Jo’s Nautical Bar isn’t technically a seafood restaurant — unless you count the shrimp garnish in the bloody mary — but it’s an essential stop in one’s travels around the South Shore; swing by before or after dinner. Located between the U.S. Coast Guard Station Point Allerton and Pemberton Pier, Jo’s is open year-round and holds a special place in the hearts of many lifetime Hullonians. Sipping an ice-cold beer at a reasonable price in the cozy cellar or on the deck overlooking the bay is a South Shore tradition at Hull’s oldest surviving bar, which dates back to 1951. Although this far end of the Hull peninsula may seem hard to reach by car, you’ll find yourself minutes away from this hidden local spot if you visit Hull by the commuter boat that frequently departs for points around Boston Harbor.

Opening for the season in mid-May and operating through Labor Day weekend (weather dependent), Shipwreck’d, on Pemberton Pier, is adored by both locals and those who visit Hull via the aforementioned boats which depart regularly for Boston and its Harbor Islands. It’s a family-owned, outdoor-only business. Don’t be discouraged by the relatively small operation — it has an extensive food menu, including breakfast options all day, as well as a good selection of cocktails and craft beers.

Situated near the A Street Pier and Safe Harbor Sunset Bay Marina, the multi-story Local 02045 features a deck overlooking the harbor. The seafood-focused restaurant also has an elaborate cocktail menu and a good selection of craft beers on tap. For those who come by personal boat, the dock is just steps away from the restaurant.

Also located on Quincy Shore Drive on Wollaston Beach, Tony’s Clam Shop serves similar fare to the Clam Box, which is mere minutes away by foot. The restaurant takes pride in locally sourced clams fresh from Ipswich — and its large serving sizes. It’s a casual, family-friendly restaurant that offers a selection of fried clams, lobsters, shrimp, fish, and more.

Located just steps away from the famous Nantasket Beach, Jake’s Seafood has served the communities of Hull, Hingham, and Cohasset freshly caught lobsters and other seafood for more than 70 years, making it one of the best seafood spots on the South Shore. The restaurant and market has been family-run for decades and, while there have been some renovations and price increases over the years, the quality of the food and service have remained the same. The fried options, including a whole belly clam platter, are particularly popular. Parts of the indoor and outdoor dining areas have a view of the bay and can be a good spot to sip wine while enjoying a Hull sunset.

Located on the former site of the storied Hugo’s Lighthouse on the Cohasset harbor, the Olde Salt House features a gorgeous view that overlooks the bay, with indoor and outdoor seating available. Diners will find casual options like fish and chips and a clam roll alongside somewhat fancier picks like steak frites. For those on the water, there are a limited number of dock spots to tie up a boat while you dine.

The Mill Wharf restaurant is a year-round, casual dining spot on the site of an old mill, overlooking Scituate Harbor. There’s plenty of classic New England fare, including lobsters, clams, and various other fresh catches from the ocean. But the restaurant is also accommodating to picky eaters and those who want to opt out of seafood, offering wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and more.

Only open since late 2021, this highly anticipated restaurant comes from the acclaimed team behind Island Creek Oyster Farm, revamping the over-a-century-old Winsor House. The restaurant is perched just yards from where the famous Island Creek oysters are farmed. Featuring an impressive view of Duxbury Bay, the Winsor House serves classic New England seafood dishes such as clams and fried oysters, as well as more innovative creations like olive oil cake with caviar.