5 Annual Oyster Roasts in Charleston, SC

Autumn and winter in South Carolina welcome steaming buckets of oysters and camaraderie with friends – the perfect remedy for chilly weather along the Carolina coast. With oyster roasting season upon us, we’ve compiled a list for 5 of the best annual oyster roasts in Charleston.

5 of the Best Annual Oyster Roasts in Charleston, SC

1. The Charleston Animal Society Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast | November

If you happen to be traveling with someone who doesn’t have a taste for oysters, we have you covered! The Charleston Animal Society Chili Cook-off & Oyster Roast has something for everyone. This one-of-a-kind chili competition and oyster roast draw thousands of visitors each year. Shuck away, because all money raised supports Charleston Animal Society’s medical fund!

2. The Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall | January

With 80,000 pounds of oysters, The Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall is the largest oyster festival in the world. It’s also one of the most anticipated social gatherings in Charleston. There are oyster shucking and oyster eating contests, live music, wine and beer, and a “food court” showcasing cuisine from local Charleston restaurants.

3. Oysters on the Point | December, January, February, & March

This popular monthly series of oyster roasts is held each winter at the beautiful Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina in Mount Pleasant. Oysters on the Point offers locally steamed oysters, live music, a Bloody Mary bar, and a wide selection of craft beer from local microbreweries.

4. The Charleston Oyster Roast at the Dill Sanctuary | February

Each year, the Charleston Museum hosts an oyster roast at the Dill Sanctuary. This beautiful wildlife sanctuary is not usually open to the public, so the oyster roast is a great opportunity to see the untouched habitats. While you shuck oysters, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Stono River or warm up next to the huge outdoor fireplace. The annual event is typically held after the New Year.

5. Bowens Island Restaurant

If you are searching for the best-kept secret in Charleston, look no further than Bowens Island Restaurant. This restaurant is a local favorite, and visitors may enjoy oysters from the Carolina coast year-round. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. We recommend arriving early to watch the spectacular sunset over the marsh. Bowens Island is also the perfect location to host your own oyster roast! Whether you are planning your next family gathering, an outing with friends, or a rehearsal dinner, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion.

Where to Eat Oysters in Charleston, SC

When you and your crew are looking for some savory goodness check out these popular restaurants for oysters in Charleston SC.

Delaney Oyster House

115 Calhoun Street
Yummy Oysters Delaney with caviar, cream, and champagne is a house favorite. Don't miss the seasonally dressed oysters with prickly pear
mignonette.
Leon's Oyster Shop

698 King Street
Our #1 favorite oyster dish in Charleston is the char-grilled oysters with lemon, parsley, butter, and parmesan cheese. If you don't fancy oysters try the fried oyster roll with avocado, comeback sauce, and chives. The fried chicken and sides are also super tasty.
The Darling Oyster Bar

513 King Street
Happy hour from 4-7 pm means $1 oysters! Wash down your plate of bivalves with a delicious craft cocktail!
167 Raw

193 King Street
A great selection of oysters from different regions, sizes, and salinity levels. Clams, shrimp, and oyster platters are available in sampler sizes too!

Oyster Roasts on Kiawah Island

Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island visitors and residents may attend the weekly oyster roasts at Mingo Point on Kiawah Island! It's a Lowcountry celebration not to be missed.

The Mingo Point at Kiawah oyster roasts take place on summer Mondays and certain fall dates. Check the current schedule here.