16 Georgia Waterfront Restaurants Serving Lowcountry Boil With A Side Of Relaxation

Georgia’s coastal waters offer far more than postcard sunsets and soft ocean breezes. Tucked along the shoreline are restaurants where tables sit so close to the water that the sound of waves becomes part of the dining experience. At many of these inviting spots, lowcountry boil takes center stage.

This beloved regional dish brings together tender shrimp, sweet corn, hearty potatoes, and savory sausage in one flavorful feast meant to be shared. Served steaming hot and often poured straight onto the table, it captures the spirit of coastal living in every bite. Boats drift past as seabirds circle overhead, creating a setting that feels effortlessly relaxing.

I have gathered sixteen waterfront restaurants where you can savor this Southern classic while soaking in views that make every meal unforgettable.

1. The Original Crab Shack — Tybee Island

Picture yourself sitting under Spanish moss while cracking open fresh seafood just steps from the marsh. You’ll find this legendary spot at 40 Estill Hammock Road, Tybee Island, GA 31328, where the atmosphere feels like a permanent beach party. The restaurant has been serving hungry visitors since 1991, and it’s become famous for its laid-back vibe and generous portions.

Their lowcountry boil arrives at your table steaming hot, filled with plump shrimp, sweet corn, and perfectly seasoned sausage. The outdoor seating lets you watch alligators sunbathe in the lagoon while you eat. Kids love feeding the resident gators from the safety of the dock.

I recommend arriving before sunset to snag a table with the best views. The casual dress code means you can come straight from the beach. Live music on weekends adds to the festive atmosphere, making every meal feel like a celebration.

2. The Shrimp Factory — Savannah

Built inside a former cotton warehouse from the 1800s, this restaurant brings history to life with every meal. Located at 313 East River Street, Savannah, GA 31401, the building’s exposed brick walls and wooden beams transport you back in time. The riverside location puts you right in the heart of Savannah’s bustling waterfront district.

Their lowcountry boil showcases the freshest catch from local waters, prepared with a recipe that’s been perfected over decades. You can watch cargo ships and tour boats glide past while you dig into the flavorful spread. The second-floor dining room offers panoramic views of the Savannah River and South Carolina beyond.

Sunset dinners here are particularly magical as the sky turns orange and pink over the water. The restaurant stays busy, so reservations help avoid long waits. Their cocktail menu features creative drinks that pair perfectly with seafood.

3. Fiddler’s Crab House & Oyster Bar — Savannah

Sometimes the best meals happen in places where the focus stays on the food rather than fancy decorations. Head to 131 West River Street, Savannah, GA 31401, and you’ll discover a spot where locals bring out-of-town guests to impress them. The restaurant sits right on the Savannah River with windows that frame the water views perfectly.

Their lowcountry boil gets rave reviews for the generous portions and bold seasoning that doesn’t overpower the natural flavors. Fresh oysters from the raw bar make an excellent appetizer before the main event. The casual atmosphere encourages you to take your time and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

I love how the staff treats everyone like family, sharing stories and recommendations freely. The outdoor deck becomes the place to be when the weather cooperates. Parking can be tricky downtown, so consider taking a rideshare or arriving early.

4. The Wharf — Jekyll Island

Sophistication meets coastal charm at this marina-side establishment where the boats are almost as impressive as the food. You’ll find it at 1 Pier Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, overlooking the Jekyll Harbor Marina. The restaurant balances upscale dining with the relaxed island lifestyle that makes Jekyll Island special.

Their take on lowcountry boil elevates the traditional recipe with premium ingredients and careful attention to detail. The presentation alone makes you want to grab your camera before digging in. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure every seat gets a view of the marina and the boats bobbing in their slips.

The sunset views from the dining room rival any postcard you’ve ever seen. Their wine list offers excellent pairings for seafood lovers. I suggest making reservations well in advance, especially during peak tourist season when the island gets crowded with visitors.

5. Zachry’s Riverhouse — Jekyll Island

Family gatherings feel extra special when everyone can agree on the restaurant, and this place checks all the boxes. Located at 100 James Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, the restaurant sits along the Jekyll River with views that change with the tides. The menu offers something for everyone, from picky kids to adventurous eaters.

Their lowcountry boil serves as the perfect centerpiece for a family meal, with enough food to share and flavors that please all ages. The outdoor seating area lets children watch for dolphins while adults relax with a cold drink. The laid-back atmosphere means nobody worries about keeping little ones perfectly quiet.

