Hilton Head Island’s got a reputation for fresh seafood and some truly lovely waterfront dining spots. Whether you’re just visiting or you call the island home, there’s no shortage of dishes made from the day’s local catch. The range is pretty wild—think everything from flip-flop friendly shacks to places where you might want to dress up a bit.
The best seafood on Hilton Head Island really comes down to places that care about freshness and quality. Plenty of restaurants here take pride in cooking from scratch, letting those local flavors shine. It’s no wonder seafood fans keep coming back.
1) Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks
Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks has been a fixture since 1967. It actually started out as a seafood processing plant—kind of cool, right?—and eventually turned into one of Hilton Head’s most familiar restaurants. Some of the old features are still around, giving the place a bit of that lived-in charm.
Most of what you’ll eat here is caught right nearby. Oysters, shrimp, you name it—Hudson’s moves a ton of it every year. The dockside seating is hard to beat if you’re into watching boats drift by while you eat.
Folks keep coming back for the friendly, laid-back vibe, and honestly, the food’s just consistently good. It’s one of those spots that feels both local and welcoming to newcomers.
Location: 1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
2) Skull Creek Dockside
Skull Creek Dockside is all about casual meals with a view. You’ll see Hilton Head and Skull Creek stretching out in front of you. The menu’s got a bit of everything: fresh seafood, BBQ, steaks, and whatever daily special they’re feeling. It’s family-friendly, with a covered patio and an outdoor bar that’s basically right on the water.
The place looks like an old river house, with lots of reclaimed wood and nautical touches—makes it feel homey and a little nostalgic. People seem to love the food, but honestly, the staff and those views help seal the deal.
They’ve even got The Ship Store on site for picking up Hilton Head souvenirs. Skull Creek Dockside manages that balance of good food and a relaxed, coastal atmosphere without trying too hard.
Location: 2 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
3) Skull Creek Boathouse
Skull Creek Boathouse is one of those places you hear about if you ask around for waterfront dining on Hilton Head. The views of Skull Creek and the marina are kind of the main event, but the food doesn’t disappoint. You can pick between the glass-walled dining room or hang out on the big patio—they’re both solid choices.
Their menu leans into fresh seafood and those Southern classics you’d expect. If sushi’s your thing, the in-house sushi bar is surprisingly legit for an island spot. There are multiple bars, too—the Buoy Bar is a favorite for music and outdoor hangs, and the Dive Bar is the go-to for sushi fans.
There’s also a pavilion called Sunset Landing for private parties, plus a General Store if you want to grab a souvenir on your way out.
Location: 397 Squire Pope Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
4) The Sea Shack
The Sea Shack is one of those no-frills, order-at-the-counter joints that locals swear by. The blue walls and unfussy vibe make it easy to relax. You pick your seafood and then decide: fried, grilled, or blackened? It’s up to you.
Their Oyster Po Boy is a bit of a legend—people talk about it, and it’s gotten some national attention, too. The whole menu leans into low-country style cooking, so expect plenty of Southern flavors. Prices are reasonable, and it’s easy to bring the whole family.
The Sea Shack has been locally run since 1998, and while it’s gotten more popular, it hasn’t lost that casual, down-home feel. Fresh seafood and friendly service? Pretty much what you hope for on vacation—or a Tuesday night.
Location: 6 Executive Park Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
5) The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek
The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek does southern seafood dishes in a fun, nautical-themed space. It’s known for fresh seafood cooked up with a southern twist, and you can sit inside or outside by the water—always a bonus.
Crab dishes are the main event here, but the menu’s got plenty of other favorites, too. It’s a go-to for families and groups looking for something relaxed and unfussy. Local ingredients and flavors show up all over the menu.
There’s a bar if you want a drink with your meal, and the overall vibe is easygoing—good for a casual dinner or a small celebration.
Location: 104 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
6) The Sandbar
The Sandbar brings together Southern and Caribbean influences, with plenty of seafood front and center. They use fresh, local stuff, and there’s a solid mix of American and Southern-style dishes if you’re not in a seafood mood.
It’s got a laid-back, lively feel. You can eat inside or out on the patio, which is usually buzzing. If you’re craving comfort food with a coastal spin, this one’s a safe bet.
People mention the friendly service a lot, and the bar’s a nice spot to grab a drink and hang out.
Location: 101 Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
7) Fishcamp on Broad Creek
Fishcamp on Broad Creek sits in what used to be a fishing camp, and you can still feel that cabin-like vibe—patio, fire pit, the works. The menu’s mostly Southern-style seafood, and the setting’s just as inviting as the food.
It was started by the Reilley and Simmons families, who wanted a place where neighbors could gather and catch up. That sense of community is kind of baked into the experience.
There’s a nod to the area’s Gullah heritage, too, which is a nice touch. Fishcamp opened in 2016 and quickly found its fans.
Location: 11 Simmons Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
8) Poseidon
Poseidon is a casual seafood spot right in the heart of Hilton Head. The menu covers a lot: seafood, steaks, and there’s even a rooftop bar with live music if you’re up for it.
You’ll find oysters, sushi, and all kinds of shellfish at the raw bar. If you’re an early bird, they do early dining deals from 4 to 5:30 pm—always nice to beat the crowds and save a little.
Poseidon is also big on events and celebrations, and they sell coastal-themed gear if you want to take a little piece of Hilton Head home.
Location: 38 Shelter Cove Ln Ste 120, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
9) Old Oyster Factory Restaurant
Old Oyster Factory sits right on the water, with a rustic feel and a private pier for dining. The views of the Broad Creek marshlands are honestly worth the trip alone.
