Shuck & Chill at the Oyster Barn
Tide-to-table experience in Surf City, North Carolina. Slow your wake.
Summer Hours: Fridays and Saturdays from 12-8 PM
Watch our crew bring in fresh oysters straight from the Topsail Sound and shuck right at your table while you sip, eat, and hangout in the pines. We’ve got beer, wine, shucking lessons, and Kudu grills fired up so you can cook picnic kit creations from our farm-to-table menu or keep it simple with oysters on the half shell.
MARSH MADNESS IS BACK!
FREE KIDS EDUCATION PROGRAM FRIDAY AT 5 PM DURING SHUCK & CHILL AT THE OYSTER BARN
JUNE - AUGUST
Marsh Madness is a FREE hands-on marsh education program for kids! Explore the wonders of the salt marsh, learn how oyster farming works, and connect with the coastal environment through fun, interactive activities. Donations are welcome and help support future educational programs.
Parents or guardians must remain on-site and sign a waiver for participation. You're welcome to join your child for the program or relax and enjoy the Oyster Barn while they learn!
We recommend participants wear water shoes or closed-toe shoes and clothing appropriate for getting a little muddy.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY: ECOLOGICAL MARINE ADVENTURES & N. SEA. OYSTER CO
Guided Kayak Tours lead by NC Surf Adventures
Discover the beauty of Topsail Island on our guided Sunset Kayak Tour in Surf City, NC. Held every other Friday from 5:00–6:30 PM, this family-friendly adventure launches from N. SEA. Oyster Company (674 Old Landing Rd) and offers the perfect mix of guided exploration and free paddling time. Glide through the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, spot local wildlife, and enjoy stunning coastal scenery as the day winds down. Designed for all ages and skill levels, this relaxed kayak tour is ideal for families, couples, and visitors looking for one of the best outdoor activities on Topsail Island. Single kayaks are $45 and tandem kayaks are $65, with all equipment included. Reserve your spot today and experience a memorable evening on the water with NC Surf Adventures.
Difficulty: Easy
Shuck & Chill FAQ
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Do I need a reservation?
Nope! Shuck & Chill is first come, first served. Picnic tables and bar seating are open seating, and you’re always welcome to bring your own chair.
If you’re coming with a larger group and would like to reserve our porch, learn more here. -
Do I need to know how to shuck oysters?
Not at all! We love teaching a good shuck and can give a quick lesson from one of our pros for free.
If you’d rather sit back and relax, our team can shuck oysters for you for an additional fee. -
Do you have food for non-oyster eaters?
Yes! Our menu includes non-oyster options like tinned fish, sausages, hot dogs, chips, bread, cheese, and seasonal seafood specials.
But while you’re here, you’ve got to try a Duke — it just might change your life. -
Are dogs allowed?
Yes! Well-behaved, dog-friendly dogs are welcome in our outdoor area.
Sorry — no dogs inside the barn. -
Is there indoor seating?
No, this is a true farm-to-table experience — all seating is outdoors.
You’re welcome to pop inside the barn to check out our merch or use the restroom. -
Can we bring outside food or beverages?
Please leave outside food and beverages at home. Our Kudu grills are reserved for food purchased at the Oyster Barn. In addition to our food menu, we serve beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
If you’d like to bring extra toppings or fixings for your oysters, go right ahead! -
Do you offer tours?
We don’t offer on-the-water farm tours at this time.
When you’re at the barn, feel free to ask a team member for a grounds tour — we’re always happy to show you around and share more about our operations, sustainability efforts, and the story behind N. SEA. Oyster Co. -
Is the Oyster Barn kid friendly?
Yes! The Oyster Barn is an awesome spot for kids and families to enjoy the coastal experience together.
We ask that children are supervised on our grounds. For safety, please keep them away from farm equipment, grills, and wooded areas, and note that kids should not be inside the barn unattended.