Charleston is no stranger to great restaurants, southern hospitality and breathtaking views, but what could be better than combining these with a day out on the boat. Now grab your fenders and find the closest cleat as we dive into 10 restaurants in Charleston that are accessible by boat.
Saltwater Cowboys
Nestled among the shrimp boats, paddle boarders and dolphins. Shem Creek is a favorite locale for waterfront dining. As you enter the creek, the first restaurant on the right is Saltwater Cowboys. Take in some great views, local seafood, and live music at the newest location on the creek, Saltwater Cowboys. Established in 2017, it has been delighting patrons with its casual atmosphere and great outdoor deck.
Red's Ice House
Tie up at Red's and take advantage of their dock side bar. What was originally a shrimping dock, the relaxed vibe at Red's is a favorite for those enjoying a day on the water. Take in the paddle boarders, kayakers and dolphins navigating Shem Creek before heading over to the number three stop on our list.
Tavern & Table
Self-proclaimed rustic yet refined. Tavern & Table offers two bars, one inside and one waterfront to suit everyone's preferences. A perfect spot to gather, share appetizers, enjoy a cocktail and take in a sunset. Be sure to make this one of your stops while on Shem Creek.
Water's Edge
If you're looking for something a little more elegant, hop across the creek to Water's Edge. With over 450 wine selections from around the world, you're sure to find the perfect bottle to enjoy at one of the coveted outdoor seats.
Vickery's
With water on three sides, there's not a bad seat at Vickery's on Shem Creek. Once you tie up, meander over to the outdoor deck complete with a bar and telescope to take a closer gander at nature. Known for its casual fun atmosphere, Vickery's is a great option for an amazing sunset.
Shem Creek Crab House
Just a short trip up the creek at the location of the former Shem Creek Bar & Grill, the Shem Creek Crab House offers boat up dining and the same favorites that the Wappoo Cut location offers.
So what is the best part of enjoying these dock side restaurants on Shem Creek? It's an easy commute on the dock or boat to the next one. With so many options to choose from, you can't go wrong.
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet
It's time to pull up anchor and had a little further up to the Isle of Palms where you will find The Boathouse at Breach Inlet. This restaurant has been serving locals and visitors alike since 1997. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the warm breeze on the rooftop deck as you take in views of the waterway between Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island. The restaurant sits where an old bait shop used to be and the vintage decor, including rowboats adorning the ceiling, evoke memories of days gone by.
California Dreaming
Overlooking the Charleston peninsula, the harbor, the James Island connector, the Ashley River Marina and the Charleston Harbor Marina, there are no bad views here. At the entrance to Ripley Light Marina, it's an easy place to tie up for a drink and a bite to eat. The outdoor bar and patio offers a laid back atmosphere with great happy hour specials.
Charleston Crab House
Located in the Wappoo Cut between the harbor and the Stono River, the family-owned Charleston Crab House has been serving up drinks and food since 1991. Tie up to the dock and stop in for fresh seafood or a cocktail on the deck while you take in views of the boats navigating the Intercoastal.
Bowen's Island Restaurant
With tons of local flare, Bowen's Island is a must stop for oceanside dining. Grab a bucket of oysters, beer, or some mouthwatering seafood at this local gem. There are no errs here, just great food, friendly locals and some of the best sunsets around.
That wraps up our list of the best boat accessible restaurants around Charleston. Make sure to let us know in the comments what your favorite dock side restaurant is!
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