Pawleys Island's Best Seafood Restaurants [Updated 2026]

You’ll find that Pawleys Island isn’t just a gorgeous coastal retreat; it’s a hidden gem bursting with culinary delights, especially when it comes to seafood! After diving into 12 top-notch spots, I’ve unearthed the juiciest shrimp, the freshest fish, and those unforgettable local flavors that make each bite a mouthwatering experience.

As someone who’s savored every crab cake and slurped every oyster, you can trust my taste buds—they’ve been on this delicious journey alongside me. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a curious newcomer, I promise these recommendations will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So, let’s set sail on this culinary adventure together!

Pawleys Fish Camp

Highlights
Great fish and oysters
Collard greens with turkey
Awesome food
Friendly owners
Committed to improvement

From the moment I arrived at Pawleys Fish Camp, I felt the warm, inviting vibe of this charming seafood gem. Nestled in the heart of Pawleys Island, this spot is a delightful mix of coastal atmosphere and homey charm. The owners are incredibly friendly, creating an inviting environment that feels like a welcome hug after a long drive.

Now, let’s talk food—oh my goodness! The fish did not disappoint. Each bite was a celebration of freshness, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. I couldn’t resist trying the oysters, and they were simply phenomenal, with a briny taste reminiscent of tidal waters.

But the true star of the show? The collard greens cooked with turkey. They were soul-soothing, a perfect blend of smoky and savory. I must admit, I went back for seconds!

What truly impressed me was the team’s commitment to improvement; their passion for providing diners with a memorable experience is evident. Overall, Pawleys Fish Camp is a delightful adventure for any seafood lover. If you find yourself in Pawleys Island, do not miss out on this welcoming haven—the food and ambiance will leave you smiling!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Greenville.

Pawleys Island Tavern

Highlights
Unique bar experience
Incredibly friendly staff
Fun and inviting atmosphere
Nice outdoor seating available
Interactive dollar wall/ceiling

Pawleys Island Tavern is more than just a seafood spot; it's a vibrant experience that captures the essence of coastal dining. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the incredibly friendly staff, who exude warmth and make you feel right at home. The tavern has a playful atmosphere, enhanced by unique decor and an engaging interactive dollar wall/ceiling that adds a touch of whimsy to the surroundings.

I decided to take advantage of the inviting outdoor seating, where the salty sea breeze and the sounds of laughter mingled in the air. It was the perfect place to enjoy some scrumptious seafood while soaking up the Pawleys Island vibe. The menu features a delightful array of options, offering fresh catches that are both expertly prepared and beautifully presented.

What truly sets this spot apart is its commitment to creating an unforgettable experience for its guests. With a unique bar atmosphere and a friendly smile at every turn, Pawleys Island Tavern has earned its place as one of the best seafood restaurants in Pawleys Island. I left not just satisfied but with a joyful heart, knowing I had discovered a gem by the shore.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Garden City.

Local Eat Drink Celebrate

Highlights
Incredibly fresh seafood
Knowledgeable chef/owner
Great drink selections
Charming atmosphere
Impressive staff service

Local Eat Drink Celebrate in Pawleys Island is a hidden gem that truly embraces the art of seafood dining. As I stepped inside, I was instantly captivated by the charming atmosphere—a perfect blend of cozy elegance and vibrant coastal flair. The real star of the show, however, is undoubtedly the incredibly fresh seafood on offer, caught within hours to its arrival on your plate.

What sets this place apart is the knowledgeable chef/owner, whose passion for culinary excellence shines through every dish. I dove into their signature crab cakes, and let me tell you, they were an absolute delight—each bite bursting with flavor and lovingly crafted. The impressive staff service further elevated the evening; they were attentive without being intrusive, and they clearly knew the menu inside and out.

To wash it all down, I explored their great drink selections, perfectly curated to complement the fresh seafood. Whether you're after a refreshing cocktail or a crisp glass of wine, you'll find something to quench your thirst. If you’re seeking a memorable seafood experience, look no further than Local Eat Drink Celebrate—it's a celebration of all things delicious that truly deserves your attention!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Myrtle Beach.

