Where the Live Oaks Meet the Sea: Georgetown & Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Walk Front Street

Spend a slow afternoon wandering historic Front Street. It’s lined with colorful 18th- and 19th-century buildings that now house independent boutiques, antique shops, and local galleries. Walk the Harborwalk boardwalk right behind the shops for gorgeous views of the water, take your time beneath the shade of the live oaks, and make sure to stop at Sweeties Homemade Ice Cream & Sweets for a sweet treat, some homemade fudge, or a scoop of ice cream while you stroll.

Head to the beach in Pawleys Island

Just a short drive north across the river lies Pawleys Island, famous for its "arrogantly shabby" historical cottages and untouched coastline. There are no high rises or commercial boardwalks here. Park at one of the public beach access points on the south end, kick off your shoes, and enjoy the wide, peaceful strands and the soothing roll of the Atlantic waves.

Shop at The Hammock Shops Village

You can't leave the area without stopping by this iconic Pawleys Island staple, which has been drawing travelers since the 1930s. Shaded by massive moss-draped oaks, it's a park-like village of local boutiques, specialty kitchens, and garden shops. It's also the birthplace of the famous hand-woven Pawleys Island rope hammock; watching a master weaver work their magic right in the original shop is a mesmerizing piece of local history.

Explore Brookgreen Gardens

Located just a few minutes north of Pawleys Island, Brookgreen Gardens is a breathtaking property built on the grounds of former historic rice plantations. It seamlessly blends a world-class botanical garden with a massive outdoor museum of American figurative sculptures nestled beneath a majestic avenue of 250-year-old live oaks. Between the stunning floral displays, the quiet woodland trails, and the Lowcountry Zoo featuring native wildlife, it is a peaceful sanctuary where you can easily lose yourself for an entire morning or afternoon.

The Independent

Located right inside The George, this is historic Front Street's destination raw bar and seafood restaurant. It honors the legacy of the old Independent Seafood market with an ingredient-driven menu showcasing local fishermen. The vibe is lively and rocking, beautifully designed with vintage oyster plates and plush banquettes. It is a fantastic spot to table-hop, sip martinis, and enjoy fresh-shucked oysters on the half shell.

Brewed Awakening

Every good beach town needs a dependable neighborhood café, and this newly reopened Front Street gem is exactly that. It's the perfect casual morning stop to grab a great cup of coffee, a hearty breakfast sandwich, or a pastry before you head out to explore the historic district.

Frank's & Frank's Outback

Frank's has been around since before I was born, and there’s a reason it’s been around so long. As one location with two restaurants and four dining locations, there’s something for every kind of diner, from pimento cheese (the best in the world) to wood-fired pizzas to fresh seafood. Make reservations in advance! Otherwise, bar seating and courtyard seating are first-come, first-served. Try the pickle pizza (I add sausage to mine), and get a side of ranch with it. Sounds crazy, but it will change your life.

631 Franks on Front

The owners of Frank's and Frank's Outback's daughter and son-in-law opened this two years ago, and it has quickly become a bustling spot. Also serving the iconic Frank's pimento cheese, it has a smaller but carefully curated menu. Some of my favorites are the tuna poke stack, fresh catch mojo, and New Zealand lamb chops. You have to try the frozen gin and tonic.

Bistro 217

Heading up into Pawleys Island, Bistro 217 manages to feel special and sophisticated without an ounce of stuffiness. The menu beautifully weaves local Lowcountry seafood with subtle European and Asian influences. If you see the "217 Eggplant Treasure Chest" (packed with fresh shrimp, scallops, and grouper in a rich basil parmesan cream sauce) on the menu, order it immediately. If the weather behaves, ask to sit outside at their lovely wrought-iron tables in the courtyard.

Rustic Table

A sister restaurant to Bistro 217, Rustic Table is exactly what the name promises: scratch-made, down-home Southern comfort food served in a relaxed space with concrete floors and friendly faces. It’s comforting, unpretentious food done right. Go for supper and order the Shrimp N’ Gritz or the house-smoked beef brisket, or time your visit for their fantastic weekend brunch to get "The Comfy," a crispy fried chicken breast nestled on a homemade biscuit and smothered in creamy sausage gravy.

Litchfield Restaurant

I remember Saturday mornings growing up when my dad would take my siblings and me here for breakfast. A diner where as soon as you walk in, you feel like family. Think grits, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, bacon, and a big cup of coffee.