Hurricane Helene has claimed more than just homes; it has also impacted beloved businesses along the coast, including Woody’s Waterfront restaurant in St. Pete Beach, Florida. After serving the community for 35 years, this iconic eatery has been forced to close its doors permanently due to the extensive damage sustained during the storm in October 2024.
Woody’s Waterfront, a St. Pete Beach landmark, has been a family-run business since 1988. Roxene Riles, who grew up with the restaurant since she was 13, and her sister made the difficult decision to sell the property after assessing the overwhelming damage. The storm surge from Hurricane Helene flooded the restaurant with over five feet of water, devastating the interior, including the kitchen, furniture, and windows.
“It was shock at first, but we’ve gotten used to it slowly. It’s sad,” Riles shared, reflecting on the emotional toll of closing the family business. Despite efforts to obtain estimates and explore rebuilding options over the past four months, the financial burden and new building regulations proved insurmountable. Riles explained that new codes would require them to rebuild on the second story, fundamentally changing the character of Woody’s Waterfront.
The impact of Woody’s Waterfront’s closure extends beyond the owners. The restaurant, known for its casual atmosphere and waterfront views, held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Riles recounted personal milestones celebrated at Woody’s, “I got engaged here. I met my husband here. You know, my children were here.” The restaurant even received a shout-out on “Live with Kelly and Mark,” highlighting its broader recognition.
While the interior was largely destroyed, some remnants of Woody’s history remain, including photos and Pittsburgh Steelers memorabilia—a nod to Riles’s hometown—that were positioned above the flood line. These pictures, capturing years of staff and family memories, serve as a poignant reminder of Woody’s legacy.
Looking ahead, Riles expressed hope for the future of the location, stating, “We figured it just was time for somebody else to go ahead and have fun here and make it their own.” The majority of Woody’s 23 employees have reportedly found new employment. The closure of Woody’s Waterfront marks the end of an era for St. Pete Beach, leaving behind cherished memories and a vacant spot on the waterfront.
