Saint Simons Island, Georgia

End of the Line

October 2023

Georgia’s coast is protected by a string of barrier islands stretching from Savannah at the South Carolina border, down to Saint Marys at the Florida line. Along this string of isles, there are but two true towns – one is on Tybee Island near Savannah and the other on Saint Simons Island at Brunswick.

The quaint Pier Village on Saint Simons is a center of activity on the island. There’s a park, fishing pier and shopping area. In the center of the village on Beach View Drive, you’ll find the Half Shell.

This eatery is a family-friendly oyster bar and seafood restaurant with contemporary coastal American cuisine. The establishment opened in 2013, offering both indoor and patio seating.

They also feature a full bar with specialty cocktails and oyster shooters.  The management describes themselves as the new island tradition – blending traditional and non-traditional, while priding themselves on their fresh seafood, oysters, attentive staff and tasty cocktails.

Their extensive menu ranges from Georgia shrimp ceviche made with local shrimp, red onions, cilantro, lime juice and wontons, to oysters Frederica baked with spinach, bacon, shiitake mushrooms, panko and an asiago cheese crust. Those are complemented by a myriad of other seafood favorites. For those not hungry for the bounty of the sea, the Half Shell provides chicken and pork entrees.

Among the side dishes offered, the bacon-wrapped green beans are an unusual and delightful surprise. Be sure to finish off your meal with a slice of their signature butter cake with a scoop of ice cream. It is a treat that your waist line will forgive you for enjoying!

After a day of chasing redfish in the marsh or targeting seatrout in the sounds around Saint Simons, or simply strolling the sidewalks of Mallery Street in the Pier Village, the Half Shell is perfect for a cold beverage or a full meal.

For a look at their full menu, visit their website at thehalfshellssi.com.