Frank's & Frank's Outback

Highlights
Magnificent dining experience
Knowledgeable and attentive staff
Generous cocktails served
Delicious mixed berry cobbler
Beautifully decorated outdoor area

Frank's & Frank's Outback is a delightful gem in Pawleys Island that I simply couldn't resist exploring. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted by a magnificent dining experience that set the stage for a memorable evening. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between cozy and elegant, enhanced by the beautiful decor in the outdoor area where diners can indulge in their meals under the open sky.

The knowledgeable and attentive staff truly elevated the experience; they guided me through the mouthwatering menu with ease, helping me choose some of the best seafood offerings. I opted for a platter of fresh catch, beautifully seasoned and perfectly cooked, which left my taste buds dancing with delight.

And let's not forget about the generous cocktails—each sip felt like a mini-vacation, bursting with flavors that complemented my meal. To wrap up the evening, I indulged in their delicious mixed berry cobbler, which was the perfect sweet ending.

If you’re searching for a combination of exceptional seafood and a charming atmosphere, look no further than Frank's & Frank's Outback—a true treasure of Pawleys Island!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Isle of Palms.

Drunken Jack's Restaurant & Lounge

Highlights
Amazing waterfront location
Delicious Sesame Tuna
Outstanding service
Melt-in-your-mouth seafood
Great view of the water

Drunken Jack's Restaurant & Lounge quickly captured my attention with its amazing waterfront location—a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset while savoring delectable seafood. As I settled into my seat, I was immediately drawn to the charming ambiance that filled the restaurant with a sense of relaxation.

I decided to try the Sesame Tuna, and let me tell you, it was a culinary revelation! The tuna was fresh, and perfectly seared, with a delightful crunch that danced on my palate. Each bite felt like a celebration of flavors, complemented beautifully by the vibrant atmosphere around me.

What truly enhanced my visit was the outstanding service. The staff was attentive and friendly, making me feel right at home. I could tell they were just as passionate about the food as I was, bringing a delightful energy to the experience.

And as I savored the melt-in-your-mouth seafood, I couldn’t help but appreciate the great view of the water—the setting sun casting golden hues over the horizon made for the perfect backdrop to my meal. In short, Drunken Jack's is a treasure in Pawleys Island, and I can't wait to return for another round of unforgettable seafood delights!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Columbia.

Lee's Inlet Kitchen

Highlights
Award-winning She Crab Soup
Delicious homemade desserts
Perfectly cooked Flounder
Delightful hush puppies
Attentive and helpful service

Lee's Inlet Kitchen feels like a hidden gem tucked away in the charming streets of Pawleys Island. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with the tantalizing aroma of the sea. Their award-winning She Crab Soup is a non-negotiable starter—rich, creamy, and with just the right touch of seasoning that tickles your taste buds with delight.

For my main dish, I opted for the perfectly cooked Flounder. It was flaky and moist, served with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance its natural flavor. And let’s not forget those delightful hush puppies—golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside; I could have devoured countless servings!

My experience was further elevated by the attentive and helpful service I received. The staff had an infectious enthusiasm for the menu, always ready with recommendations that enhanced my culinary journey. Lastly, the homemade desserts were an absolute must-try. Each bite was a sweet serenade to the senses!

If you’re in the area, indulging in a meal at Lee's Inlet Kitchen will be a memory you savor long after you've left.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in North Myrtle Beach.

Russell's Seafood Grill

Highlights
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Great outdoor seating
Delicious hush puppies
Excellent she-crab soup
Cozy, treehouse-like atmosphere

Russell's Seafood Grill is an absolute gem nestled in Pawleys Island, and my taste buds are still tingling from the experience! As I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the knowledgeable and friendly staff who instantly made me feel like part of the family. The cozy, treehouse-like atmosphere added a charming touch, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal.

Now, let's talk food! I dove into their famous she-crab soup, a rich and creamy delight that had me dreaming of the ocean with every spoonful. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Lowcountry cuisine. And who could resist their delicious hush puppies? These little morsels of fried perfection had just the right amount of crunch, perfectly complementing the seafood dishes.

Russell's also boasts fantastic outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy the lovely coastal breeze while savoring their meal. If you're in Pawleys Island and craving a delightful seafood experience, Russell's Seafood Grill is a must-visit. I’m already planning my next trip back to this oh-so-charming establishment!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Charleston.

