Dreaming of a plate piled high with the freshest catch, sand between your toes, and the low hum of the Atlantic as your soundtrack? Isle of Palms doesn’t just fulfill that coastal fantasy; it raises the bar. This pocket of South Carolina is a quiet paradise for seafood lovers, combining Southern charm with a relentless pursuit of flavor. Whether you’re a devotee of tender blackened fish or you gravitate toward crispy, golden shrimp, you’ll find dishes kissed by the sea at every turn.
I’ve wandered the island’s wooden walkways, fork in hand, testing crab, oysters, and everything in between. Every stop has its own local twist, from hushpuppies worth crossing the bridge for to dramatic sunset dinners by the water. If you’re ready to sift through shell piles, uncover the island’s legendary joints, or simply find a new favorite, you’re exactly where you need to be. Let’s get started on a journey to the best seafood in Isle of Palms, SC.
1. Acme Lowcountry Kitchen
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen marries Southern hospitality with a clear devotion to the sea. You’ll feel that inviting buzz as soon as you walk in. The local South Carolina shrimp sets the bar high—fresh, sweet, and always wild-caught.
On my last visit, the shrimp and grits were a revelation. Each bite tasted like it came right off a Lowcountry dock: creamy, smoky, and rich with coastal spirit. The crab cakes, seared golden, manage to be both delicate and hearty.
There’s a respect for tradition here, but it never feels stuffy. If you want to experience Isle of Palms seafood at its honest best, start with their platters or ask about the fresh catch. Each plate is all about local flavor, done right.
2. Long Island Cafe
Long Island Cafe has quietly built a loyal following since 1986, never straying from its reputation for truly fresh seafood. The unpretentious setting hints at the honest flavors you’ll find inside. This is a spot where locals return, not just for the food, but for the sense of community that fills the room.
I found myself lingering over the seafood pasta—perfectly cooked shrimp and scallops tossed with just the right amount of seasoning. Their grilled grouper is another favorite, showing off the kitchen’s skill at letting quality ingredients speak for themselves.
Sunday brunch tempts with delicate seafood omelets and crispy hashbrowns—ideal for a lazy weekend. Here, every plate showcases a commitment to freshness and a fondness for classic Lowcountry technique.
3. Coda Del Pesce
Coda Del Pesce slips a bit of Italy onto the Isle of Palms, but never forgets its coastal roots. This place is serious about handmade pasta and ultra-fresh seafood, blending local catch with old-world flair. The view of the Atlantic from your table doesn’t hurt either.
On my visit, the crudo set the tone—clean flavors that let the fish shine. The squid ink campanelle, tossed with local shrimp, was as visually striking as it was delicious. You can tell every plate is crafted with intention.
If you crave something outside the usual seafood routine, Coda Del Pesce delivers a refined twist. Don’t skip the house-made pastas paired with what’s freshest from the sea that day.
4. Boathouse
Boathouse melds history and flavor on the Isle of Palms shoreline. Spectacular sunset views and a prime waterfront location set the tone for every visit here. Sit outside and you might catch a salt breeze drifting over from the Intracoastal Waterway.
The seafood focus is unwavering. One standout for me was the she-crab soup—delicate, velvety, and brimming with authentic taste of the South Carolina coast. The blackened fish options impress too, arriving perfectly seasoned and flaky alongside a crisp, seasonal salad.
This is the place for a slow dinner with friends or family. If you want to take in the full Boathouse vibe, grab a table near the windows and order the grilled local catch. The freshness is unmistakable, the atmosphere laid-back and memorable.
5. Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill
Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill captures everything laid-back about Isle of Palms. This is where ocean views, a buzzing rooftop, and friendly energy are all part of the menu. It’s a place where families blend in with travelers chasing the next plate of crispy seafood.
The coconut shrimp stands out for all the right reasons—lightly battered with just the right hint of sweetness. The grilled fish tacos offer bright flavors and a taste of the island, often featuring the day’s local catch.
If you want your seafood with a side of lively atmosphere, Coconut Joe’s is the move. There’s a sense of celebration here, whether you’re watching the waves or digging into a generous platter after a beach day.
