Where to Find the Best Oysters on 30A
I’ll admit it; I’ve become a bit of an oyster snob (comes with the territory when your husband managed an oyster bar).
While some people love the big, briny oysters, I’ve grown to appreciate farm-raised oysters — slightly smaller, incredibly clean, and packed with flavor. Thankfully, 30A offers a variety of both!
If you’re an oyster lover like me, or just getting into them, here are some of the best spots to grab oysters along 30A, from laid-back local favorites to more elevated coastal experiences.
The Citizen: While their oysters are on the higher end, starting around $38 per dozen, they offer an impressive variety. Their selection is entirely farm-raised; typically smaller, more refined, and priced accordingly, with options sourced from both the East and West Coast. And their cocktail selection? Unreal. It’s the perfect pairing for a well-rounded, elevated oyster experience.
Shunk Gulley: Not only is this an incredible place to eat, but they also offer both wild-caught and farm-raised oysters, truly the best of both worlds. Their farm-raised oysters are around $26 per dozen (may vary), which is very reasonable comparatively, while wild-caught options are typically around $18 per dozen. The atmosphere is just as enticing, from Gulf-view seating to live music most days, it’s also one of the best spots on 30A to watch sports.
Stinky’s Fish Camp: Another well-rounded oyster spot offering both wild-caught and farm-raised options. While pricing is comparable to Shunk Gulley’s, the atmosphere is a bit different. Stinky’s is a fully enclosed restaurant without Gulf views, but if you’re waiting for a table, this is the place to do it. Right next door is their laid-back “Bait Shack”, a fun dive bar with live music nightly, great frozen drinks, and an easy, come-as-you-are vibe. And if you’re not in the mood for music, the beach is just right across the street.
Hurricane Oyster Bar: The ultimate dive bar experience. While they only offer wild-caught, larger oysters, their baked selection is truly out of this world, offering more variety than just about anywhere else on 30A. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bucket of beer and settle in for a couple dozen oysters!
If you’re handy with an oyster knife, this might be my favorite option. Grab some Murder Point oysters at Market 30A — typically around $3 each at restaurants — for $1.50 apiece at the market and shuck them yourself. It’s a fun, cost-effective way to enjoy high-quality oysters at home, and perfect if you’re putting together your own little coastal spread.
