Being surrounded by water, there is no shortage of waterfront dining on Hilton Head Island, SC. From fine dining establishments to casual dining, you can find a waterfront restaurant for any occasion. Find some of our favorite restaurants on the water in Hilton Head below!
Hudson’s Seafood House on The Docks
Located on the North Side of the island is the world-famous Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. This iconic seafood eatery serves up some of the freshest seafood on the island. Over 90% of the seafood they serve come from local boats and is brought directly to their docks for them to serve that day. For over 50 years, Hudson’s has been serving low-country seafood feasts to guests as they watch the sunset over the water.
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Coast, Oceanfront Dining
Coast, Oceanfront Dining is a popular restaurant in Sea Pine Planation’s The Sea Pines Resort. Open for lunch and dinner every day, they serve some of the best culinary delights including fresh, local seafood. Their inviting beachfront atmosphere matches the stunning ocean views from the restaurant. Coast has everything for everyone with its family-friendly menu. Reservations are recommended for this delicious restaurant especially during the summer when they have live entertainment from 4-7 pm.
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The Salty Dog Café
Even if you haven’t visited Hilton Head Island, you have probably heard of The Salty Dog Café, or at least have seen their logo. This iconic Island staple is located at the South Beach Marina in the Sea Pines Plantation. The Salty Dog is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This family-friendly environment is a perfect way to end a long day on the beach. Don’t forget to check out the colorful shirts they have for sale while you’re there!
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Skull Creek Boathouse
Located on the banks of Skull Creek, The Boathouse offers some of the most breathtaking views of the water. There is no obstruction to the water views in this place! Between the glass-walled dining room and their large patio, you will always have the best seat in the house to watch the sunset. Enjoy the award-winning cuisine featuring fresh fish, seafood, and an in-house sushi bar.
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Skull Creek Dockside
Just neighbors to the Boathouse are Skull Creek Dockside. Located on the North Side of the island this unique waterfront dining experience has stunning sunset views over the water. The Docksides covered patio and outdoor bar bring an excellent dining experience, you won’t want to leave. Open for lunch and dinner, you can enjoy delicious seafood and some of the best BBQ on the island.
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Ela’s on the Water
If you are looking for a romantic night out, Ela’s on the Water is the place to go. This waterfront restaurant is only open for dinner starting at 5 pm and for Sunday brunch from 11 am to 2 pm. Enjoy the exceptional water views while you enjoy some of the award-winning seafood, prime-cut steaks, and contemporary décor. Ela’s is a popular restaurant on the Shelter Cove Harbour that does require a reservation.
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The Dunes House
The Dunes House is an exclusive beachfront restaurant for those staying in the Palmetto Dunes. So if you are staying in one of our Palmetto Dunes Plantation vacation rentals, this is a great place to get lunch or dinner after a long day on the beach. Their laid-back beach bar and restaurant feature some of the best grill hamburgers, wraps, hot dogs, fish tacos as well as other delicious dishes.
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Tiki Hut
The Tiki Hut is an island icon for nearly 50 years. This is the place to go for a good time on Hilton Head Island. Their laid-back atmosphere welcomes locals and visitors alike with their bar food and drinks. Located right on South Forest beach you can sink your toes into the sand while you enjoy a burger and a cocktail. They host live music daily from 1 pm to 5 pm.
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Quarterdeck
Enjoy panoramic water views at the Quarterdeck! As one of the newest restaurants at The Sea Pines Resort, this fine dining establishment has some of the best-in-class menu offerings. Located right next to the iconic lighthouse in Harbour Town, the first floor of the restaurant is dedicated to the bar and dining area and the second floor is home to the oyster bar. Reservations are recommended.
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The Crazy Crab
The Crazy Crab is the place to go that the whole family will enjoy! They are well known for their Lowcountry seafood specialties including their crab legs. They have won multiple local wards for years when it comes to their iconic crab legs. The Crazy Crab is such a popular restaurant they opened two locations on the island. The first one is in Harbour Town and the other is on the opposite side of the island in Jarvis Creek. No matter which location you visit, you’ll see why this has been a local favorite for over 30 years!
View Harbour Town Menu
View Jarvis Creek Menu
Book your Hilton Head Vacation Rental
As you start planning your next Hilton Head vacation, it’s good to know all the best waterfront restaurants on the island! Trust us when we say there is no wrong place to go when it comes to dining on Hilton Head. Browse our collection of Hilton Head Vacation rentals and take your first step to enjoy some of the best seafood in South Carolina!
