Waterfront dining on Isle of Palms (IOP) offers much more than just a meal – it’s a blend of stunning ocean views, fresh seafood, and shared moments with loved ones. Whether you’re savoring shrimp by the Atlantic at sunset or enjoying a Lowcountry boil with family, the experience is unforgettable. Local restaurants highlight regional flavors like shrimp and grits, She Crab Soup, and Frogmore Stew, often using ingredients sourced directly from nearby waters. Dining spots like The Boathouse at Breach Inlet, Coda del Pesce, and Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill cater to every mood, from casual beachfront vibes to refined coastal cuisine.
Staying at Aerie at 715 Ocean enhances this experience. Its location puts top restaurants within walking distance, while its outdoor dining spaces let you enjoy private meals with ocean breezes. Whether dining out or cooking in, IOP’s waterfront dining transforms every meal into a cherished memory.
How Waterfront Dining Improves Your IOP Vacation
Waterfront dining adds a special touch to your Isle of Palms getaway, combining breathtaking views, fresh local cuisine, and unforgettable moments with loved ones.
Enjoying Ocean Views During Your Meal
Dining by the water is more than just a meal – it’s a full sensory experience. The calming views of the Atlantic Ocean, Breach Inlet, and the Intracoastal Waterway create an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and enjoyment. Picture this: ocean breezes brushing against your face, the rhythmic sound of waves, and the sky painted with vivid sunset hues – all while you savor your meal.
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of dolphins playing near the shore at Breach Inlet. Reviewer Stephan C. captured the magic perfectly:
"Nothing comes close to the water view you get from the Boathouse. Sitting in their ‘Crows Nest’… the dolphins were jumping".
Tasting Local Lowcountry Flavors
Waterfront restaurants on Isle of Palms serve up more than just great views – they deliver the flavors of the region. Menus often highlight freshly caught seafood like shrimp, oysters, crab, scallops, and fish, prepared with a nod to Lowcountry traditions. Dishes such as She Crab Soup, Shrimp and Grits, and Frogmore Stew showcase the area’s culinary roots, while Southern staples like Carolina Gold Rice, collard greens, and hush puppies with flavored butter add a comforting touch.
The focus on local sourcing connects each dish to the sea-to-table tradition, ensuring ingredients are as fresh as possible – often cooked the same day they’re caught. These authentic flavors make every meal an opportunity to savor the essence of the coast with family and friends.
Building Memories with Family and Friends
Waterfront dining isn’t just about food or scenery; it’s about creating lasting memories. Whether you choose a laid-back beachside grill or a sophisticated venue, these settings enhance your vacation in unique ways. Some spots, like Islander 71 and Morgan Creek Grill, even offer boat-up access with free dock slips, making your dining experience part of a larger nautical adventure. As Kristy Kinney, Director of Events and Promotions at Morgan Creek Grill, explained:
"Patrons can dock their boats on our slips for free".
The natural beauty of the water provides entertainment all on its own – watch boats glide by, spot wildlife, or simply take in a stunning sunset. Many restaurants feature outdoor decks, rooftop bars, and spaces perfect for large family gatherings. For those with kids, casual venues often include play areas, making them ideal for multi-generational outings. It’s more than a meal – it’s a chance to connect and share moments that you’ll treasure long after your vacation ends.
sbb-itb-af832cd
Best Waterfront Restaurants on Isle of Palms
Top 3 Waterfront Restaurants on Isle of Palms Comparison Guide
Isle of Palms is home to some incredible waterfront dining spots, offering everything from fresh seafood to Italian-inspired dishes, all paired with stunning views. Whether you’re craving a refined meal or a casual bite by the beach, these restaurants perfectly complement the island’s relaxed coastal vibe.
Boathouse at Breach Inlet: Ocean Views and Fresh Seafood
Perched on the southern tip of the island, The Boathouse boasts breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway, Ravenel Bridge, and Breach Inlet. The restaurant is housed in a building designed to echo early 20th-century coastal architecture, complete with vintage rowboats adorning the space, giving it a charming yet polished atmosphere.
The menu highlights locally sourced seafood and Southern-inspired dishes. Favorites include scallop risotto with prosciutto and asparagus, spicy shrimp and grits with andouille sausage, and the indulgent "Chef Trio", which features filet mignon, a crab cake, and a butter-poached lobster tail.
Coda del Pesce: Italian-Inspired Coastal Cuisine
Coda del Pesce offers a sophisticated blend of Italian flavors and coastal ingredients. Known for its housemade pasta and fresh seafood, the menu also incorporates Lowcountry elements like blue crab for a unique twist. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide sweeping views of the Atlantic, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening or a celebratory dinner.
Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill: Casual Dining with Oceanfront Vibes
For a more laid-back experience, Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill is the go-to spot. This family-friendly restaurant serves up a variety of comfort food favorites, including burgers and seafood, all while offering unbeatable oceanfront views. It’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a relaxed meal by the water.
These restaurants bring together delicious food, stunning scenery, and the easygoing charm that makes Isle of Palms a must-visit destination.
How Aerie at 715 Ocean Complements Your Dining Experience
Close to Top Waterfront Restaurants
Aerie at 715 Ocean sits in a prime spot on Ocean Boulevard, just a short 0.3–0.5-mile stroll from some of the island’s best waterfront dining options. You can easily walk to Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill (1120 Ocean Blvd) or Coda del Pesce (1130 Ocean Blvd) in just minutes, making it simple to transition from a day at the beach to an evening of delicious food.
The property is also close to JC Long Boulevard, a hub for local dining gems like Acme Lowcountry Kitchen and Sea Biscuit Café. For those seeking entertainment, The Windjammer (1008 Ocean Blvd) is nearby, offering live music and direct beach access. Whether you’re in the mood for an oceanfront meal or a sunset view over the Intracoastal Waterway, Aerie’s central location puts a variety of waterfront experiences within easy reach. And if you’re looking to stay in, the property itself sets the stage for memorable coastal dining.
Outdoor Dining Spaces at Aerie
While Aerie’s location makes it easy to explore the island’s top restaurants, it also offers the perfect setup for private outdoor dining. The spacious outdoor decks and grill allow you to create your own seaside dining experience. Imagine preparing fresh seafood – shrimp, oysters, or fish – from local markets and enjoying it with loved ones in a serene, coastal setting.
The screened-in porch is perfect for casual meals like a Lowcountry boil or laid-back breakfasts with ocean breezes. With a fully equipped gourmet kitchen and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces, Aerie provides everything you need to craft your own "sea-to-spoon" moments. Whether you’re grilling dinner at sunset or hosting a family gathering by the pool, Aerie lets you enjoy the charm of waterfront dining without ever leaving home.
Conclusion
Waterfront dining on Isle of Palms offers more than just food – it’s an experience that combines the island’s rich culinary traditions with breathtaking natural scenery. From enjoying fresh coastal dishes to soaking in the beauty of the ocean, every meal feels like a celebration of coastal living. The island’s commitment to serving fresh, locally sourced seafood ensures that each bite carries a piece of its storied culinary past.
This experience extends effortlessly to Aerie at 715 Ocean, where every element is designed to enhance your waterfront dining adventure. With renowned restaurants like Coconut Joe’s and Coda del Pesce just a short stroll away, you can easily move from a day of beachside relaxation to a night of exceptional dining. Prefer to stay in? The property’s outdoor dining areas and grill let you craft your own seaside moments – whether it’s cooking up a fresh catch or hosting a classic Lowcountry boil by the pool with loved ones.
The combination of acclaimed restaurants, stunning ocean views, and a luxurious home base creates a vacation where every meal becomes a cherished memory. From casual mornings on the porch to sophisticated dinners with the Atlantic as your backdrop, waterfront dining on Isle of Palms elevates your getaway. And with Aerie at 715 Ocean, you’ll find yourself at the center of it all, where every bite and every view become part of your unforgettable coastal escape.
FAQs
What’s the best time of day for waterfront dining on Isle of Palms?
The perfect time to enjoy waterfront dining on Isle of Palms is during sunset or early evening. As the sun sets over Breach Inlet, the view is absolutely breathtaking, adding a serene and picturesque backdrop to your meal. This blend of natural beauty and calm ambiance creates an unforgettable setting to savor the local cuisine by the water.
Which Lowcountry dishes should I try while I’m on IOP?
When visiting Isle of Palms, don’t miss the chance to savor iconic Lowcountry seafood dishes. From shrimp and grits to oysters, each dish showcases the region’s love for fresh, local ingredients. Indulge in a bowl of she-crab soup, a creamy favorite, or dig into a hearty Lowcountry boil, packed with shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes. For something with a bit of flair, try the flavorful deviled crab. These dishes are more than meals – they’re a delicious way to experience the area’s rich culinary heritage.
Can I enjoy a waterfront-style meal at Aerie at 715 Ocean without going out?
Aerie at 715 Ocean has everything you need to enjoy a seaside dining experience without stepping off the property. The fully equipped gourmet kitchen lets you whip up delicious meals, while the outdoor dining areas provide the perfect setting to savor your creations against the backdrop of a calming coastal atmosphere.
