The Perfect View: Why Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill Is the Ultimate Spot for Port Canaveral’s 3rd of July Fireworks

As Port Canaveral prepares to light up the sky with its annual 3rd of July fireworks celebration, locals and visitors alike are looking for the perfect place to enjoy the show.

While the Exploration Tower Lawn will be buzzing with energy from food trucks, music, and family-friendly activities, just around the corner sits one of the best-kept secrets for a front-row view and a whole experience — Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill.

Located directly on the waterfront at 610 Glen Cheek Drive, Fishlips offers more than just a meal. With panoramic views of the port, a lively yet laid-back atmosphere, and a menu stacked with fresh seafood and signature cocktails, it’s become a favorite gathering place for locals looking to soak up the Florida summer.

What makes Fishlips stand out during events like this? It’s the upstairs tiki deck — a breezy perch above the marina where you can relax with a drink, listen to live music, and watch the boats come and go. From here, the fireworks over the port are unobstructed, making it one of the most scenic and comfortable vantage points in town.

Downstairs, families can enjoy a casual dining space and a full-service menu featuring a variety of options, including coconut shrimp, ahi tuna, burgers, and flatbreads. Whether you’re starting the evening with dinner or showing up just in time for the fireworks, the service is fast, the portions are generous, and the setting is hard to beat.

This year’s event runs from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, with fireworks set to begin after dark. Admission is free and parking is $15 at the Exploration Tower Lawn, located at 670 Dave Nisbet Drive. The celebration includes a touch-a-truck zone, live music, food trucks, and plenty of activities for all ages — making it a full evening of fun.

If you’re planning to attend, consider making Fishlips your home base for the night. It’s walkable from the main event area and offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and unbeatable views. Just be sure to arrive early — tables on the deck fill up fast, especially on fireworks night.