When visiting Hilton Head Island, there’s more to savor than just the salty breeze and sandy beaches. The island’s restaurant scene delivers on every level: fresh seafood, Southern hospitality, and, for those looking to add a little rhythm to their evening, plenty of live music.
From upscale coastal cuisine to backyard-style Southern fare, these restaurants combine great food with great tunes for a memorable dining experience. Check out our definitive list.
Red Fish – Hilton Head
Tucked into the heart of Hilton Head, Red Fish brings together elevated cuisine and an award-winning wine experience. Specializing in seafood and steaks, the restaurant’s menu is a celebration of coastal flavors. It is made even more impressive by its in-house wine retail shop featuring over 1,300 global selections. Guests can choose a bottle to enjoy with dinner or take one home, with just a small corkage fee if it’s opened on-site. Live music evenings at Red Fish transform a refined meal into an immersive island night out. These talented musicians set the tone for a relaxed yet upscale vibe.
Celeste Coastal Cuisine
A hidden gem on the quieter north end of the island, Celeste Coastal Cuisine offers a blend of Cajun and Creole influences in a refined, welcoming atmosphere. Signature dishes like jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and blackened redfish are matched by an excellent wine list and full bar. Diners often find live performances from local musicians in the evenings, especially during peak season. They bring a soulful energy to the elegant setting. With outdoor seating available, visitors can soak in the island air while listening to jazz, blues, or acoustic sets.
The Black Marlin Bayside Grill
Located just steps from the water in Palmetto Bay Marina, The Black Marlin Bayside Grill is known for its seafood-focused menu and signature Hurricane Bar. The restaurant is a hotspot for both tourists and locals. Diners often enjoy the outdoor patio and regular live music performances. Whether it’s acoustic guitar or island-inspired covers, the tunes pair perfectly with a seafood platter or a cold cocktail. The relaxed marina setting makes it a go-to destination for anyone looking to enjoy live music with a coastal breeze.
Santa Fe Café
Bringing Southwestern flair to the Lowcountry, Santa Fe Café has earned its reputation as a local favorite over the past two decades. The menu reads like a tour of New Mexico. There are some standout dishes like the bone-in cowboy cut ribeye, lobster fajitas, and an outrageous chimichanga. But beyond the bold flavors, it’s the rooftop cantina that really brings the party. Live music, often accompanied by a starry sky and margaritas in hand, creates a festive ambiance. It is perfect for those seeking a vibrant, upbeat dining experience.
A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant
A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant feels like a warm embrace from the South — laid-back, full of charm, and always serving something comforting. This restaurant specializes in traditional Southern dishes like crab cakes, fried green tomato BLTs, and banana pudding. It is a cozy spot known for its nostalgic backyard vibe. Outdoor seating is surrounded by twinkling string lights and reclaimed wood accents, with live music performances often adding to the homey atmosphere. Local musicians strumming folk, bluegrass, or beachy acoustic sets elevate the already memorable Southern supper.
Poseidon Coastal Cuisine
As part of the Shelter Cove Towne Centre, Poseidon Coastal Cuisine offers both a dynamic food menu and an energetic nightlife scene. The restaurant’s rooftop bar, affectionately known as The Rooftop, is one of Hilton Head’s top spots for live music.
After enjoying a seafood-forward dinner — think grilled Gulf grouper or coast-to-coast entrees with seasonal ingredients — visitors can head upstairs for drinks, dancing, and a front-row seat to local bands and DJs. Poseidon delivers a full evening out in one stop, with scenic views and rhythm-filled nights.
Skull Creek Boathouse
Skull Creek Boathouse is part restaurant, part landmark. With panoramic waterfront views and several distinct dining areas — including a sushi dive bar and the outdoor Marker 13 Buoy Bar — it’s a place that keeps surprising. Live music at Skull Creek often accompanies sunset suppers or weekend brunches, creating a laid-back yet lively experience
The menu spans everything from Lowcountry classics to fresh ceviche. The cocktail selection is just as creative as the performers who take the stage. With national recognition and appearances on the Food Network, this venue is as popular for its ambiance as it is for its award-winning cuisine.
ELA’S On the Water
For those seeking a more refined waterfront experience, ELA’S On the Water delivers elegance with a side of soft, live melodies. Located at Shelter Cove Harbour, the restaurant offers stunning views of the marina and Broad Creek, particularly beautiful at sunset. Fresh catch seafood and prime-cut steaks are prepared with artistic flair, and the boutique wine list enhances the upscale atmosphere. On select evenings, live music from jazz musicians or acoustic soloists adds a polished soundtrack to a romantic dinner or special occasion. With numerous OpenTable awards and features in Bon Appétit, ELA’S brings a high-end touch to Hilton Head’s live music scene.
Book a Vacation Rental Through Us
Beachside Hilton Head has an exceptional selection of high-quality vacation rentals for couples, families, and friend groups. Those who’d love to stay on the island and explore the restaurant options can stay in one of our properties. They are located in key neighborhoods with easy access to these establishments. From marshside properties to waterfront homes, there are lots of options to choose from. Check out our vacation rentals today and reserve a date.
