Restaurante Costa Marina (Marina de Salinas, end of Carr. 701, Playa Ward, 787/824-3185, Sun.–Thurs. noon–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. noon–11 p.m., $10–31.95) is a tastefully decorated, nautical-themed restaurant with round porthole windows overlooking the marina. The extensive menu serves mostly seafood, including whole snapper and lobster. It also serves steaks and traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.
Ladi’s (A-86 Calle Principal, Carr. 701, 787/824-2035, Tues.–Fri. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., $8–29), an institution for 54 years, is a huge, elegantly casual open-air restaurant just feet from the water. The menu features traditional Puerto Rican cuisine specializing in seafood, including paella, whole snapper, and mofongo. The tostones are some of the best on the island. Ask for the accompanying sauce, a thin, spicy garlic tomato sauce. It’s a much better and more traditional option than the Thousand Island dressing most restaurants serve nowadays. Ladi’s offers excellent service and a full bar.
El Balcon del Capitan (A-54 Calle Principal, Carr. 701, 787/824-6210, daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m., $9–27) is a small casual waterfront restaurant. Seated on plastic patio furniture, dine on the large selection of empanadillas, stuffed with everything from lobster and beef to octopus and shrimp. Other specialties include lobster and paella. It’s very popular among families with young children.