The Best Waterfront Dining on Hilton Head
There’s something magical about dining by the water—especially on Hilton Head Island. The salty breeze, the sun glistening off the waves, and the promise of fresh seafood create an experience that goes far beyond just a meal. Here, waterfront dining isn’t just about great food—it’s about the atmosphere, the lifestyle, and those unforgettable sunset views.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the water, a place to impress out-of-town guests, or simply a new go-to for fresh coastal flavors, Hilton Head has something for every palate. From casual dockside eateries to upscale fine dining with sweeping marina views, these top waterfront restaurants capture the island’s laid-back elegance. So grab a seat by the water, order a local favorite, and let’s dive into the best waterfront dining experiences Hilton Head has to offer!
Sunset Grille – Elevated Dining With a View
Image from: Official FB Page
Hidden above a small marina, Sunset Grille is one of Hilton Head’s best-kept secrets—until now. This intimate waterfront gem offers one of the island’s most breathtaking sunset views, perfectly paired with a refined yet unpretentious dining experience. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail on the deck or savoring their famous filet mignon and lobster, every bite comes with a front-row seat to nature’s nightly masterpiece.
The menu is a masterclass in fresh, high-quality ingredients with an emphasis on seafood and steaks. Start with their signature she-crab soup—locals swear by it—before diving into entrées like their fresh-caught grouper or a perfectly seared filet. While the food is reason enough to visit, the cozy, tucked-away ambiance makes it feel like you’ve stumbled upon something truly special. Make a reservation, arrive just before sunset, and let the experience unfold.
Sunset Grille
43 Jenkins Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC
843 689 6744
www.sunsetgrillehhi.com
ELA’S On the Water – Upscale Dining With a Marina View
Image from: Official FB Page
With its stunning waterfront setting in Shelter Cove Harbour, ELA’S On the Water offers an elegant yet inviting dining experience perfect for any occasion. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase breathtaking marina views, setting the scene for a menu filled with expertly crafted seafood and steak dishes. Signature starters like the tuna tartare and crispy calamari lead into standout entrées, including blackened redfish and perfectly seared filet mignon, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. A hand-selected wine list complements the flavors, making each meal feel like a special event.
Beyond the incredible cuisine, ELA’S exudes a warm, intimate ambiance that keeps guests coming back. Live music on select nights enhances the experience, while the impeccable service ensures a memorable visit from start to finish. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving a refined waterfront meal, this spot delivers on all fronts.
ELA’S On the Water
1 Shelter Cove Ln,
Hilton Head Island, SC
843 785 3030
www.elasgrille.com
Up the Creek Pub & Grill – Laid-Back Dining With a Waterfront View
Image from: Website
For a no-fuss, casual waterfront experience, Up the Creek Pub & Grill delivers with its relaxed vibe and unbeatable views of Broad Creek. This laid-back eatery is the perfect spot to kick back with a cold drink and enjoy fresh seafood while watching boats cruise by. Their menu is packed with comfort food favorites, from crispy fish tacos and peel-and-eat shrimp to their famous Creek Burger, piled high with all the fixings. Pair it with a local craft beer or one of their signature cocktails for the full experience.
The outdoor deck is the prime spot to soak in the scenery, whether you’re stopping by for lunch, dinner, or just a sunset happy hour. With friendly service, a welcoming atmosphere, and affordable prices, it’s a go-to for locals and visitors alike looking for great food without the fuss. If you love a waterfront dining spot where you can arrive in flip-flops and stay for the views, this is your place.
Up the Creek Pub & Grill
18 Simmons Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC
843 681 3625
www.upthecreekpubandgrill.com
Old Oyster Factory – A Classic Lowcountry Dining Experience
Image from: Official FB Page
Set along the banks of Broad Creek, Old Oyster Factory is a Hilton Head staple that perfectly blends history, waterfront views, and fresh seafood. Once an actual oyster cannery, this iconic restaurant now serves up some of the best shellfish in town, with panoramic water views that make every meal feel special. Start with their famous oysters—raw, steamed, or Rockefeller—before diving into specialties like the shrimp and grits or the chef’s fresh catch of the day. Their extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails only enhance the experience.
The spacious deck is the prime spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a relaxed yet refined meal. Inside, the rustic Lowcountry charm creates a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for everything from family dinners to romantic evenings. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a scenic spot to unwind, Old Oyster Factory offers a taste of Hilton Head’s coastal charm with every bite.
Old Oyster Factory
101 Marshland Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC
843 681 6040
www.oldoysterfactory.com
San Miguel’s – Mexican Flavors With a Waterfront Twist
Image from: Official FB Page
For a taste of Mexico with a side of stunning marina views, San Miguel’s is the go-to spot on Hilton Head. Located in Shelter Cove Harbour, this lively cantina offers an unbeatable combination of fresh, flavorful dishes and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere. Start with their house-made guacamole or famous queso dip before diving into sizzling fajitas, Baja fish tacos, or their signature enchiladas. Of course, no visit is complete without one of their legendary margaritas—blended, on the rocks, or even served in a souvenir glass.
Beyond the delicious food, San Miguel’s is all about the experience. The outdoor patio provides front-row seats to breathtaking sunsets, while live music in the evenings adds to the festive, laid-back vibe. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a happy hour margarita, or a fun-filled dinner with friends, this waterfront gem brings a little fiesta to Hilton Head’s dining scene.
San Miguel’s Mexican Café
9 Shelter Cove Ln,
Hilton Head Island, SC
843 842 4555
www.sanmiguels.com
Sno Cones by Chris – A Cool Treat With a Waterfront View
Image from: Official FB Page
For a sweet, refreshing break by the water, Sno Cones by Chris is the perfect stop. Located at the Broad Creek Marina, this charming little stand serves up delicious, hand-shaved sno cones in a variety of flavors, making it a favorite for both kids and adults looking to beat the Hilton Head heat. From classic cherry and blue raspberry to unique tropical blends, there’s a flavor for everyone. Each sno cone is made fresh to order, ensuring the perfect icy texture that melts in your mouth.
The laid-back, marina-side setting adds to the experience, allowing guests to enjoy their sno cones while watching boats drift by or soaking in the coastal breeze. Whether you’re taking a break from a day on the water or just craving a cool treat, Sno Cones by Chris is a must-visit for a fun, flavorful, and refreshing waterfront indulgence.
Sno Cones by Chris
18 Simmons Rd,
Hilton Head Island, SC
843 683 0592
www.snoconesbychris.com
Final Bites: Savoring Hilton Head’s Best Waterfront Dining
Dining on Hilton Head isn’t just about great food—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood with a sunset backdrop, sipping margaritas by the marina, or cooling off with a hand-shaved sno cone, every meal comes with a side of stunning views. From upscale fine dining to casual dockside eats, the island’s waterfront restaurants offer something for every craving and occasion.
So next time you’re looking for a spot to enjoy delicious food with a coastal breeze, check out one of these local favorites. Whether you’re a longtime islander or just visiting, there’s nothing quite like a meal enjoyed by the water. Cheers to good food, great company, and unforgettable views!