Murphy's on the Ocean: Lowcountry Seafood and Views in Murrells Inlet

A casual seafood spot with a working dock and Lowcountry charm

Murphy's on the Ocean sits right on the water in Murrells Inlet, about 30 minutes north of Myrtle Beach. The restaurant occupies a working fish dock, so you're eating where the boats unload—the catch often comes in the same morning. The menu centers on local seafood: shrimp, flounder, grouper, and crab prepared simply, usually fried or grilled. The dining room has large windows facing the inlet, and the casual setup (paper towels on tables, order-at-the-counter service) keeps the focus on the water and the food rather than formality.

The restaurant has operated since the 1980s and draws a steady mix of locals, families, and visitors who know the Inlet. It's the kind of place where you might see commercial fishermen eating lunch at the next table and tourists photographing the sunset from the deck. The atmosphere is working-waterfront authentic—not themed or polished, but genuine.

Key Takeaways

• Murphy's serves fresh local seafood caught by boats docked directly at the restaurant, with the catch often landed the same day you eat it.
• The casual counter-service format and paper-towel tables keep prices moderate and the focus on the food and water views.
• Large windows and an outdoor deck face Murrells Inlet, making it a strong choice for sunset dining or watching boat traffic.
• The restaurant sits in a working fishing village setting, so the experience includes the sights and sounds of an active commercial dock.

What to order and what to expect

The menu changes based on what the boats bring in, but staples include fried shrimp, fried flounder, grilled grouper, and crab cakes. Sides typically run to coleslaw, hushpuppies, and fries. Portions are generous. Prices fall in the moderate range for a waterfront seafood restaurant—entrees typically cost between $15 and $25. The food is straightforward: the restaurant isn't trying to reinvent Lowcountry cooking, just execute it well with fresh ingredients.

Service moves quickly because of the counter-order system. You order at the counter, pay, and either eat at a table inside or take your food to the deck. Drinks are self-serve or ordered separately. The setup means less table service but also less wait time and a more relaxed pace overall. Families with children often find the casual format easier to navigate than a full-service restaurant.

Location and timing in Murrells Inlet

Murrells Inlet is a small working fishing village about 30 minutes north of Myrtle Beach on US 17. Murphy's sits on the inlet itself, accessible by car with parking on-site. The village has other restaurants and shops nearby, so you can make an afternoon or evening of it. The inlet is also home to several charter fishing operations and boat tours, so the area draws people interested in water-based activities.

Sunset is the most popular time to visit, especially in warmer months. The deck fills up in late afternoon as the light changes over the water. Lunch is quieter and a good option if you want a table without waiting. The restaurant is open year-round, though hours may shift seasonally—calling ahead in winter is a good idea. Parking can be tight during peak summer weekends.

The working dock and Lowcountry fishing culture

What sets Murphy's apart from other seafood restaurants is the active dock. You're not just eating seafood; you're eating it where it's caught and sold. Commercial fishing boats tie up at the dock, and you may see crews unloading the day's catch while you eat. This isn't a staged experience—it's the actual business of the inlet. That authenticity is part of the draw for visitors interested in how Lowcountry food systems work.

Murrells Inlet itself has deep roots in South Carolina's fishing economy. The village has remained relatively small and working-focused, resisting the heavy development that transformed much of the coast. Eating at Murphy's connects you to that history and to the people who still make their living from the water. The casual, no-frills approach reflects the practical culture of a fishing community rather than a tourist destination trying to look like one.

Nearby attractions and how to spend your time

Murrells Inlet State Park sits just south of the village and offers walking trails, a boardwalk, and views of the salt marsh. Huntington Beach State Park is also nearby, with beach access and nature trails. Several charter fishing companies operate from the inlet if you want to spend time on the water. The Inlet also has a small cluster of shops and galleries, though the focus is more on fishing than retail.

If you're staying in Myrtle Beach, Murphy's makes a good half-day or evening trip north. The drive is short enough to combine with other activities—a morning hike at one of the state parks, lunch at Murphy's, and an afternoon exploring the village. In summer, the sunset timing works well for dinner plans. In cooler months, the quieter atmosphere and fewer crowds make it a more peaceful visit.

Practical details for your visit

Murphy's accepts cash and cards. The restaurant does not take reservations—you order when you arrive. During peak times (summer weekends, sunset hours), expect to wait 20 to 45 minutes for a table, though the counter order system keeps the line moving. Off-peak times (weekday lunch, winter) are much quieter. The deck is open weather permitting; in rain or cold, seating is inside only.

Parking is available on-site but limited. During busy times, you may need to circle or park on the street nearby. The restaurant is casual dress—no need to change out of beach clothes or hiking gear. Families with young children are welcome; the casual format and simple food work well for kids. The deck can be loud and active during peak times, so it's not ideal for a quiet, intimate dinner, but that's part of the working-waterfront character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

No. Murphy's operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You order at the counter when you arrive. During peak times (summer evenings and weekends), waits can run 20 to 45 minutes, but the counter-service system keeps things moving. Off-peak times like weekday lunch are much quieter.

What if I don't eat seafood?

The menu is heavily seafood-focused, and that's the restaurant's strength. If seafood isn't your preference, this may not be the best fit. Call ahead to ask about non-seafood options on the day you plan to visit, but expect limited choices.

Can I bring my own drinks or alcohol?

The restaurant has its own beverage service. Outside alcohol is typically not permitted. Ask when you arrive if you have questions about specific items.

Is the deck open in winter?

The deck is open weather permitting. In cold or rainy weather, seating is inside only. Winter hours may also be shorter. Calling ahead in the off-season is a good idea to confirm hours and deck availability.

How far is Murphy's from Myrtle Beach?

Murphy's is about 30 minutes north of central Myrtle Beach via US 17. The drive is straightforward and passes through the small communities that make up the Grand Strand. It's an easy day trip if you're staying in Myrtle Beach.