The Best Seafood Near Holden Beach, NC (Local Picks)

If there’s one thing the Brunswick County coast does exceptionally well, it’s seafood. Fresh catches, casual waterfront settings, and locally owned spots that have been feeding families for decades — this stretch of the North Carolina coast is a seafood lover’s paradise. Whether you’re after a fried shrimp basket on the water, a market to pick up fresh fish to cook at the rental, or a bucket of Calabash-style seafood on the way home, here are the best options for seafood near Holden Beach, NC..

The Provision Company — Waterfront Dining on the ICW

Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway at 1343 Cedar Landing Rd SW, The Provision Company is one of the most popular casual seafood spots near Holden Beach. Waterfront seating, cold drinks, and a menu built around fresh local catches. The grouper sandwich is legendary. It’s one of the top spots for seafood near Holden Beach, NC — expect a wait on summer weekends, but it’s worth it.

Captain Pete’s Seafood Market — Fresh Catch Near Old Ferry Coastal Retreat

A longtime local favorite, Captain Pete’s is a seafood market where you can pick up fresh shrimp, fish, and shellfish to cook back at Old Ferry Coastal Retreat. One of the best ways to experience coastal North Carolina is buying local catch and cooking it yourself — Captain Pete’s makes that easy.

Old Ferry Seafood — Local Catch Steps from the Property

Right near the property, Old Ferry Seafood is a small waterfront market with daily fresh catches. It doesn’t get more local than this — grab what’s fresh that day and bring it back to cook at the house.

The Wharf — Waterfront Dining Near Holden Beach

The Wharf is a waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood in a relaxed setting, just minutes from Old Ferry Coastal Retreat. Known for live music, generous portions, and scenic water views, it’s a great option for a casual dinner out. Reservations recommended on weekends.

Calabash Seafood — 30 Minutes South of Holden Beach

The town of Calabash, about 30 minutes south of Holden Beach, is the birthplace of Calabash-style fried seafood — lightly breaded, fresh, and served in generous portions. There are more than a dozen restaurants to choose from, all competing for the title of best fried shrimp on the coast. Make an afternoon of it.

Saltwater Shanty — Seafood and Sweet Treats Near Holden Beach

Not strictly seafood, but no Holden Beach dining guide is complete without mentioning Saltwater Shanty. Known for their homemade ice cream and creative flavors, it’s a Holden Beach institution. Stop in after dinner or on the way back from the beach.

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Staying near Holden Beach and looking for the perfect home base? Old Ferry Coastal Retreat is a 3-bedroom vacation home just minutes from the island — no 7-night minimum, sleeps 6, and priced below on-island rentals. Check availability here.