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Pawleys Back Deck: A Waterfront Bar and Restaurant on the Georgetown Coast

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Pawleys Back Deck offers

Pawleys Back Deck is a casual waterfront bar and restaurant located in Pawleys Island, a small coastal community in Georgetown County about 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach. The venue sits on the water with views of the marsh and creek, and serves as a gathering spot for locals and visitors looking for seafood, sandwiches, and drinks in a relaxed setting. The back deck—the namesake—is the main draw, offering outdoor seating where you can watch the water while you eat and drink.

The restaurant operates year-round and draws a mixed crowd: families during the day, a more adult-oriented bar scene in the evenings, and boaters who arrive by water. The menu leans toward casual coastal fare: fried seafood, shrimp and grits, fish tacos, burgers, and fresh catches depending on the season. The bar stocks beer, wine, and spirits, with a focus on casual mixed drinks and frozen options rather than craft cocktails.

Key Takeaways

  • Pawleys Back Deck is a waterfront bar and restaurant on Pawleys Island with outdoor seating overlooking the marsh and creek.
  • The menu features casual seafood, sandwiches, and coastal comfort food at moderate prices, with daily specials that change seasonally.
  • The venue welcomes both walk-in diners and boaters, with a dock available for those arriving by water.
  • Hours and seasonal closures vary, so calling ahead or checking their social media before visiting is recommended, especially in winter months.

The back deck and outdoor seating

The outdoor deck is the heart of Pawleys Back Deck. It overlooks the water and provides the kind of casual, breezy atmosphere that defines Georgetown County's waterfront culture. Tables are picnic-style or casual bar seating, and the setting is informal—you are not paying for fine dining presentation, but for the location and the view. On warm days and evenings, this is where most of the action happens.

The deck is open to the elements, so weather matters. Summer heat and humidity can be intense, and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winter brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but also occasional closures or reduced hours. The venue does not have extensive shade structures, so sunscreen and a hat are practical considerations for midday visits.

Food and drink menu

The kitchen focuses on seafood and casual American fare. Fried shrimp, fried fish, and fried oysters appear regularly, along with grilled options. Shrimp and grits is a staple, as are fish tacos and fresh catch preparations that change based on what local boats bring in. Sandwiches—fried fish sandwiches, shrimp po'boys, and burgers—round out the menu. Prices are moderate, typically in the $12 to $20 range for entrees, with appetizers and sides lower.

The bar serves beer (local and national brands), wine, and mixed drinks. Frozen drinks like daiquiris and margaritas are popular, especially in summer. The drink menu is not extensive or specialized, but it matches the casual, unpretentious vibe of the place. Happy hour specials and daily drink deals are common, though specifics change seasonally.

Getting there and parking

Pawleys Island is accessible by car via US 17, which runs the length of the South Carolina coast. The restaurant sits on the water side of the highway, and parking is available on-site in a small lot. During peak summer season and weekends, parking can fill up, especially in the late afternoon and evening. Arriving early or on a weekday morning typically means easier parking.

If you are arriving by boat, Pawleys Back Deck has a dock. This is a significant draw for the boating community, particularly those exploring the Waccamaw River and the creeks around Georgetown. Tying up and walking to the bar is a common way to visit, especially on weekends and during the warmer months.

When to visit and what to expect

Weekday lunches tend to be quieter and more family-oriented. Evenings and weekends, especially Friday and Saturday nights, draw a livelier crowd and more of a bar atmosphere. Summer is the busiest season, with tourists and seasonal residents filling the area. Fall and spring are pleasant, with milder weather and moderate crowds. Winter is slower, and the restaurant may have reduced hours or occasional closures.

The dress code is casual—shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are the norm. This is not a place where you need to dress up. The atmosphere is laid-back and unpretentious, and the crowd reflects that. Expect a mix of ages and backgrounds, from retirees to young families to boaters in their weekend gear.

Nearby attractions in Pawleys Island

Pawleys Island itself is a quiet, residential beach community known for its laid-back character and historic charm. The island has a public beach access, though it is less developed than nearby Myrtle Beach. The Pawleys Island Pier, built in 1848, is one of the oldest continuously operating fishing piers on the East Coast and sits just a short drive away. The pier offers fishing, walking, and views of the Atlantic.

Georgetown, about 10 minutes away, is a historic port town with colonial-era architecture, museums, and riverfront dining. The Georgetown County Museum and the Rice Museum both explore the region's history of rice cultivation and maritime trade. Huntington Beach State Park, also nearby, offers nature trails, a boardwalk, and salt marsh views. Combining a visit to Pawleys Back Deck with a walk around Pawleys Island or a trip into Georgetown makes for a full afternoon or evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my boat to Pawleys Back Deck?

Yes. The restaurant has a dock for boaters, and arriving by water is a common way to visit. Tie up at the dock and walk to the bar and restaurant. This is especially popular on weekends and during the boating season.

What are the hours of operation?

Hours vary by season and day of the week. The restaurant is typically open for lunch and dinner daily in summer, with reduced hours in winter. Calling ahead or checking their social media is the best way to confirm hours before you visit, particularly in the off-season.

Is there a kids menu?

The restaurant is family-friendly during the day, though specifics about a dedicated kids menu vary. Calling ahead to ask about options for children is a good idea, especially if you are planning a family lunch.

Do I need a reservation?

Pawleys Back Deck typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for the outdoor deck. Reservations may be available for larger groups or during peak season. Calling ahead to ask is recommended if you have a group of eight or more.

What is the best time to visit for a sunset?

The deck faces the marsh and creek rather than the open ocean, so sunsets are not dramatic, but they are pleasant. Late afternoon and early evening, especially in summer, offer good light and a relaxed atmosphere. Arriving around 5 or 6 p.m. gives you daylight and the beginning of the evening crowd.