The St. Pete Beach community is bidding farewell to a cherished institution, Woody’s Waterfront, as the iconic restaurant has announced its permanent closure after 35 years of operation. Hurricane Helene, which swept through the region in October 2024, inflicted damage that proved too extensive for the owners to overcome, leading to the difficult decision to sell the waterfront property.
A St. Pete Beach Staple Closes Its Doors After Three Decades
For over three decades, Woody’s Waterfront was more than just a restaurant; it was a cornerstone of St. Pete Beach. Generations of locals and tourists alike flocked to its welcoming doors to enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and breathtaking waterfront views. The news of its closure has sent ripples of sadness throughout the community, marking the end of an era for a place that held countless memories for so many.
Owned and operated by Roxene Riles and her sister, Woody’s Waterfront was a family affair from the start. Roxene was just 13 years old when her parents established the restaurant in 1988, and it has remained a significant part of her life ever since. The decision to close was clearly heart-wrenching, driven by the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene and the daunting financial realities of rebuilding in the face of stringent new regulations.
Hurricane Helene’s Devastating Blow and the Path to Closure
Hurricane Helene’s impact on Woody’s Waterfront was catastrophic. Nest cam footage captured the terrifying moment when floodwaters surged over the seawall, inundating the restaurant with over five feet of water. The force of the storm shattered windows, overturned furniture, and ravaged the kitchen, leaving behind a scene of utter destruction.
In the aftermath of the hurricane, Roxene and her sister faced the grim task of assessing the damage and exploring their options. For four months, they diligently worked with engineers and contractors, seeking estimates for the extensive repairs needed to bring Woody’s back to life. However, the financial burden of rebuilding, coupled with new building codes requiring elevated construction, proved to be insurmountable. The prospect of raising the restaurant to a second-story level fundamentally altered the character of Woody’s and contributed to the difficult decision to sell the land.
A Legacy of Memories and Community Connection
Despite the devastation, remnants of Woody’s vibrant history remain. Pictures and Steelers memorabilia, a nod to the owners’ Pittsburgh roots, survived above the flood line, offering a poignant reminder of happier times. The ceiling, once adorned with dozens of photos capturing staff and family memories over the years, stands as a testament to the restaurant’s rich past and the countless connections forged within its walls.
For Roxene and her family, Woody’s Waterfront was deeply personal. It was the backdrop for significant life events, including her engagement and the cherished memories of raising her children in and around the restaurant. The outpouring of support from the community, including a shout-out on “Live with Kelly and Mark,” underscores the special place Woody’s held in the hearts of many.
Looking to the Future After Woody’s Waterfront
As Woody’s Waterfront closes its doors, the focus shifts to the future of the property and the dedicated employees who are now seeking new opportunities. While most of the 23 staff members have found alternative employment, the absence of Woody’s will undoubtedly be felt. The sale of the land opens a new chapter for the waterfront location, leaving room for someone else to create their own vision, while the legacy of Woody’s Waterfront will forever be etched in the memories of St. Pete Beach.
Woody’s Waterfront’s closure is a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of coastal communities to the increasing intensity of storms and the profound impact on local businesses that are the heart and soul of these areas. While St. Pete Beach says goodbye to a beloved landmark, the spirit of Woody’s Waterfront and the memories created within its walls will endure.
