If you’re staying at Ocean Sands Beach Resort, one of the best day trips you can take is just 20 minutes north to the charming fishing village of Calabash, North Carolina. While the town may be small, its reputation is legendary. Known as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” Calabash has been serving fresh seafood to hungry visitors for generations and is the birthplace of the famous Calabash-style seafood.
So, what exactly is Calabash-style? Unlike heavy batters, Calabash seafood features fresh shrimp, flounder, oysters, scallops, and other local favorites lightly dusted with flour or cornmeal and flash-fried until perfectly crisp. The result is seafood that’s light, flavorful, and lets the fresh catch shine. This cooking tradition began with local fishermen in the 1930s and quickly became famous throughout the Carolinas.
Today, visitors can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy some of the area’s most iconic seafood restaurants. Longtime favorites like Beck’s Restaurant, Captain Nance’s Seafood, and Calabash Seafood Hut continue the town’s rich seafood traditions, while newer favorites like The Oyster Rock Waterfront Seafood offer fresh oysters, locally caught seafood, and beautiful views of the Calabash River. For a casual lunch by the docks, don’t miss Waterfront Seafood Shack, a local favorite for fresh seafood served just steps from the water.
After dinner, spend some time exploring the quaint shops along River Road, enjoy homemade ice cream, or simply watch the fishing boats return with the day’s catch. The relaxed waterfront atmosphere is every bit as enjoyable as the meal itself.
Whether you’re craving a legendary fried seafood platter, fresh oysters on the half shell, or simply want to experience one of the Carolinas’ most iconic coastal towns, Calabash is well worth the short drive from Ocean Sands Beach Resort. Bring your appetite—you’ll quickly discover why visitors have been making the trip for decades.