SOUTH CAROLINA - Whenever you think about visiting a seafood restaurant in South Carolina, you can see several places. Whether you're looking for something in the Myrtle Beach area or on Hilton Head Island, you can find what you're looking for.
Best Seafood Restaurants in South Carolina: From Oysters to Shrimp, Crab & Beyond!
South Carolina's Lowcountry and coastal regions are renowned for their fresh, flavorful seafood. From casual crab shacks and oyster bars to upscale seafood restaurants, the Palmetto State offers a delicious array of options for seafood lovers. This article guides you to some of the best seafood restaurants across South Carolina, highlighting their specialties and unique offerings.
South Carolina's Seafood Hotspots:
1. Bluffton Family Seafood House (Bluffton): Locally Sourced Seafood in a Historic Setting
Bluffton Family Seafood House in Bluffton, SC, is a longtime, family-owned bar/eatery deeply connected to the local seafood industry. As part of the Bluffton Oyster Company, which has specialized in local seafood since 1899, this restaurant offers an authentic taste of the Lowcountry. Expect down-home seafood plates, including locally sourced oysters, in a great atmosphere.
- Location: 27 Dr Mellichamp Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910
- Highlights: Locally sourced seafood, oysters, family-owned, historic Bluffton Oyster Company, down-home seafood plates, authentic Lowcountry cuisine
2. Sea Shack (Hilton Head Island): Simple Seafood, Ordered at the Counter
Sea Shack on Hilton Head Island is an unpretentious, blue-walled eatery where you order simple seafood plates at the counter. This casual spot offers a variety of seafood specials and seafood burgers, along with a full-service bar and catering options. They also offer a take-out menu for those who prefer to enjoy their seafood elsewhere.
- Location: 6 Executive Park Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
- Highlights: Simple seafood plates, counter service, seafood specials, seafood burgers, full-service bar, catering, take-out, casual dining
3. The Crab Shack (Folly Beach): Shellfish Buckets and a Southern Twist
The Crab Shack in Folly Beach is a casual dining establishment specializing in seafood, particularly shellfish served in bucketfuls. They offer a Southern twist on classic seafood dishes, and their drinks are also highly praised. With plenty of seating, including an outdoor deck, The Crab Shack is a prime spot for a relaxed meal or a post-work drink. They are known for their steamed seafood.
- Location: 26 Center St, Folly Beach, SC 29439
- Highlights: Shellfish buckets, seafood with a Southern twist, casual dining, outdoor deck, great drinks, steamed seafood, crab legs
4. Bowens Island Restaurant (Charleston): All-You-Can-Eat Oysters and Lowcountry Favorites
Bowens Island Restaurant, located on a thirteen-acre hammock island behind Folly Beach, has been serving the Lowcountry seafood community for almost eighty years. This local favorite offers all-you-can-eat oysters, along with a variety of other dishes, including shrimp and grits, fried shrimp, and ceviche. They also serve local beer and oyster stout, as well as a variety of cocktails. The Barber family, who own most of the island, are deeply involved in conservation efforts, particularly preserving the local oyster beds.
- Location: 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
- Highlights: All-you-can-eat oysters, Lowcountry seafood, shrimp and grits, fried shrimp, ceviche, local beer, oyster stout, family-owned, conservation efforts, rustic setting
5. Mr. Fish Restaurant (Myrtle Beach): From Sushi to Steamed Shrimp
Mr. Fish Restaurant in Myrtle Beach, a seafood establishment that has been around since 1994, offers a diverse menu. They have options including a sushi bar, a fish market, and a full-service catering operation, as well as classic steamed or fried shrimp and oysters. They also offer several happy hour specials, making it a great spot to enjoy fresh seafood and drinks.
- Location: 6401 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
- Highlights: Sushi bar, fish market, catering, steamed shrimp, fried shrimp, oysters, happy hour specials, diverse menu, fresh seafood
South Carolina's seafood scene is a delicious reflection of its coastal heritage. From family-owned oyster houses and casual crab shacks to upscale restaurants with innovative menus, the Palmetto State offers a wide range of seafood dining experiences. Whether you're craving fresh oysters, succulent shrimp, or a classic Lowcountry boil, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your seafood desires.
