We’re thankful for Lowcountry beach days + outdoor dining. Luckily, around here, there is no shortage of great places to grab a bite near the water or on the beach.
Check out this list of some beachside + waterfront restaurants around town. 🏝
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar | 186 Concord St.
The winner of the 2020 Charleston’s Choice award for best waterfront restaurant, Fleet Landing provides diners with the ultimate Charleston experience. Whether you’re seated outside on the large deck or inside beside floor-to-ceiling windows, you’re guaranteed breathtaking waterfront views + mouthwatering dishes, like shrimp and grits, and oysters on the half shell.
Charleston Crab House + Shem Creek Crab House | 145 Wappoo Creek Dr. and 508 Mill St., Mt. Pleasant
A James Island favorite, this Charleston Crab House location is perched beside Wappoo Creek and lives up to its name with a menu overflowing with crab-inspired dishes. Crab stuffed mushrooms, crab cake sandwiches, and fried soft shell blue crabs are just a few of the delicious options available. Check out the Mt. Pleasant location along Shem Creek as well — which is serving up seafood galore.
California Dreaming | 1 Ashley Pt. Dr.
Since the 1980s, California Dreaming has served the Charleston community proudly beside the Ashley River. In fact, this restaurant is even accessible by boat. Protip: Try the buttery croissants + the roasted salmon salad. We recommend dining in or outside on the patio for the incredible water views + atmosphere.
Saltwater Cowboys | 130 Mill St., Mt. Pleasant
Head over to this lively spot on Shem Creek for endless outdoor, waterfront seating, delicious cocktails, and good vibes. With a sprawling deck, fun music, and generous drink menu, it’s nearly impossible to leave without a smile and full belly.
Bowens Island | 1870 Bowens Island Rd.
A Lowcountry gem that’s been around for 75 years, this restaurant is located at the edge of a 13-acre island just a few minutes from Folly Beach and serves oysters straight off the boat. Sit outside, enjoy fresh seafood, and catch brilliant island sunsets.
BLU | 1 Center St., Folly Beach
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, BLU is undeniably one of the top beachside restaurants around town. The menu includes outstanding surf + turf options like cold water lobster tail, scallops, and filet mignon.
The Windjammer | 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
Get ready to party. Located on IOP, The Windjammer is known not only for its ideal location, but also for its live performances on the Beach Stage, where some of the Lowcountry’s best musicians perform nearly every weekend, so long as the weather cooperates. Order up some buffalo wings + a cold drink to enjoy dinner and a show right on the beach.
Coconut Joe’s | 1120 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms
Feel the ocean breeze at Coconut Joe’s while you sit on the rooftop, order a cocktail, and enjoy dinner with a stunning view of the water. You’ll feel like you’re on vacation at this IOP staple.
