From famous seafood and rich history to a treasure trove of thrift stores, Calabash is the place to be—for a lifetime.

You can’t help but tip your hat to a town famous for its mysteriously seasoned, lightly battered, and quickly fried seafood—a signature of this historic fishing village, founded in 1961. Welcome to Calabash, the “Seafood Capital of the World” and North Carolina’s southernmost coastal town. Calabash’s claim to fame is showcased by its 30 restaurants and a fleet of commercial boats selling freshly caught shrimp, crabs, oysters, and fish daily right off the dock. Three centuries later, Calabash is still a working fishing port, forever linked to the deep historic pride of the original village fishermen.

While visitors and residents alike flock to the town for its celebrated seafood, Calabash remains refreshingly grounded. Its unassuming residents treasure their home for what it truly is: simple, relaxed, and friendly—just as it has always been.

This quaint port town may serve up hush puppies by the thousands, but its appeal extends far beyond seafood, making it a top choice for those looking to relocate or retire to the southeastern shores of North Carolina. In fact, there’s a long list of reasons: its charm appeals to those seeking a slower, more relaxed pace of life. Its central location between Myrtle Beach and Wilmington means quick access to entertainment and cultural amenities. Its affordable cost of living allows residents to get more house for their money. Its proximity to championship golf courses inspires an active lifestyle. Its short drive to the nationally recognized, pristine Sunset Beach fulfills coastal living dreams. This waterfront community has grown by 40% over the last decade, boasting a modest year-round population of more than 2,000 residents and growing quickly.

Nestled among the Calabash River, Little River Inlet, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Sunset Beach, this town offers an authentic waterfront living experience. Buy fresh fish, shrimp, crabs, and oysters right off the dock. Embark on a boat day trip to Bird Island Reserve, a haven of over 1,200 acres of salt marshes and tidal creeks. Head back to the docks and grab a shrimp burger from the Seafood Hut, a Calabash favorite that’s been family-owned and operated for 40 years.

All that’s happening in Calabash isn’t necessarily on the water. Seeking a shopping experience beyond the outlets in nearby Myrtle Beach? Explore Calabash’s charming resale shops, such as Bloomingails, Nell’s Fine Consignment, and Calabash Trading Company. Unique, independently owned specialty shops like Jewelry by Wendy and Victoria’s Ragpatch are perfect for one-of-a-kind finds. Spend an hour or two wandering through Sunset River Marketplace, an art gallery featuring contemporary art, jewelry, pottery, and more from local artists. And don’t forget the iconic Callahan’s of Calabash Nautical Gifts, home to the year-round Christmas shop, St. Nick Nacks.

After a day of shopping, opportunities abound to pamper yourself in quaint Calabash. The Natural Health Center, a gathering place for spirit, mind, and body, offers holistic health services and products like aromatherapy, Reiki, yoga, and nutritional supplements. Just down the road, Sacred Willow Spa, a family-owned, award-winning spa, provides massage, bodywork, and skin therapy services and products.

Calabash’s “downtown” brims with dining options to satisfy any foodie palate—even those not craving its signature seafood. The Boundary House and Oyster Rock serves modern coastal cuisine, from pasta to steaks to poultry. The Grapevine Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge offers a menu of delectables inspired by the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Of course, you’ll also find restaurants aplenty, serving up Calabash seafood staples. One visit to Captain Nance’s Seafood, Beck’s legendary family-owned restaurants, and you’ll understand why the town is nicknamed the “Seafood Capital of the World.”

Calabash’s unique, independently owned specialty establishments prove the town is hip to modern influences, like the newly opened Coastal Craft Beverage Company, where patrons can buy distinctive craft beer growlers and crowlers to go or take a seat at the bar and try a pour from one of the oft-rotating taps.

Whatever draws people to call Calabash home, they all find common ground in its welcoming community, vibrant activities, and genuine hospitality—all within this charming coastal town nestled between Highway 17 and the Intracoastal Waterway.