15 South Carolina Shrimp Shacks That Are Worth The Detour Every Time
South Carolina’s coastline has a way of turning a simple plate of shrimp into something unforgettable. Along the shore, you’ll find rustic waterfront spots where the day’s catch goes straight from the boat to the fryer, as well as family-owned restaurants that have been perfecting their recipes for decades.
The air is often filled with the aroma of seasoned seafood and the chatter of locals who know these places by heart.
Dining here isn’t just about the food, it’s about experiencing the traditions and flavors that make the Lowcountry so special, one tender, perfectly cooked shrimp at a time.
1. Shrimp Shack, St. Helena Island
Nothing fancy here, just pure Lowcountry magic happening behind a humble counter. Fresh shrimp gets tossed with secret seasonings that locals refuse to share with outsiders.
Paper plates and plastic forks mean all the money goes into quality ingredients instead of fancy tableware. The no-frills approach lets the seafood shine without any unnecessary distractions.
Cash only policy keeps things simple while ensuring every bite tastes like it came straight from nearby waters.
2. Bowens Island Restaurant, Charleston/Folly Beach
Oyster shells crunch underfoot as you approach this legendary spot that’s been feeding hungry folks since 1946. Generations of families have perfected their shrimp recipes using time-tested cooking methods.
Picnic tables covered in brown paper create the perfect casual dining atmosphere. Everyone from tourists to Charleston natives considers this place essential eating.
Don’t expect air conditioning or fancy service because the authentic experience matters more than modern comforts here.
3. The Sea Shack, Hilton Head Island
Bright blue paint and cheerful nautical decorations make this spot impossible to miss along the island’s main roads. Local shrimpers deliver their daily catch directly to the kitchen each morning.
Friendly staff members treat every customer like family while dishing out generous portions. The relaxed island vibe encourages you to slow down and savor every bite.
Outdoor seating lets you enjoy ocean breezes while cracking into perfectly seasoned crustaceans with cold beverages nearby.
4. Bubba’s Fish Shack, Surfside Beach
Beach vibes meet serious seafood skills at this laid-back joint where flip-flops are perfectly acceptable dinner attire. Sand-covered customers stumble in straight from the waves craving fresh catches.
The menu changes based on what local fishermen bring in that day. Handwritten specials boards announce the freshest options available to hungry beachgoers.
Cold drinks flows freely while shrimp gets prepared exactly how coastal Carolina folks have enjoyed it for decades.
5. The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene, Mount Pleasant
This quirky spot got its name from an actual shrimp boat that ran aground nearby years ago. Nautical artifacts and fishing gear cover every available wall space inside.
Local shrimpers still dock their boats within walking distance of the restaurant. Fresh catches move from boat to plate faster than anywhere else in the Charleston area.
The authentic maritime atmosphere feels like eating inside a working fishing vessel while enjoying top-quality Lowcountry seafood preparations.
6. T. W. Graham & Co., McClellanville
McClellanville’s shrimping heritage runs deep, and this family-owned establishment represents generations of seafood expertise. Traditional recipes get passed down from grandparents to grandchildren without any shortcuts.
The small town atmosphere means everyone knows your name after just a few visits. Portions stay generous while prices remain reasonable for working families.
Local artwork celebrating the area’s fishing culture decorates the walls while celebrating the community’s maritime traditions and coastal lifestyle.
7. Johnson Creek Tavern, Harbor Island/Fripp area
Hidden away from tourist crowds, this local secret serves up shrimp dishes that’ll make you question why you ever ate seafood anywhere else.
Creek views provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying platters of perfectly prepared crustaceans. Sunset dinners become magical experiences when golden light reflects off the water.
The peaceful location attracts folks seeking authentic coastal dining without the hustle and bustle of busier beach destinations nearby.
8. The Crab Shack, Folly Beach
Surfers and beach bums flock to this laid-back spot where the dress code stops at “no shoes, no shirt, no problem.” Salt air mixes with the aroma of perfectly seasoned seafood.
Live music on weekends creates a party atmosphere that perfectly matches the beach town vibe. Cold drinks flow as freely as the ocean waves just steps away.
The casual setting encourages lingering over meals while watching colorful sunsets paint the sky in brilliant orange and pink hues.
9. SeeWee Restaurant, Awendaw
Country roads lead to this hidden gem where city folks drive miles for authentic Lowcountry cooking done right. The rural setting feels like visiting your grandmother’s kitchen.
Homestyle preparations focus on traditional flavors without any fancy modern twists. Simple cooking techniques let the natural sweetness of fresh shrimp shine through completely.
Generous portions and reasonable prices keep local families coming back week after week for reliable comfort food experiences.
10. Red’s Ice House, Mount Pleasant
Former ice house turned seafood joint maintains its industrial charm while serving up some of the area’s freshest catches daily. Exposed beams and concrete floors create unique character.
The no-nonsense approach means all effort goes into food quality rather than fancy decorations. Serious seafood lovers appreciate the focus on flavor over flashy presentation.
Local fishing boats still deliver their daily hauls directly to the kitchen door each morning for maximum freshness and quality.
11. Lee’s Inlet Kitchen, Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet earned its reputation as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina” partly thanks to family-owned spots like this one. Three generations have perfected their shrimp recipes.
Waterfront dining lets you watch fishing boats return with the day’s catch while you enjoy your meal. The scenic location adds magic to every dining experience.
Traditional Lowcountry seasonings and cooking methods ensure every plate tastes exactly like coastal Carolina seafood should taste.
12. Sea Captain’s House, Myrtle Beach
This oceanfront landmark has been serving hungry beachgoers since 1930, making it one of the area’s oldest continuously operating restaurants. Generations of vacationing families consider it essential.
Picture windows provide stunning ocean views while you crack into platters of local shrimp. The historic atmosphere adds character that newer establishments simply cannot replicate.
Traditional recipes remain unchanged because loyal customers expect the same great flavors they’ve enjoyed for decades of family vacations.
13. Creek Ratz, Murrells Inlet
The playful name hints at the fun atmosphere you’ll find at this waterfront favorite where serious seafood meets lighthearted coastal charm. Dock seating puts you right over the water.
Boats pull up directly to the restaurant dock while you dine on fresh catches. The interactive experience lets you watch the seafood supply chain in action.
Live entertainment and tropical drinks create a party atmosphere that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of coastal South Carolina living.
14. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Hilton Head Island
Actual working docks surround this authentic seafood house where shrimp boats unload their catches just feet from your dinner table. The real deal doesn’t get more genuine.
Commercial fishing operations continue around you while you enjoy perfectly prepared local specialties. The working waterfront atmosphere provides entertainment and authenticity simultaneously.
Sunset dining becomes spectacular when golden light illuminates both your plate and the busy harbor filled with returning fishing vessels.
15. Bluffton Family Seafood House, Bluffton
Small town charm meets big flavor at this family-owned establishment where everybody knows your name after just a few visits. Three generations work together in the kitchen.
Traditional family recipes get prepared the same way they have been for decades. Consistency and quality keep local families returning week after week for reliable experiences.
The welcoming atmosphere makes solo diners feel comfortable while large family groups find plenty of space to gather and celebrate together.