Bluffton Oyster Company
A century-old family seafood institution on the May River, serving the freshest local oysters and shrimp with a true Lowcountry charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more local interaction
Bluffton Oyster Company
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more local interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A century-old family seafood institution on the May River, serving the freshest local oysters and shrimp with a true Lowcountry charm.
"This is right in the water - cannot get any closer to boats bringing in fresh catch."
📞 Call Ahead for Oysters
If you're after a bushel of oysters, it's wise to call ahead to confirm availability.
💬 Chat with the Locals
Staff are happy to share stories about their catch and the fishing industry. Ask them about their favorite seafood!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Freshly Shucked Oysters
On the May River bluff
Taste the Lowcountry with plump, briny oysters harvested daily from the May River. A true taste of local tradition.
Local Shrimp Delights
Seafood Market & Restaurant
Experience the sweetness of shrimp caught by local captains, delivered fresh for an unforgettable seafood meal.
May River Waterfront Views
Pier area
Enjoy your meal or simply relax by the water. The pier offers a serene spot to soak in the Lowcountry atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Catch
Timing is Everything for Oysters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Call Ahead for Oysters
If you're after a bushel of oysters, it's wise to call ahead to confirm availability.
💬 Chat with the Locals
Staff are happy to share stories about their catch and the fishing industry. Ask them about their favorite seafood!
🚶 Stroll the Pier
Don't miss a walk out to the pier for beautiful views of the May River and a moment of tranquility.
🍤 Try the Fried Favorites
From fried shrimp to gator bites, their breading is consistently praised for being flavorful and perfectly cooked.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Call Ahead for Oysters
If you're after a bushel of oysters, it's wise to call ahead to confirm availability.
💬 Chat with the Locals
Staff are happy to share stories about their catch and the fishing industry. Ask them about their favorite seafood!
🚶 Stroll the Pier
Don't miss a walk out to the pier for beautiful views of the May River and a moment of tranquility.
🍤 Try the Fried Favorites
From fried shrimp to gator bites, their breading is consistently praised for being flavorful and perfectly cooked.
📍 Old Town Charm
Located in historic Old Town Bluffton, it's a perfect stop while exploring the quaint streets and shops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bluffton Oyster Company for its incredibly fresh, locally sourced seafood, particularly the oysters and shrimp. The casual, waterfront atmosphere and friendly service add to the authentic Lowcountry experience. While some minor issues with kid's meals have been noted, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many eager to return.
"We weren’t sure when we pulled up if we were in the right place or not when we arrived around lunch time. The inside was spacious and looked like they had seen some crowds in their day, but we were only one table out of one or two others there. I think the town had an event going on or something so I wasn’t too worried. Anyway, the server, Gaylia* (I think that’s how she said, it, sorry!) but she was fantastic, very accommodating. The food was really what got me, though.
Unassuming, reasonably priced, hot, fresh and flavorful, is that too much to ask?! They hit the nail on the head though, from the tender gator bites to the sweet butter with hushpuppies, plump raw oysters, yummy cajun sauce or my mac and cheese, okra and fried shrimp were spot on. I ate every bit of it.
Unfortunately, they did mess up our kids’ food. The grilled cheese was like a broiled cheese toast put together and they for some reason didn’t bread the fried fish nuggets with the same breading they use for everything else, real bummer there. Would totally go back though."
Joshua “Mr. Meats” Porter
"Whenever we are near the quaint town of Bluffton we love driving out to the Bluffton Oyster Company!
On every visit, the folks there are extremely helpful in helping us select our seafood! It is fresh.
When you visit this store, be sure and talk to the locals about the kinds of fish and ask them the stories of where these fish were caught the folks that work here enjoy talking about the industry.
Also be sure and walk out to the pier and spend some time enjoying being on the water. It is a fun trip."
