Outdoor Dining with a View in Myrtle Beach

  By  Shelbi Ankiewicz

I love to sit and watch the sunset while enjoying a meal with people I love. To sit and witness the sun sink down, turning the sky various colors, is a natural form of art that’s of no cost to anyone.

There are many reasons why people enjoy dining outdoors: some outdoor spots are pet-friendly, and many outdoor dining spots offer live entertainment. I personally like dining outdoors for the view of which the Grand Strand area has so many areas to offer!

So, if you’re spending time in Myrtle Beach, you must enjoy water. Whether you like jumping into waves, soaking in a Jacuzzi, barreling down a slide at a waterpark, or floating along a lazy river at a resort, you’re likely to enjoy the water in some way. Lucky for you, Myrtle Beach offers some of the best restaurants with relaxing views of natural bodies of water.

Some of my favorites include:

RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar
1. RipTydz

If you're looking for an awesome dining view on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, try RipTydz. I love this place for the oceanfront views—it's like dining right on the beach! RipTydz isn’t just about the view though; they serve up a mix of fresh seafood, prime steaks, and local dishes that really showcase the area's flavors. The space is massive and it has two floors with vibrant atmospheres. I've been to a handful of private parties there and the views never disappoint. It's definitely a top choice for anyone wanting to make the most of the coastal scenery!

Sea Captain's House
2. Sea Captain's House

What started as a beach house for vacationers in the 1930’s, transformed in 1962 to become Sea Captain’s House, a nostalgic staple among Myrtle Beach eateries. This is the perfect place to enjoy picturesque ocean views and of course, the great menu and service makes it even better!

Big Chill Island House
3. Big Chill Island House

Big Chill Island House is a must stop for an upscale tropical vibe with a water view. New in Barefoot landing, grab a crafted cocktail at one of their bars or rooftop lounge. With a ton of outdoor seating, you can watch the boats drive by, enjoy a stunning sunset on the water, or both!

Crooked Hammock Brewery
4. Crooked Hammock Brewery

Located at Barefoot Landing, Crooked Hammock Brewery serves up craft beer, coastal bites, and plenty of outdoor fun in a relaxed backyard setting. Don’t miss Tortuga Island - a floating gazebo with swing seats just off the lawn that’s perfect for kicking back by the water.

Greg Norman Australian Grille
5. Greg Norman Australian Grille

Set along the Intracoastal Waterway, this waterfront spot pairs beautiful views with a breezy outdoor patio that’s ideal for spring dining. Guests can watch boats pass by while enjoying Australian-inspired flavors, including wood-grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and shareable starters alongside a robust wine list. With its relaxed atmosphere and sunset-worthy scenery, it’s a great place to linger over dinner or unwind with a drink by the water.

LuLu's North Myrtle Beach
6. LuLu's North Myrtle Beach

Located right in the heart of North Myrtle Beach's Barefoot Landing, LuLu’s is the ultimate hangout spot for foodies and fun lovers alike. Dive into a menu full of scratch-made gems while taking in the killer views of the waterway. Whether you’re there for the live music, cornhole, or just to watch the boats cruise by, LuLu’s has you covered. Their dock serves as a perfect sunset photo op!

local's fav Wicked Tuna
7. Wicked Tuna

With two waterfront locations—one along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk and another on the iconic 2nd Avenue Pier—this local favorite serves up fresh seafood with unbeatable coastal views. Outdoor seating lets diners enjoy salty breezes while digging into sushi, poke bowls, and signature tuna dishes alongside other coastal classics. Whether overlooking the marsh or the Atlantic Ocean, it’s an ideal place to savor spring weather, watch boats drift by, and catch a colorful sunset.

local's fav Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
8. MarshWalk

The MarshWalk is in the heart of the historic fishing village of Murrells Inlet. It is a ½ mile boardwalk along a natural saltwater estuary. Every restaurant alongside it offers a meal with a view. It’s a calming and peaceful place to enjoy a dinner out. (Try Drunken Jack's for a pirate feel!) The abundant marsh life along this stretch makes every visit different because you never know what an egret will do!

9. Boathouse

If you’re searching for a place to go and hang out on a Sunday night in the middle of summer, this is the place to go. The Boathouse is a restaurant and live music venue next to the Intracoastal Waterway. They have finger foods, salads, and sandwiches for all to enjoy will a large array of beers. My favorite time to visit is in the summer when they have live music on the outside deck and the sun is setting, mainly because it makes for an incredible view, but it’s also just a great way to spend time.

10. Marina Bar & Grill

The Marina Bar & Grill is in North Myrtle Beach at the Barefoot Resort. This is the perfect place to eat with the family, and it has an amazing view! You can even pull up to the restaurant on your boat and dock right at the marina! Then you can take your food to go for your boat ride. Not a boat owner? I personally just love watching the boats while I dine.

Shelbi Ankiewicz
Shelbi Ankiewicz is a senior at Coastal Carolina University studying communication, journalism, and intercultural studies. She is originally from Montgomery, Alabama, but has resided in Myrtle Beach for 14 years. She is the Editor-in-Chief of CCU's student newspaper, The Chanticleer, and is a member of a two-year leadership program called the Wall Fellows. Shelbi enjoys trying new restaurants, traveling to major cities in the SouthEast, and attending concerts. In her free time you can find her hanging out with her frenchton bulldog, Oma, or visiting the local trails Myrtle Beach has to offer.