Sail In, Grab a Table

Not at all! We welcome boaters on a first-come, first-served basis. Our dock slips are available throughout the day during business hours, and most guests find it easy to tie up and walk right in. There’s no dress code or special process for arriving by boat—just approach slowly, tie off at an open slip, and head to the host stand. If you’re planning to visit during a busy weekend or holiday, it’s a good idea to call ahead and inquire about dock availability; however, reservations aren’t required. We monitor traffic and work hard to accommodate boaters quickly and safely. Whether you're planning to dine in or pick up takeout, you’ll enjoy fast, friendly service. If you’d prefer curbside-style service, simply let us know when ordering, and we’ll bring your food out to you. Easy, relaxed, and perfect for spontaneous lake day cravings.

Our dock is built to accommodate a variety of vessels commonly found on Lake Tarpon, including pontoons, center consoles, deck boats, small cruisers, and even personal watercraft. We have multiple slips available and can guide you to the best spot depending on your boat size and the current water level. For larger boats or if you’re bringing a group, we recommend calling ahead so we can make sure space is available. Our dock is stable, well-maintained, and located directly in front of the restaurant, making it easy to step ashore and grab a table. Please approach slowly, especially during busy hours or windy conditions, and tie off securely using the cleats provided. If you’re unsure about the space, give us a quick call—we’ll do our best to assist you. Whether you’re a weekend boater or a daily lake cruiser, you’re always welcome here.

Yes! We’re happy to offer full takeout service for boaters who’d rather dine onboard or are on a tight schedule. Just call in your order, let us know you’re arriving by boat, and we’ll have it ready for pickup at your preferred time. When you arrive, give us a call from the dock, and we’ll bring your food out to you—no need to come ashore if you’d rather stay on deck. We pack every order fresh and include utensils, napkins, condiments, and any other essentials you may need to enjoy your meal on the water. Many of our most popular items are suitable for travel, including burgers, wraps, fries, salads, and seafood platters. Whether you're hosting guests on board or wrapping up a lake cruise with a bite to go, our takeout makes it easy. Great food, no hassle—that’s the Tarpon Turtle way.

Tarpon Turtle is located on the eastern shore of Lake Tarpon, and is clearly marked on most marine and GPS navigation systems. If you’re new to the area or unfamiliar with the lake, just look for the signature dock with restaurant signage and waterfront seating area—it’s easy to spot from the main boating channels. We’re situated in a calm cove, making docking safe and easy. For detailed directions, refer to your chart plotter or use Google Maps, set to “Tarpon Turtle Waterfront Grill & Marina.” If you’re ever unsure while on the water, feel free to call us, and we’ll guide you in. Once you see the restaurant and dock, approach slowly and tie up at an available slip. The host stand is directly up the path from the dock. Clear, calm, and convenient—we make finding your way to a great meal simple.

Our dock is designed for short-term guest use only, typically while you’re dining at the restaurant or picking up takeout. At this time, we don’t allow overnight mooring or unattended boat parking. This helps us ensure enough space is always available for guests arriving throughout the day. If you’re hosting a longer gathering or celebrating a special event, we can sometimes extend docking windows—just call ahead to discuss availability. Leaving your boat while you walk downtown or run errands isn’t permitted, but if you need help coordinating transportation or planning your visit, we’re happy to assist. We ask all boaters to tie up responsibly, avoid blocking access to other vessels, and follow all posted safety signs. The goal is to maintain smooth and enjoyable dock access for everyone. Questions? Just ask—we’re always here to help fellow boaters feel welcome.