Let’s Go! Crew
"I'm from Kentucky and frequently visit a friend in Bluffton. We tried this place for the first time, and WE WILL BE BACK! Firstly, Genya was our server, and she was awesome. So kind, such a sweetheart, and set the stage for a great experience right off the bat! We got drinks to start, and they were top-notch. My friend got the oyster po' boy, and WOW! I don't even like oysters that much, but I would order this! I opted for a platter with the catch of the day (flounder) and scallops, fried okra and collard greens. I could not leave a morsel on my plate it was so good. We were so full from lunch that we didn't even eat dinner. I highly recommend it, and if you go, ask for Genya!"
Davonna Saier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bluffton Oyster Company is located in Old Town Bluffton at 27 Dr Mellichamp Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors enjoy exploring the charming streets of Old Town on foot before or after their meal.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the restaurant and market. It's recommended to arrive a bit earlier during peak times to secure a convenient spot.
If you are staying in or visiting Old Town Bluffton, walking to the Bluffton Oyster Company is a pleasant option. The area is very walkable and scenic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to enter Bluffton Oyster Company. It operates as a restaurant and seafood market, so you can walk in and order.
Operating hours can vary, especially seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead to confirm the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee for the seafood market. You can browse and purchase fresh seafood to take home.
While they don't typically take reservations, you can call ahead to inquire about wait times, especially during busy periods. The atmosphere is generally casual and accommodating.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bluffton Oyster Company is renowned for its incredibly fresh, locally sourced oysters and shrimp. They offer a variety of preparations, from raw oysters to fried seafood platters and po'boys.
Must-try items include the raw oysters, oyster po' boy, fried shrimp platter, and the catch of the day. Don't forget to try their hushpuppies with sweet butter!
Yes, they have a menu featuring a variety of fried seafood, sandwiches, and platters. The selection and prices can change daily based on the fresh catch.
Absolutely! Bluffton Oyster Company specializes in local oysters harvested directly from the May River, offering a true taste of the Lowcountry.
Yes, Bluffton Oyster Company has a seafood market where you can purchase fresh oysters, shrimp, fish, and other seafood to prepare at home. They will even clean and shuck oysters for you.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rustic charm by photographing the waterfront views of the May River, the boats, and the historic building. The pier area offers scenic opportunities, especially during foggy mornings. 
Yes, you can take photos of the seafood market. It's a great way to document the fresh catch and the bustling atmosphere.
The location right on the May River provides excellent opportunities for capturing beautiful waterscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Consider ordering a variety of dishes to share, allowing everyone to sample different local flavors. If your children are adventurous eaters, they'll love the fresh shrimp and fried options. For picky eaters, the grilled cheese or simple fried fish nuggets might be a safer bet. Calling ahead to check on the day's specials or any potential kid-menu adjustments could also be helpful.
💰 Budget Travelers
For the ultimate budget-friendly experience, consider visiting the seafood market and purchasing fresh oysters or shrimp to prepare yourself. This allows you to enjoy the local flavors at a lower cost.
couples
Consider visiting during a weekday lunch or early evening to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more intimate setting. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the May River or explore the quaint shops of Old Town Bluffton.
The combination of delicious, fresh seafood and the scenic waterfront location makes for a memorable outing.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bluffton Oyster Company Experience
The atmosphere is decidedly casual and unpretentious, with a spacious interior that has clearly seen many happy diners. It's the kind of place where you can feel comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt, ready to savor some of the freshest seafood the Lowcountry has to offer. The real magic lies in the quality of the ingredients. Whether you're enjoying a platter of perfectly fried shrimp, a succulent oyster po' boy, or a dozen freshly shucked raw oysters, you're tasting the bounty of the May River.
Beyond the restaurant, the Bluffton Oyster Company also operates as a retail seafood market. This means you can take home the same incredible freshness to prepare your own culinary masterpieces.
Savoring the Local Flavors
Beyond oysters and shrimp, the fried seafood platters are a consistent hit. Diners praise the light, flavorful breading that perfectly complements the tender seafood.
For those looking to recreate the flavors at home, the seafood market is an invaluable resource. You can purchase fresh oysters, shrimp, and fish directly from the source.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit