Seafood Restaurants in Hilton Head
Hilton Head is a magical island nestled by the cozy embrace of the Atlantic. Hilton Head has unparalleled natural beauty and a relaxing, laid-back spirit that makes for a perfect vacation destination. Home to beautiful beaches with calm and warm waters, this island is full of great seafood experiences waiting to be uncovered. Here is the list we’ve compiled of what we consider to be some of the best seafood restaurants in Hilton Head.
Skull Creek Boathouse
Skull Creek Boathouse is the most awarded waterfront restaurant on the island of Hilton Head. Its fame means tourists and locals flock here daily. But don’t fret at the volume of people here. They have plenty of seating, and the view is perfect whether you’re seated indoors or outdoors.
Like any self-respecting southern waterfront restaurant, Skull Creek’s prides itself on fresh seafood and award-winning Lowcountry-style cuisine. They serve excellent crab legs, lobsters, and oysters. Another definite must is the Boathouse Sampler. The sushi lovers out there will be pleased to hear they serve hand-rolled sushi and fresh sashimi. Skull Creek Boathouse is a sure-fire way to get your HHI vacation started off on the right foot.
Old Oyster Factory Restaurant
This restaurant was built upon what used to be an oyster canning facility, so there’s no doubt The Old Oyster Factory Restaurant knows their way around oysters and seafood. The Old Oyster Factory is a family restaurant that can bring you one of Hilton Head’s most captivating marshland views.
Enjoy fresh oysters and a variety of seafood at the oyster bar, or take your pick from a wide range of juicy steaks cooked to your liking. You must try the Oyster Moscovite and the Lowcountry Rockefeller. Also, don’t miss your chance to taste southern classics like their fried chicken and waffles. Old Oyster Factory overlooks Broad Creek, making it a nice family spot where you can enjoy Hilton Head’s inland waters.
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
In the decades they’ve worked with the bounty of the sea, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks has mastered the art of seafood. Located at the head of Hudson Road, this respected waterfront restaurant is a great place to enjoy freshly caught local fish that ensures you get the best taste — from the sea to your seats.
Hudson’s Seafood House’s menu is filled with captivating southern essentials like fried green tomatoes, coconut shrimp, and the famed Lowcountry boil. Another factor that draws people to this great restaurant is their dockside seating, where you can enjoy your meal while looking out into the gorgeous views of the waters of Skull Creek.
The Sea Shack
The Sea Shack is one of the best gems that Hilton Head has to offer. Some days, the line is so long that it stretches to the front of the house. It’s part of what draws curious diners towards The Sea Shack. Don’t worry, there is ample seating and great customer service, so you don’t typically need to wait long, but even if you do it’s well worth the wait.
We recommend starting your meal with a daring alligator appetizer. You also shouldn’t miss getting the delicious and filling Shark Attack Platter and finishing your meal off with a classic homemade key lime pie. No matter how you enter — be it as a recommendation or a curious cat — you’ll surely leave The Sea Shack happy and itching to come back.
Captain Woody’s Bar & Grill
Captain Woody’s has been serving Hilton Head good food and good times since the early ‘80s. Being veterans at the restaurant game, they know how to satisfy and entertain. They serve fresh seafood for those wanting to experience the taste of the sea and plenty of options for land lovers. Most nights, they have live music for you to jive to while you fill yourself up with a good meal and good beer.
Captain Woody’s is a seafood expert. So you should try out their blackened triggerfish, steamed and fried seafood platter, and sweet clams strips that are good enough to make you forget your name. If you dine in during football season, they’ll have a special menu that has awesome bar food for you to munch on while you cheer on your team.
The Crazy Crab
Image: The Crazy Crab Website
The Crazy Crab is a great restaurant if you’re looking for something casual and laid back. The restaurant serves Lowcountry recipes that are designed to keep you wanting more. Their award-winning snow crab legs are a must-have anytime you decide to eat here. Of course, it also serves South Carolina favorites like Lowcountry gumbo, she crab soup, and a Lowcountry shrimp boil.
The Crazy Crab has two family-friendly locations. Their Harbour Town location is right in front of the Harbour Town Lighthouse and a massive playground for your kids. The Jarvis Creek restaurant has its own indoor playground, a massive saltwater fish tank with over 30 kinds of fish, and a breathtaking view of Lowcountry sunsets. In the summers, they even have fun little crab races. Make sure that The Crazy Crab is on your list for your Hilton Head trip.
Kenny B’s French Quarter Cafe
Kenny B’s is a locally-owned and family-operated slice of the French Quarter on the Lowcountry. They serve New Orleans-style seafood and cuisine. If you’re hankering for a taste of creole or cajun dishes, then it’s time to make a beeline to Kenny B’s.
Every bite of their dish is like Mardi Gras: colorful, lively, and of course, meaningful. Give their surprisingly tasty UGA’s Pregame Meal (good ‘ol ‘gator over cheese grits) a try. The shrimp creole and jambalaya are noteworthy, too. You must also try their beignets. They use a family recipe, so it may not taste exactly like what you’re used to — but it’s still sure to satisfy you.
Fishcamp on Broad Creek
Fishcamp on Broad Creek is a historic waterfront restaurant that’ll give you a taste of homey Lowcountry living. It’s the perfect restaurant to cap off your day of touring Hilton Hill’s finest sights with a chill meal. Fishcamp offers you a wide variety of food but what they’re really good at is seafood. You can never go wrong with their ahi tuna nicoise, oyster roasts, and seafood risotto.
They also serve you a good time at the outdoor bar with local musicians, charming cocktails, local beers, and fine wine. Fishcamp also has backyard games for all ages to enjoy while looking out over Broad Creek. If you’re looking for a family destination that will satisfy you all, then know you’re welcome at Fishcamp on Broad Creek.
Skull Creek Dockside
Skull Creek Dockside is a fine choice for enjoying food with a view. The wonderful waterfront overlooking Skull Creek is beautifully encased by full-pane glass windows that envelop the restaurant. The Sharkbar, their spacious outdoor bar, and their covered patio dining space allow even more immersion with the southern sunset views.
You must try their Dockside Rockefeller and shrimp nachos. They also have an amazing barbeque selection that is a testament to the magic of southern ‘cues. No matter what you’re craving, Skull Creek can serve it with a smile and a great view.
The Black Marlin Bayside Grill
The Black Marlin Bayside Grill opened its doors to locals and visitors alike in 2006, making it one of the young ’uns in this list of the top seafood restaurants in Hilton Head. Their young blood created the must-try and critically-acclaimed sushi nachos and the delicious shrimp burger, along with hand-cut juicy steaks and a selection of fresh and crazy good seafood.
The Black Marlin is also home to the famous Hurricane Bar, where the delicious namesake Hurricane is served. They even have a DIY bloody mary bar that’s decked with quality ingredients. If you’re looking for a good time, good food, or good drinks, the youthful vibe of the Black Marlin is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of customers.
