The Georgia Seafood Buffet That Gets Crab Exactly Right
Salt in the air, picnic tables under the oaks, and plates piled high with seafood – it’s the kind of place where time slows down and good food takes center stage. Crackling crab shells, buttery shrimp, and laughter carry through the warm evening breeze.
On Tybee Island, The Crab Shack turns simple coastal dining into an experience that feels effortless and full of character. Every meal tastes like the Georgia coast itself – fresh, unfussy, and unforgettable.
Started As A Fishing Camp In The 1980s
Jack and Belinda Flanigan opened The Crab Shack as a humble fishing camp and marina, never imagining it would become a seafood landmark. Over the years, word spread about the fresh catches and welcoming vibe, transforming the spot into a full-fledged restaurant.
Today, visitors still feel that fishing camp spirit in every weathered plank and marsh breeze. The journey from marina to beloved eatery shows how passion and good food can grow something truly special.
Captain Crab’s Sampler Platter Steals the Show
This signature dish brings together snow crab, red rock crab, steamed shrimp, crawfish, mussels, sausage, potatoes, and corn in one generous heap. It’s a seafood lover’s dream, offering a taste of everything the Low Country has to offer.
Each bite delivers briny sweetness and coastal comfort, perfect for sharing or tackling solo. The platter showcases why The Crab Shack gets crab exactly right – fresh, flavorful, and completely satisfying.
Open-Air Deck Dining Under Live Oaks
Meals here happen beneath a canopy of live oaks and palms, with Chimney Creek stretching out just beyond the deck railing. Sunlight filters through Spanish moss while marsh breezes keep things cool and comfortable.
The open-air setup makes diners feel connected to the coastal landscape, not tucked away inside four walls. It’s the kind of setting that turns a simple meal into a memorable afternoon by the water.
Gator Lagoon Adds Wild Fun
The restaurant’s “Gator Lagoon” houses 78 baby alligators, giving guests a chance to feed them with special treats provided by the staff. Kids and adults alike crowd around the lagoon, watching these prehistoric creatures snap up snacks.
It’s an interactive experience that sets The Crab Shack apart from typical seafood joints. The gators add a playful, uniquely Southern twist to the dining adventure.
Southern Barbecue Joins The Menu
Not everyone in the group might be a seafood fan, and The Crab Shack understands that. The menu features Southern barbecue favorites like pork ribs and chicken wings, cooked with the same care as the crab legs.
These smoky, savory options ensure everyone finds something delicious to enjoy. Mixing seafood and barbecue gives the restaurant a broader appeal while staying true to Southern roots.
Family-Owned And Kid-Friendly
Being family-owned means The Crab Shack treats every guest like part of the crew. A kid’s menu offers shrimp, mac ‘n’ cheese, hot dogs, and pizza, making sure even picky eaters leave happy.
Parents appreciate the relaxed atmosphere where children can roam safely and explore the gator lagoon. It’s a place where generations can gather without anyone feeling left out.
Open 362 Days A Year
Rain or shine, hot summer or mild winter, The Crab Shack keeps its doors open almost every day of the year. Only three days see the lights turned off, making it a reliable stop for locals and travelers alike.
This consistency shows dedication to serving the community and visitors craving fresh seafood. No matter when someone arrives on Tybee Island, chances are good they can grab a crab leg here.
Rescued Exotic Birds In The Aviary
Beyond the gators, The Crab Shack houses an aviary filled with over a dozen rescued exotic birds. Bright feathers and curious chirps add another layer of life to the restaurant’s natural setting.
These birds find a safe home here while entertaining guests who wander through the grounds. The aviary reflects the restaurant’s commitment to wildlife and creating a truly immersive coastal experience.
Prime Location Near Tybee Beaches
At 40 Estill Hammock Road, The Crab Shack sits just a short drive from Tybee Island’s sandy shores. Beachgoers can easily swing by after a day in the sun for a hearty seafood feast.
The convenient location makes it a natural stop for anyone exploring the island. Sand-dusted feet and salty hair fit right in at this laid-back, waterfront eatery.
Featured On Food Network
The Crab Shack’s reputation has reached far beyond Georgia, earning features on Food Network and other media outlets. These appearances highlight what locals have known for decades – this place serves some of the best seafood around.
National recognition brings curious travelers from across the country, all eager to taste what the buzz is about. Yet the restaurant remains down-to-earth and welcoming.
A Dining Experience That Captures Coastal Spirit
Everything about The Crab Shack – from the weathered deck to the gator lagoon to the heaping crab platters – tells the story of Georgia’s coast. It’s not just about filling bellies; it’s about soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Low Country living.
Visitors leave with full stomachs and memories that linger long after the last crab leg is cracked. This place embodies what makes coastal Georgia dining unforgettable.
