Hero banner image

Best Lowcountry Oyster Roasts in 2024

The South Carolina coastline is not only famous for its miles of beautiful barrier islands and sandy beaches, warm winter weather, outdoor activities and southern charm. The winter months bring thousands of visitors to the Lowcountry coastal towns to savor classic southern seafood, waterfront marsh-to-table dining and the tasty tradition of Lowcountry Oyster Roasts. 

Oysters may be acquired taste, but they are a luxurious Lowcountry delicacy that appeal to many diners whether slurped raw, grilled, steamed or roasted. The long-standing, Lowcountry tradition of oyster roasts dates back to the 1800s when notable fishermen held grand open-air cookouts celebrating the fresh oyster harvest, a well-loved tradition still celebrated on the islands today. 

Oyster Harvest & Roasting Season

Thanks to a prime location along the lush South Carolina coastline, oysters can be enjoyed year round on Kiawah Island. The freshly harvested Lowcountry oysters are particularly flavorful and best served in the colder months, or as legend says in the months ending in the letter R. 

October to May is the peak season for clam, mussel and oyster harvesting as well as a prime time to savor the traditional taste of the Lowcountry with marsh-to-table dining and some of the best oyster events and festivals in the world. 


LOWCOUNTRY OYSTER ROAST EVENTS

1. MINGO POINT OYSTER ROAST AND BBQ


The Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ is a genuine Lowcountry tradition on the banks of the Kiawah River. For nearly 40 years locals and visitors to the island have been sampling Lowcountry cuisine, southern specialties, and fresh oysters roasted over an open fire coupled with a cool zone for kids, a craft market, live music, and tranquil views of the beautiful Kiawah River.

LOCATION:
Mingo Point, 876 Kiawah Island Parkway 

DATE:
Monday – Memorial Day to Labor Day

TWO SEATINGS:
5 PM to 7 PM and 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

ADMISSION:
Adults – $59.99 / person
Age 4-12 – $29.99 / person
Age 3 & Under – FREE

2024 MINGO POINT DATES:
May 25th
June 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th
July 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, 31st

Reserve your Mingo Point tickets HERE!

NEW for 2024:
Each Mingo Point date includes two seatings for guests to choose from when purchasing tickets: 5:00pm – 7:00pm and 7:30pm – 9:30pm.

  • No walk up ticket purchases will be allowed or honored
  • Limited capacity is available for each seating – once a seating is sold out, that date or time will no longer be available to book online.
  • Tickets must be purchased by 9am the day of the event
  • All attendees must have a ticket regardless of age
  • There are no physical tickets, you will be emailed a receipt as your confirmation
  • All purchases are final – no refunds will be issued in the event of inclement weather.

2. OYSTERS ON THE POINT


Oysters on the Point is a once-a-month winter series at the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina in Mount Pleasant. This oyster roast event features creative seafood dishes and steamed oysters with local art vendors, live music, jumping castles for the kids, a Bloody Mary bar, and bonfires.

LOCATION:
Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina

DATE:
JANUARY, 2024 – MARCH 2024

EVENT SCHEDULE & TICKETS: Click HERE!

3. DRAYTON HALL OYSTER ROAST


The Drayton Hall Oyster Roast is one of Charleston’s best Lowcountry holiday events. Celebrate the start of the festive Christmas season with steaming fresh oysters, local brews, perfectly paired wines, and live entertainment in the beautiful gardens of Drayton Hall, Charleston.

LOCATION:
Drayton Hall, 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC

DATE:
DECEMBER 2024

EVENT SCHEDULE & TICKETS: Click HERE!

4. BOONE HALL PLANTATION OYSTER ROAST


The Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall is the world’s largest oyster festival and one of the top events in the southeast. With over 80,000 pounds of oysters, a festive food court, local beers and wine, live music, and seriously fun oyster shucking and eating contents, it’s a must-do for your vacation on Kiawah Island.

