Dining on the Isle of Palms

A Complete Guide to Every Restaurant on IOP, SC

Updated March 2026

Six miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline, a laid-back island vibe, and easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway. Isle of Palms, South Carolina has long been one of the Lowcountry's most beloved barrier island retreats. But IOP is not just a beach destination — it is a dining destination, too. From old-school breakfast joints to upscale Italian seafood, from beachfront rum shacks to nationally recognized sustainable kitchens, the dining scene on this small sea island punches well above its weight. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning local, here is your complete guide to every restaurant on Isle of Palms.

Breakfast & Brunch Start your beach day right. IOP's morning dining scene ranges from a beloved cash-only cafe to a full-service brunch destination.
Sea Biscuit Cafe 21 J.C. Long Blvd \| (843) 886-4079 \| Breakfast & Lunch \| Cash and checks only A true IOP institution, Sea Biscuit Cafe is the kind of bright, cozy, nautical-touched spot that locals have been returning to for decades. The menu is refreshingly simple: classic homestyle breakfast and lunch done with care and consistency. Think fluffy omelets, hearty biscuit plates, and comforting lunch staples. Don't let the no-credit-card policy catch you off guard — stop by the ATM before you go. The wait is almost always worth it.
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen 31 J.C. Long Blvd \| (843) 886-0024 \| Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner One of the most beloved all-day dining destinations on the island. Morning options include beignets, Eggs Benedict, and biscuits and gravy, while lunch brings standouts like the Fried Haddock Sandwich and Scallops & Truffle Grits. Dinners lean into Lowcountry tradition with Fried Green Tomatoes, Braised Short Ribs, Crab Cakes, and Creole Seafood. Acme is a proud member of the James Beard Foundation's Smart Catch Program and a partner of the South Carolina Aquarium, reflecting a deep commitment to sustainable seafood sourcing.
The Refuge 1517 Palm Blvd A \| (843) 242-8934 \| Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner \| Weekend Brunch Available A family-owned gem that doubles as both a coffee bar and a full-service restaurant. Start your morning with fresh bagels, pastries, and locally roasted coffee, or settle in for heartier fare. Weekend brunch is a highlight, featuring creative dishes like baked avocado and egg alongside stacks of buttermilk pancakes. Open from 7 AM to 10 PM with a modern coastal aesthetic that never turns stuffy.
The Co-OP IOP 1515 Palm Blvd, Suite 110 \| (843) 242-8366 \| Breakfast & Lunch \| Mon–Thu 8am–4pm, Fri–Sun 8am–6pm A beloved island cafe serving gourmet sandwiches, $1 coffee, and their world-famous frose (frozen rosé). The breakfast menu includes whipped ricotta toast, breakfast burritos, and avocado toast, while lunch brings creative sandwiches, salads, and a rotating flight of frose flavors. Smoothies and a kid-friendly menu round out the offerings.
Beachfront & Casual Dining When you want your feet in the sand and a cold drink in hand, these IOP spots deliver laid-back beachfront fare with ocean views to match.
Coconut Joe's Beach Grill 1120 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 886-0046 \| Brunch (Sat), Lunch & Dinner \| Seasonal The quintessential IOP beachfront experience. Perched right on the oceanfront with a covered deck facing the Atlantic and a rooftop that hosts live music, this is the kind of place that makes a beach vacation feel complete. The menu is casual and crowd-pleasing: seafood baskets, sandwiches, tropical cocktails, and cold beers.
