Spending quality time with the family on your pontoon or deck boat is about as good as it gets. Toss in a gorgeous day of bright sunshine and you’ve taken it to another level. Now add some fresh seafood or other lakeside favorites from a waterfront restaurant and you may have what some would consider the perfect day.

Docking your boat to go into a restaurant for lunch, dinner or even just a snack is a great way to break up a day on the water. Chances are good you’re already familiar with places to eat when on your favorite body of water, but what if you’re looking for a new place to eat and relax this summer while exploring different lakes? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled some of our favorite “Dock N’ Dine” places to stop when out boating with help from our followers and readers as well as our own travel experiences.

Donnelly’s Dockside Restaurant

If you find yourself in Maryland this summer, Donnelly’s Dockside restaurant should be a stop on your bucket list. This neighborly family-owned restaurant is nestled in Arnold, Md., just off Chesapeake Bay. From lunch to dinner and Sunday buffet brunch, Donnelly’s serves a variety of southern seafood favorites such as hush puppies and crab cakes, but one of its best dishes is the blackened shrimp bowl with quinoa.

This restaurant has a chill atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to dine with friends and family and catch up or make memories. “They have great food, and sitting on the pier eating on a warm day is just pure bliss,” said Annika Macdonald, a local who stops by here as many times as she can when she’s out on the water. (www.donnellysdockside.com)

Cantler’s Riverside Inn

Travel down further in Maryland toward Annapolis and take a trip over to Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn. For nearly four decades, Cantler’s has served some of the freshest seafood, such as its beloved steamed blue crabs, to boaters and landlubbers alike. The restaurant is tucked away down the road of Forest Beach near the waters of Mill’s Creek and Martin’s Cove. Jimmy Cantler first bought this place in 1974 and turned it from a small waterman’s bar to a big family-favorite restaurant. They have tanks in the back filled with crabs big and small for you to personally choose the ones you want.

Joseph Jaco, a fan of Cantler’s, said, “I’ve been to this place with a friend. It’s right near the water and is filled with a fun atmosphere and great food every time.”

After a day out on the water, stop by Cantler’s and grab some of their crab soup, steamed PEI mussels, and a side of rockfish bites that will surely send you to seafood heaven. (www.cantlers.com)

Dockside Torch Lake

Should you travel to Michigan, make sure to stop by The Dockside by Torch Lake. Open every day from May through October, Dockside is a nice and relaxing place to enjoy the view of Torch Lake from their deck. You can dock your boat right next to the restaurant in their designated docking area. They specialize in many different American and Mexican cuisines. Whether it be sandwiches like the barbecue pork with caramelized onions and pretzel bun, or deli wraps or burgers galore, you will leave Dockside more satisfied than you could imagine. The signature Dockside burger comes with two patties, two slices of cheese and any toppings you desire. This is [PDB] Editor Brady Kay’s top recommended place to eat. Don’t have a boat yourself? It’s not a problem. Dockside Watersports rents pontoons and jet skis, so after the meal you can hit the water and spend the day in aqua bliss. (www.docksidetorchlake.com)

Mine Oyster

The Mine Oyster located in Maine gives a whole new meaning to Shakespeare’s words: “The world’s mine oyster/Which I with sword will open.” Inspired by these words, Mine Oyster is a two-story oyster bar by the Boothbay Harbor. No matter which floor you find yourself on, you have a breath-taking view of the ocean. The oyster bar serves the finest oysters that fishermen can find as well as a variety of sushi that’s hard to beat. If you love blue tuna, then you’ve come to the right place because Mine Oyster gets all their tuna freshly caught by Captain Mike Leighton, owner of Sweet Meat Tuna.

In addition to their seafood, they also own the harbor’s only wood-fired grill. Steaks, pizzas, and more are cooked over their oak embers. Besides the food, come to Mine’s for the live entertainment. They have bands all summer long such as Douglas Gimbel and Kenny Beck and the Destroyers. It’s a whole experience you won’t soon forget. (www.mineoyster.net)

Captain Ron’s Bar and Grill

Traveling to the Midwest, make sure to take a stopover to the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri and visit Captain Ron’s Bar and Grill. Opened in 2006 and remodeled 2008, Captain Ron’s gives you the best of the Lake of the Ozarks imaginable. Dock right up next to the beach and have fun with the whole family. They have a tiki bar, live entertainment, and of course the famous Lake of the Ozark Shootout. It is the largest unsanctioned boat race to be found in the US, and it’s a definite must-see. Afterward, dig in deep into one of their signature dishes like the Local Missouri Beef Ribeye. They serve sandwiches, seafood, pizza, even burritos, so there are plenty of options to enjoy. Come on in and relax like a pirate at Captain Ron’s. (www.captainronsatthelake.com)

