10 Classic South Carolina Seafood Shacks Still Frying Fish the Old-Fashioned Way
South Carolina’s coastline is home to some of the most authentic seafood shacks you’ll ever find, where the smell of fried fish fills the air and traditions run deeper than the ocean itself.
These aren’t fancy restaurants with white tablecloths—they’re rustic spots where locals have been gathering for decades to enjoy perfectly crispy fried fish, shrimp, and oysters made the way they should be.
Many still use cast-iron skillets, secret family recipes, and cooking methods passed down through generations. If you’re craving real Southern seafood served with a side of history, these ten legendary shacks are still doing it right.
1. Bowens Island Restaurant
Bowens Island has been serving up fried seafood since 1946, and not much has changed since then. This James Island landmark sits right on the water, surrounded by mountains of oyster shells that tell the story of countless meals enjoyed over the years.
The atmosphere is wonderfully casual, think picnic tables, paper plates, and zero pretension. Their fried flounder is legendary, cooked in a way that keeps the fish tender while the coating stays perfectly crunchy.
You won’t find any fancy sauces here, just good old-fashioned tartar sauce and hush puppies on the side. The restaurant survived Hurricane Hugo and even a fire, proving it’s as tough as the Lowcountry itself.
2. Seewee Restaurant
Hidden away in Awendaw, Seewee Restaurant has been a local favorite since the early 1990s. This family-owned spot doesn’t advertise much, but word-of-mouth keeps the tables full every single day.
What makes Seewee special is their commitment to doing things the old way, no shortcuts, no frozen fish, just fresh catches fried to golden perfection. Deviled crab is available, and the dining room feels like eating at your grandmother’s house, complete with friendly service and sweet tea that flows like water.
3. The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene
Perched on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, The Wreck earns its name from the genuinely ramshackle building that houses it. Don’t let the rough exterior fool you, inside, magic happens in the kitchen every day. This place has been frying fish since the 1980s, and they’ve perfected their craft to an art form.
The fried shrimp here are plump, juicy, and coated in a light breading that doesn’t overpower the seafood’s natural sweetness. Locals know to arrive early because the restaurant prepares limited quantities of fresh seafood each day.
The view of working shrimp boats from the deck reminds you that your meal probably came from those very waters.
4. The Shrimp Shack
Located on St. Helena Island, The Shrimp Shack brings traditional Lowcountry flavors to every plate they serve. This colorful spot has been a community gathering place for years, where recipes reflect the coastal heritage of the region.
Their fried shrimp basket is simple but spectacular, large shrimp with a crispy coating that shatters with each bite. The owners take pride in supporting local fishermen, so your meal supports the community too.
5. The Sea Shack
The Sea Shack proves that you don’t need a waterfront view to serve amazing seafood. This unassuming Hilton Head staple focuses entirely on what matters most, perfectly fried fish that tastes like summer vacation. They’ve been using the same straightforward cooking techniques for decades.
Their fried fish platters are customer favorites, offering moist, flavorful seafood beneath a crispy coating. The portions are generous, and the red rice on the side is a traditional Lowcountry dish that complements everything beautifully.
6. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
Hudson’s sits right on the docks in Hilton Head, where you can watch shrimp boats unload their catch while you eat. This family operation has been around since the late 1960s, and they still buy directly from local fishermen every morning.
The setting couldn’t be more authentic, you’re literally eating where the fish are brought ashore.
Their fried oysters are crispy on the outside and creamy inside, seasoned with just enough spice to wake up your taste buds. The casual atmosphere encourages you to relax, kick back, and enjoy your meal without any fuss.
7. Lee’s Inlet Kitchen
Murrells Inlet is famous for seafood, and Lee’s Inlet Kitchen has been a standout since 1948. This place has seen generations of families return year after year, sometimes traveling hundreds of miles just for a taste of their famous fried seafood.
Their traditional Lowcountry-style fried seafood is what dreams are made of, lightly battered and fried to a perfect crunch. Pro tip: save room for their homemade hush puppies, which are slightly sweet and absolutely addictive once you start eating them.
8. Hot Fish Club
Hot Fish Club traces its heritage back to the late 1700s, carrying the spirit of a historic coastal social club into its modern restaurant setting. The atmosphere feels steeped in local history, with classic Lowcountry charm throughout.
Their fried catfish is a popular choice,firm, flaky, and coated in a crisp, flavorful breading. The cooking honors local traditions, creating an experience that feels both timeless and comforting.
9. Lake Bowen Fish Camp
While most South Carolina seafood shacks hug the coast, Lake Bowen Fish Camp proves the upstate knows how to fry fish too. Located near Spartanburg, this freshwater fish camp has been serving the community for many years, offering a relaxed, scenic lakeside setting.
Their fried bream is incredibly popular with locals who appreciate freshwater fish done right. The sides are just as traditional: coleslaw, french fries, and hush puppies that make every fish fry complete.
10. Old McDonald Fish Camp
Old McDonald Fish Camp keeps things wonderfully simple and deliciously authentic. This no-frills establishment focuses on what they do best, frying fresh fish using traditional methods. There’s no fancy decor or complicated menu, just honest food cooked with care and served with a smile.
Their fried fish platters come loaded with generous portions that satisfy even the biggest appetites. Local families have been coming here for years, creating memories over shared meals and passing down the tradition to future generations.