Panacea, Florida

End of the Line

June 2025

The ideal situation for many traveling saltwater fly fishers is to spend a successful day tangling with game fish, then end the day on a deck overlooking the water, while enjoying camaraderie with fishing buddies, sipping a cold beverage and partaking of a hearty meal.

If you are fishing along Florida’s Gulf shore in the Forgotten Coast of Franklin and Wakulla counties, the village of Panacea has just that kind of situation. The town is named for the Greek goddess of health and healing. When it comes to taking care of your attitude, the town has just the cure.

The oddly-named Salty Donkey is located at Rock Landing in the village of Panacea near the Wakulla – Franklin County line. This waterfront restaurant and tiki bar delivers a tropical vibe with all the earlier mentioned amenities.

While it offers indoor dining, the thatch-roofed deck overlooking Rock Landing Marina harbor and Dickerson Bay beyond is a true attraction to the area. Exceptionally clean for an outdoor dining patio, all the tables provide panoramic views of the water. Additionally, the patio area is dog friendly, so bring Rover along and they will provide him a water bowl. Regardless of where you are seated, expect prompt and friendly service.

If you fancy starting your meal with a tropical cocktail, their Panacea Painkiller or Funky Monkey are good choices for rum aficionados. The menu at The Salty Donkey is varied, featuring plenty of seafood, but with other entrees as well. The grouper, scallops and shrimp all were good, and portions were sizable. It also is worth noting that the latest ratings from Yelp! place The Salty Donkey at the top of the list for Panacea area restaurants. 

If it’s not meal time and you just want a cold libation, the establishment’s bar is also located under their tiki roof. A rotating list of craft beers is featured, along with seasonal offerings, plus liquors and wines. Again, views of the water are great from the bar as well. While having your drink, you can also enjoy the live music presented several nights each week.

The Salty Donkey is open Wednesday through Sunday each week. Hours are 12 noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, the hours are noon until 10 p.m.

The next time you are on a fishing venture in the area from Carabelle to St. Marks, the drive to Panacea and The Salty Donkey is well worth the effort.

For more details check out their Facebook page.