Rockefeller’s Restaurant

Take a stop at Virginia Beach, Va., and dine at the family-owned and operated Rockefeller’s Restaurant. Opened in 1989, Rockefeller’s has had the goal to provide customers with the freshest seafood with wonderful service and continues striving toward that goal each day. Some of their staff have worked there for over 10 years, so you know when the staff is happy the customers will be too. Rockefeller’s sells only the freshest sustainable seafood around. Their famous jumbo shrimp crab cakes and Oyster Rockafellers are absolutely to die for. Come for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch and stay for the relaxing atmosphere with a gorgeous view. Rockefeller’s doesn’t only serve great food, but they also strive to serve their communities and local schools. They donate each year to groups that work hard to keep ocean life full such as Save Oyster Shells (SOS) and Sustainable Seafood at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. Dine here knowing you’ll leave satisfied. (www.rockafellers.com)

Diamond’s Edge Restaurant & Marina

Whether you live in Maine or are vacationing, you should plan to stop by the Diamond’s Edge Restaurant & Marina. Located off Great Diamond Island in Portland, Maine, Diamond’s Edge is not only a restaurant, but also has a 43-slip deep water marina, a market, a stay-in, and a place to hold weddings and events. The idyllic scenery makes docking and dining a life-changing experience.

Their menu features only the most artfully crafted New England favorites such as Maine lobster and crab ravioli. Enjoy a nice cocktail with their pollen dusted halibut, either in Diamond’s dining room, deck, or luscious green lawn and watch as the sun melts into the water. Then book a room in one of their lovely condominiums at Diamond’s Inn near Fort McKinley. No matter the occasion, Diamond’s Edge is a magical place. (www.diamondsedgerestaurantandmarina.com)

The Fish and Company

There’s another Lake of the Ozark stop you should consider when you travel to Missouri this summer, and that place is The Fish and Company. This brightly colored two-story building is sure to make the rest of your day out on the water shining and happy. Come and dock right up next to the outdoor porch that overlooks the sparkling waters with a backdrop of thick and beautiful green trees. Fish and Co. is a family-friendly restaurant filled with fun and live entertainment like Dale Blue, known as the Barefoot Entertainer.

Dine on their signature Hawaiian Explosion Mahi Mahi rice bowl covered in pineapple salsa, or try their Original Fish Co reuben that is truly a pleasure. They have salads, pizzas, burgers, wraps and more, guaranteed to fulfill your appetite’s delights. (www.thefishandcompany.com)

Thirsty Turtle (Green Turtle Bay)

If you’re looking for a casual evening out near the water, then drop by the Thirsty Turtle in Kentucky. The Turtle is located near the Cumberland River by Double Creek and is surrounded by luscious trees and foliage, giving it that backyard paradise feel. The Turtle has both indoor and outdoor seating with a full-bar, beers, and specialty cocktails. It’s open all year round, but during the summer season they feature live entertainment from regional bands which always makes the good times better.

They have appetizers galore, specialty pizzas, sandwiches, and baskets. On your first visit you must try the Turtle Burger –it’s what burgers were meant to taste like and it’s what lures [PDB] Editor Brady Kay back to the area. A peaceful, fun day is just around the corner when you visit The Thirsty Turtle. (www.greenturtlebay.com)

Shugrue’s Restaurant and Bar

If you’re in the mood for some fancy fine dining, then Shugrue’s Restaurant and Bar is the place for you. Shugrue has been serving the public in Lake Havasu for over 30 years. Shugrue’s is known for their exquisite selection of wine, beers, and cocktails. They offer a fashionable yet casual atmosphere in which you can enjoy mouth-watering seafood and hand cut steaks. You definitely get a meal worth its price here, such as their fresh Alaskan King Crab legs or their Creamy Garlic Scallops.

They serve salads, southern favorites, seafood delights, and happy hour specials. There are meals here to satisfy anyone’s preferences. Shugrue’s also offers many catering, wedding, and custom bakery options making it an all-around wonderful experience with memories that last forever. (www.shugrueslakehavasu.com)

Wolfies at Geist

Geist Reservoir in Indiana is home to one of the original Wolfies, an iconic destination with northern woods feels overlooking a spectacular lakeside view. Scott and Nyla Wolf wanted to give lovers of nature, sports, and food a fun and relaxing place to dine. They have live music, a raw bar, and more to delight in the day out of Geist Reservoir.