Smugglers Island Eats & Rum Shack 1122 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 885-7009 \| Lunch & Dinner \| Daily 11am–11pm One of the liveliest spots on Front Beach. The concept is simple: unique rum cocktails and seriously good food in a chill, open-air beach shack setting with live music. The signature Smugglers Smashburger has earned serious fans, and the rum daiquiris, dark and stormys, and tropical frozen drinks are equally popular. Live music on weekends and a true island atmosphere make this a must-stop on any IOP visit.
Lawrence's Seafood Company 1130 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 242-8470 \| Lunch & Dinner Mon–Fri \| Brunch & Dinner Sat–Sun (Brunch 10am–3pm) A beachfront gem offering fresh, coastal-inspired seafood with stunning ocean views and live music. Top sellers include the double smash burger, a generously portioned lobster roll, and the signature lobster mac and cheese. Weekend brunch standouts include the island omelet loaded with grilled shrimp and the Lawrence's breakfast sandwich piled high with lobster and shrimp.
IOP Raw Isle of Palms, SC \| Lunch & Dinner The island's go-to spot for fresh raw bar fare. Expect classic offerings including peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters, and straight-from-the-coast shellfish alongside casual seafood plates. Relaxed and informal — beach dining at its most elemental.
The Dinghy 8 J.C. Long Blvd \| (843) 242-8310 \| Lunch, Dinner & Late Night \| Mon–Thu 11:30am–1am, Fri–Sun 11:30am–1:30am One of IOP's most beloved local hangouts: a taproom and kitchen with a laid-back Key West vibe, a short walk from the beach. Twelve beers on draft, live music on weekends, oyster roasts every Thursday from November through March, and a full menu featuring crowd favorites like the Dirty Elvis Fries — sweet potato fries topped with peanut butter, bacon, and fried plantains. Dog-friendly on the patio.
Seafood & Waterfront Dining IOP's prime location on the South Carolina coast means fresh seafood is never far away. These restaurants showcase the Lowcountry's best ocean-to-table and waterfront traditions.
Long Island Cafe 1515 Palm Blvd \| (843) 886-8809 \| Lunch, Sunday Brunch & Dinner A mainstay of Isle of Palms since 1986. The menu features an extensive array of fresh, locally sourced seafood: Traditional She Crab Soup, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Fried Flounder Sandwich, and Grilled Lobster Tails. A newer Raw Bar has only added to its appeal. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer weekends.
Islander 71 Fish House & Raw Bar 80 41st Ave \| (877) 420-9558 \| Wed–Fri 4pm–9pm, Sat–Sun 12pm–9pm \| Closed Mon–Tue Voted Best Waterfront Restaurant in the Charleston area for 2024, Islander 71 is nestled along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway beside the IOP Marina. The chef-driven menu brings together fresh Southern-inspired seafood, a raw bar, and handcrafted cocktails. Highlights include She Crab Fries, Baked Crab Dip, Ahi Tuna Bruschetta, Shrimp and Pimento Cheese Grits, and an all-you-can-eat oyster option during special events.
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet 101 Palm Blvd \| (843) 886-8000 \| Dinner & Sunday Brunch Perched at the dramatic waterway where the Intracoastal meets the Atlantic, The Boathouse offers one of the most spectacular dining settings in the Charleston area. The menu is rooted in fresh Southern seafood, drawing from family recipes and the modern locavore movement. The rooftop bar is a must for sunset cocktails. This location also carries a rich piece of history — Breach Inlet was the launching point of the H.L. Hunley, the world's first combat submarine. Reservations highly recommended.
The Outpost at IOP Marina 50 41st Ave \| (843) 886-0209 \| Breakfast & Lunch \| Daily 7am–6pm One of the island's best-kept secrets. Situated directly on the Intracoastal Waterway with views of boats, palm trees, and Morgan Creek, the menu far exceeds what you might expect from a marina shop. Specialty coffees, the GOAT breakfast bowl, avocado toast, fish tacos, Fried Flounder Sandwiches, and the IOP Shrimp Roll are all standouts. Quick service, kid-friendly vibes, and free short-term parking.