LOCATION:
Boone Hall Plantation, 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC

DATE:
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 4, 2024

EVENT SCHEDULE & TICKETS: Click HERE!

5. LOWCOUNTRY OYSTER FESTIVAL


Sunday, February 4, 2024 | 10 AM to 5 PM 

Boone Hall, 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, SC

Come and celebrate the 40th anniversary of the world’s largest oyster festival at Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, one of America’s oldest working plantations. This one-day winter festival focuses on the quintessential Lowcountry tradition of oyster roasts in one of the most beautiful spots in Charleston – the memories will linger long after the last oyster shell is cracked!

Beyond the beverages and buckets of steamed oysters, the Lowcountry Oyster Festival boasts an array of highlights to keep you entertained all day, rain or shine. Enjoy live music, raw oyster eating competitions, and shucking contests on the Main Stage, sample Lowcountry classics in the Food Court, and soak up the beauty of Boone Hall. For families, a dedicated children’s area is a big bonus with endless entertainment, aerial performers, jugglers, bouncy castles, cookie decorating, and much more! Sorry, no pets allowed.     

Tickets & Pricing

General Admission

$25 in advance or $30 at the entry gate.

Children 10 and under are free with a paying adult.

Food and beverage tickets are purchased separately. 

VIP Tickets (21+)

$194 in advance – limited tickets available. VIP Tickets Include unlimited catered food, oysters, beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. Food and beverage tickets are purchased separately for vendors outside the VIP area.

Parking 

Parking is stress-free and free! There are two entrances to Boone Hall Plantation. The main entrance is located at 1235 Long Point Road. The second entrance is located at 2330 US Highway 17. Park and ride shuttles are available from the parking lot near the Highway 17N entrance to Boone Hall. If you’re riding with Uber, Lyft, or Island Transportation from Kiawah or Seabrook Island, drop off is at the Long Point Road entrance. 

Experience the Lowcountry events in Charleston by day, and the charm of a coastal vacation rental to call home when you stay with Kiawah/Seabrook Exclusives. Browse our exclusive collection of Seabrook Island rentals online or call our team at (843) 768-0808 to customize your vacation experience. 

Oyster Bars near Kiawah

The Sanctuary: The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers an unparalleled oyster dining experience. Savor the fresh flavors of Champagne Mignonette oysters in the award-winning Ocean Room or authentic down-home country cuisine straight from the local waters to your table in the Jasmine Porch. 

The Atlantic Room: The Atlantic Room is Kiawah Island’s signature waterfront seafood restaurant overlooking the lush fairways of the Ocean Course and the Atlantic Ocean. From fresh baked oysters to start to their signature Seafood Stew, the emphasis is on the freshest ingredients and a true taste of the season. End your meal with a night cap at the Ryder Cup Bar overlooking the 18th green of the famed Ocean Course. 

The Salty Dog: The Salty Dog Café is on the Bohicket Marina waterfront on Seabrook Island and serves up fresh seafood in a casual setting with live music and front row seats to a spectacular Seabrook Island sunset. End your evening with delicious shakes and sundaes from the Salty Dog Ice Cream Shop or fireside s’mores and hot cocoa every Friday night through the festive season. 

Bowens Island Restaurant: Located between James Island and Folly Beach, Bowens Island Restaurant has been hosting oyster roasts since the 1940s and is a firm favorite with island locals and visitors to the South Carolina coastline. The laid-back seafood shed has a timeless appeal, outstanding seafood and unbeatable sunsets over the Folly River and marshlands. A unique Lowcountry experience! 

Bohemian Bull: In the same neighborhood you’ll find Bohemian Bull, a casual tavern and beer garden with craft beers and cocktails, live music and all you can eat oyster roasts every Thursday. Bring the whole family for fresh local oysters, harvested in their own back yard and steamed over outdoor firepits.

