The Ultimate Foodie Guide to Murrells Inlet & the MarshWalk

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Strand, one thing belongs at the top of your itinerary: eating your way through Murrells Inlet. Known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” this historic fishing village is packed with waterfront dining, fresh local seafood, live music, and unforgettable marsh views. At the heart of it all is the famous MarshWalk — a half-mile boardwalk lined with restaurants overlooking the salt marsh and inlet. It’s one of the area’s top dining destinations for families, couples, anglers, and food lovers alike.

Whether you’re fueling up after a day on the water with Crazy Sister Marina or planning a sunset dinner with a view, here are the local can’t-miss restaurants in Murrells Inlet, with extra love for the MarshWalk.

Why the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk Is a Must-Visit

Before we get into the restaurants, it’s worth mentioning why locals and visitors alike flock to the MarshWalk. This scenic waterfront boardwalk connects several restaurants and bars, offering incredible inlet views, dolphin sightings, live entertainment, and some of the freshest seafood on the Grand Strand. It’s also extremely walkable, making it easy to grab drinks, appetizers, or dessert at multiple spots in one evening.

Must-Try Restaurants on the MarshWalk

The Wicked Tuna

A true MarshWalk staple, this spot is famous for its “hook-to-plate” seafood concept, meaning fresh catches go from boat to kitchen quickly. If sushi, tuna, seafood towers, or elevated coastal dining sounds like your vibe, this should be high on your list. Add in rooftop marsh views and frequent live music, and it’s easy to see why visitors keep coming back. It’s also one of the restaurants most frequently highlighted as a signature Murrells Inlet dining experience.

Dead Dog Saloon

One of the most beloved family-friendly stops on the MarshWalk, this local institution has a laid-back atmosphere, waterfront seating, hearty seafood, Southern favorites, and regular live music. Bonus points if you’re an early riser — it’s also a popular breakfast and brunch destination. Visitors often praise it for being approachable for families and groups.

The Claw House

Craving oysters, lobster rolls, crab legs, or New England-style seafood? This MarshWalk favorite specializes in raw bar offerings and coastal classics. It’s especially popular for date nights and seafood lovers looking for something a little elevated without losing that relaxed inlet feel.

Drunken Jack’s Restaurant & Lounge

Technically just beside the MarshWalk, this longtime Murrells Inlet favorite deserves a spot on any must-visit list. Known for waterfront views, classic seafood dishes, hush puppies, and famous she-crab soup, it’s a great choice for visitors wanting a traditional Lowcountry seafood experience.

Creek Ratz

If you want a more casual stop with live music, seafood baskets, burgers, pizza, and an easygoing atmosphere, this MarshWalk classic delivers. It’s particularly great for groups, families, and anyone looking to enjoy waterfront dining without overthinking it. Plus, nightly entertainment keeps the energy high.

Wahoo’s Fish House

For fresh seafood, sushi, and panoramic inlet views, this spot consistently lands on “must-try” lists. Its multi-level waterfront setup makes it ideal for sunset dinners or relaxing after a day exploring Murrells Inlet.

A Few Great Spots Beyond the MarshWalk

Hot Fish Club

A Murrells Inlet icon with serious local history, this restaurant offers upscale Lowcountry dining and a charming atmosphere perfect for special occasions or date nights.

Inlet Prohibition Company

For craft cocktails, elevated comfort food, and a trendy atmosphere, this hidden favorite has developed a strong local following. Reddit locals regularly mention it as a surprisingly affordable and delicious alternative to the busier waterfront spots.

Turn Dinner Into a Full Murrells Inlet Experience

One of the best ways to enjoy Murrells Inlet is by pairing your meal with time on the water. Spend the day fishing, dolphin watching, jet skiing, or cruising the inlet with Crazy Sister Marina, then head to the MarshWalk for fresh seafood and sunset views. There’s something uniquely “Murrells Inlet” about ending a day on the water with a plate of shrimp, live music in the background, and dolphins occasionally surfacing in the marsh.

Final Bite

You really can’t go wrong dining in Murrells Inlet — but if you only have one evening, make the MarshWalk your priority. Between waterfront views, incredible seafood, family-friendly atmospheres, and live entertainment, it delivers the coastal South Carolina experience visitors remember long after vacation ends.

From fresh oysters and sushi to burgers, hush puppies, and Lowcountry classics, Murrells Inlet has a restaurant for every craving — and plenty of reasons to come back for more.