The Carolinas’ coastlines dish out seafood that’s fresh, fried, or steamed to perfection. North and South Carolina’s eateries turn ocean hauls into must-try meals. These spots are the unmissable kings of the catch.
1. Bowens Island Restaurant – Charleston, SC
This James Island shack steams oysters by the bucket—briny, plump, and pulled from local waters. The all-you-can-eat deal ($25) comes with a mallet and a view of Folly Creek. It’s rustic—graffiti walls, no frills—but a 2024 Lowcountry staple. Best for: oyster overload.
2. Calabash Seafood Hut – Calabash, NC
In the “Seafood Capital of the World,” this hut fries flounder, shrimp, and scallops light and crispy, Calabash-style. Hushpuppies and slaw come standard; expect a line out the door. It’s cash-only and packed with locals. Best for: fried perfection.
3. Saltus River Grill – Beaufort, SC
Upscale but chill, Saltus pairs Lowcountry shrimp with grits or sears tuna with a riverfront view. The crab cake’s a standout—lump meat, no filler. Entrees hover at $30, but the vibe’s worth it. Best for: refined seafood nights.
4. Clawson’s 1905 – Beaufort, NC
A century-old spot, Clawson’s fries oysters and grills mahi-mahi with a nod to its fishing-town roots. The shrimp burger’s a local legend—juicy, piled high. It’s cozy, with drafts under $5. Best for: historic coastal bites.
Why They’re Unmissable
Bowens is raw and real, Calabash fries it right, Saltus polishes it up, and Clawson’s keeps it old-school. They’re the Carolinas’ seafood soul.
Eat There
Hit Bowens (15 minutes from Charleston), Calabash (30 minutes from Myrtle Beach), Saltus in Beaufort, SC (1 hour from Charleston), and Clawson’s in Beaufort, NC (2 hours from Wilmington). Bring appetite—portions don’t skimp.
Your seafood pick? Tell us below!