Charleston Oyster Bars: If you’re taking a day trip to Charleston we suggest the Royal Tern Raw Bar in the heart of John Island or head to historic downtown Charleston for endless seafood restaurants and oyster bars. Sample Rockefeller oysters at Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters, Seabrook oysters at the Darling Raw Oyster Bar, deep fried oyster po’boy at Rappahannock, or an oyster roast at the eclectic Pearlz Oyster Bar. 


Throw your Own Oyster Roast

Oyster beds line the banks of the Kiawah River between Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island which are easily accessible during the low tide. A fishing license is required and available locally at tackle stores covering all your fishing activities including crabbing, clamming, shrimping and oystering.

Start a new tradition of your own, purchase your oyster roasting tools, roll up your sleeves and host your own oyster roast with friends and family. Buy a bushel of oysters at a local seafood market or harvest, shuck, season and roast your own oysters for a backyard oyster roast in the comfort of your Kiawah Island vacation home.


You Might Also Like

Charleston Food & Wine Classic 2024

Traveling to Kiawah Island and the Charleston area this fall? The 2024 Food & Wine Classic promises to be a unique and an unforgettable experience for food enthusiasts and wine connoisseurs alike. Charleston is an extremely photogenic and charming city famed for its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and Southern hospitality. This area is going to …

Read More

Charleston Autumn Events Calendar 2024

Thinking about traveling to the Lowcountry area of South Carolina? Experience the local charm of Kiawah Island and surrounding areas this fall! Kiawah Island and its neighboring areas — Charleston and Seabrook Island — come alive with an array of events and activities perfect for a fall family trip or romantic autumn getaway. Whether you’re …

Read More

5 Local Tips For Kiawah Island

As Kiawah Island locals, we’ve got all the best local tips up our sleeve! We know all the best places for your next adventure, hidden gems you’ll otherwise pass on by, tips to make the most out of your trip, and all the best places to stay across the island. Don’t just take our word …

Read More

9 Rainy Day Activities On Kiawah Island

Don’t let a little rain dampen your Kiawah Island vacation spirits! Our charming South Carolina sea island has plenty of fun-filled activities and attractions to turn an unexpected rainy vacation day into an unforgettable experience for the whole family. From nature tours and activities to Lowcountry comfort food classics and cozy coastal retreats to hunker …

Read More

Kiawah Island Tips For First-Timers

Visiting Kiawah Island for the first time? We’ve put together this extensive guide of the best tips and tricks to make the most out of your vacation! Whether you’re looking for an action-packed family adventure or a laid back island-style retreat, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find out more about our renowned beaches …

Read More

Top 6 Differences Between Kiawah & Seabrook Islands

Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island are neighboring barrier islands off the eastern coast of South Carolina. Both islands feature secluded communities with miles of pristine beaches, maritime forests, sand dunes, and marshes! Although both have the same laid-back island vibe, convenient resort amenities, and luxury vacation rentals, Kiawah and Seabrook each offer their own differences. …

Read More

Best Places To Play Pickleball On Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island stands as a captivating destination renowned for its natural beauty, world-class amenities, and a wealth of outdoor activities. An enchanting blend of relaxation and recreation in the heart of the Lowcountry’s natural splendor!  Among the variety of recreational options on Kiawah Island, pickleball has emerged as a favorite amongst residents and visitors alike. …

Read More

Top 10 Places To Work Remotely On Kiawah

Experience the freedom and flexibility of remote work while immersed in the lap of luxury on Kiawah Island, an enchanting barrier island nestled along the South Carolina coastline. On Kiawah Island, you can happily bid farewell to the confines of a traditional office and embrace a world where your workspace boasts breathtaking views and knows …

Read More

Thanksgiving Activities On Kiawah Island 2024

Year-after-year, families have made Kiawah Island the host of their favorite holiday traditions. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather on the island with friends and loved ones as the area rings in the festive season with lavish buffets, epicurean experiences in the restaurants, and home-cooked meals to enjoy in your vacation rental, without any …

