Coastal Carolina is renowned for its vibrant seafood shacks, where the ocean’s bounty meets Southern hospitality. These shacks serve more than just meals; they offer a slice of vacation with each platter, filled with flavors that capture the essence of the coast. Here are 14 must-visit seafood shacks across Coastal Carolina, each with its own unique charm and delectable offerings.
Bowens Island Restaurant – Charleston, SC
Tucked away in the marshes near Charleston, Bowens Island Restaurant is a local icon. This rustic shack offers stunning views and fresh seafood that keeps visitors coming back.
The platters are piled high with oysters, shrimp, and fish, embodying the essence of Lowcountry cuisine. With a long history and a casual atmosphere, it’s a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
A sunset meal here feels like a true escape, where time slows down, and the salty air complements each bite. It’s a taste of tradition, right by the water.
The Sea Shack – Hilton Head Island, SC
Known for its unassuming charm, The Sea Shack on Hilton Head Island is a hidden gem. The menu includes everything from fried favorites to daily specials featuring the freshest catch.
The casual vibe and friendly service make it a favorite among families and locals. Visitors often return for the crab cakes and hush puppies, which are crowd-pleasers.
The Sea Shack proves that great seafood doesn’t require fancy settings, just fresh ingredients and a love for coastal flavors. It’s a culinary delight that feels like home.
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks – Hilton Head Island, SC
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks offers not only delicious food but also breathtaking waterfront views. It’s an iconic spot on Hilton Head Island, attracting seafood enthusiasts from afar.
The extensive menu features everything from fried calamari to she-crab soup, with a commitment to fresh, local catches.
Originally an oyster factory, Hudson’s has preserved its historical charm. Dining here feels like a step back in time, paired with flavors that scream vacation. It’s a quintessential coastal experience not to be missed.
The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene – Mount Pleasant, SC
With a name as unique as its atmosphere, The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene is a culinary treasure in Mount Pleasant. This no-frills shack serves fresh, simple seafood dishes that highlight local ingredients.
The fried shrimp and fish platters are customer favorites, offering generous portions and unbeatable taste.
Nestled by the water, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal. The rustic charm and friendly service make it feel like a true escape, capturing the essence of coastal dining.
Riverview Cafe – Sneads Ferry, NC
Located in the heart of Sneads Ferry, Riverview Cafe is a beloved local institution. Known for its warm hospitality and fresh seafood, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
The menu features shrimp, oysters, and flounder, all prepared with a homestyle touch. The hush puppies are a crowd favorite, adding a touch of Southern charm to each meal.
Dining here feels like joining a family gathering, complete with stories and laughter. It’s a quintessential coastal experience that feels like a home away from home.
Waterfront Seafood Shack – Calabash, NC
In Calabash, the self-proclaimed Seafood Capital, Waterfront Seafood Shack stands out for its straightforward approach to deliciousness. It’s a place where seafood is king, and simplicity reigns.
The platters feature freshly caught fish, shrimp, and the famous Calabash-style fried seafood. The atmosphere is laid-back, letting the natural beauty and flavors shine.
Whether enjoyed on the dock or taken to-go, meals here embody the joy of seaside dining. It’s the kind of place where quality and tradition meet, offering a true taste of the coast.
Cape Fear Seafood Company – Carolina Beach, NC
Cape Fear Seafood Company is a vibrant spot in Carolina Beach known for its creative takes on classic dishes. The lively atmosphere complements a menu filled with fresh, local seafood.
From shrimp and grits to crab-stuffed flounder, each dish is crafted with attention to detail and flair. The team’s passion for seafood is evident in every bite.
Dining here feels like a celebration of coastal flavors, where innovation meets tradition. It’s a place where every meal turns into a special occasion, offering a slice of vacation all year round.
O’Neal’s Sea Harvest – Wanchese, NC
O’Neal’s Sea Harvest is more than just a restaurant; it’s a seafood lover’s paradise. Located in Wanchese, it serves as both a market and a dining spot.
Visitors can enjoy fresh-caught fish and shellfish, prepared with care and simplicity. It’s a place where the catch of the day truly shines.
With its dual role, O’Neal’s offers an authentic experience, connecting diners to the source. It’s a hub of freshness and flavor, where the sea’s bounty becomes a memorable meal.
The Big Oak Drive-In – Calabash, NC
The Big Oak Drive-In is a nostalgic nod to the past, offering quick yet delectable seafood in Calabash. The retro vibe is matched by a menu filled with fried shrimp, fish, and their famous crab burgers.
The drive-in experience adds a unique twist, where diners can enjoy their meals from the comfort of their cars. It’s fast food with a coastal flair, perfect for a quick seaside snack.
With its blend of nostalgia and flavor, The Big Oak Drive-In is a delightful spot that turns a meal into a fun outing.
Fish Heads Bar & Grill – Nags Head, NC
Fish Heads Bar & Grill is the go-to spot for beachgoers in Nags Head. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it’s a place where good food and good vibes come together.
The menu features fresh seafood alongside an impressive selection of beers on tap. The outdoor deck offers stunning ocean views, making it a preferred hangout.
It’s a place where relaxation meets flavor, perfect for a laid-back meal after a day at the beach. Fish Heads captures the spirit of the coast, offering a taste of vacation in every dish.
Fishcamp on 11th Street – Port Royal, SC
Fishcamp on 11th Street is a charming spot in Port Royal, where seafood is celebrated in a warm, inviting setting. The menu is eclectic, featuring Southern classics and innovative creations.
Diners love the shrimp and grits and the lowcountry boil, which are both rich in flavor and tradition. The relaxed ambiance adds to the appeal, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
It’s a place where every meal feels like a family gathering, filled with laughter and delicious food. Fishcamp offers a genuine taste of Southern hospitality by the water.
Mr. Fish – Myrtle Beach, SC
Mr. Fish in Myrtle Beach is a seafood haven known for its fresh and flavorful offerings. The vibrant decor mirrors the lively atmosphere, making it a fun dining destination.
The menu boasts a wide array of dishes, from their famous fish tacos to the decadent seafood platters. Each dish reflects a commitment to quality and freshness.
Mr. Fish is where creativity meets tradition, offering a memorable meal with a touch of flair. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a fun and flavorful seafood experience in Myrtle Beach.
Bowens Island’s sister-style Lowcountry shack – Beaufort, SC
This sister-style shack in Beaufort offers a taste of Bowens Island’s charm with a local twist. Known for its relaxed vibe and delicious seafood, it’s a hit with locals and visitors alike.
The menu features traditional Lowcountry dishes, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Diners can enjoy shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and more, all with a scenic view.
The shack embodies the spirit of coastal comfort, turning each meal into a mini vacation. It’s a flavorful escape, offering a taste of the sea in every bite.