About
While Calabash is known as the "Seafood Capital of the World," it is also home to fun things to do. In this post, we've done the legwork so that you can hit the ground running on your day trip to Calabash!
Long before visitors lined up for plates of golden, crisp fried seafood, the area was called Pea Landing. When a post office was established in 1883, the town needed a name. Locals chose to call it Calabash because of the similarly named gourds growing nearby.
Early in the 1900s, Calabash consisted of a few docks and simple homes, where fishing and shrimping were the primary businesses. That started to change during WWII, when restaurants began serving "Calabash-style" seafood.
This cooking style consists of seafood taking a quick dip in cornmeal batter, followed by a fast fry, and then a finish that keeps the seafood tender. While many have tried to duplicate Calabash-style, the only way to savor the Real McCoy is by visiting.
But there's more to do than savor this classic cuisine. Calabash is home to art galleries, a mesmerizing beach, golf courses, and boutiques.
So, come along as we dive deeper into these attractions so you can tailor-make the perfect itinerary.
Day Trip to Calabash: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Escape the hot sun with a tour of the Sunset River Gallery. This 10,000 square foot facility is home to artwork of more than 100 artists. You'll find paintings of the Outer Banks to creative expressions, along with jewelry and home goods.
Book a tee time at Crow Creek Golf Club and play 18 holes on one of the East Coast's best-maintained courses. This top-notch facility features a pro shop, a restaurant, a practice facility, and lessons.
Shop-until-you-drop at Callahans of Calabash! This 35,000-square-foot facility is home to a variety of boutiques and gifts, and has been delighting shoppers for over 45 years. You'll find everything from t-shirts to designer sunglasses and clothing, to homemade fudge and a Hallmark store.
The Sunset Beach Pier puts you front and center to one of the Outer Banks' best shorelines. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, and fish off the 900-foot-long wooden pier. Also noteworthy is that this is the southernmost fishing pier in North Carolina.
Take the gang on a fishing trip or sunset cruise with Calabash Fishing Fleet. It features five boats and tours ranging from public and private fishing to sunset and dolphin cruises. What makes the fishing charters appealing is that they are ideal for seasoned anglers and beginners. Better yet, many Calabash restaurants offer "cook-your-catch," making for the freshest seafood dinner and experience you could imagine!
Speaking of food, make a beeline for The Oyster Rock! Located along the ICW, this renowned and renovated restaurant features Calabash style and Low Country cuisine. While it doesn't offer "cook-your-catch," its breathtaking views and ambiance make for a memorable dining experience.
Should you land the big one, head to the Waterfront Seafood Shack, which will cook your catch for you. For a hearty and unique breakfast, check out the Toasted Calabash. They also serve dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings.
A day trip to Calabash lets you discover why it's "the seafood capital of the world," while its galleries, beaches, and attractions highlight North Carolina's beauty and uniqueness.
Getting There
- Begin on Holden Beach Road (NC 130) as you leave Holden Beach heading inland.
- Drive west/northwest on NC 130 to US 17.
- Turn onto US 17 South toward Calabash.
- Stay on US 17 South until you reach Thomasboro Road in Calabash.
- Turn left onto Thomasboro Road.
- From Thomasboro Road, turn right onto NC 179/Beach Drive.
- Continue on NC 179/Beach Drive into the heart of Calabash.
- Address: 9961 Beach Dr. SW, Calabash, NC 28467
Cost
Aside from time and gas, a day trip to Calabash is free! Be sure to check restaurant and attraction websites beforehand to budget your trip.
Local Tips
- Ocean Isle Beach is worth exploring on your trip.
- Consider visiting nearby Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
- Pack snacks, water, and beach items to save money.
- Visiting in spring or fall often means fewer crowds and a more leisurely pace.
