Nokomo’s Sunset Hut
Nokomo’s Sunset Hut
📍690 S Tamiami Trail, Nokomis, FL, 34275
📞 (941) 488-1324
Known for laid-back tiki vibes, waterfront views, and island-inspired eats, Nokomo’s is where coconut shrimp and tropical cocktails come with a killer sunset.
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Nokomo’s Sunset Hut
What makes a restaurant truly special? Is it just the food, or is there something more magical that happens when great cuisine meets the perfect setting? At Nokomo’s Sunset Hut in nearby Nokomis, you’ll discover that some of the best Venice Florida restaurants aren’t actually in Venice at all—they’re just a short drive away, waiting to surprise you with an unforgettable waterfront dining experience.
Nestled along the scenic Dona Bay at 690 S Tamiami Trail, this tiki hut paradise has become a beloved destination for both locals seeking their regular escape and visitors hunting for that perfect Florida dining memory. With its unique Caribbean-inspired menu, breathtaking sunset views, and the rare charm of being accessible by both car and boat, Nokomo’s offers something you simply can’t find at typical Venice Florida restaurants.
A Tropical Escape in Your Backyard
Nokomo’s Sunset Hut isn’t your average restaurant—it’s a waterfront sanctuary where time seems to slow down the moment you arrive. The moment you step onto the property, you’re greeted by the sight of swaying palm trees, weathered wood decking, and the gentle lapping of bay waters against the restored dock.
The restaurant’s tiki hut design creates an authentic island atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling Tamiami Trail just beyond the parking lot. Open-air seating allows diners to fully immerse themselves in the coastal environment, where every table offers water views and the promise of spectacular sunsets.
What sets this waterfront dining Venice experience apart is its accessibility by boat. The restaurant proudly advertises that their dock has been repaired, welcoming boaters with waypoint coordinates (N27 07.055, W82 27.040) and clear instructions to follow the buoys past Snake Island.
This dual accessibility creates a unique mix of diners—families arriving by car mingles with sun-kissed boaters who’ve made Nokomo’s their destination for the day.
The Caribbean-inspired menu reflects the restaurant’s tropical ambiance perfectly. Signature dishes include fresh lobster rolls, perfectly seared ahi tuna, and creative takes on traditional seafood favorites. Daily specials keep the menu exciting for regular visitors, while handcrafted cocktails—including their famous Bloody Mary—provide the perfect complement to both the food and the setting.
Why Locals Can’t Stay Away
For residents of Venice and the surrounding areas, Nokomo’s has earned its place as more than just a restaurant—it’s become a community gathering spot where familiar faces meet regularly to unwind and reconnect.
“The consistency is what keeps me coming back,” explains longtime local patron Maria Rodriguez in her recent review. “Whether I’m bringing out-of-town guests or just need to decompress after a long week, I know Nokomo’s will deliver the same quality experience every time.”
This reliability extends beyond just the food. Locals appreciate that Nokomo’s maintains its authentic character without falling into tourist trap territory. The daily live music schedule features talented local musicians who create the perfect background ambiance without overwhelming conversation.
The 2PM-4PM Happy Hour has become a beloved tradition for many residents, offering both value and a chance to catch up with neighbors.
The restaurant’s recent recognition as a top 10 best seafood restaurant in Nokomis by Restaurant Guru, along with their “Best Service” award for 2025, reflects what locals have known for years—this isn’t just good food, it’s a complete experience delivered with genuine hospitality.
Local boaters particularly treasure Nokomo’s as their go-to destination for day trips on the water. The easy gulf access and protected dock space make it an ideal lunch or dinner stop during weekend adventures, while the restaurant’s location provides a perfect excuse to explore Dona Bay’s scenic waterways.
A Visitor’s Dream Destination
For tourists exploring Venice Florida restaurants, Nokomo’s Sunset Hut offers something that beachfront hotel dining rooms simply cannot match—an authentic local experience that captures the true spirit of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The sunset views alone make this waterfront dining Venice experience worth the short drive from downtown Venice. As the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples that reflect off Dona Bay’s calm waters. Diners often find themselves pausing mid-conversation to capture photos, but the real magic happens when you put the phone down and simply absorb the moment.
Visitor reviews consistently highlight the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere that makes Nokomo’s feel like a discovery rather than a tourist destination. “We stumbled upon this place on our last day in Venice and wished we’d found it sooner,” writes TripAdvisor reviewer Janet from Ohio. “The staff treated us like regulars, the food was outstanding, and watching the sunset from our table was pure magic. It’s the kind of place you tell all your friends about.”
The restaurant’s “get here fast and then take it slow” motto perfectly captures what many visitors seek during their Florida vacation—a chance to truly relax and savor the moment. Unlike rushed beachfront establishments catering to crowds, Nokomo’s encourages lingering over dinner as live music drifts across the water and pelicans glide past in the fading light.
What Diners Are Really Saying
The reviews for Nokomo’s paint a picture of consistent excellence that spans everything from food quality to service. Recent Google reviews reveal why this spot has maintained its stellar reputation:
“Absolutely phenomenal experience,” raves local diner Tom S. “The lobster roll was incredible—fresh, generous portions, and perfectly prepared. But what really impressed me was how the staff made sure we had the best table for the sunset. That attention to detail is rare these days.”
The positive feedback extends to the restaurant’s handling of busy periods. Despite not taking reservations, guests consistently report reasonable wait times and staff who keep everyone informed. “They don’t take reservations, but the wait was worth it,” notes visitor review from Amanda K. “The host was honest about timing and suggested we grab drinks at the bar while we waited. The bartender was fantastic and made the wait feel like part of the experience.”
Even critical reviews tend to focus on minor issues like occasional busy periods during peak sunset times, which most diners acknowledge comes with the territory of such a popular spot. The restaurant’s management appears responsive to feedback, with many follow-up reviews noting improvements or clarifications from staff.
The consistency of praise for both food and atmosphere suggests that Nokomo’s has found that sweet spot of maintaining quality while scaling to meet demand—a challenge that many waterfront restaurants struggle with.
Your Next Florida Food Adventure Awaits
Nokomo’s Sunset Hut represents everything that makes Venice Florida restaurants special—fresh seafood, stunning water views, and that indefinable Florida charm that turns a simple dinner into a cherished memory. Whether you’re a local looking for your new regular spot or a visitor seeking an authentic Gulf Coast experience, this waterfront dining Venice gem delivers on every level.
The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11am to 10pm, Friday and Saturday until 11pm, and Sunday until 10pm, with kitchen service available throughout operating hours. Their daily happy hour from 2PM to 4PM offers excellent value for those looking to experience the magic without the dinner crowd.
Ready to discover what makes Nokomo’s Sunset Hut so special? Grab your appetite, bring your camera for those sunset shots, and prepare to understand why locals and visitors alike consider this one of the must-visit Venice Florida restaurants. Have you been to Nokomo’s, or do you have other favorite waterfront dining spots in the Venice area? Share your experiences and help fellow food lovers discover their next favorite restaurant!
Welcome to Your Next Culinary Discovery!
This restaurant in Venice, Florida, is a local dining gem just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for your next favorite flavor or a traveler eager to taste the heart of Venice, this spot offers an undeniable charm.
While we don’t yet have all the details about their specialties or ambiance, you can be the first to uncover what makes this eatery unique! After your visit, why not share your experience and leave a review to help others discover this hidden treasure?
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