Phuzzy’s Waterside (Formerly Woody’s Waterside) — Saint James City Waterfront Dining with Coastal Character

Phuzzy’s Waterside is a beloved waterfront restaurant and social hub in Saint James City, known for its scenic location on the Cayo Costa Channel, fresh seafood, relaxed island vibe, and spectacular sunset views over Pine Island Sound. Formerly known as Woody’s Waterside, this long-time Cape Coral and Pine Island Sound favorite has evolved under new ownership and a refreshed identity while preserving the island charm that locals and boaters love.

After Hurricane Ian caused widespread damage in 2022 — impacting waterfront businesses across Southwest Florida — Woody’s Waterside rebuilt and reopened. Later, the venue was sold and relaunched as Phuzzy’s Waterside, bringing a renewed energy to the Saint James City dining scene with many of the same elements that made the original so popular.

A Waterfront Tradition with a New Chapter

Before the transformation, Woody’s Waterside had earned a reputation for its casual, friendly atmosphere and fresh coastal fare:

  • Gulf seafood favorites, from grilled fish and shrimp baskets to oysters and fish tacos

  • Comfort food and island classics

  • Cold drinks and specialty cocktails enjoyed with scenic water views

  • Outdoor seating and breezy patio areas perfect for sunset dinners

  • Dockside access for boaters cruising Pine Island Sound

Under new ownership and with its new name, Phuzzy’s Waterside continues much of that tradition, maintaining its waterfront appeal while adding fresh touches to menus, service, and community engagement.

Phuzzy’s aims to be both a local favorite and a destination for visitors — offering a casual but vibrant setting to enjoy everything from lunch after a day on the water to sunset cocktails with friends.

Dining with a View

One of the signature attractions of Phuzzy’s Waterside is its location right on the water, giving guests panoramic views of the Cayo Costa Channel and Pine Island Sound beyond. Patrons often arrive early to catch the colorful sky as the sun descends over the water, turning the horizon into shades of orange, pink, and gold.

The restaurant’s outdoor patio and deck space make it easy to enjoy:

  • Water views while dining

  • Fresh breezes and island atmosphere

  • Passing boats and wildlife activity

  • Social gatherings with friends and family

The setting feels quintessentially Southwest Florida — where coastal cuisine and scenery blend effortlessly.

Boater-Friendly & Waterfront Access

Phuzzy’s Waterside remains a favorite among boaters navigating Pine Island Sound and the backwaters of Saint James City. With dockside access and easy approach via the Cayo Costa Channel, it’s common to see personal watercraft and small boats stopping in for meals, drinks, or a break from cruising.

Boaters planning a stop here can enjoy:

  • Easy water access to docks and tie-ups

  • Quick transition from water to dining

  • Scenic views of the bay while eating or socializing

Whether arriving by boat or car, the pull of water views and coastal flavor is part of why Phuzzy’s holds such a special place in the local restaurant scene.

Hurricane Ian, Rebirth, and Resilience

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, many waterfront businesses faced significant challenges. Woody’s Waterside sustained damage, prompting a period of rebuilding and restoration. Rather than fading away, the venue emerged refreshed, ultimately leading to its sale and rebirth as Phuzzy’s Waterside.

The transition reflects the resilience of Saint James City and Pine Island Sound’s coastal community — a place where locals and visitors alike continue to gather, rebuild, and celebrate life beside the water.

Location & Contact

Phuzzy’s Waterside
📍 4093 Sanibel-Captiva Road
Saint James City, FL 33956
📞 (239) 283-7668

This address places Phuzzy’s just south of the heart of Saint James City, overlooking the Cayo Costa Channel where the waterway flows into Pine Island Sound.

Marine Coordinates

For boaters navigating the backwaters or planning a waterside stop:

📍 26° 35.800′ N | 82° 07.900′ W

These coordinates place you in the vicinity of the restaurant’s waterfront, making it easy to orient yourself by GPS when cruising from Saint James City, Matlacha, or Pine Island.

What to Expect Today

While the name and ownership have changed, many of the elements that made Woody’s Waterside beloved remain at the heart of Phuzzy’s Waterside:

  • Waterfront dining with sunset views

  • Fresh seafood and island-inspired dishes

  • Casual outdoor atmosphere

  • Boater friendly access and dockside ambiance

  • Cold drinks and Gulf breezes

The new chapter as Phuzzy’s Waterside honors the past while offering a refreshed experience for today’s visitors.