One of Florida's Most "Iconic" Waterfront Restaurants, In Business For 60 Years, Is For Sale

Photo bypointnshoot, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Floridians who enjoy fresh seafood don't have to look very far for a nice restaurant meal. There are popular options like Triad Seafood in Everglades City and Peace River Seafood in Punta Gorda, to name a few options.

But neither of the above has been in business for over 60 years or has been called "iconic."

Unfortunately, one beloved Florida restaurant in that category is up for sale.

About Whitey's Fish Camp: This joint opened in 1963 and is still family-owned and operated. In addition to selling fresh seafood in its restaurant, it offers boat rentals and a campground. It often features specials like all-you-can-eat catfish, and live music there is so popular that it was reportedly a favorite of Lynyrd Skynyrd lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant.

The Clay County Sheriff's Office had called Whitey's "iconic," and the restaurant has over 5,500 reviews on Google reviews at an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Fleming Island patrons rave about the views, the festive environment, and the fantastic food. A reviewer named David wrote, in part:

"Whitey's is a local favorite and for good reason. It has a ton of atmosphere whenever you want to go and enjoy a meal or just a night out. Live music on many weekends, and dining both inside or out on the water...And then, there is the food. The platter for two was huge, and everything was delicious. Especially enjoyed the shrimp and clam strips. Will be going back again (and again)."

Whitey's Is Reportedly For Sale: According to First Coast News, Whitey's is currently on the market for an undisclosed price. The owners would like to retire and hope that whoever buys will keep things the way that they are.

Co-owner Billy Ham told the station that it would be foolish for a buyer to try to change a business that is already successful, explaining:

"If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Obviously, this business is not broke. We've been here 60 years and we're thriving. If someone were to come in here and make a lot of changes, (that) would be almost foolish when a business is doing so well."

The author is not affiliated with Whitey's Fish Camp or any other restaurants.