Read More

14 Best Local Restaurants On Kiawah Island

Delicious dining and iconic views, what’s not to love? When traveling to Kiawah Island, we know that it’s hard to pick and choose where you’ll want to be dining each day of your trip. Our local foodies guide to South Carolina’s Kiawah Island highlights the best places to grab a bite to eat for every …

Read More

Best Hotel & Resort Restaurants On Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a luxury destination with miles of beautiful Atlantic beaches, wild untouched nature preserves, world-famous golf courses, and some of the best food in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region. Only a stone’s throw from the vibrant culinary scene of Charleston, Kiawah Island boasts everything from hotel island-style dining in flip flops and tees and …

Read More

Monthly Vacation Guide – October 2024

Pack your bags and escape to Kiawah Island, where each month brings new opportunities to create once-in-a-lifetime memories! No matter the month, Kiawah Island offers diverse array of activities. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a peaceful getaway, this monthly vacation guide ensures that you’ll find the perfect experience while visiting …

Read More

How To Spot Loggerhead Sea Turtles on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is known as a top destination for luxury living in harmony with nature. Our beautiful barrier island encompasses 10,000 acres of lush Lowcountry landscapes and over ten miles of pristine Atlantic coastline. This region boasts a lush diversity of well preserved habitats and intricate ecosystems, perfect for wildlife to flourish and thrive. Kiawah …

Read More

Childcare & Babysitting Options On Kiawah Island 

Welcome to the ultimate family-friendly paradise on South Carolina’s Kiawah Island, where a vacation isn’t just a break for busy parents but an exhilarating adventure for the little tots and teens too. There are no limits to the family fun that awaits on Kiawah Island! Our beautiful barrier island boasts 10 miles of stunning sandy …

Read More

6 Tips To Host Your Family Reunion On Kiawah Island 

Planning a family reunion is not always smooth sailing but there’s one thing we can be sure of – your reunion will be stunning in the South Carolina sea islands. With its spectacular Lowcountry setting, southern charm and hospitality, abundance of activities, and luxury island accommodations, Kiawah Island is the perfect destination for a fun-filled …

Read More

Art Galleries & Events On Kiawah Island 2024

Situated only 25 miles from Charleston, Kiawah Island is a luxurious island retreat renowned for its coastal charm, natural beauty, and inspiring Lowcountry lifestyle. Kiawah is home to 10 miles of the most beautiful beaches on the South Carolina coastline, tranquil waterways and trails adorned with Spanish moss swaying from ancient live oaks, world-class resort …

Read More

Top 4 Reasons To Visit Beachwalker Park

Situated only 25 miles from Charleston, Kiawah Island is internationally recognized for its award-winning resort amenities ranging from world-class championship golf courses and highly-acclaimed tennis centers to luxurious Lowcountry dining, and miles upon miles of unspoiled, uncrowded, and natural barrier island beaches.  Consistently ranked one of Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in America, Kiawah Beachwalker …

Read More

Kiawah Island Grocery Shopping & Services 

Thinking about traveling to Kiawah Island? Who wouldn’t love miles of sun-kissed beaches, the soothing sounds of crashing waves, the anticipation of lazy afternoons lounging under an umbrella (or napping by the pool), and spending long, uninterrupted stretches of quality time with your nearest and dearest?! As you wind closer to the beautiful shoreline of …

Read More

Why Support Local Businesses at Freshfields Village?

Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and supporting local business in Kiawah is so important to keeping the charm alive in this small beach town! Kiawah offers visitors a perfect balance of natural Lowcountry beauty, southern charm, and world-class resort amenities. Explore the island on 30 miles of paved trails through acres of …

Read More

6 Best Fishing Locations On Kiawah Island

When it comes to natural beauty and coastal charm, few destinations can compete with Kiawah Island, a beautifully preserved and unspoiled barrier island nestled between the Kiawah River and Atlantic Ocean. Ranked one of the top fishing destinations on the East Coast, Kiawah Island delivers a great Lowcountry fishing experience for all fishing enthusiasts in …

Read More

Where To Watch The Sunset On Kiawah Island?

