Pineapple Willy’s has become a Panama City Beach tradition. Tourists and locals alike have been coming here to enjoy great drinks and food in a friendly atmosphere on the beach for more than 30 years.
The atmosphere at Pineapple Willy’s is thoroughly family-friendly. Although, that doesn’t keep the joint from serving up some delicious adult beverages. Frozen daiquiris, iced mixed drinks, and local craft beers are all refreshing during hot afternoons or evenings on the beach.
On the food front, the seafood at Pineapple Willy’s is not to be overlooked. Oysters, clams, shrimp, calamari, and Mahi Mahi all come in po’ boys, baskets, sandwiches, salads, and dinners, and they’re all good. Most of the seafood is fried, but there are a number of blackened and grilled choices if you are trying to eat healthier.
Even with a focus on seafood, landlubbers who aren’t into seafood won’t be disappointed. A number of classic sandwiches and salads provide sufficient options, but the ribs are the real stand-out. Cooked to perfection and slathered in sauce, these are claimed to be the best ribs on the beach. They might just be the best ribs anywhere in the area.
Rounding out the food features is a selection of pies for dessert. The coconut cream and key lime slices at Pineapple Willy’s are especially good on the beach.
Regarding drinks, a variety of adult beverages complements non-alcoholic sodas and other choices. The frozen daiquiris, iced mixed drinks, and cold craft beers go well with any meal. Or by themselves, and are especially refreshing on hot days.
All of this is served up in a friendly atmosphere directly on the white sands of the beach. William Buskell (“Pineapple Willy”) made fun and friendliness a central tenet when he first opened in 1984. The staff continues to create a welcoming environment where everyone can have a great time. It’s especially great during live music events and anytime the sun’s out for a good beach day.
With finger-friendly foods, adult-friendly beverages, and a family-friendly atmosphere that’s right on the beach, Pineapple Willy’s is a place everyone can enjoy. Bring the kids, a date, or the grandparents, and have a good time.
A few of our menu favorites at Pineapple Willy’s include:
Pineapple Willy
This is the drink that made the restaurant famous. Hawaiian pineapple juice, cream of coconut, and a pair of rums are a classic that more than 70,000 people sip each year.
Coconut Cream Pie
Both the key lime and coconut cream pies are delicious treats. The coconut cream goes especially well with a Pineapple Willy, though.
Grilled Catch of the Day
Straight from the Gulf waters, the Grilled Catch of the Day is whatever was brought into the fishing piers. What you do know is that it’s going to be fresh and flavorful. Enjoying it grilled ensures you’ll be able to fully appreciate the taste of the fish.
Shrimp & Grits
How do you adapt a Southern tradition for beach eating? Infuse the grits with smoked gouda for extra flavor and pair them with shrimp. A heavier dish, but one that’s absolutely delicious.
World-Famous BBQ Ribs
Pineapple Willy’s World-Famous BBQ Ribs are slow-cooked for eight hours and basted with a house barbecue sauce that features Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. The result is excellent ribs in a beachside location where you wouldn’t expect to find such a great barbecue. All orders come with garlic toast, barbecue beans, and pineapple coleslaw, and over 1,000 pounds are served each day.
Insider Tips:
-Indoor seating is usually more readily available than outdoor seating, but it’s worth waiting to get a table on the pier. There’s nothing like feeling the breeze in your hair and smelling the saltwater, and you can order a drink while you wait.
-Not sure if the weather is nice enough for beach dining? Check out the restaurant’s live cam to see what the conditions look like before you go.
– Pineapple Willy’s has its own parking lot that can fit a medium-sized crowd.