12 Charleston Seafood Shacks Perfect For A Beachy Getaway
Charleston’s coastal charm isn’t just about beautiful beaches and historic streets it’s also a seafood lover’s paradise! From fresh-caught shrimp to oysters plucked straight from local waters, this South Carolina gem offers some of the tastiest seafood on the East Coast.
I’ve explored the city’s best casual seafood spots where you can kick back with amazing ocean-to-table meals while soaking up those laid-back beach vibes.
1. Bowens Island Restaurant
Hidden at the end of a dirt road near Folly Beach, Bowens Island Restaurant has been serving no-frills seafood since 1946. The weathered building covered in graffiti might not look fancy, but locals know it houses some of the freshest oysters around.
I love watching the sunset over the marshlands while digging into their famous oyster roast steamed clusters served on a paper-lined table with cocktail sauce and crackers. Their Frogmore stew (a Lowcountry boil with shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes) is equally amazing.
The place gets packed during dinner hours, so arrive early or be prepared to wait. Trust me, the authentic Lowcountry experience is worth it!
2. The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene
Named after a trawler that crashed here during Hurricane Hugo, The Wreck serves seafood in the most authentic way possible. This cash-only spot in Mount Pleasant offers zero pretension but maximum flavor.
When you visit, you’ll walk through a residential neighborhood wondering if you’re lost until you spot the unmarked building by Shem Creek. Their deviled crab, sweet fried shrimp, and hush puppies have remained unchanged for decades and that’s exactly how everyone wants it.
Though finding this hidden gem requires some effort, the payoff is tremendous. The screened porch overlooking the water creates the perfect setting for enjoying seafood at its freshest.
3. Dave’s Carry-Out
If fancy dining isn’t your style, Dave’s Carry-Out on King Street delivers mouthwatering seafood without the fuss. This tiny takeout joint might not look like much from outside, but it’s a true Charleston treasure.
The fried whiting sandwich here changed my life crispy, perfectly seasoned fish on white bread with hot sauce is simple perfection. Their seafood platters come piled high with shrimp, fish, or scallops alongside red rice and lima beans for just a fraction of what you’d pay downtown.
Locals line up during lunch hours, so timing your visit is key. Dave’s represents the authentic, unpretentious side of Charleston’s food scene that tourists often miss.
4. Nana’s Seafood & Soul
Family-owned Nana’s combines the best of Lowcountry seafood with soul food traditions. Located in a humble building in North Charleston, this spot serves some of the most flavorful garlic crabs and shrimp in town.
During my first visit, I ordered their seafood rice a mountain of perfectly cooked rice topped with shrimp, crab, and rich gravy that haunts my dreams. The portions here are massive, and everything comes with that home-cooked love you can taste.
Though slightly off the tourist path, Nana’s represents authentic Charleston cuisine at its finest. Don’t expect fancy decor just bring your appetite and prepare for a seafood experience that locals have treasured for years.
5. Roadside Seafood
What started as a food truck has evolved into one of James Island’s favorite seafood spots. Roadside Seafood maintains that casual, beachy vibe while serving some seriously impressive dishes.
Their seafood nachos topped with blackened shrimp and crab meat have a cult following among locals. I’m particularly fond of their lobster roll a generous portion of sweet meat lightly dressed with mayo and served on a buttered roll.
The restaurant’s bright blue exterior matches its laid-back atmosphere inside. Despite growing popularity, prices remain reasonable, making it perfect for families wanting quality seafood without breaking the bank. Grab a seat at the bar and chat with the friendly staff for the full experience.
6. Crosby’s Fish & Shrimp Co.
Crosby’s isn’t just a restaurant it’s a direct connection to Charleston’s fishing industry. Located on Folly Road, this market/eatery combo lets you select fresh-caught seafood to take home or have prepared on the spot.
The steamed shrimp here comes straight off the boats docked behind the building. You can literally watch fishermen unload their daily catch while waiting for your order! Their crab cakes contain almost no filler just sweet local crab meat held together with minimal ingredients.
Did you know they’ve been family-operated since 1976? The Crosby family remains committed to sustainable fishing practices while providing the freshest possible seafood. For the ultimate beach day, grab some peel-and-eat shrimp to enjoy by the water.
7. Gillie’s Seafood
Chef Sean Mendes brings Gullah-Geechee culinary traditions to life at Gillie’s Seafood in James Island. The cozy spot feels like eating at a friend’s house – if your friend happened to be an incredible seafood chef.
Their shrimp and grits elevate this classic dish with creamy stone-ground grits and a rich gravy that honors generations of Lowcountry cooking. Many ingredients come from local farms and waters, ensuring everything tastes authentically Charleston.
Unlike some tourist-focused spots, Gillie’s maintains reasonable prices while delivering exceptional quality. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and family recipes make it a neighborhood favorite. Stop by during happy hour for discounted oysters and friendly conversation with locals.
8. Shem Creek Bar & Grill
Perched on the edge of Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, this restaurant offers the quintessential waterfront dining experience. The sprawling deck provides front-row seats to watch shrimp boats and dolphins while enjoying fresh catches.
Their she-crab soup, a creamy Lowcountry specialty made with blue crab and sherry, is award-winning for good reason. I always order the seafood platter a mountain of fried oysters, shrimp, scallops and fish that tastes even better with the salt air.
After your meal, take a stroll along the boardwalk for stunning harbor views. Though popular with visitors, Shem Creek Bar & Grill maintains authenticity with consistently well-prepared seafood and that relaxed, vacation-worthy atmosphere you’re craving.
9. The Crab Shack
For serious crab lovers, The Crab Shack on Folly Beach delivers exactly what its name promises. This unpretentious spot specializes in all things crab from steamed clusters to their famous crab balls.
Wooden picnic tables covered in newspaper set the stage for gloriously messy meals. Their Alaskan snow crab legs come perfectly steamed and pre-cracked, making it easier to access the sweet meat inside. Don’t miss their hush puppies golden-brown on the outside, fluffy inside, and served with honey butter.
Located just blocks from the beach, it’s the perfect post-swim destination when you’re sandy and hungry. The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from families to friend groups looking for a seafood feast without fancy trappings.
10. Fleet Landing
Housed in a 1940s naval building jutting out over Charleston Harbor, Fleet Landing offers waterfront dining with a side of history. The renovated maritime structure provides panoramic water views from nearly every table.
Their Charleston crab cake comes packed with local blue crab and minimal fillers exactly how it should be. Though slightly more polished than other shacks on this list, the restaurant maintains a casual, approachable vibe perfect for lunch after exploring downtown.
Watch container ships glide by while sampling their crispy fried green tomatoes topped with shrimp. The restaurant’s unique location makes it popular, so reservations are recommended during peak season. For the best experience, request a table on the outdoor deck where the harbor breeze enhances every bite.
11. Chico Feo
Unlike traditional seafood spots, Chico Feo on Folly Beach brings global coastal influences to Charleston’s seafood scene. This quirky open-air spot feels like stumbling upon a hidden beach bar in the Caribbean.
Their fish tacos feature the day’s local catch topped with tangy slaw and house-made hot sauce that perfectly balances heat and flavor. The Cuban-style seafood stew changes daily based on what’s fresh, combining island spices with Lowcountry ingredients.
The laid-back courtyard filled with mismatched furniture creates the ultimate beach hangout vibe. Live music often fills the space on weekends, making it a favorite among locals seeking something different. Come as you are sandy feet and all to experience seafood with international flair.
