For Lowcountry locals, buying fresh shrimp at Publix is considered sacrilege.
Fresh and local seafood isn’t something prepackaged at a big box grocery store.
It’s a way of life.
Whether you’re planning a backyard oyster roast, grilling fresh shrimp on the patio or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, knowing where the locals shop can make all the difference. Bluffton and Hilton Head Island are home to several outstanding seafood markets where fresh, local catches take center stage.
Know What’s in Season
The freshest seafood is often what’s currently being harvested along the South Carolina coast. Shopping seasonally not only gives you the best flavor, but also supports local fishermen and sustainable harvesting.
Depending on the time of year, you’ll commonly find:
| Lowcountry Seafood | Best Season | Local Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wild South Carolina Shrimp | May to December | The Lowcountry’s most iconic seafood, harvested from local estuaries and coastal waters. |
| May River Oysters | September to May | A Bluffton specialty harvested from local waters and enjoyed during the cooler months at oyster roasts and community gatherings. |
| Blue Crab | April to November | Abundant in local creeks, marshes and estuaries. |
| Soft-Shell Crab | April to June | A seasonal delicacy available when blue crabs molt. |
| Hard Clams | Year-round | Farm-raised and wild-harvested along the South Carolina coast. |
| Red Drum (Redfish) | Late Summer to Fall | A popular local fish with mild, firm meat. Commercial availability varies due to conservation regulations. |
| Spotted Seatrout | Fall to Winter | A favorite local catch with delicate white flesh. |
| Southern Flounder | Summer to Fall | Frequently caught in Lowcountry tidal creeks and nearshore waters. |
| Black Sea Bass | Spring to Fall | Harvested offshore along the South Carolina coast. |
| Sheepshead | Winter to Spring | Known for its sweet, flaky meat and commonly found around docks, bridges and oyster beds. |
Local Tip: The freshest seafood changes with the seasons, tides and weather. Ask your local seafood market what’s fresh that day, and you’ll often be enjoying seafood caught just hours earlier along the South Carolina coast.
If you’re unsure what to buy, ask the people behind the counter. Local seafood markets are known for sharing cooking tips, preparation ideas and recommendations on what’s freshest that day.
Where Locals Buy Their Seafood
Bluffton Oyster Company
63 Wharf Street, Bluffton
If there’s one seafood market that’s synonymous with Bluffton, it’s the Bluffton Oyster Company. Family-owned since 1899, it’s South Carolina’s last hand-shucking oyster house and has been supplying fresh local seafood for generations. During oyster season, you’ll often see boats unloading their catch right outside.
It’s one of those places every new Lowcountry resident should experience at least once.
Russo’s Fresh Seafood
246 Red Cedar Street, Bluffton
A favorite among locals, Russo’s offers an impressive seafood case filled with hand-cut fish, oysters, shrimp and prepared specialties. You’ll also find house-made crab cakes, shrimp salad, seafood dips and everything you need for a traditional Lowcountry boil.
Their staff is known for helping customers choose the right fish and even offering preparation suggestions.
Lowcountry Fresh Market & Café
303 Bleecker Street, Bluffton
While known for supporting local farmers, Lowcountry Fresh also carries wild-caught seafood sourced from nearby waters, including local shrimp, fish, oysters and crab. It’s an excellent stop if you’re planning an entire Lowcountry meal since you can pick up fresh produce, baked goods and locally sourced ingredients all in one place.
South End Seafood
2 Greenwood Dr Ste B, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Located near the Sea Pines entrance, South End Seafood has earned a loyal following for its fresh fish, local shrimp, oysters, scallops and rotating seasonal catches. The knowledgeable staff are happy to recommend what’s freshest and share simple cooking tips. Local residents frequently recommend it as one of the island’s best seafood markets.
Benny Hudson Seafood
25 Shrimpers Row, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Located on Shrimpers Row, Benny Hudson Seafood has long been a favorite for fresh local catches. Their selection often includes shrimp, oysters, fish, crab and other seasonal seafood straight from the coast, making it a popular stop for both residents and visitors.
Barnacle Bill’s Fresh Seafood Market
614 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Barnacle Bill’s is another local favorite known for fresh local seafood and friendly service. If you’re looking for shrimp, fish or oysters to cook at home, this market consistently earns high praise from Hilton Head locals.
Nantucket’s Meat & Fish Market
1414 Fording Island Rd., Suite D100, Bluffton, SC 29910
Located just before the bridge to Hilton Head Island, Nantucket’s Meat & Fish Market is a favorite for its premium seafood selection, including fresh fish, shrimp, oysters and house-made crab cakes. The family-owned market also offers gourmet meats, prepared foods and specialty groceries, making it a convenient one-stop shop for creating a memorable Lowcountry meal.
Check Out the Farmers Markets
Fresh seafood isn’t limited to seafood markets. Local farmers markets often feature seafood vendors alongside local produce, baked goods and artisan products.
The Farmers Market of Bluffton occurs Thursdays year-round, 12-4 p.m. September-May and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June-August. The Farmers Market at the Coastal Discovery Museum is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays at the Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head.
Many residents make Saturday mornings a tradition, stopping by the market before heading home for a fresh seafood dinner. Availability depends on the season and the day’s catch.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
One thing you’ll quickly notice is how willing local seafood vendors are to help.
Whether you’re wondering how long to grill shrimp, how to steam oysters or which fish is best for the oven, they’ll usually have practical advice and family recipes they’ve shared for years.
Sometimes the best Lowcountry meals are also the simplest: fresh seafood, butter, lemon and good company.