Live Music & Bar Dining IOP's bar scene is defined by live music, beach vibes, and cold drinks served steps from the ocean.
The Windjammer 1008 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 886-8596 \| Lunch, Dinner & Late Night \| Daily 11:30am–2am Founded by the Burgis brothers in 1972, The Windjammer is Charleston's premier live music beach venue and the beating heart of Isle of Palms nightlife. For over 50 years it has hosted everything from local cover bands to nationally known artists, with an outdoor deck overlooking the Atlantic and a beach volleyball court out back. The food menu covers the classics: buffalo wings, cheeseburgers, fish and chips, peel-and-eat shrimp, and Alaskan snow crab legs. A night at the Windjammer is simply non-negotiable.
Fine Dining & Upscale When the occasion calls for something more elevated, Isle of Palms delivers with two standout restaurants that pair upscale cuisine with striking coastal settings.
Coda del Pesce 1130 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 242-8570 \| Dinner Translating to "tail of the fish" in Italian, Coda del Pesce is a contemporary Italian-influenced restaurant showcasing sustainably and locally sourced seafood. Think handmade pastas, carpaccio, lobster bisque, and seared diver scallops alongside traditionally prepared Lowcountry ingredients. Located on IOP's Front Beach strip with sweeping Atlantic views — a top pick for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Coastal Provisions — Wild Dunes Resort Wild Dunes Resort \| Dinner Located within the Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort, Coastal Provisions offers upscale resort-casual dining on a terrace overlooking the water. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest available ingredients and is a proud partner of the South Carolina Aquarium's Good Catch sustainable seafood program. Expect fresh Lowcountry seafood, prime meats, and gracious service in a refined but relaxed setting.
Pizza & Pub-Style Dining Sometimes beach life calls for something simple. IOP has you covered.
IOPizza Co. 1101 Ocean Blvd, Unit C \| Lunch & Dinner For a casual, no-fuss meal after a long day on the beach, IOPizza delivers exactly what you are craving. Pizzas, subs, salads, wraps, and pasta, all backed by a full-service bar. A reliable, family-friendly option for nights when everyone just wants something quick, easy, and satisfying.
Coming Soon Heavy's Barburger Ocean Blvd \| Opening date TBD The forthcoming concept set to take over the former Papi's Taqueria location on Ocean Blvd. No opening date has been announced yet, but IOP dining fans are watching this space with interest. Check back for updates.
Coffee, Treats & Markets Whether you need a morning espresso, an acai bowl, or a grab-and-go snack, these island spots keep you fueled between meals.
Cafe Paname 1202 Palm Blvd \| (843) 885-6303 A family-owned Parisian-style coffee shop serving only locally roasted coffee alongside locally sourced food. Freshly baked-daily croissants, espresso drinks, lattes, and daily pastry specials make this a wonderful morning stop before hitting the beach.
Shaka Shack 1101-D Ocean Blvd \| (843) 885-6473 \| Seasonal \| Approx. 10am–9pm A tropical, surf-inspired treat shop on Front Beach serving Dole soft serve, acai bowls, smoothies, and more. The perfect cooling-off stop after a long morning on the sand.
Hudson's Market — Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd, Wild Dunes Resort \| (843) 886-7301 Located within Wild Dunes Resort, Hudson's Market is the go-to for a quick coffee, grab-and-go wraps, ice cream, wine, beer, cheeses, fresh fruits, and Lowcountry treats. Whether you need a midday snack or a bottle of wine for the evening, Hudson's has the essentials covered.

