A Local’s Guide to the Best Seafood Spots in Charleston
June 20, 2025
If you’re staying with Deserving Vacations, you're already on the right track to experiencing the best of the Lowcountry. And when it comes to soaking in the culture of Charleston, nothing beats diving into the seafood scene — from dockside dives to elegant oyster bars.
Whether you're wandering downtown Charleston or staying beachside on Isle of Palms, here’s your go-to list of must-try seafood spots loved by locals and visitors alike.
🦐 1. 167 Raw Oyster Bar (Downtown Charleston)
Tucked off King Street, 167 Raw is a cozy, high-energy gem known for its fresh oysters, tuna burgers, and the fan-favorite lobster roll.
Local Tip: Arrive early or expect a wait—this hotspot doesn’t take reservations. Plan ahead or enjoy a cocktail while you wait – it's worth it!
🐟 2. The Boathouse at Breach Inlet (Isle of Palms)
Located at the quiet junction between Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island, The Boathouse offers coastal views and some of the freshest catches around. Enjoy crab cakes, seared tuna, and she-crab soup while watching the sun set over the water.
📍Just minutes from many Deserving Vacations rentals
Why locals love it: The rooftop bar is a hidden gem for happy hour or a romantic toast with a view.
🍤 3. The Darling Oyster Bar (Upper King Street)
Chic and charming with a vintage seafood house feel, The Darling Oyster Bar is ideal for a date night or special family dinner. Their raw bar, shrimp & grits, and scallop dishes are crowd-pleasers.
Pro Tip: Ask for a seat at the oyster bar to watch the shucking in action!
🦀 4. Bowens Island Restaurant (Folly Beach Area)
For a truly authentic experience, head to Bowens Island Restaurant—a no-frills, locally owned shack serving oysters roasted over an open flame and seafood platters with fried shrimp, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
Locals’ Choice: This is where Charleston natives go when they want to kick back, get messy, and eat like a king.
🐠 5. Acme Lowcountry Kitchen (Isle of Palms)
Combining comfort food with upscale presentation, Acme is a Deserving Vacations guest favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
🥘Don’t miss their seafood mac & cheese, shrimp & grits, or the famous seafood omelet.
Best Part: They open early for breakfast and offer an extensive wine and cocktail list for evening relaxation.
🐚 Bonus: Shop Local & Cook Like a Local
If you’re staying at a Deserving Vacations rental with a full kitchen or outdoor grill, why not shop like a local and prepare your own feast?
🐟Simmons Seafood (Isle of Palms)
Just down Palm Blvd, Simmons Seafood is a local staple for fresh, wild-caught seafood — perfect for a DIY dinner with coastal flair. From flounder and shrimp to oysters and Lowcountry boil kits, it’s a one-stop shop for your home-cooked seafood night.
📍Location: 1401 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC
🧡Why We Love It: It's super convenient for IOP guests and the quality rivals any downtown seafood market.
More Local Markets:
- 🐟 Mount Pleasant Seafood: One of the oldest family-run seafood markets in the area
- 🦐 Charleston Farmers Market: Great for seasonal, fresh catch options
Pick up some Wild Caught Carolina shrimp, oysters, or flounder and enjoy a sunset cookout on your deck in Isle of Palms.
🧭 Final Bite: Let the Coast Feed Your Soul
When you stay with Deserving Vacations, you’re not just getting a beautiful beach home—you’re getting access to the real Charleston Lowcountry experience. From dockside dives to five-star seafood spots, these local eateries will add flavor, charm, and authenticity to your vacation.
Whether you’re sipping she-crab soup by the marsh or grilling fresh fish steps from your rental, Charleston’s seafood scene is calling—and it tastes like home.
📅Ready to plan your foodie getaway?
Start your trip with Deserving Vacations and eat your way through the best seafood in the South!
Come Enjoy with Us!
Founded in 2009, Deserving Vacations property management has welcomed over 28,000 individual guest reservations across our diverse portfolio of properties and garnered thousands of 5-star reviews. Curious to learn more about Isle of Palms or have specific questions? Don't hesitate to reach out to us! You can contact Deserving Vacations at 843-906-1227, email us at nathan@deservingvacations.com, or use the convenient contact form located at the bottom of our website.