Let's be honest, delicious seafood and stellar views are always in season in North Carolina. In fact, there is one town in which this particularly rings true. The Intracoastal town of Southport has around 3,000 residents and exudes a beachy, laid-back charm. Historic and quaint, Southport has served as the inspiration and backdrop for Nicholas Spark's novels as well as the filming location for movies like Safe Haven. It's easy to see why living on the water in a charming town would be such a great experience, and why Southport was named one of the happiest places in America. But another reason that visiting this town is an absolute must is for the amazing seafood offered by Provision Company in North Carolina.

From sun up to sundown, Southport has a wide array of seafood establishments providing fresh-caught deliciousness. Yet one that is beloved and hard to miss, Provision Company.

Provision Company a no-frills type of place without any pretense that other restaurants might rely on. Situated overlooking the Old Yacht Basin, diners are treated to delectable peel-n-eat shrimp, ice-cold beer, and unobstructed, coveted views of the Intracoastal. While times are changing, Provision Co still relies on that old concept of trusting your neighbor. The beer is self-serve from the cooler with diners reporting what they drank while settling up.

It's safe to say Provision Company's specialty is 'steamed.' Here you can enjoy giant platters of steamed shrimp, a dozen steamed clams, conch fritters, or a la carte crab cake. While you might be tempted to fill up on steamed shrimp goodness, save room for the conch fritters and ask for an extra dipping sauce!

There's also a variety of simple and delicious sandwiches like grilled chicken (or Provision-style chicken), grilled yellowfin tuna, crab cake, grouper, or cucumber salad. While many places on the coast compete for the title of 'best crab cake,' if you prefer yours crunchy-fried with a tender, juicy inside, Provision Co is the place for you.

If seafood isn't your thing (but amazing views are) don't fret, Provision Co. also offers 'land' fare like chicken tenders, hamburgers, and hot dogs. While many go straight for some peel-and-eat shrimp and an ice-cold beer, if you're looking for a more elaborate dining experience try out their specials like grilled yellowfin tuna served with cucumber and potato salad or the crab cake dinner with three local crab cakes and cucumber and potato salad.

Southport has long been a beloved establishment for locals, visitors, and even Wilmington and Crystal Coast locals looking for some of the freshest seafood away from the residual tourist destinations. A great stop-by after a day on the boat, or for a refresher while exploring downtown Southport, it's safe to say there's nowhere quite like Southport or Provision Company.

We really do love Provision Co and Southport! It's a must-stop while visiting this charming waterfront town. Wondering what else to do while in Southport? Read our guide here.

Have you dined at Provision Company in North Carolina before? We'd love to hear about your experience in the comments section!