Massey's Pizza on Pawleys Island: What to Order and What to Expect

A casual spot for pizza and seafood on the Grand Strand

Massey's Pizza sits on Pawleys Island, a quiet beach community about 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, and serves pizza alongside Low Country seafood in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The restaurant has been a fixture in the area for years, drawing both locals and visitors who want something less crowded than the chain restaurants clustered near the boardwalk. The menu leans toward traditional pizza—hand-tossed pies with standard and specialty toppings—but also includes shrimp, fish, and other coastal fare that reflects the island's fishing heritage.

The space itself is unpretentious: casual decor, a bar area, and seating that ranges from booths to tables. It's the kind of place where you can show up in beach clothes and not feel out of place, which matters when you're staying nearby and don't want to change before dinner.

Key Takeaways

• Massey's serves hand-tossed pizza with both classic and specialty options, plus Low Country seafood like shrimp and fish.
• The restaurant is located on Pawleys Island itself, away from the main Myrtle Beach tourist corridor, so it draws a quieter crowd.
• The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with no dress code and reasonable prices for the area.
• Seafood dishes and combination platters are available alongside pizza if your group has mixed preferences.

What's on the menu

Pizza is the main draw. Massey's offers hand-tossed pies in standard sizes, with options to build your own or choose from specialty combinations. Toppings include the usual suspects—pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers—and you can load them as heavily or lightly as you prefer. The crust is thicker than New York-style but not deep-dish; it's meant to hold up to toppings without becoming bread-heavy.

Beyond pizza, the menu includes shrimp dishes, fish plates, and combination platters that pair a protein with sides like fries, coleslaw, or hushpuppies. These reflect Pawleys Island's coastal setting and appeal to diners who want something other than pizza. Appetizers, salads, and sandwiches round out the offerings, so there's usually something for everyone at the table.

Location and parking

Massey's is located directly on Pawleys Island, which is accessible via a causeway from Highway 17. If you're staying in a rental home or hotel on the island, it's close enough for a short drive or even a walk depending on where you're based. Parking is available on-site, which is a practical advantage over some restaurants in busier beach areas where you might circle for a spot.

Pawleys Island itself is quieter and more residential than Myrtle Beach proper. The island has a long history as a retreat for Charleston families and retains a more low-key character. Massey's fits that vibe—it's not trying to be a destination restaurant, just a reliable local spot.

Timing and crowds

Like most casual restaurants in beach towns, Massey's gets busier during peak summer months and weekends. Dinner service is typically the busiest time, especially Friday and Saturday nights. If you're visiting during the off-season (fall through early spring), you'll likely have a shorter wait and a quieter experience.

The restaurant does not take reservations, so you order at the counter or are seated and order from your table depending on how busy it is. During high season, arriving early (before 6 p.m.) or later (after 8 p.m.) can help you avoid the longest waits. Takeout is available if you prefer to eat back at your rental or hotel.

Price range and what to budget

Massey's is moderately priced for a beach-area restaurant. A large pizza typically costs between $15 and $25 depending on toppings, and seafood plates usually fall in the $12 to $20 range. Appetizers and sides are generally under $10. Drinks, desserts, and extras will add to your bill, but you're not paying resort-level prices.

If you're feeding a family or group, ordering a couple of large pizzas is usually more economical than individual plates. The restaurant accepts cash and card, though it's worth confirming their current payment methods when you call ahead.

Why Pawleys Island matters for dining

Pawleys Island has a distinct character within the Grand Strand. It's older than Myrtle Beach, less commercialized, and known for its historic homes, quiet beaches, and a slower pace. The dining scene reflects that: you'll find local spots like Massey's rather than chains, and restaurants tend to serve the people who live there year-round as much as visitors.

If you're staying on Pawleys Island or exploring the quieter end of the coast, Massey's represents the kind of casual, unpretentious eating that fits the island's character. It's not a destination meal, but it's a solid choice when you want pizza or seafood without fuss or formality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I call ahead to order pizza for pickup?

Yes, most pizza restaurants on Pawleys Island accept phone orders for pickup. Calling ahead is a good idea during busy times so your pizza is ready when you arrive. Check their current phone number and hours before you call, as restaurant details can change seasonally.

Is Massey's good for families with kids?

Yes. The casual atmosphere, pizza-focused menu, and family-friendly vibe make it a natural choice for families. Kids typically enjoy pizza, and the seafood options give adults more variety. It's not a fancy restaurant, so children don't need to sit quietly for hours.

What's the difference between Massey's and the pizza chains near Myrtle Beach?

Massey's is a local, independent restaurant with hand-tossed pizza and Low Country seafood options. Chain restaurants offer consistency and speed but less local character. If you want to eat where locals go rather than where tourists are funneled, Massey's is the better choice.

Do I need to dress up to eat at Massey's?

No. Massey's is casual. Beach clothes, shorts, and sandals are fine. It's the kind of place designed for people coming straight from the beach or a day of exploring the island.

Is there outdoor seating?

Most casual pizza restaurants in the area have indoor seating as the primary option. If outdoor seating is important to you, call ahead to confirm what Massey's currently offers, as seating arrangements can vary by season.