Charleston Tips: Top Restaurants You Can Reach by Boat

Charleston is a city best experienced from the water — and that includes dining. Whether you’re cruising Shem Creek, gliding through the harbor, or exploring the Intracoastal, nothing beats tying up your boat and heading straight to a great meal. From casual dockside bars to upscale seafood houses, here are the top restaurants you can reach by boat in Charleston.

Saltwater Cowboys restaurant on Shem Creek with boats docked out front

Shem Creek

Saltwater Cowboys

Saltwater Cowboys is perfect for casual Lowcountry fare with stunning marsh views. Known for BBQ, seafood towers, cocktails, and delicious key-lime pie; it’s a must-stop after a day on the water.

🚤 Dock Access: Direct Access at the Restaurant

Shem Creek

Tavern & Table

A Charleston favorite that blends upscale dining with relaxed dockside vibes. Enjoy fresh oysters and signature cocktails while overlooking shrimp boats and dolphins.

🚤 Dock Access: Direct Access at the Restaurant

Outdoor dining at Tavern & Table overlooking Shem Creek boats
Red’s Ice House on Shem Creek at sunset with boats and dockside bar crowd

Shem Creek

Red’s Ice House

A local institution — casual, laid-back, and perfect for cold beer and peel-and-eat shrimp. Live music on weekends and unbeatable creek views make it a true Charleston experience.

🚤 Dock Access: Direct Access at the Restaurant

Downtown charleston

Fleet Landing

Housed in a 1940s naval building, Fleet Landing is the only restaurant right on the Charleston Harbor. Expect classic seafood dishes with panoramic water views.

🚤 Dock Access: Charleston Maritime Center or nearby City Marina.

Fleet Landing restaurant on the Charleston Harbor with waterfront view
Islander 71 Fish House & Raw Bar on Isle of Palms with dock access for boats

Isle of palms

Islander 71

Located at the Intracoastal Waterway on Isle of Palms, Islander 71 is a true dock-and-dine gem. With raw bar favorites, fresh seafood, and an unbeatable tiki-style vibe, it’s designed for boaters.

🚤 Dock Access: Direct Access at the Restaurant

Dock & Dine

Exploring Charleston’s culinary scene by boat adds a whole new flavor to your day on the water. On your next cruise with Artemis Charters, let’s plan a stop at one of these incredible dock-and-dine spots — and make your adventure both scenic and delicious.