Located at the Margaritaville Hotel in Pensacola, LandShark Landing is a Jimmy Buffett-themed bar and eatery right on the beach. Drinks are plentiful while the food is straightforward bar food — cheeseburgers, nachos, fried seafood and the like.
The atmosphere is what draws people to LandShark Landing. Brightly colored beach decor welcomes those looking to spend an afternoon living the Jimmy Buffett lifestyle or others who just want a tropical spot to chill for a bit.
You’ll find plenty of hammocks for lazing about and comfy beach chairs near the Margaritaville Hotel where you can enjoy bands or movies that are featured regularly. Be sure to check the events calendar as the schedule changes often. Misters cool things off in the summer; a fire pit keeps it toasty on cooler nights. Play cornhole, ping pong, or volleyball or let the kids romp around in a cordoned-off play area. This is a spot for fun, not high-end dining. The food mirrors the overall vibe of the place — laid back and easy. In fact, they don’t serve much that has to be eaten with a knife and fork.
Here are some of our favorites at LandShark Landing:
Fin’atic Tacos
Available in either fish or pork, these tantalizing tacos are served with pineapple-mango Pico de Gallo, cilantro sour cream and Asian slaw. Both are good, but we recommend the pork. It’s succulent and pairs nicely with the pico.
Crab Cake Sandwich
When you’re at the beach, you should take advantage of fresh seafood. The crab cake sandwich at LandShark Landing is a best bet for lunch or dinner. Sweet crab meat is gently tossed with veggies and seasonings, then pan fried and topped with sun-dried tomato aioli. What could be better?
Goombay Smash
If you’re looking for a boat drink, you’re in the right place. With enticing names like the Dixie Ice Pick and Incommunicado, you’ll want to try them all. Our fav is the Goombay Smash that’s made with spiced and coconut rums, apricot brandy and a couple of citrus juices. If the Caribbean were a drink, this would be it!
LandShark Landing at the Margaritaville Beach Hotel is a welcome respite from the daily grind. Spend a lazy afternoon letting the cool breezes cast your cares away while you enjoy a burger and a beer.
Insider Tip:
LandShark Landing is committed to protecting sea life. The establishment turns off its Gulf of Mexico facing lights at night so sea turtles can nest safely and the bar no longer serves drinks with plastic straws. Biodegradable paper straws are offered instead.