Florida’s most anticipated 48 hours for seafood lovers is here a short, two-day window, July 30 & July 31, when divers and recreational fishers can legally catch spiny lobsters before the commercial season kicks off. Unlike Maine’s clawed lobster, Florida’s spiny lobsters are known for their long antennae, sweet meat, and the thrill of the catch.
What makes Mini Season so special is that it’s fast, festive, and community-driven: a short, high-energy event where locals and visitors alike get in the water to chase dinner with nets, tickle sticks, and dive lights.
With warm, shallow waters, thriving coral reefs, and abundant marine life, Florida waters offer ideal conditions for spotting and catching spiny lobsters. Whether you’re in it for the sport, the seafood, or the excuse to hit the coast, VISIT FLORIDA has rounded up the best areas for fishing and eating during mini lobster season. See more below!
From sun-up Lobster Benedicts at Blue Heaven in Key West to the legendary Lobster Reuben at Keys Fisheries in Marathon, local chefs across the island chain take this tail seriously. Whether grilled with garlic-lime butter, broiled and stuffed, or paired with island sides like Cuban black beans and yellow rice, Keys lobster is a masterclass in tropical indulgence.
Visit a local seafood market like Safe Harbor Seafood Market in Atlantic Beach or The Fisherman’s Dock in Jacksonville to pick up fresh spiny lobster tails. Whether you grill, broil, or sauté them, nothing beats a DIY seafood feast.
The Marker Key West Harbor Resort
For Florida’s mini lobster season, The Marker Key West Harbor Resort is the ideal destination for luxury, adventure and the freshest catch. Located near the Historic Key West Harbor, this modern waterfront oasis offers a peaceful retreat just steps from Duval Street, Mallory Square, and the best of Key West’s dining and entertainment. The Marker’s team can arrange premier charters, ensuring an unforgettable experience on the water. The hotel also recently launched a fishing page to assist travelers with tide tracking, weather and more.
Half Shell Raw Bar, Key West
The Half Shell Raw Bar offers a taste of old Key West you can’t experience anywhere else. As you head inside, you’ll notice the local fisherman unloading the day’s catch into the Half Shell’s Fish Market. Grab a seat at one of the wooden picnic tables or on a stool by the bar and get ready to enjoy the freshest seafood in Key West. If it’s oysters you’re after, you’ve come to the right place - order a dozen and watch as they’re shucked from the shell onto your plate.
Oyster River Rooftop, Bradenton
For the freshest lobster in Bradenton visit the Oyster River Rooftop Restaurant, perched atop the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa. This upscale dining offers a coastal-inspired menu that highlights fresh Florida fare with a Mediterranean twist. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its use of fresh, local seafood, ensuring an authentic taste of Florida's coastal cuisine.