You'll find the Tiki Docks in Boca Ciega Bay at the end of the Broadwater Channel leading to Maximo Moorings just north of the Maximo Park Boat Ramp. Coming under the first bridge to Tierra Verde (from the Skyway Channel) hug the coastline and head up the first channel. When you get to Maximo Marina you'll see a couple of channels to the right before the covered docks. Take the first one for the Suncoast Kingfish Classic weigh in, and the second to tie up for the Tiki Docks Skyway Bar and Grill.
There are about 10 spots for patrons to tie up, on slip from the first channel, 3 slips at the end of the second channel and depending on the size of the boats about 5 or 7 spots just as you enter the second channel to the right. When I visited there were plenty of spaces at each spot so I just tied up at one of the three slips closest to the restaurant. If the floating docks aren't brand new they're close and very well maintained, so much so and so protected you may decide you won't even need the fenders!
There are two bars and I started by trying my luck at the first. Unfortunately the bartender's time was divided between the patio tables and the patrons at the bar, and both were loaded, so I found it difficult to get difficult to get a second beer or menu so when I got his attention again I cashed out and moved to the outside dining area. That made all the difference in the world as the service, and my waitress Kelly, was fast, polite and attentive.
From this patrons perspective they hit a home run with the decor as the atmosphere is perfect for a casual bite and a few cocktails. They've done a great job making sure that there's plenty of shade and you can't go very far without running into a fan so it was very comfortable even on this mid-afternoon on a hot sunny Florida day! The pet friendly patio area has entertainment on the weekends and this day was exactly what one would expect with an acoustic guitar strumming the standard Buffett/beachy tunes.
On this visit I stuck with my go to, blackened grouper sandwich, as it's easy to compare against other restaurants and it's also a favorite of so many others.The grouper seemed to be average sized (maybe 6oz) of light flaky white fish, done well and lightly seasoned. It was served on a "boat roll". As you can see from the pics the roll overwhelmed the fish and about half had to be discarded. Though the bread was freshly baked I'd suggest a different roll for this sandwich or increase the filet size, along with the price, (this would get my vote and really set the sandwich apart from competitors).
On our next visit I'll definitely give a couple appetizers a go (oysters, fish spread, crab cakes) and have my wife along to try a few of the their signature cocktails and frozen drinks. Overall it was a very enjoyable visit and it's great to have this option in South St. Pete. It definitely should be a go to for any boaters in the area particularly as the Gulfport docks are in disrepair and I'm looking forward to seeing many of you at the Suncoast Kingfish Classic!
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING
“Great service, great food, and great drinks. Everything is fairly priced, not overpriced like some touristy spots can be”
Dap
“All I can say is WOW. This place rocked. My husband had the fish and chips the fish was thick and bigger than the tray itself...”
Michaele
“Fresh fish and good vibes. Stopped in for lunch. Sat on the railing overlooking the marina. ”
Blake
“Food was really great. Loved the coconut shrimp with orange marmalade . The shrimp were HUGE.”
Jonne