The menu’s got plenty of fresh oysters, seafood, and steaks. They do lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, plus a happy hour that’s popular with regulars. Families have been coming here since 1989, which says a lot.
It’s a laid-back spot, and the mix of seafood and steak options keeps everyone happy. The scenery doesn’t hurt, either.
Location: 101 Marshland Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
10) Carolina Crab Co
Carolina Crab Co sits right in Palmetto Bay Marina on Hilton Head Island, and it’s been dishing up fresh seafood since 2014. Folks love the Southern-inspired dishes and the laid-back vibe—there’s nothing stuffy about this spot.
The menu’s got a little bit of everything: lighter, healthier plates and plenty of Southern-style fried seafood if that’s what you’re after. You can grab a seat inside, but honestly, the pet-friendly patio is where it’s at, especially when there’s live music (which happens pretty often). It just feels festive, you know?
Brendan, Thomas, and Keith Reilley—the folks running the show—really seem to care about keeping prices fair while not cutting corners on quality. They’re open every day, so if you’re craving seafood, it’s a pretty easy choice.
Location: 86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
What Makes Hilton Head Island Seafood Unique
There’s something about Hilton Head Island seafood that just hits different. Maybe it’s the waters—fish are pulled in close to shore—or maybe it’s the way local chefs stick to Lowcountry roots while putting their own spin on things. Either way, it’s tough to find this exact flavor anywhere else.
Freshness and Local Sourcing
Most of the seafood you’ll find here is caught not far from where you’re sitting. Triggerfish, grouper, mahi, redfish—they’re all pretty common. That means what you get on your plate is about as fresh as it comes.
Restaurants tend to get deliveries daily, so the fish is firm and mild, not fishy or mushy. Chefs don’t have to do much—sometimes just a little seasoning or something more creative if they’re feeling inspired.
Sourcing locally isn’t just about taste, either. It keeps small fishermen in business and shortens the trip from ocean to table, which, honestly, you can taste.
Lowcountry Culinary Traditions
Seafood here is all tangled up with Lowcountry cooking. Shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, Lowcountry boil—these aren’t just classics, they’re everywhere.
The recipes keep things simple but full of flavor. Chefs want the seafood to shine, so you won’t find a ton of heavy sauces or complicated prep.
Some places stick to the old favorites, but plenty aren’t afraid to mix it up—think snapper or flounder with a new twist. And yeah, there’s usually some bold spice and fresh sides to round things out. It’s the kind of meal that feels like Hilton Head in a nutshell.
Seasonal Seafood on Hilton Head Island
What’s on the menu here shifts with the seasons—sometimes dramatically. Certain fish and shellfish pop up at different times, so local chefs are always tweaking things to make the most of what’s fresh.
Popular Catches by Season
Spring? That’s when shrimp and soft-shell crab start showing up everywhere. No surprise—they’re local favorites.
Summer’s got flounder and even horseshoe crab if you’re feeling adventurous. And when late summer rolls into fall, oysters are at their peak.
Come fall, blue crab and red snapper are the big draws. Grouper’s around too, especially if you know where to look.
Winter isn’t a bust—clams and scallops are still on the table, and fish like black drum seem to taste best when it’s chilly out.
How Restaurants Adapt Menus Seasonally
Menus here don’t stay the same for long. Chefs keep an eye on what’s coming off the boats and build dishes around that—keeps things interesting and, frankly, just better.
Some spots post daily specials depending on the catch. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, for example, is all about whatever’s fresh that day.
If you’re into fancier stuff, some restaurants roll out tasting menus in spring (hello, soft-shell crab) or fall (can’t go wrong with red snapper). Even the more casual places swap out their staple shrimp dishes and sides as the seasons change.
It’s a win-win: diners get the best flavors, and local fishermen keep busy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hilton Head Island’s seafood scene is a mix of waterfront hangouts, neighborhood markets, and low-key joints where locals go to unwind. Some places are a steal, others are more under-the-radar, and timing matters if you’re after the best crab.
What are the top-rated seafood restaurants in Hilton Head with waterfront dining?
Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks is a classic—right on the water, always buzzing, and the seafood’s reliably fresh. Skull Creek Dockside and Skull Creek Boathouse are also right up there if you want water views with your meal.
Where can I find the freshest seafood markets on Hilton Head Island?
Most of the fresh stuff comes in around Port Royal Sound. Check the markets near the docks and marinas—if you see a boat unloading, you know it’s the real deal.
Which seafood restaurants are considered hidden gems by Hilton Head locals?
The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek is one of those local favorites that slips under most tourists’ radar. The Sea Shack is another—super casual, nothing fancy, but the food’s just good.
Which restaurants offer the best value for seafood dining in Hilton Head?
Skull Creek Dockside usually gives you a lot for your money. The Sea Shack is kind of famous for being affordable and fresh, so it’s a go-to for budget-minded seafood fans.
What are some highly recommended casual seafood eateries in Hilton Head?
If you want something chill, The Sea Shack and The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek both fit the bill. No need to dress up, just good food and an easy-going vibe—great for families or if you’re just grabbing a quick bite.
When is the best time to enjoy crab dishes in Hilton Head?
If you’re eyeing the freshest crab dishes in Hilton Head, late spring rolling into early summer is really your sweet spot. That’s when local restaurants tend to get the best haul—honestly, it’s hard to beat the flavor and abundance during those months.
