Place · 0.3 mi away
Overview
A longtime Marathon staple at MM 48, Castaway is a casual, lively waterfront hangout with indoor tables, tiki‑covered patio seating, and a full bar pouring 32 beers on tap. The menu is broad—seafood, steaks, and an extensive sushi lineup—and they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week (breakfast runs until 2 pm). It’s been featured on Diners, Drive‑Ins and Dives, and the vibe is pure Keys: friendly, unfussy, and fun.
What to Eat
Sushi and fresh‑caught seafood are the headliners. If it’s available, the lionfish—done as sashimi, rolls, Benedicts, or “wreckdiver style”—is a house calling card. Other frequently praised picks include hogfish, lobster enchiladas, conch fritters, crab Benedict, tilefish, and a solid key lime pie for dessert. They’ll also cook your fresh catch on request. Pair it with a draft from the deep beer list or a cocktail from the bar.
Setting and Wildlife
The dockside tables are the move: late afternoon often brings manatees cruising past, and sunset paints the marina with warm light. Ask for an outdoor waterfront table if spotting wildlife (and soaking in the ambiance) is part of your plan.
Crowds, Reservations, and Pricing
This is a popular stop—expect long waits at peak dinner times and on weekends, especially during the January–April rush. Dinner reservations are accepted and recommended. Pricing is mid‑range ($), though some diners feel certain dishes can run high.
Hours and Happy Hour
Opens 11 am on weekdays and 10 am on weekends; closes around 9 pm daily. Breakfast is served daily until 2 pm. A daily happy hour is advertised in the afternoon (typically around 1–5 pm); confirm the exact window when you arrive or when booking.
Parking and Navigation
You’ll find it oceanside at the end of 15th St. Multiple small lots sit along the street and nearby, but they fill up at peak times—arrive a bit early if you’re set on waterfront seating.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekday lunch or an early dinner is the sweet spot for shorter waits.
- For atmosphere and photos, aim for golden hour before sunset—waterfront tables shine then and your odds of manatee sightings improve.
- On weekends, go right at opening (10–11 am) or book ahead for dinner.
Pros
- Waterfront seating with frequent manatee sightings
- Standout sushi and seafood, including signature lionfish dishes
Cons
- Peak dinner hours draw long waits; reservations advised
- Parking along 15th St can be tricky at busy times
Tips
- Book dinner, especially on weekends or in the Jan–Apr high season.
- Request an outdoor waterfront table for the best shot at manatees.
- Arrive early for parking; 15th St lots fill quickly at peak times.
- Breakfast runs until 2 pm; happy hour typically mid‑afternoon.
- Lionfish can sell out—ask about availability when you’re seated.
