VIRGINIA - Virginia's identity is inextricably linked to the Chesapeake Bay, and the most delicious treasure to come from these waters is the iconic blue crab. Enjoying a feast of steamed crabs—seasoned to perfection and dumped onto a paper-covered table—is a time-honored tradition in the Old Dominion. From rustic, waterfront shacks on the Eastern Shore to lively family restaurants in Virginia Beach, the state is dotted with incredible spots to get your crab fix.
Virginia's Blue Crab Bounty: A Guide to the 9 Best Crab Shacks in the State
Here is a guide to nine of the best and most beloved crab shacks and seafood houses in Virginia.
What Makes a Great Virginia Crab Experience?
- Fresh, Local Blue Crabs: The best spots pride themselves on serving fresh, heavy blue crabs sourced directly from the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
- The Seasoning: A signature zesty, peppery seafood seasoning is essential for the perfect steam.
- The Atmosphere: A true crab shack experience is casual, communal, and often comes with a waterfront view.
Top 9 Crab Destinations in Virginia:
- Waterman's Surfside Grille (Virginia Beach, VA)
- The Experience: An iconic oceanfront institution, Waterman's has been serving Virginia Beach for decades. While known for its all-around seafood menu, it's a fantastic spot to enjoy fresh crab in a lively, bustling atmosphere with unbeatable views.
- Vibe: A classic, energetic beach restaurant perfect for a family dinner after a day in the sun.
- Blue Pete's Restaurant (Virginia Beach, VA)
- The Experience: Tucked away in a more secluded area of Virginia Beach on Tabernacle Creek, Blue Pete's is a local favorite offering a more relaxed, "off-the-beaten-path" vibe. They are known for their high-quality seafood, including delicious crab dishes.
- Vibe: A casual, intimate waterfront restaurant with beautiful marshland views, great for a laid-back meal.
- The Deadrise (Hampton, VA)
- The Experience: Located at the historic Fort Monroe, The Deadrise offers one of the most unique settings for a crab feast, with spectacular, sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay.
- Vibe: A popular waterfront spot for boaters and history buffs alike, combining fresh seafood with an incredible historical backdrop.
- Dockside Restaurant & Marina (Virginia Beach, VA)
- The Experience: Situated right on the water at a busy marina, Dockside offers a classic seafood experience where you can watch the boats come and go. They are known for their fresh-off-the-boat seafood.
- Vibe: A lively and casual restaurant with a great deck, perfect for enjoying steamed crabs or their famous she-crab soup.
- Surry Seafood Company (Surry, VA)
- The Experience: Just a ferry ride away from the historic Jamestown/Williamsburg area, the Surry Seafood Company sits right on Gray's Creek. It's a local favorite known for its friendly service and delicious, fresh seafood.
- Vibe: A charming and relaxed waterfront restaurant that offers a peaceful escape and an authentic taste of Virginia's river culture.
- Crab's Claw (Lavallette, NJ - Correction Note)
- While sometimes mentioned in broader regional lists, it's essential to note that this popular spot is located on the Jersey Shore, not in Virginia.
- The Great Machipongo Clam Shack (Nassawadox, VA)
- The Experience: A must-visit on Virginia's Eastern Shore, this beloved roadside market and eatery serves up some of the freshest seafood around. While clams are in the name, their steamed crabs and award-winning crab cakes are legendary.
- Vibe: An authentic, casual, and unpretentious seafood shack where the quality of the seafood is the absolute star.
- Urbanna Seafood and Raw Bar (Urbanna, VA)
- The Experience: Located in the charming river town of Urbanna on the Rappahannock River, this spot offers crabs and oysters often sourced directly from the river it overlooks.
- Vibe: A classic "river life" restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood in the heart of Virginia's Northern Neck region.
- Chick's Oyster Bar (Virginia Beach, VA)
- The Experience: A sprawling, lively waterfront institution overlooking the Lynnhaven Inlet, Chick's Oyster Bar is a go-to spot for locals. While known for oysters, they have a full seafood menu that includes fantastic steamed crabs.
- Vibe: A fun, high-energy, multi-level deck bar and restaurant that embodies the spirit of a Virginia Beach summer.
From the bustling oceanfront of Virginia Beach to the quiet creeks of the Eastern Shore and the historic rivers of the Northern Neck, Virginia offers a world-class crab experience. These top-rated crab shacks and seafood houses provide a delicious opportunity to crack open some fresh blue crabs, enjoy the beautiful waterfront scenery, and partake in one of the Old Dominion's most cherished culinary traditions.
