Southport & Oak Island's Best Waterfront Restaurant
Best Crab Cakes & Freshest Seafood.
Welcome to Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, a true waterfront seafood restaurant in Southport, NC where fresh seafood, dockside dining, and coastal atmosphere come together.
Located directly on the Intracoastal Waterway at 4907 Fish Factory Rd SE, Rusty Hooks offers authentic on-the-water dining with boat access, outdoor seating, and some of the best views in the area. Just a short drive from Oak Island, Wilmington, St. James, and surrounding coastal communities, we've become a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
Famous for our Maryland-style crab cakes, fresh oysters, seafood favorites, and laid-back vibe, Rusty Hooks is more than just a restaurant—it's an experience. From sunset dinners and live music on the biggest deck around to relaxed afternoons with great food and cold drinks, there's always a reason to come back.
When you're looking for fresh seafood in Southport with a true waterfront setting, you'll find it here.