Sears Landing Grill & Boat Docks - Surf City, NC

Attraction: Sears Landing Grill & Boat Docks
Location: 806 Roland Ave, Surf City, NC 28445
Industry: Seafood Restaurant
Website: http://searslanding.com

Legend has it that a pirate named Sears once made landfall on Topsail Island before establishing a trading post on the mainland – and today, that same spirit of adventure and hospitality lives on at this waterfront dining destination.

Sears Landing transforms every meal into a scenic escape where the Intracoastal Waterway serves as your backdrop and Southern coastal cuisine takes center stage.

Signature Menu Highlights

Coconut Cream Crab Soup: This original Sears Landing creation stands out as their most beloved signature dish, featuring sweet crab meat swimming in a unique cream of coconut bisque that tastes like nothing else you’ll find on the coast. The complex flavors balance perfectly between tropical and traditional.

Wasabi Tuna: Their sashimi-grade yellowfin tuna gets seared to perfection and served rare only, creating a restaurant-quality experience that rivals upscale establishments. The fresh spinach bed and wasabi sauce complement the fish’s natural flavors beautifully.

West Indies Seafood Rolls: These creative appetizers combine fish, shrimp, and crab meat with peppers and cheese, then get rolled in flour tortillas and fried golden. The signature Bimini sauce adds a tropical twist that keeps customers coming back.

Soft Shell Crabs: Two whale-sized soft shell crabs arrive perfectly fried in their house seafood breading, creating the ultimate coastal Carolina dining experience. The light, crispy coating never overpowers the sweet crab meat inside.

Fresh Cornbread: Made daily with visible corn kernels, this sweet cornbread basket arrives warm and becomes an instant table favorite. The texture strikes the perfect balance between moist interior and slightly crispy exterior.

Dining Experience & Views

Waterfront Seating Options: You can choose between indoor dining with large windows overlooking the water, covered outdoor deck seating that feels like dining on a boat, or waterside picnic tables that put you right at the marina’s edge. Each option offers stunning Intracoastal Waterway views.

Key West Atmosphere: The restaurant captures that laid-back tropical vibe perfectly, with nautical décor and casual coastal styling that makes you forget you’re not actually in the Florida Keys. The relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering over meals and drinks.

Boat-Accessible Dining: Unique among coastal restaurants, Sears Landing welcomes guests arriving by water with convenient boat docking facilities right behind the building. You can literally sail up to dinner and tie off for the evening.

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Dog-Friendly Outdoor Areas: The waterside picnic tables welcome furry companions, making this a perfect stop during coastal road trips with pets. The outdoor setting keeps everyone comfortable while maintaining the restaurant’s family-friendly atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

Pricing Structure: Expect mid-tier coastal pricing that reflects the waterfront location and fresh seafood quality. Most entrées range from $17-22, with appetizers around $9-15. The portion sizes justify the cost, especially considering the prime location and water views.

No Reservations Policy: Sears Landing operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which can mean waits during peak summer months and weekends. The good news is you can grab drinks while waiting and enjoy the scenic setting.

Parking Accessibility: Located just before the Surf City high-rise bridge, you’ll find adequate parking that’s much easier than many Topsail Island destinations. The mainland location means you avoid beach traffic and parking hassles.

Seasonal Considerations: Operating hours and availability can vary during off-season months, so calling ahead during winter visits ensures you won’t be disappointed. Summer months offer the fullest experience with extended hours.

Service Style: The “Southern Coastal Casual” approach means friendly, relaxed service that matches the laid-back atmosphere perfectly. Servers know their seafood and can guide you through signature sauce pairings and daily specials.

Sears Landing Grill & Boat Docks
📍 806 Roland Ave, Surf City, NC 28445