There’s something about the way Hilton Head does food. Everything just tastes better with the salty sea breeze! Whether you’re in the mood for some upscale restaurants or a casual bite with your toes in the sand, the island is always ready to feed you. Which Hilton Head restaurants are the most beloved? To be honest, all of them, but here’s 12 restaurants to get your food trip started.
Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks
Address: 1 Hudson Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843)-681-2772
The chefs at Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks have been keeping things fresh for over 50 years. Literally. The team uses one of the island’s last two working fishing fleets, so your seafood likely swam just hours before it reached your table. You can even watch the team unload the day’s haul of oysters, shrimp, and soft-shell crabs yourself!
Skull Creek Boathouse
Address: 397 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 681-3663
What about water views with a side of mouthwatering food? Go to Skull Creek Boathouse. This award-winning restaurant serves fresh-off-the-boat seafood and more! The restaurant also has an in-house sushi bar eager to make your taste buds dance. Dine indoors or soak up the sunshine on the gorgeous patio. Either way, you’ll have a feast for your eyes and stomach.
The Crazy Crab
Address: 104 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 681-5021
If you’re looking for a menu packed with Southern-inspired dishes, The Crazy Crab at Jarvis Creek has you covered (since 1984). Award-winning Alaskan Snow Crab Legs? Locals swear by them. The place gets even livelier in summer with crab races, live music, and breathtaking sunsets. Drop by and marvel at the island’s largest saltwater fish tank!
Old Oyster Factory
Address: 101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 681-6040
Old Oyster Factory has guaranteed fresh-caught seafood, juicy steaks, and sweet desserts since 1989. It’s one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Scenic View Restaurants and Top 50 Kid-Friendly spots in America! Explore the oyster bar and sip a cocktail; you’ll be glad you went.
One Hot Mama’s BBQ
Address: 35 Office Park Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 682-6262
One Hot Mama’s BBQ will make you crave smoky, saucy, finger-lickin’ BBQ all day. As part of the Official South Carolina BBQ Trail, you know they’re the real deal. With one bite of those tender baby-back ribs, you’ll see why folks keep returning for more! Go all in with some of “the world’s best wings.” We’re not kidding. The wings are legendary.
Poseidon
Address: 38 Shelter Cove Lane, Suite 121, Shelter Cove Towne Center, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 341-3838
Poseidon is that restaurant that does it all — food, shopping, and nightlife. It’s named after the god of the sea (how fitting!) and known as the mid-island go-to on Hilton Head. Order the freshest catch or something totally unexpected from their coast-to-coast menu; Poseidon will have you feeling fancy.
Fishcamp on Broad Creek
Address: 11 Simmons Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843)-842-2267
Originally a Gullah fishing camp, the Reilley and Simmons families reimagined and reopened Fishcamp on Broad Creek in 2016. It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike, especially those who appreciate the rich Lowcountry history! Here, the family spirit is alive and well.
The Sandbar
Address: 101 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 342-7263
The Sandbar believes good vibes and warm hospitality are just as important as what’s on your plate (and in your glass). Count on their creative menus and laid-back atmosphere to redefine flavorful and fun! The kitchen gets local deliveries of ingredients as fresh as the ocean breeze daily.
A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant
Address: 32 Palmetto Bay Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 785-9273
You might’ve seen A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant in The Wall Street Journal, Condé Nast Traveler, or The Travel Channel’s Food Paradise. The shrimp and grits? Voted #1 in South Carolina and ranked among the best in the world! Rooted in Gullah tradition and crafted with love from lifelong Islander recipes, every dish tells a story of Hilton Head’s culture.
Coast, Oceanfront Dining
Address: 87 North Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 842-1888
If you’re at the Sea Pines Beach Club, head over to Coast, Oceanfront Dining, and fall in love with the island all over again. Frozen cocktails and coastal classics? Yes, please! The kids have their own menu, too. Swing by in the summer for live music on the patio. Because of this restaurant, you’ll want to be at the beach every day.
Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana
Address: Orleans Plaza, 37 New Orleans Road, Hilton Head, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 785-6272
Hilton Head is absolutely world-class, and Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana proves it. You get a full-on sensory experience where classic Italian tradition meets true culinary artistry. The vibe? Sophisticated (but approachable!). The service? Spot-on. Feel the warmth and spirit of Italy and turn a good night into a great one.
Salty Dog Cafe
Address: 232 South Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 671-2233
Now, here’s a true waterfront icon. Since 1987, The Salty Dog Cafe (and Jake) has welcomed adventurers with delicious eats. The cafe has locally sourced seafood, hearty sandwiches, pasta, burgers, and famous hushpuppies that come with a generous swipe of homemade honey butter. The chefs whip up daily specials inspired by the season!
Hungry in Hilton Head?
We’re sorry we have to end the list. We could really go on forever! But simply put, every meal in Hilton Head feels like a mini vacation. And speaking of vacation, Beachside Hilton Head is your trusted source for the island’s best rentals.
Stay a few nights or weeks; we’ll keep you close to all the best restaurants. Our homes have fully equipped kitchens, but we won’t hold it against you if you don’t cook anything! With so many restaurants right around the corner, we completely understand if your stove collects a little dust.
At Hilton Head, you’ll always be planning your next meal. Ready to savor it all? Give Beachside Hilton Head a call at (843) 983-6620 or contact us online to book your stay.
