St Clements Beach Bar & Grill in Beaufort: Waterfront Dining and Drinks

A casual spot for seafood and cocktails on the Beaufort River

St Clements Beach Bar & Grill sits on Lady's Island in Beaufort, overlooking the Beaufort River with a relaxed, open-air atmosphere. The menu centers on seafood—shrimp, fish, and crab prepared simply—alongside burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers meant for sharing. The bar stocks beer, wine, and mixed drinks, with a focus on keeping things unpretentious and friendly rather than craft-cocktail elaborate.

The space itself is the draw as much as the food. Large windows and an outdoor deck let you watch the water and the boats moving through the river. It's the kind of place where you can show up in casual clothes after a day at the beach or a walk through downtown Beaufort and fit right in. The crowd tends to be a mix of locals, families, and visitors exploring the area.

Key Takeaways

• St Clements serves fresh seafood and casual American fare in a waterfront setting on Lady's Island, just across the bridge from downtown Beaufort.
• The bar offers beer, wine, and cocktails in a low-key environment where you can watch the Beaufort River from the deck.
• Hours and seasonal closures vary, so calling ahead or checking their current schedule online is worth doing before you visit.
• The restaurant accommodates groups and families, with both indoor and outdoor seating options depending on weather and preference.

What to order and what to expect

The menu leans toward what works in a waterfront casual setting: fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, crab cakes, and fresh catch prepared grilled or fried. Appetizers like wings, nachos, and fried pickles are designed for sharing at the bar or on the deck. Burgers and chicken sandwiches round out the offerings for people who want something other than seafood. Portions are generous, and prices sit in the moderate range for a waterfront restaurant.

Service is typically friendly and unhurried—this is not a place where you're rushed through your meal. During peak season (spring and summer) and on weekends, the restaurant fills up, so expect a wait if you arrive without a reservation during those times. The noise level can be high when it's busy, especially on the deck, but that's part of the atmosphere rather than a drawback.

Location and how to get there

St Clements is located on Lady's Island, a short drive from downtown Beaufort. From downtown, cross the bridge heading toward Hunting Island State Park, and you'll find the restaurant on your left before you reach the state park entrance. Parking is available on-site, and the lot usually has space except during the busiest summer weekends.

The restaurant sits close enough to Hunting Island State Park that you could combine a visit here with a beach day or a walk through the maritime forest. It's also near the Lady's Island area shops and the Beaufort waterfront attractions, making it a natural stop if you're spending time exploring that part of the Lowcountry.

Outdoor seating and river views

The deck overlooking the Beaufort River is the main reason many people choose St Clements over other casual dining spots in the area. On clear days, you can watch sailboats, fishing boats, and the occasional dolphin from your table. The deck is open to the elements, so weather matters—on hot days it can feel exposed to the sun, and rain will send you inside, but those are the trade-offs of waterfront dining.

The indoor seating has windows that also face the water, so even if you're not on the deck, you're not losing the view entirely. The restaurant is designed to feel open and airy rather than enclosed, which fits the casual beach-bar vibe they're going for.

When to visit and what the seasons bring

Spring and summer are the busiest times, when the weather is warm and visitors are in town. Weekends year-round draw crowds, especially Friday and Saturday evenings. If you prefer a quieter experience, weekday visits in fall or winter are less hectic, though the restaurant may have reduced hours or close for maintenance during slower months.

The Beaufort area's weather is mild enough that St Clements stays open through the winter, but the deck becomes less comfortable in cold or rainy weather. Spring brings the most pleasant conditions—warm enough to enjoy the outdoors without the intense summer heat.

Parking and accessibility

The restaurant has its own parking lot with spaces for regular vehicles. The lot fills up during peak times but usually has availability. The building itself is accessible from the parking area, though you should call ahead if you have specific accessibility needs to confirm what accommodations are available.

The on-site lot means you don't have to hunt for street parking or walk far from your car, which is convenient when you're carrying kids or don't want to deal with the hassle of finding a spot in a busy area. During the quieter months, parking is rarely an issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not always required, but they're a good idea on weekends and during peak season (May through September). Walk-ins are welcome, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour during busy times. Calling ahead to check wait times takes a minute and can save you frustration.

Is St Clements good for families with kids?

Yes. The casual atmosphere and straightforward menu work well for families. Kids can order burgers or chicken sandwiches alongside the seafood options. The outdoor deck is a draw for children who like watching the water and boats. High chairs and booster seats are typically available.

What's the best time to visit for sunset?

The restaurant faces east across the river, so you won't see the sunset from the deck. However, the late afternoon light on the water is pleasant, and the deck is comfortable in the early evening. Arriving around 5 or 6 p.m. gives you good light and usually a less crowded dining room than peak dinner hours.

Can I bring my own drinks?

No. St Clements has a full bar, and outside alcohol is not permitted. The bar menu includes beer, wine, and cocktails at reasonable prices for a waterfront location.

What if I'm not in the mood for seafood?

The menu includes burgers, chicken sandwiches, and other non-seafood options. Appetizers like wings and nachos are also available. You won't have as many choices as at a full-service restaurant, but there are alternatives if seafood isn't what you want that day.