I appreciate how the staff goes out of their way to accommodate families with young children. The reasonable prices make it possible to bring the whole crew without breaking the bank. Arriving by boat adds an extra element of adventure to your dining experience.

6. Fish Tales at Fort McAllister Marina — Richmond Hill

Real fishing villages have a certain authenticity that can’t be faked, and you’ll feel it the moment you arrive here. Drive to 4386 Fort McAllister Road, Richmond Hill, GA 31324, and you’ll discover a hidden gem that many tourists miss. The working marina setting means you’re surrounded by actual fishermen bringing in the day’s catch.

Their lowcountry boil features seafood that was swimming in Georgia waters just hours before landing on your plate. The casual environment encourages shorts, flip-flops, and relaxed conversation. Watching boats come and go while you eat adds entertainment to every meal.

Local regulars fill the tables during weekends, which tells you everything about the quality. The prices remain reasonable despite the premium freshness of the ingredients. I recommend calling ahead to check if they’re hosting any special events or live music nights that might enhance your visit.

7. Sunbury Crab Company — Sunbury

Some restaurants feel like they’ve been part of the landscape forever, growing naturally from the community they serve. You’ll find this local favorite at 541 Brigantine Dunmore Road, Sunbury, GA 31328, tucked away from the tourist crowds. The small-town location means you’re eating where locals go for their seafood fix.

Their lowcountry boil sticks to traditional preparation methods that have been passed down through generations of coastal cooks. The no-frills presentation lets the quality of the ingredients speak for itself. Picnic-style seating outdoors puts you right next to the water where the breeze keeps you cool.

I love how this place reminds me that the best food doesn’t need fancy surroundings. The friendly service makes first-time visitors feel like regulars. Bring cash just in case, as some smaller establishments in the area prefer it over cards for various reasons.

8. Pier 16 Seafood Restaurant — Tybee Island

Beach access and great food combine at this spot where you can literally walk from your table to the sand in seconds. Located at 1 Old Highway 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328, the restaurant offers front-row seats to beach life. The sound of waves provides the perfect background music for your meal.

Their lowcountry boil arrives piled high with all the classic ingredients, seasoned with a blend that keeps people coming back. The outdoor deck gives you unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean and the beach activities below. Dolphins often swim past during feeding times, creating unexpected entertainment.

Lunch here works perfectly when you want to break up a day at the beach without going far. The casual vibe means sandy feet and beach cover-ups fit right in. I suggest timing your visit to catch the sunset, which paints the sky in colors that photographs never quite capture accurately.

9. Sting Ray’s Seafood — Tybee Island

Island vibes reach their peak at this tropical-themed spot where every detail reminds you that vacation mode is mandatory. You’ll find it at 1403 Strand Avenue, Tybee Island, GA 31328, surrounded by the natural beauty of the marshlands. The colorful decor and laid-back atmosphere set the tone before you even see the menu.

Their lowcountry boil gets prepared with a slightly spicy kick that adds extra dimension to the traditional flavors. The generous portions mean you’ll likely have leftovers to enjoy later. Tiki torches light up the outdoor seating area as evening approaches, creating a magical ambiance.

Live music on select nights turns dinner into a mini celebration. The frozen drink menu offers creative concoctions that taste like summer in a glass. I recommend arriving early on weekends to avoid the dinner rush that fills this popular spot quickly.

10. A-J’s Dockside Restaurant — Tybee Island

Watching boats navigate the narrow creeks while you eat adds a layer of entertainment to every meal at this dockside establishment. Head to 1315 Chatham Avenue, Tybee Island, GA 31328, where the restaurant sits right on Chimney Creek. The location provides a quieter alternative to the busier beach spots while maintaining easy access to everything.

Their lowcountry boil showcases local seafood prepared with care and proper seasoning that enhances without overwhelming. The intimate setting makes it perfect for couples looking for a romantic dinner spot. Watching the tide change throughout your meal reminds you of the coastal rhythms that define island life.

The restaurant’s smaller size means reservations are practically essential during busy seasons. Their attention to detail extends from the food to the service to the atmosphere. I find the peaceful creek views more relaxing than the busier beachfront locations for a quiet evening out.

11. Fannie’s on the Beach — Tybee Island

Direct beach access turns every meal into a complete coastal experience at this perfectly positioned restaurant. Located at 1613 Strand Avenue, Tybee Island, GA 31328, you’re literally steps from the sand and surf. The open-air design lets ocean breezes flow through while you dine.

