It’s easy to work up a good appetite at the beach, but when hunger hits, an uninspired bag lunch can kill the vibe. Fortunately, some beachside spots are leveling up the snack game with quick, flavorful bites that go way beyond the basics. From handheld seafood delights to fresh, creative takes on beach-friendly fare, these local gems make it easy to eat well without missing a moment in the sun.

For over forty years, Sandbar Seafood + Spirits has been one of Anna Maria’s most beloved local landmarks. The iconic eatery recently underwent a renovation under the new ownership of Beachside Hospitality Group and added some exciting new amenities including Beachside Bites, a walk-up window for beachgoers and early risers. Open from 8am to 3pm, Beachside Bites offers a balanced mix of ready-to-go and made-to-order meals and snacks, including breakfast sandwiches, fresh pastries and sweets.

Justin Bloomquist owns Shark Tooth Concessions which has two locations, one on Nokomis Beach and one on the North Jetty and while you still get the friendly and efficient service you want from a walk-up beach place, the menu is anything but ordinary. “We go to different seminars with different chefs and we look at food trends,” Bloomquist says. “We don’t just sell what everyone else is selling.” As a result, you can expect the unexpected at Shark Tooth Concessions. A perfect example of this is the super-popular Chicken and Waffles dish featuring a pickle-brined chicken filet in a zesty breading paired within white pearl sugar waffles imported from Europe.

While some beach concession stands are independently owned, that’s not always the case. Siesta Beach is part of the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department, and the onsite concession stands are owned by the county who contract out the operations. Siesta Beach Eats is under the purview of Venice Pier Group, a restaurant group behind several local hotspots including Sharky’s on the Pier. “We still do the favorites that everyone loves like burgers, hot dogs and chicken tenders,” says Michael Gross, Venice Pier Group’s Director of Operations, “but we’ve also added things like blackened mahi sandwiches, grouper fingers and lobster rolls.”

Beachside Bites, 100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria, 941-778-0444, sandbardining.com. Shark Tooth Concessions, 208 Casey Key Road (Nokomis Beach) and 1000 South Casey Key Road (North Jetty), Nokomis, .sharktooth.biz. Siesta Beach Eats, 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key, siestabeacheats.com. SRQ