Blog written by: Tracy S.
Tracy writes for East Islands Rentals, sharing vacation-planning tips, travel insights, local activities, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their time in the Lowcountry.
A visit to the Lowcounty is not complete without trying at least one of our waterfront Isle of Palms restaurants. While there are many excellent dining choices in the greater Charleston area, we have narrowed your search for you with our top three recommendations. Whether you are in the mood for something light and casual or indulgent and refined, we have you covered.
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Bring your appetite and a camera. There is sure to be mouthwatering seafood, delicious cocktails, and spectacular views! Which of these Isle of Palms restaurants on the water will you try first?
Top 3 Waterfront Isle of Palms Restaurants
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet
Location: 101 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC
Hours of Operation: Daily, 3:00 PM-9:00 PM
- Happy hour, 4:00 PM-6:00 PM
- Live music
- Group dining & special occasions
- Kid menu available
- Full bar
- Reservations recommended
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet offers fresh, local seafood served in a refined-casual atmosphere. Founded in 1997, this waterfront Isle of Palms restaurant prides itself on traditional Southern recipes and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy dining on the screened-in waterfront deck, in the sunroom, or at the bar. Expect beautiful views of Breach Inlet and the Intracoastal Waterway. Select from their raw bar menu or one of the Boathouse favorites. Try the Poached Seafood Combination with lobster tail, shrimp, scallops, and citrus herb butter or the Coastal Catch with the chef’s choice of blackened fish, green tabasco cream, roasted corn pico de gallo, roasted red-skin potatoes, and chorizo hash.
Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar
Location: 80 41st Ave, Isle of Palms, SC
Hours of Operation: Weekdays, 4:00 PM-9:00 PM; Weekends, 12:00 PM-9:00 PM
- Event calendar
- Weekly live music
- Roof-top dining
- Outdoor games
- Group dining & special occasions
- Full bar
- Reservations recommended
Islander 71 Fish House and Raw Bar won “Best Waterfront Restaurant in Charleston” in 2024, and it’s your turn to see why! This family-friendly establishment offers direct access by boat and features spacious waterfront dining. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, visitors can experience breathtaking sunsets and delicious coastal cuisine, whether ordering from the indoor or outdoor menu. Grab a cocktail or cold beer, play a round of corn hole, or relax in the outdoor lounge area while you wait for your table.
The menu features a diverse selection of seafood and steak. Sample the Shrimp Platter with seasoned fries, coleslaw, lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and tartar sauce. For a meal that is truly indulgent, try the Shrimp & Crab Pasta Marsala. This dish pairs seared shrimp with linguine and a creamy marsala sauce, topped with a crab cake.
Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill
Location: 1120 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC
Hours of Operation: Weekdays, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM; Weekends, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM
- Weekend brunch
- Daily lunch & dinner
- Happy hour
- Live music
- Full bar
- Outdoor seating
- Reservations recommended
Head to Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill for an unforgettable oceanfront dining experience on Isle of Palms. This casual, family-friendly restaurant opened in 1997 and continues to offer a fantastic option for brunch, lunch, and dinner to visitors and locals alike. Guests can choose indoor or outdoor seating, depending on preference. Outdoors, you will find casual vibes with umbrella shading and beach views.
Grab one of their featured frozen drinks, like The Mad Mango or the Joe Mama Punch, served on the rocks. For the main course, land-lovers can choose the Smothered Chicken—grilled tenders covered in melted Pepper Jack cheese, pineapple, bacon, and pico de gallo, which is drizzled with BBQ or Mango Habanero sauce atop red-skinned mashed potatoes with a side of Southern green beans (wear loose pants). For a tasty seafood option, try the Crabstack Sandwich. This menu item features a crab cake, bacon, pimento cheese, lettuce, tomato, and spicy ranch on a brioche bun.
For more foodie fun, be sure to check out the best Isle of Palm bars and the top restaurants in Mount Pleasant.
Stay Near the Best Waterfront Restaurants
When you book your stay with East Islands Rentals, you can expect a top-tier vacation experience. Our luxury rentals offer high-end amenities, often featuring private pools and direct beach access. Whether you are planning a quiet family getaway or a large family reunion, we have the perfect IOP accommodation for you.
BONUS WATERFRONT DINING RECOMMENDATION: Dine al fresco on the oceanfront deck at your vacation rental. You will have privacy and fabulous views, while being surrounded by the people you love the most.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q) Are there any waterfront restaurants within walking or biking distance from your vacation rentals?
A) Yes! Coconut Joe’s is with an easy walking or biking distance from several of our rentals on Ocean Blvd.
Q) Are most restaurants on Isle of Palms family-friendly?
A) Absolutely. Our community welcomes families of all shapes and sizes, including children. Many restaurants offer children’s menus and a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere.
Q) If I prefer to cook at my vacation rental, are there any local grocery stores where I can purchase supplies?
A) Of course. There are several grocery stores nearby. This will make preparing meals at your rental a breeze!