Their lowcountry boil maintains the traditional recipe while ensuring every component reaches your table at the perfect temperature. The beachfront location means you can watch surfers, swimmers, and beachcombers while you eat. Sunset timing here creates Instagram-worthy moments that your friends back home will envy.

I love how the restaurant embraces the beach lifestyle without pretension or unnecessary formality. The drink menu features refreshing options that pair perfectly with seafood and sunshine. Parking can be challenging during peak season, so consider biking or walking if you’re staying nearby on the island.

12. Bubba Gumbo’s — Tybee Island

Cajun influences blend with coastal Georgia traditions at this spot where the menu celebrates both culinary heritages. You’ll find it at 3 Old Highway 80, Tybee Island, GA 31328, in a location that captures the island’s relaxed spirit. The restaurant’s name hints at the fun atmosphere that awaits inside.

Their lowcountry boil incorporates subtle Cajun spices that add depth without drastically changing the classic preparation. The combination creates flavors that feel both familiar and excitingly different. Generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry, no matter how big their appetite.

The casual environment welcomes families, couples, and solo travelers with equal warmth. Their gumbo makes an excellent starter before the main event arrives. I appreciate how they’ve created a unique identity rather than copying every other seafood restaurant on the island, giving diners a reason to choose them specifically.

13. North Beach Bar & Grill — Tybee Island

The north end of Tybee Island offers a slightly quieter beach experience, and this restaurant takes full advantage of that peaceful location. Drive to 33 Meddin Drive, Tybee Island, GA 31328, and you’ll discover a spot beloved by locals and savvy visitors. The beach access lets you work up an appetite with a walk before settling in for your meal.

Their lowcountry boil gets consistently high marks for freshness and proper seasoning that brings out the best in every ingredient. The bar serves cold drinks that taste even better when enjoyed with your toes in the sand. Beach volleyball courts nearby provide entertainment while you wait for your food.

I find the slightly less crowded atmosphere more conducive to actual relaxation than busier beach spots. The staff knows regulars by name but treats newcomers with the same friendly attention. Weekend brunch here offers a great way to start your beach day right.

14. Savannah Seafood Shack — Savannah

Neighborhood spots often serve the best food because they depend on repeat customers rather than one-time tourists. You’ll find this local gem at 115 East DeRenne Avenue, Savannah, GA 31405, away from the downtown tourist district. The unassuming exterior hides the quality that awaits inside.

Their lowcountry boil demonstrates that you don’t need waterfront views to serve outstanding coastal cuisine. The focus stays squarely on the food, with recipes that honor traditional preparation methods. Regular customers fill the tables during lunch and dinner, which speaks volumes about consistency.

I appreciate how places like this keep prices reasonable while maintaining high standards. The staff treats everyone like neighbors, creating a welcoming environment. While it lacks the water views of other spots on this list, the quality of the food more than compensates for the inland location.

15. District Seafood (Plant Riverside) — Savannah

Contemporary design meets historic location at this restaurant inside Savannah’s transformed power plant building. Located at 300 West River Street, Savannah, GA 31401, the restaurant occupies space in one of the city’s most ambitious redevelopment projects. The modern interior contrasts beautifully with the industrial heritage of the building.

Their lowcountry boil receives an upscale presentation while respecting the dish’s humble origins and traditional flavors. The sophisticated atmosphere makes it suitable for special occasions without feeling stuffy or overly formal. River views from the dining room showcase Savannah’s working waterfront and the constant boat traffic.

I love how the restaurant balances innovation with tradition, creating something that feels both fresh and familiar. The cocktail program features creative drinks crafted by skilled bartenders. Reservations are strongly recommended, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors exploring the Plant Riverside District.

16. Blackwater Grill — St. Simons Island

Southern hospitality shines at this island favorite where the service matches the quality of the food. You’ll find it at 219 Mallery Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, in the heart of the village area. The restaurant’s location puts you within walking distance of shops and other island attractions.

Their lowcountry boil features the freshest local seafood prepared with techniques that honor both tradition and innovation. The marsh views from the outdoor seating area provide a peaceful backdrop for your meal. The menu offers enough variety that even non-seafood lovers find something to enjoy.

I recommend timing your visit to catch the golden hour when the setting sun turns the marsh grasses beautiful shades of amber. The wine list includes selections specifically chosen to complement seafood dishes. The restaurant strikes a perfect balance between casual island atmosphere and refined dining experience that makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome.