There’s nothing better than having a meal by the water on a nice day. Dining at a waterfront restaurant offers beautiful views and the opportunity to enjoy freshly-caught seafood. You may even spot a dolphin or two! Here are the best waterfront restaurants in Charleston.
The Best Waterfront Restaurants in Charleston
Red’s Ice House
Red’s Ice House is a perfect laid-back dining option for the whole family—dogs too! Stop by for cold beers and the best grouper sandwich on Shem Creek.
- Neighborhood: Shem Creek
- What to Order: Great grouper sandwich
Sunsets
Sunsets is a newer addition to Shem Creek. Sunsets offers great creek views, where you can watch the dolphins, paddle boarders, and boats pass by as you sip on a refreshing cocktail. The menu at Sunsets includes a raw bar with oysters and shrimp, a handheld menu with burgers, tacos, and fried chicken, and a lengthy beer, wine, and cocktails menu.
- Neighborhood: Shem Creek
- What to Order: Fish Tacos or Steak Tacos
BLU
Blu, a beach-front restaurant, is situated in The Tides Hotel. The menu features sustainable seafood, local contemporary cuisine, and vibrant flavors. No matter where you’re seated, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Neighborhood: Folly Beach
- What to Order: Baja fish tacos
Fleet Landing
Fleet Landing was built in 1942 by the U.S. Navy as a debarkation point for sailors and is now known as one of Charleston’s best waterfront restaurants. Locals rave about their shrimp & grits, and their crab soup. Fleet Landing also just launched their new raw bar menu!
- Neighborhood: Downtown
- What to order: Fried seafood platter
Tavern & Table
Tavern & Table serves the best aspects of fine dining in a casual atmosphere. Dine on the deck and enjoy delicious Lowcountry cuisine made with local ingredients.
- Neighborhood: Shem Creek
- What to Order: Bison burger
Coda del Pesce
When you’re craving Italian, check out Coda del Pesce. Aside from oceanfront views, this contemporary Italian restaurant is known for homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts.
- Neighborhood: Isle of Palms
- What to Order: Braised octopus
Saltwater Cowboys
Whether you’re craving local seafood or savory barbecue, Saltwater Cowboys has something to please any palette. The menu is comprised of fresh, local, and housemade options.
- Neighborhood: Shem Creek
- What to Order: Trash can nachos
Islander 71
Islander 71 is Charleston’s latest waterfront dining destination. This seafood restaurant features multiple outdoor bars, delicious food options, crafty cocktails, and an incredible view.
- Neighborhood: Isle of Palms
- What to Order: Warm crab dip
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is known for its diverse local seafood menu and historically as the launching site of America’s first submarine, the H.L. Hunley! The sweet corn hushpuppies and crab fritters come highly recommended.
- Neighborhood: Isle of Palms
- What to Order: Spicy shrimp & grits
Marina Variety Store Restaurant
At Marina Variety Store Restaurant you can expect a Southern-style breakfast and a seafood-focused lunch and dinner. No matter what meal you come in for, you’ll be able to enjoy it by the water.
- Neighborhood: Downtown
- What to order: Green tomatoes
Charleston Harbor Fish House
Charleston Harbor Fish House, located on Patriots Point, was named one of the “Top 25 Restaurants in Charleston” by Charleston Living Magazine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu changes seasonally offering delicious land and sea options.
- Neighborhood: Mount Pleasant
- What to Order: Crab cakes
Coconut Joe’s
Dine on the deck overlooking the ocean at Coconut Joe’s with island-inspired dishes. This family-friendly eatery is a great spot for weekend brunch.
- Neighborhood: Isle of Palms
- What to Order: Crab dip
Vickery’s Bar & Grill
You’re guaranteed beautiful sunset views when you dine at Vickery’s Bar & Grill. Guests can expect fresh Lowcountry cuisine served in a casual environment, along with great waterfront seating.
- Neighborhood: Shem Creek
- What to Order: Fried green tomato tower
Ellis Creek Fish Camp
Ellis Creek Fish Camp is a casual camp-like eatery overlooking the marsh and Ellis Creek. Stop in for daily food and drink specials from 11:30am to 8:00pm.
- Neighborhood: James Island
- What to Order: Fish and chips
Bowens Island Restaurant
Bowens Island Restaurant is a counter-service eatery located five minutes from Folly Beach. The waterfront dining destination is known for its locally-harvested oysters, hush puppies, fried shrimp, and cold beer.
- Neighborhood: Folly Beach
- What to Order: Frogmore stew
Water’s Edge
Water’s Edge offers guests a sophisticated waterfront dining experience. Enjoy a refreshing drink and delicious meal while spotting dolphins and paddleboarders on the creek.
- Neighborhood: Shem Creek
- What to Order: Seafood platter
Wreck of the Richard & Charlene
Wreck of the Richard & Charlene has been serving fresh local seafood for over twenty-four years. The family-owned restaurant draws in the locals with creek views and fried Lowcountry cuisine.
- Neighborhood: Mount Pleasant
- What to Order: Fried oysters
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