South Carolina is home to some of the Atlantic's finest oysters, hidden right beneath the surface of our waters. Not only are oysters plentiful in the Palmetto State, but over past generations they've become a staple ingredient of many dishes and are used in a variety of ways. For South Carolina's professional chefs and family cooks alike, the art of oysters is a large part of the cuisine and culture.

Not only are oysters delicious, but there are many ways to prepare them. These succulent shellfish have a long-standing history in the Palmetto State, dating back to traditional Gullah recipes of the Lowcountry, such as oyster dressing and oyster pilau. Whether you prefer Oysters Rockefeller, oyster shooters or the classic raw oysters on a half shell, there are countless ways to prepare them.

A famous pastime of South Carolina is the classic oyster roast, with oysters being cooked over a fire and shucked right in front of you. An oyster roast is a special experience, from watching the process with family and friends to cracking an oyster open and letting it slide right off the shell into your mouth.

Try them for yourself at a coastal seafood festival, or harvest your own at one of the public oyster beds along South Carolina's intracoastal waterways. From the mountains to the sea and everywhere in between, there's always something new to discover about one of South Carolina's most famous treasures of the Atlantic.