Shell Ring Oyster Company: Sustainably Grown Oysters & Clams from Hilton Head Island
There’s nothing better than watching a guest try oysters right out of the water. In that first bite, their face says it all. It’s a rare experience usually reserved for those who grew up on the water, and it’s one we’re proud to share.
Shell Ring Oyster Company
In 2015, founder Andrew Carmines solved a soft-shell crab quality problem by driving to Ladies Island daily and eventually bootstrapping a crab shedding operation on the dock. That hands-on spirit led to the launch of Shell Ring Oyster Company in 2013 — built to deliver the freshest oysters and clams from Port Royal Sound to local tables.
After navigating a year-long permitting process, setbacks from hurricanes, and even a moratorium on seed, the farm grew steadily. In 2020, aquaculture veteran Doug Rogers joined as partner, helping scale operations and balance tradition with expertise.
Our Story
Rooted in Tradition, Grown with Innovation
Our Process
Where Flavor Meets Sustainability
Our Impact
Every oyster we grow is part of something bigger.
At Shell Ring Oyster Company, every oyster we grow contributes to a healthier Lowcountry.
Sustainable Seafood: Our farmed oysters provide a renewable alternative to wild harvests, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the celebrated flavor of Lowcountry oysters, shaped by the unique and consistent salinity of our waters.
Stronger Local Economy
By creating jobs and partnering with Hilton Head restaurants and businesses, we help sustain a vibrant local seafood community.
2 bil
Gallons/year
The 350,000 oysters we harvest filter an estimated 2 billion gallons of water annually
15+
Gallons/day
Each oyster naturally purifies 15–20 gallons seawater per day.
Habitat Restoration
We partner with SCDNR and the Outside Foundation to
distribute discarded oyster shells in the Port Royal Sound watershed which provides habitat needed for oyster larvae to survive and thrive in local waters.
Our Promise
Our mission is clear. While staying true to our Lowcountry roots and providing the finest local single select oysters in the area, Shell Ring Oyster Company is committed to positively impacting our environment and bolstering the commercial seafood industry in our area.
In keeping with this promise, we:
Harvest
Grow and harvest 350k+ oysters each year from the waters of Port Royal Sound.
Learn
Continue to learn valuable insights about our local marine environment and how to best care for it.
Eat
Our oysters have a consistent size, shape, and sweet, briny flavor that is often preferred by the most discerning diners.
Give Back
Adherence to the age-old art of oyster farming, while giving back to our community, economy, and ecosystems.