6. Coastal Provisions
Coastal Provisions is where a refined approach meets the restorative pace of the shore. The dining room balances elegance and comfort, making it easy to unwind alongside a well-crafted platter of seafood. It fits right in at the heart of Wild Dunes Resort, but it’s just as welcoming to locals looking for something elevated.
My experience began with the seared scallops—plump, caramelized, and paired with just the right seasonal accents. The chef’s attention to detail stands out from the first bite to the last. A rotating menu means the freshest catches are always front and center, often paired with thoughtful sides and sauces.
If you’re searching for seafood that feels both celebratory and distinctly coastal, this is your spot. Try the daily featured fish for a taste of what Isle of Palms waters are offering right now.
7. Lawrence Seafood Company
Lawrence Seafood Company captures the essence of laid-back coastal dining. It’s the kind of place where the staff greets you like a neighbor and every seafood order feels personal. The oceanside location adds a low-key charm that fits Isle of Palms perfectly.
I dug into a platter of their grilled fish, which was flaky and bursting with flavor, no heavy sauces needed. The fried shrimp earned its reputation, piping hot with just the right crunch. Portions are generous and the pace is leisurely.
If you want a spot that’s equal parts friendly and flavorful, this is it. Try their daily special; it always reflects what’s at its freshest and best on the island that day.
8. Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar
Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar bottles up the nostalgic spirit of beach life in a breezy setting. It channels the Isle of Palms of decades past, right down to the sense of fun and community woven into every meal. The waterfront views here make a lasting impression, especially as the sun starts to dip.
On my visit, I went straight for the raw bar. Each oyster tasted like a splash of the Atlantic—crisp, clean, and cold. The broiled catch of the day arrived delicately seasoned, allowing the freshness to stand front and center.
If you want classic seafood without any pretension, Islander 71 is a perfect fit. The laid-back vibe is real, and the menu is a love letter to the island’s fishing traditions.
9. Laughing Gull Restaurant & Bar
Laughing Gull Restaurant & Bar brings a fresh, casual twist to Isle of Palms dining. The setting is cheerful and lively, making it easy to slip into vacation mode even if you’re just out for lunch. There’s a coastal flair here that’s all about sunshine, beach breezes, and unfussy plates.
I tried their grilled fish sandwich—simple, flaky, and satisfying. The seafood stew pulls in flavors from both the American South and the Caribbean, laced with just the right amount of spice and freshness.
If you crave variety and a relaxed atmosphere, Laughing Gull checks both boxes. Start with their catch of the day or any seafood special for a taste that’s pure Isle of Palms with a global wink.
10. Simmons Seafood Inc
Simmons Seafood Inc has built its legacy as both a market and a local restaurant, making it a hub for fresh, high-quality seafood on Isle of Palms. This is where locals head for real-deal fish and shellfish, whether they’re dining in or taking their bounty home. The classic fish market vibe is backed by decades of family know-how.
From my own experience, the shrimp are a must—plump, sweet, and often straight from the boats. Their crab dip is another standout, creamy but never heavy, and packed with flavor.
If you want to build your own seafood feast or dig into something quick and fresh, Simmons is always a solid choice. Ask about the daily specials for a true taste of local waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Isle of Palms known for?
Isle of Palms is famous for fresh shrimp, local fish, oysters, and blue crab. Most restaurants serve classics like shrimp and grits, grilled fish, and crab cakes made from local catch.
Where can I find the freshest seafood on Isle of Palms?
Seafood doesn’t get fresher than at places like Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, Simmons Seafood Inc, and Lawrence Seafood Company. Many local restaurants buy directly from area fishermen, so menus often feature what’s just come off the boat.
Are there seafood options for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes. Many Isle of Palms seafood restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices alongside classic seafood dishes. Just let your server know your needs.
Do Isle of Palms seafood restaurants take reservations?
Some do, especially for dinner or large groups. It’s best to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead, especially in peak season.
Which seafood dish should I try first?
Shrimp and grits or a simple grilled fish prepared with local herbs are two can’t-miss options. These dishes capture the spirit of Lowcountry cooking and showcase the island’s best ingredients.