Hilton Head Island sits at the heart of the South Carolina Lowcountry, where the Atlantic meets a network of tidal creeks, salt marshes, and shrimp boat docks. That geography makes fresh seafood not just a menu category but a way of life. From the legendary shrimp boats that dock at Hudson's to the raw oyster bars lining Shelter Cove marina, the island's seafood scene is among the best on the East Coast. These are the restaurants we return to again and again — the ones that do justice to what the water provides.
The most authentic seafood experience on the island. Hudson's has its own shrimp boats — the catch comes off the dock and onto your plate the same day. The steamed shrimp and fried flounder are benchmarks everything else gets measured against.
Built on the site of Hilton Head's original oyster cannery, this waterfront institution serves some of the best oysters on the island alongside a full menu of Lowcountry classics. The marsh views at sunset are unmatched.
Three decks of waterfront dining with one of the best sunset views on the island. The seafood is reliably fresh, the portions are generous, and the outdoor bar scene makes it a destination in its own right.
The marina setting and rotating selection of East and West Coast oysters make this the go-to raw bar on the island. The wine list is thoughtfully curated to pair with the menu.
The island's most acclaimed seafood restaurant. Chef-driven preparations, an exceptional wine list, and a menu that changes with the seasons. The seared fish dishes are technically flawless.
French technique applied to Lowcountry ingredients. The bouillabaisse is the best on the island, and the wine list is one of the most serious you'll find outside Charleston.
The oldest working oyster factory in South Carolina, now a beloved waterfront restaurant. The May River oysters here are singular — briny, plump, and harvested just yards from where you're sitting.
Upscale Intracoastal Waterway dining with a menu that leans into the best of what's local and seasonal. The whole roasted fish and the raw bar selections are consistently excellent.
Editorial note: Food Hilton Head does not accept payment for inclusion in these guides. Every restaurant listed here has been visited and evaluated by our editorial team. We update our picks regularly as restaurants open, change, and evolve. Read our methodology →