Planning Your IOP Dining Adventure

Isle of Palms is a small island, which means you are never more than a few minutes from a great meal. A few practical tips before you go:

Several restaurants, particularly casual and beachfront spots, are seasonal with limited hours outside of spring and summer.
For popular spots like Long Island Cafe and Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, expect waits during peak summer weekends — arrive early or late.
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet and Islander 71 are highly recommended for advance reservations during busy season.

Whether you are after Lowcountry comfort food, fresh raw oysters, a wood-fired Italian dinner, a killer rum cocktail at Smugglers, or live music at the legendary Windjammer — Isle of Palms has a table waiting for you.

Happy Dining on Isle of Palms.

Looking for the perfect place to stay while you explore IOP's dining scene? Browse our vacation rentals at IOP Escapes and find your home away from home on the island.

Breakfast & Brunch Start your beach day right. IOP's morning dining scene ranges from a beloved cash-only cafe to a full-service brunch destination.
Sea Biscuit Cafe 21 J.C. Long Blvd \| (843) 886-4079 \| Breakfast & Lunch \| Cash and checks only A true IOP institution, Sea Biscuit Cafe is the kind of bright, cozy, nautical-touched spot that locals have been returning to for decades. The menu is refreshingly simple: classic homestyle breakfast and lunch done with care and consistency. Think fluffy omelets, hearty biscuit plates, and comforting lunch staples. Don't let the no-credit-card policy catch you off guard — stop by the ATM before you go. The wait is almost always worth it.
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen 31 J.C. Long Blvd \| (843) 886-0024 \| Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner One of the most beloved all-day dining destinations on the island. Morning options include beignets, Eggs Benedict, and biscuits and gravy, while lunch brings standouts like the Fried Haddock Sandwich and Scallops & Truffle Grits. Dinners lean into Lowcountry tradition with Fried Green Tomatoes, Braised Short Ribs, Crab Cakes, and Creole Seafood. Acme is a proud member of the James Beard Foundation's Smart Catch Program and a partner of the South Carolina Aquarium, reflecting a deep commitment to sustainable seafood sourcing.
The Refuge 1517 Palm Blvd A \| (843) 242-8934 \| Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner \| Weekend Brunch Available A family-owned gem that doubles as both a coffee bar and a full-service restaurant. Start your morning with fresh bagels, pastries, and locally roasted coffee, or settle in for heartier fare. Weekend brunch is a highlight, featuring creative dishes like baked avocado and egg alongside stacks of buttermilk pancakes. Open from 7 AM to 10 PM with a modern coastal aesthetic that never turns stuffy.
The Co-OP IOP 1515 Palm Blvd, Suite 110 \| (843) 242-8366 \| Breakfast & Lunch \| Mon–Thu 8am–4pm, Fri–Sun 8am–6pm A beloved island cafe serving gourmet sandwiches, $1 coffee, and their world-famous frose (frozen rosé). The breakfast menu includes whipped ricotta toast, breakfast burritos, and avocado toast, while lunch brings creative sandwiches, salads, and a rotating flight of frose flavors. Smoothies and a kid-friendly menu round out the offerings.
Beachfront & Casual Dining When you want your feet in the sand and a cold drink in hand, these IOP spots deliver laid-back beachfront fare with ocean views to match.
Coconut Joe's Beach Grill 1120 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 886-0046 \| Brunch (Sat), Lunch & Dinner \| Seasonal The quintessential IOP beachfront experience. Perched right on the oceanfront with a covered deck facing the Atlantic and a rooftop that hosts live music, this is the kind of place that makes a beach vacation feel complete. The menu is casual and crowd-pleasing: seafood baskets, sandwiches, tropical cocktails, and cold beers.
Smugglers Island Eats & Rum Shack 1122 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 885-7009 \| Lunch & Dinner \| Daily 11am–11pm One of the liveliest spots on Front Beach. The concept is simple: unique rum cocktails and seriously good food in a chill, open-air beach shack setting with live music. The signature Smugglers Smashburger has earned serious fans, and the rum daiquiris, dark and stormys, and tropical frozen drinks are equally popular. Live music on weekends and a true island atmosphere make this a must-stop on any IOP visit.
