Skippers on Lake Greenwood — Waterfront Dining and Casual American Food
What Skippers Offers
Skippers on Lake Greenwood is a casual waterfront restaurant on the shore of Lake Greenwood in Ninety Six, South Carolina. The menu centers on American comfort food — burgers, sandwiches, fried seafood, and entrees — with a focus on casual dining rather than fine service. The restaurant's main draw is its location: a deck overlooking the water where you can eat while watching boats and the lake itself.
The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly. You'll find locals and visitors mixing, especially on weekends and during summer months when the lake draws crowds. The restaurant operates seasonally, so hours and availability shift with the weather and tourism patterns on the lake.
Key Takeaways
- Skippers serves American comfort food — burgers, sandwiches, fried seafood, and entrees — in a casual setting on Lake Greenwood's shore.
- The waterfront deck is the main reason to visit; it offers views of the lake and a relaxed outdoor dining experience.
- The restaurant is family-friendly and popular with both locals and visitors, especially during warmer months.
- Hours and seasonal availability vary, so call ahead or check current information before planning a visit.
The Menu and What to Expect
Skippers keeps its menu straightforward. You'll find burgers made to order, sandwiches (including fried fish and shrimp), and entrees that lean toward fried seafood and traditional American fare. Sides typically include fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies. Prices are moderate — the kind of place where a meal with a drink runs between $12 and $20 per person.
The kitchen is not attempting haute cuisine or complex preparations. What you get is the food you'd expect from a lakeside casual restaurant: reliable, not fancy, and designed to be eaten quickly so you can get back to enjoying the water view. Portions are generous, and the pace is unhurried.
Waterfront Location and Views
Lake Greenwood itself is a 11,400-acre reservoir created by a dam on the Saluda River. The lake is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming. Skippers sits on the shore, giving diners a direct view of the water and the activity on it. On a clear day, you can watch sailboats, fishing boats, and jet skis while you eat.
The outdoor deck is the heart of the restaurant. Weather permitting, this is where you want to sit. The view changes with the season — summer brings more boat traffic and swimmers; fall and winter are quieter but often clearer. The deck can get crowded on summer weekends and holidays, so arriving early or going on a weekday gives you a better chance at a good table.
Getting There and Parking
Skippers is located in Ninety Six, a small town in Greenwood County in the Piedmont region of South Carolina. The restaurant sits on the lake side of Highway 34, making it easy to spot if you're driving along the shore. Parking is available on-site, and the lot typically has space except during peak summer weekends.
Ninety Six is about 30 minutes south of Greenwood (the county seat) and roughly an hour from Columbia. If you're visiting Lake Greenwood for boating or fishing, Skippers is a natural stop for lunch or dinner. The town itself is small, so plan to eat here rather than explore much else nearby.
When to Visit
Summer is the busiest season at Skippers, especially June through August and on holiday weekends. The lake is warmest then, and families come to swim and boat. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit on a weekday or in the shoulder seasons — late spring or early fall — when the weather is still pleasant but crowds are lighter.
Winter hours may be reduced or the restaurant may close entirely during the coldest months, so if you're planning a winter visit, call ahead. Spring and fall are ideal: warm enough to enjoy the deck, but not so hot that sitting outside becomes uncomfortable.
What Makes It Worth the Trip
Skippers is not a destination restaurant in the sense that you'd drive an hour out of your way for the food alone. What makes it worth visiting is the combination of casual American food and a genuine waterfront setting. If you're already on Lake Greenwood — boating, fishing, or staying at a nearby cabin — Skippers is a convenient, pleasant place to eat lunch or dinner without leaving the lake.
The restaurant also works well for families. Kids can eat familiar food, the pace is relaxed, and the water view keeps everyone entertained. It's the kind of place where you can linger without feeling rushed, and where the setting matters as much as the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skippers open year-round?
Skippers operates seasonally, with hours and availability changing based on weather and lake activity. Summer months are the most reliable time to find it open. Call ahead or check current information before visiting, especially in winter.
Can I bring my boat to Skippers?
The restaurant sits on the lake, but you should confirm directly whether boat docking or water access is available. Some waterfront restaurants have boat slips or docks; others do not. Call ahead to ask about your specific needs.
Is there a kids menu?
Most casual waterfront restaurants offer simpler options for children, but you should call to confirm what Skippers has available. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor setting make it family-friendly regardless.
What's the best time to go for a quiet meal?
Weekday visits in spring or fall offer the best combination of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer weekends and holidays are the busiest times. Early afternoon or early evening often has lighter crowds than peak dinner hours.
How far is Skippers from Greenwood?
Skippers is about 30 minutes south of Greenwood, the county seat, in the small town of Ninety Six. It's roughly an hour from Columbia if you're coming from the state capital.