Spectacular Lowcountry sunrise and sunset views are part of Mother Nature’s perfect package when you vacation on the South Carolina coastline. Charleston is famous for its romantic sunsets but if you’re looking to escape the urban vibe and reconnect with nature, there’s nowhere quite like Kiawah Island.  Situated only a 45 minute drive from Charleston, …

Read More

Lowcountry Winery & Brewery Guide

Charleston has been voted the No. 1 City in the USA by Travel + Leisure for 11 consecutive years and is the first US destination to earn the coveted No. 1 City in the World ranking. There are 100+ reasons why travelers love Lowcountry living! Our favorites would be the jasmine-scented cobblestone streets lined with …

Read More

How To Bike Around Kiawah Island?

Nestled on South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline between the historic City of Charleston and the private oceanfront resort community of Seabrook Island is Kiawah Island. Kiawah is a vacation destination with vast and scenic Lowcountry landscapes best explored on two wheels to venture freely.  With over 30-miles of paved flat paths connecting the island from West …

Read More

Kiawah Island Labor Day Weekend Event Calendar

Labor Day is an annual celebration of American labor achievements and contributions… So it’s the perfect time to party with your friends and family, right? There’s no better way to celebrate with your favorite people than attending local events, relaxing on the beach, or taking a trip to one of America’s top destinations for luxury …

Read More

Best Fishing Charters on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a destination known for its award-winning white sandy beaches, oceanfront golf courses, and untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. The island’s pristinely preserved and unique ecosystem of beaches, maritime forests, protected sand dunes, and fragile marshlands are a habitat for a diverse array of beautiful birdlife, wildlife, majestic marine mammals, …

Read More

Top 10 Attractions for Kids on Kiawah Island

Our kids are inundated with tech gadgets, gaming devices, and a constant stream of stimulation, day in and day out. Why not skip the bustling boardwalks lined with amusement, arcades and kid-centric attractions and spend your family vacation immersed in nature on Kiawah Island? Kiawah Island is a secluded barrier island and luxury resort community …

Read More

Charleston Wine + Food Festival 2024

Imagine a five-day epicurean celebration that transforms the historic streets of Charleston and the charming coastal sea islands into a culinary wonderland! The annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival is a vibrant showcase of the Lowcountry’s diverse culinary flavors, vibrant wine scene, and warm southern hospitality all rolled into one epic event!  DATE: MARCH 6th …

Read More

7 Best Spots for a Cocktail on Kiawah Island

Looking for a place to enjoy a crisp cocktail? Dress up and slip into a seat for a classy beverage at the five-star Sanctuary Hotel or head straight from the beach in flip flops for live music and laid back island vibes on the waterfront – you can have it all while vacationing on Kiawah Island!

Read More

Best Lowcountry Oyster Roasts in 2024

The South Carolina coastline is not only famous for its miles of beautiful barrier islands and sandy beaches, warm winter weather, outdoor activities and southern charm. The winter months bring thousands of visitors to the Lowcountry coastal towns to savor classic southern seafood, waterfront marsh-to-table dining and the tasty tradition of Lowcountry Oyster Roasts. 

Read More

Best Fall Festivals & Events On Kiawah Island

Fall is America’s favorite season and the best time of year to visit the barrier islands of South Carolina on the idyllic Atlantic Coastline. The beauty of the changing fall leaves, no more summer crowds, coastal temperatures and miles of pristine and peaceful sandy beaches await on Kiawah Island, South Carolina.  

Read More

2024 Summer Event Calendar for Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a stunning barrier island nestled on the South Carolina coastline that offers visitors the opportunity to engage in endless adventures and activities, or simply do nothing at all! Summer is a season of fun on Kiawah Island and each day brings new adventures, unique recreational experiences, and exciting summer events focused on the Lowcountry lifestyle and old-fashioned fun for the whole family! 

Read More