Lawrence's Seafood Company 1130 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 242-8470 \| Lunch & Dinner Mon–Fri \| Brunch & Dinner Sat–Sun (Brunch 10am–3pm) A beachfront gem offering fresh, coastal-inspired seafood with stunning ocean views and live music. Top sellers include the double smash burger, a generously portioned lobster roll, and the signature lobster mac and cheese. Weekend brunch standouts include the island omelet loaded with grilled shrimp and the Lawrence's breakfast sandwich piled high with lobster and shrimp.
IOP Raw Isle of Palms, SC \| Lunch & Dinner The island's go-to spot for fresh raw bar fare. Expect classic offerings including peel-and-eat shrimp, oysters, and straight-from-the-coast shellfish alongside casual seafood plates. Relaxed and informal — beach dining at its most elemental.
The Dinghy 8 J.C. Long Blvd \| (843) 242-8310 \| Lunch, Dinner & Late Night \| Mon–Thu 11:30am–1am, Fri–Sun 11:30am–1:30am One of IOP's most beloved local hangouts: a taproom and kitchen with a laid-back Key West vibe, a short walk from the beach. Twelve beers on draft, live music on weekends, oyster roasts every Thursday from November through March, and a full menu featuring crowd favorites like the Dirty Elvis Fries — sweet potato fries topped with peanut butter, bacon, and fried plantains. Dog-friendly on the patio.
Seafood & Waterfront Dining IOP's prime location on the South Carolina coast means fresh seafood is never far away. These restaurants showcase the Lowcountry's best ocean-to-table and waterfront traditions.
Long Island Cafe 1515 Palm Blvd \| (843) 886-8809 \| Lunch, Sunday Brunch & Dinner A mainstay of Isle of Palms since 1986. The menu features an extensive array of fresh, locally sourced seafood: Traditional She Crab Soup, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Fried Flounder Sandwich, and Grilled Lobster Tails. A newer Raw Bar has only added to its appeal. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer weekends.
Islander 71 Fish House & Raw Bar 80 41st Ave \| (877) 420-9558 \| Wed–Fri 4pm–9pm, Sat–Sun 12pm–9pm \| Closed Mon–Tue Voted Best Waterfront Restaurant in the Charleston area for 2024, Islander 71 is nestled along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway beside the IOP Marina. The chef-driven menu brings together fresh Southern-inspired seafood, a raw bar, and handcrafted cocktails. Highlights include She Crab Fries, Baked Crab Dip, Ahi Tuna Bruschetta, Shrimp and Pimento Cheese Grits, and an all-you-can-eat oyster option during special events.
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet 101 Palm Blvd \| (843) 886-8000 \| Dinner & Sunday Brunch Perched at the dramatic waterway where the Intracoastal meets the Atlantic, The Boathouse offers one of the most spectacular dining settings in the Charleston area. The menu is rooted in fresh Southern seafood, drawing from family recipes and the modern locavore movement. The rooftop bar is a must for sunset cocktails. This location also carries a rich piece of history — Breach Inlet was the launching point of the H.L. Hunley, the world's first combat submarine. Reservations highly recommended.
The Outpost at IOP Marina 50 41st Ave \| (843) 886-0209 \| Breakfast & Lunch \| Daily 7am–6pm One of the island's best-kept secrets. Situated directly on the Intracoastal Waterway with views of boats, palm trees, and Morgan Creek, the menu far exceeds what you might expect from a marina shop. Specialty coffees, the GOAT breakfast bowl, avocado toast, fish tacos, Fried Flounder Sandwiches, and the IOP Shrimp Roll are all standouts. Quick service, kid-friendly vibes, and free short-term parking.
Live Music & Bar Dining IOP's bar scene is defined by live music, beach vibes, and cold drinks served steps from the ocean.
