SOUTH CAROLINA STATE—With its picturesque coastline and abundant seafood, South Carolina is a haven for those seeking fresh, flavorful dishes from the sea. While the state boasts a variety of upscale seafood restaurants, the authentic charm of Lowcountry cuisine lies in its unassuming shacks and dives. These hidden gems offer a casual atmosphere, friendly service, and, most importantly, delectable seafood that will leave a lasting impression.
16 Must-Try Seafood Shacks and Dives in South Carolina
Savor the freshest catches and authentic coastal flavors at South Carolina's best seafood shacks and dives. Discover hidden gems and iconic eateries serving up delectable dishes from the Atlantic Ocean, from succulent shrimp and grits to mouthwatering lobster rolls.
1. Hyman's Seafood (Charleston)
This enduring seafood eatery and deli is a Charleston institution boasting a rich history and a loyal following. Their menu features classic Lowcountry dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried seafood platters made with fresh, local ingredients.
2. Crab Daddy's Seafood Buffet Restaurant (Murrells Inlet)
Dive into an all-you-can-eat seafood feast at Crab Daddy's, known for its expansive buffet featuring a wide array of fresh catches, from snow crab legs and shrimp to oysters and clams.
3. Hudson's Seafood House On The Docks (Hilton Head Island)
This classic seafood dive offers a unique dining experience. Choose your fresh catch from the market and watch as it's prepared to your liking. The waterfront location and laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect spot to enjoy a casual seafood meal.
4. Low Country Fish Camp (Summerville)
This playful shack modernizes traditional Lowcountry cuisine. Their menu features innovative seafood dishes like shrimp and grits tacos, fried oyster sliders, and smoked fish dip.
5. Boardwalk Billys (North Myrtle Beach)
This upbeat spot offers a lively atmosphere and a menu that combines barbecue and seafood. Enjoy their seafood platters, burgers, and signature cocktails while taking in the views of the Intracoastal Waterway.
6. Bimini's Oyster Bar & Seafood Market (Myrtle Beach)
This cool dive bar boasts a casual atmosphere and a menu of fresh seafood favorites. Their raw bar is a highlight, offering a variety of oysters, clams, and shrimp.
7. The Claw House (Murrells Inlet)
Situated on the waterfront, The Claw House offers a laid-back dining experience with beautiful marsh views. Their menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including steamed crabs, shrimp and grits, and fried seafood platters.
8. Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar (Charleston)
While not strictly a dive, Fleet Landing's waterfront location and focus on fresh, local seafood make it a worthy contender. Many consider their shrimp and Grits to be the best in Charleston.
9. Crab Catcher's On The Waterfront (Little River)
This casual seafood spot offers breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway and a menu brimming with fresh catches. Their fried seafood platters and steamed crab legs are local favorites.
10. Sea Captain's House (Myrtle Beach)
Housed in a charming oceanfront home, Sea Captain's House offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring classic Lowcountry dishes and fresh seafood.
11. Charleston Crab House (Charleston)
This popular spot is known for its fresh seafood, lively atmosphere, and outdoor patio. Their shrimp dishes, in particular, have earned rave reviews.
12. Hook & Barrel (Myrtle Beach)
This funky seafood eatery offers a creative menu focused on sustainable seafood. Their raw bar is a highlight, featuring a variety of local oysters and clams.
13. Chesapeake House (Myrtle Beach)
This casual restaurant offers seafood dishes, including famous steamed crabs, fish and chips, and shrimp and grits.
14. The Crazy Crab (Myrtle Beach & Murrells Inlet)
With two locations, The Crazy Crab offers a fun and festive atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes, such as its signature crab legs and shrimp.
15. Wicked Tuna (Murrell's Inlet & Hilton Head)
This waterfront restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere and a fresh, local seafood menu. Their Tuna Steak and Tuna Nachos are must-tries.
16. Saltwater Cowboys (Mount Pleasant)
This casual eatery offers a variety of seafood dishes, from fried platters to Lowcountry boils, all in a relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring South Carolina's seafood shacks and dives is a culinary adventure not to be missed. With their fresh catches, friendly service, and laid-back atmosphere, these hidden gems offer an authentic taste of the state's rich coastal heritage.