Oak Island & Southport Area

Places to Eat

From fresh-caught waterfront seafood to Southern comfort breakfasts and craft brewpubs, the Oak Island area punches well above its size when it comes to dining. Here's our curated list of local favorites.

Look for the Pet Friendly badge to bring your furry friends along!
Southern $$

Fixins OKI

Laid-back breakfast and lunch spot serving Southern-inspired comfort food. A local go-to for a hearty start to a beach day.


8300 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Fine Dining $$$

Island Way

An upscale-casual beachfront stop for high-end steaks & seafood. The place to celebrate a special occasion without leaving the island.


1407 E Beach Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Brewpub $$

Lonerider at Oak Island

Brewpub with local craft beer and casual fare plus waterfront views. The ideal spot to decompress after a long beach day.


57th St W, Oak Island, NC 28465
Restaurant & Bar $$

Paul's of Oak Island

Bar serving steaks and seafood items, plus craft beer and cocktails. Great indoor/outdoor sports bar atmosphere with a loyal local following.


5419 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Pet Friendly
Pizza $$

Pepperoni Grill at the Beach

Beachside pizza spot with specialty pies, wings, subs, and calzones. A family staple — the kids will ask to come back every night.


4320 E Beach Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Seafood $$

Pirates Deck

Casual seafood eatery with pizza, burgers, and outdoor seating. Exactly the kind of place you want to find on a beach vacation.


5827 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Seafood & American $$

Provision Company

Fresh seafood with waterfront dining. Known for their extensive raw bar and casual atmosphere — one of the most beloved spots in the area.


130 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport, NC
Pet Friendly
New American $$$

Salt64

Upscale eatery offering New American grub such as crab cakes and crab toast, plus seafood entrees. Worth the splurge for a memorable dinner out.


6404 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Coffee Shop $

Seaside Mermaid

Cozy coffee shop serving donuts, ice cream, and desserts along with coffee drinks. The morning ritual everyone in the house agrees on.


6102 E Oak Island Dr Suite 2, Oak Island, NC 28465
Seafood $$

Shagger Jacks

Summertime spot with a patio offering down-home seafood meals, sandwiches, cocktails & live music. The kind of evening you came to the beach for.


8004 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Pet Friendly
Seafood $$

Tranquil Harbour Restaurant & Bar

Locally sourced seafood, steaks, burgers & other American fare from a cozy place with a bar & patio. Consistent quality and a welcoming vibe.


5908 E Oak Island Dr, Oak Island, NC 28465
Pet Friendly
Seafood & Waterfront $$

Yacht Basin Provision Company

Sister location to the original Provision Co. Stunning marsh views and fresh local seafood — the kind of waterfront table that books up fast in summer.


130 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport, NC
Pet Friendly

Dining Tips for Oak Island Visitors

  • Peak Season: Make reservations during summer months, especially on weekends. Popular spots like Provision Company and Island Way fill up fast — call ahead or book online.
  • Local Favorites: Ask locals for their recommendations — they know the hidden gems! The staff at your rental or the folks at the Nature Center are always happy to share.
  • Fresh Seafood: Most restaurants source from local fishermen, so the catch of the day is always worth trying. Shrimp season typically runs May–December; flounder and grouper are on menus year-round.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many restaurants with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved leashed pets. Always confirm with staff before you arrive — policies vary by season.

Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental

Need a Pet-Friendly Place to Stay?

Planning your meals is easier when your lodging is already set. Steps to the Sea is located right in the heart of Oak Island — walking distance to beach access, and just minutes from every restaurant on this list. Book direct for the best rates, no platform fees.