk along the beach that runs underneath the pier and watch lingering surfers make the most of any waves that might be around. It’s a great place to watch the stars emerge and just as fun when you’re looking to mix and mingle with others who have the same idea of how best to spend a Fort Walton Beach evening. Between the fresh air, sensational skies, and warm weather, it might just be the highlight of your stay.
Walk Back Home
Oh, did we forget to mention that AJ’s Oyster Shanty is within walking distance of your condo from The Breakers of Fort Walton Beach? Walk off the fried oysters and beer and enjoy the cool night air, then sit out on the balcony and listen to the music of the night as you contemplate yet another perfect day in paradise! Book our resort rentals today!