The Windjammer 1008 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 886-8596 \| Lunch, Dinner & Late Night \| Daily 11:30am–2am Founded by the Burgis brothers in 1972, The Windjammer is Charleston's premier live music beach venue and the beating heart of Isle of Palms nightlife. For over 50 years it has hosted everything from local cover bands to nationally known artists, with an outdoor deck overlooking the Atlantic and a beach volleyball court out back. The food menu covers the classics: buffalo wings, cheeseburgers, fish and chips, peel-and-eat shrimp, and Alaskan snow crab legs. A night at the Windjammer is simply non-negotiable.
Fine Dining & Upscale When the occasion calls for something more elevated, Isle of Palms delivers with two standout restaurants that pair upscale cuisine with striking coastal settings.
Coda del Pesce 1130 Ocean Blvd \| (843) 242-8570 \| Dinner Translating to "tail of the fish" in Italian, Coda del Pesce is a contemporary Italian-influenced restaurant showcasing sustainably and locally sourced seafood. Think handmade pastas, carpaccio, lobster bisque, and seared diver scallops alongside traditionally prepared Lowcountry ingredients. Located on IOP's Front Beach strip with sweeping Atlantic views — a top pick for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Coastal Provisions — Wild Dunes Resort Wild Dunes Resort \| Dinner Located within the Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort, Coastal Provisions offers upscale resort-casual dining on a terrace overlooking the water. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest available ingredients and is a proud partner of the South Carolina Aquarium's Good Catch sustainable seafood program. Expect fresh Lowcountry seafood, prime meats, and gracious service in a refined but relaxed setting.
Pizza & Pub-Style Dining Sometimes beach life calls for something simple. IOP has you covered.
IOPizza Co. 1101 Ocean Blvd, Unit C \| Lunch & Dinner For a casual, no-fuss meal after a long day on the beach, IOPizza delivers exactly what you are craving. Pizzas, subs, salads, wraps, and pasta, all backed by a full-service bar. A reliable, family-friendly option for nights when everyone just wants something quick, easy, and satisfying.
Coming Soon Heavy's Barburger Ocean Blvd \| Opening date TBD The forthcoming concept set to take over the former Papi's Taqueria location on Ocean Blvd. No opening date has been announced yet, but IOP dining fans are watching this space with interest. Check back for updates.
Coffee, Treats & Markets Whether you need a morning espresso, an acai bowl, or a grab-and-go snack, these island spots keep you fueled between meals.
Cafe Paname 1202 Palm Blvd \| (843) 885-6303 A family-owned Parisian-style coffee shop serving only locally roasted coffee alongside locally sourced food. Freshly baked-daily croissants, espresso drinks, lattes, and daily pastry specials make this a wonderful morning stop before hitting the beach.
Shaka Shack 1101-D Ocean Blvd \| (843) 885-6473 \| Seasonal \| Approx. 10am–9pm A tropical, surf-inspired treat shop on Front Beach serving Dole soft serve, acai bowls, smoothies, and more. The perfect cooling-off stop after a long morning on the sand.
Hudson's Market — Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd, Wild Dunes Resort \| (843) 886-7301 Located within Wild Dunes Resort, Hudson's Market is the go-to for a quick coffee, grab-and-go wraps, ice cream, wine, beer, cheeses, fresh fruits, and Lowcountry treats. Whether you need a midday snack or a bottle of wine for the evening, Hudson's has the essentials covered.

Dining on the Isle of Palms: A Complete Guide to Every Restaurant on IOP, SC

Dining on the Isle of Palms

A Complete Guide to Every Restaurant on IOP, SC

Breakfast & Brunch

Sea Biscuit Cafe

Acme Lowcountry Kitchen

The Refuge

The Co-OP IOP

Beachfront & Casual Dining

Coconut Joe's Beach Grill

Smugglers Island Eats & Rum Shack

Lawrence's Seafood Company

IOP Raw

The Dinghy

Seafood & Waterfront Dining

Long Island Cafe

Islander 71 Fish House & Raw Bar

The Boathouse at Breach Inlet

The Outpost at IOP Marina

Live Music & Bar Dining

The Windjammer

Fine Dining & Upscale

Coda del Pesce

Coastal Provisions — Wild Dunes Resort

Pizza & Pub-Style Dining

IOPizza Co.

Coming Soon

Heavy's Barburger

Coffee, Treats & Markets

Cafe Paname

Shaka Shack

Hudson's Market — Wild Dunes Resort

Planning Your IOP Dining Adventure

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