One of the things that make going to Wolfies such a treat is their welcoming spirit to any and all travelers. Our PDB Shootout Boat test has been held on Geist Reservoir the last couple of years and Wolfies is one of the main reasons why. When you come to Wolfies try their specialties such as the Baja Shrimp Tacos or The Wolfpack Patty Melt, followed by their Captain Runner’s cocktail. Whether it’s seafood, burgers, or drinks, you’ll leave Wolfies happy. (www.wolfiesgrill.com)

Windmill Cove Bar and Grill

When in northern California, add the Windmill Cove Bar and Grill to your must-stop list. “They have the best entertainment, bands, and food,” said Toni Hiatt, another one of our readers. The Windmill Cove is located in San Joaquin in the California Delta. They double up as a RV park and campground along with the restaurant. Take a seat on their dock overlooking the peaceful river and dive into one of their many delicious cuisines. (www.windmillcove.com)

Turtle Beach Bar

Let’s not forget those wonderful places that are located across the country. The first, located in Lake Havasu, Ariz., is The Turtle Beach Bar, known as “the Hottest Bar on the Lake.” Come and dine with your toes buried in the sand at one of the best beach bars on the lake. You can choose to dine cooling off in their signature grass hut bar or grab a table on the beach. Either way, you’ll end the day relaxed and incredibly happy.

They are famous for their 64-ounce Turtle Bucket drink, but also provide a variety of delicious and creative drinks and cocktails, on their famous “Bucket List” menu. Come for the food at this idyllic island paradise. The Turtle Beach Bar is the best place to unwind with the people you love the most. (www.nauticalbeachfrontresort.com)

Flippin Cow

While in northern Indiana, drive and dive into the Flippin’ Cow in Elkhart. Flippin’ Cow has quite the history. It was built in 2000 as Robie’s then sold in 2002 and named the Lakeshore Grill, before then being renamed the Flippin’ Cow in 2012. This place has history and continually good food to this day.

Flippin’ is a cozy, family-friendly restaurant that’s nestled right up to the water’s edge of Simonton Lake. The owners Cam and Sue Snyder are all about that small town feel and have worked to create a lovely atmosphere in their restaurant and all of their food is made from scratch. They serve burgers, beers, and their signature milkshakes. When you stop by, try out their amazing Stella Moo burger with its smashed patty covered in smoked brisket and applewood bacon on toasted brioche bun. Whatever you order, you’ll have a flippin’ good time at the Flippin’ Cow. (www.flippincow.com)

Bear Bottom Resort

While out near Lake of the Ozark comes another restaurant that guarantees a ‘bear-y’ good time for the whole family. Bear Bottom Resort has been serving lake lovers for over 63 years! The main focus of this resort is clean, family-friendly fun. While swinging down a delicious cold drink at Da’Pub watch your favorite college and professional sports team. Your kids can spend the day at the game room or even Bear Bottoms water slides–the two longest open plume slides in Missouri.

Want to borrow some PWCs? No problem, they work with Boat and Waverunner rentals to get you where you want to go. Almost every weekend Bear’s has live music from regional and local bands. Let’s not forget their amazing food selection. One dish you have to try is their Bear Bottom Nachos; they are HUGE! Crispy corn chips covered in homemade chili, sour cream, melted cheese and diced tomatoes, this delicious meal will have you thinking, “This is how nachos are supposed to taste.” (www.bearbottomresort.com)

Rowena View Cafe

Another great place to dine in Kentucky is the Rowena View Cafe found in the Marina Rowena on Lake Cumberland. This place is four miles upstream from Wolf Creek Dam, and in one word can be described as breathtaking. What started with a fiery girl rowing passengers to and fro to places, known by locals as “Row Ena,” has blossomed into the bustling marina, ship store, boat slips, and restaurants that it is today.

The Cafe is family-friendly and offers inside and outside dining on a cooled deck with a menu that has a little something for everyone. They have traditional lake foods, hearty meals, and calorie sensitive options as well. Gena Zig Neumann, one of our readers, highly recommends “the Seafood Mac n’ Cheese with juicy shrimp and lobster and crunchy Old Bay seasoning.” (www.marinarowena.com)