Hot Fish Club

Highlights
Not overly greasy seafood
Delicious seared scallops
Flavorful blackened red snapper
Complimentary garlic butter bread
Market price king crab option

During my recent visit to Hot Fish Club in lovely Pawleys Island, I discovered a seafood haven that expertly balances flavor with a laid-back atmosphere. From the moment I walked in, the inviting scent of fresh seafood wafted through the air, promising a delightful culinary journey ahead.

I started with their mouthwatering seared scallops, and let me tell you, they were cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender within. Next, I couldn’t resist the blackened red snapper, which was beautifully seasoned and bursting with flavor, showcasing the chef's deft hand.

One charming touch that caught me by surprise was the complimentary garlic butter bread. It was a delightful addition that paired perfectly with my meal and kept me nibbling in between bites of my scrumptious entrée.

For those seeking a showstopper, the market price king crab option is worth considering. Overall, Hot Fish Club stands out for its ability to serve up not overly greasy seafood that allows the freshness of the ingredients to shine through. This establishment has certainly earned its place among the best seafood restaurants in Pawleys Island, and I can’t wait to return for another culinary adventure!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Greenville.

Graham's Landing

Highlights
Beautiful backyard view
Great food variety
Delicious shrimp tacos
Excellent service
Inviting interior ambiance

Graham's Landing is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Pawleys Island, where culinary vistas meet breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arriving, I was immediately enchanted by the beautiful backyard view. It perfectly sets the tone for what is to come!

The menu was a treasure trove of options, showcasing a great food variety that caters to all seafood aficionados. I couldn't resist trying the delicious shrimp tacos, and let me tell you, they exceeded all expectations. Each bite was a fiesta of flavors, truly captivating my taste buds.

One of the standout features was the excellent service. My server was attentive, warm, and ever so knowledgeable about the dishes—an indispensable trait for a restaurant dedicated to delivering a memorable experience. The ambiance also played a pivotal role; the inviting interior was a cozy haven, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.

In conclusion, Graham's Landing is not just a place to eat; it's a culinary journey that I wholeheartedly recommend. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this spot promises a delightful dining experience that you won't soon forget. Happy dining!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Columbia.

Austin’s Harvest Restaurant

Highlights
Fantastic food
Exceptional service
Beautiful scenery
Fresh and delicious dishes
Creative menu options

Austin’s Harvest Restaurant truly captures the essence of coastal dining. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with exceptional service that set a delightful tone for the evening. The ambiance perfectly complements the surroundings—imagine dining with stunning views of the marshlands, as nature serenades you in the background.

Now, let’s talk food. The menu is a celebration of creativity, showcasing fresh and delicious dishes that are nothing short of a seafood lover's dream. I indulged in the lobster roll, which was a vibrant mix of flavors, marrying tender chunks of lobster with just the right amount of seasoning. It was a sheer delight!

As I savored my meal, I couldn’t help but appreciate the fantastic food and the careful attention to detail. Whether you’re in the mood for classic options or something a bit more adventurous, Austin’s has it all.

If you find yourself in Pawleys Island, do not miss this culinary gem. The combination of fresh ingredients, breathtaking scenery, and a playful yet professional vibe makes it a must-visit. In my book, Austin’s Harvest has earned its place among the best seafood restaurants in the area!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Downtown Charleston.

Tide To Table

From the moment I stepped into Tide To Table, I was enveloped by a warm, coastal vibe that perfectly complemented their fresh seafood offerings. The shrimps and grits danced with Southern flavor, while the catch of the day brought a taste of the ocean straight to my plate. Each dish was crafted with care, showcasing local ingredients that made every bite a delight. The friendly staff added to the charm, making me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another diner. For seafood lovers in Pawleys Island, Tide To Table is a must-visit destination that doesn’t disappoint!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Hilton Head.

Pawley's Raw Bar

Pawley's Raw Bar is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the essence of beachfront dining. This casual spot boasts a lively atmosphere, where the aroma of fresh seafood mingles with the salty air. I indulged in their signature oysters, which were nothing short of divine—smooth and briny, just the way I like them! The friendly staff made my visit even more enjoyable, offering recommendations that truly shone a light on their menu. For anyone craving a laid-back dining experience with stellar seafood, Pawley's Raw Bar is an absolute must-visit in Pawleys Island. 🌊🥂

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Rock Hill.