Hilton Head and the Low Country Restaurants

We’ve compiled the best of the best in Hilton Head and the Low Country - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.

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  • 1. Captain Woody's

    $$ | South End

    If you're looking for a fun, casual, kid-friendly seafood restaurant, this vibrant joint offers creamy crab bisque, oysters on the half shell, and a sampler platter that includes crab legs, shrimp, and oysters. Open daily for lunch and dinner, plus a Sunday brunch, Captain Woody's has indoor and outdoor seating. A second location in Bluffton features a rooftop deck.

    6 Target Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–2400

    Known For

    • Grouper sandwiches, including the buffalo grouper, grouper melt, and grouper Reuben
    • A lively atmosphere
    • Good happy hour

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted, Reservations not accepted
  • 2. Coast

    $$$ | South End | Seafood

    An oceanfront restaurant can often count on its real estate to bring in diners, but this casual yet upscale seafood spot at the Sea Pines Beach Club doesn't cut corners in the kitchen. There is plenty of Southern-inspired fare for landlubbers, but the real gems are the raw bar platter and the day's featured fish entrée.

    87 North Sea Pines Dr. , Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-842–1888

    Known For

    • Lively patio (and indoor) dining with horizon views across the ocean
    • A Cajun-influenced lobster roll
    • The adjacent Ocean Lounge cocktail bar
  • 3. Hilton Head Social Bakery

    $ | Mid-Island | Bakery

    It's impossible to stop in just for a baguette or sourdough loaf at this unassuming French-owned bakery and bistro—you'll inevitably be tempted by the lush pain au chocolat and cinnamon buns. The owner/chef, a Normandy native, was the executive chef at New York's Tavern On the Green and Windows on the World before relocating to Hilton Head.

    Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, 17 Harborside La., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-715–3349

    Known For

    • Savory tarts and croque-monsieur for lunch
    • Thoughtfully sourced ingredients
    • Decadent eclairs washed down with good coffee

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. seasonally
  • 4. Hudson's Seafood House

    $$$ | North End | Seafood

    Built over the water on Port Royal Sound, this classic seafood joint buys its fish and shrimp directly from the boats that dock there, and the staff raises their own oysters and soft-shell crabs with an in-house mariculture program. Dining here feels like stepping back 50 years into an authentic waterfront dive, including the locally sourced, same-day-fresh seafood that's now often hard to find.

    1 Hudson Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29926, USA
    843-681–2772

    Known For

    • Sunsets at the open air waterfront bar
    • Happy hour mai tais and seafood specials
    • Oysters grown by the restaurant-owned Shell Ring Oyster Company
  • 5. Lowcountry Produce

    $ | Downtown Historic District | American

    If you don't impulsively order the tomato pie atop the glass display case—and you won't go wrong if you do—try the fried oysters, a lobster po'boy, or what may be the best shrimp and grits in town. There's table service and counter-order options, and plenty of jams, relishes, and pickled okra in their on-site market to stock your pantry at home.

    302 Carteret St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-322–1900

    Known For

    • Excellent selection of culinary gifts and souvenirs
    • Colorful, airy decor that welcomes you in
    • Hearty, satisfying breakfast entrées
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

  • 6. Plums

    $ | Downtown Historic District

    This popular local eatery still uses family recipes for its soups, crab-cake sandwiches, and curried chicken salad. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, Plums is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal outside and to take in the beautiful views of downtown Beaufort.

    904 Bay St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-525–1946

    Known For

    • Tasty raw bar
    • Inventive burgers and sandwiches for lunch
    • Great location on Waterfront Park

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted
  • 7. Signe's Heaven Bound Bakery & Café

    $ | South End

    Since 1972, Signe's has been serving freshly made baked goods as well as delicious breakfast and lunch options on Hilton Head. Signature dishes range from deep-dish French toast and crispy polenta to curried chicken salad and specialty quiches. The intimate eatery features indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a to-go counter. It's the perfect place to grab sandwiches or salads for a picnic lunch. Don't forget the hand-crafted cakes, pies, and pastries for dessert.

    93 Arrow Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9118

    Known For

    • Homemade breads, cookies, cakes, and pies
    • The “beach bag” (a lunch packed with goodies to take to the beach)
    • Cozy, friendly atmosphere

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun., Credit cards accepted
  • 8. The Sea Shack

    $ | South End | Seafood

    Heaping plates of fried seafood and hearty po'boys are worth the long line at this local staple counter-serve. The humble dining room and open kitchen suit the mouthwatering platters perfectly. Local tip: During the busy summer months, call in your order for pickup and skip the line.

    6 Executive Park Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–2464

    Known For

    • Eclectic seafood options like gator, frog legs, and conch fritters
    • Blueberry key lime pie
    • Over a dozen varieties of fish on the daily menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
  • 9. A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant

    $$ | South End

    This unassuming little restaurant located off Palmetto Bay Road serves excellent seafood dishes with Southern flavor in a laid-back setting with indoor and outdoor seating. Don't ignore the full bar that serves South Carolina moonshine. The outdoor area also has games for kids as well as a water feature and quirky decor.

    32 Palmetto Bay Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9273

    Known For

    • Funky atmosphere
    • Excellent shrimp and grits
    • Fun for kids and families
  • 10. Black Marlin Bayside Grill

    $$$ | South End

    This busy restaurant specializing in seafood dishes such as chowder and fish tacos is open for lunch and dinner every day, and brunch on the weekend. Located in Palmetto Bay Marina, the Black Marlin has indoor and outdoor seating, as well as family-style meals available for takeout.

    86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–4950

    Known For

    • A hopping happy hour
    • An outdoor Hurricane Bar
    • Weekend oyster roasts during winter

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted
  • 11. Breakwater Restaurant & Bar

    $$$ | Downtown Historic District

    This classy downtown restaurant offers small tasting plates such as tuna crudo and fried shrimp, as well as main dishes like lamb meat loaf and filet mignon with a truffle demi-glace. The presentation is as contemporary as the decor. There's an attractive bar area and an impressive and affordable wine list.

    203 Carteret St., Beaufort, South Carolina, 29902, USA
    843-379–0052

    Known For

    • Contemporary approach to Lowcountry cuisine
    • Elegant atmosphere
    • Local loyalty

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun., Credit cards accepted
  • 12. Charlie's L'Etoile Verte

    $$$ | Mid-Island

    This family-owned culinary landmark has been serving French cuisine with a Lowcountry flair since 1982. While the handwritten menu changes daily, classic dishes like escargot, pate, and rack of lamb remain the same. From lunch, dinner, desserts, and curbside pickup, the "green star" shines.

    8 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9277

    Known For

    • Extensive wine list (more than 500 bottles)
    • 14 varying seafood entrées offered nightly
    • Fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch Sat., Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential
  • 13. Frankie Bones

    $$$ | North End

    The early '60s theme here appeals to an older crowd that likes the traditional Italian dishes on the early dining menu, but younger patrons who order flatbread pizzas and small plates can be found at the bar area. Some dishes have innovative twists, including the 16-ounce rib eye with a sweetened coffee rub. Reservations are accepted at both the Hilton Head and Bluffton locations.

    1301 Main St., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29926, USA
    843-682–4455

    Known For

    • Cool twists on traditional dishes
    • Drinks for dessert, like a key lime colada martini and house-made limoncello
    • The 24-ounce "Godfather Cut" prime rib

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted, Reservations essential
  • 14. Hinoki

    $$ | South End

    Slip into a peaceful oasis through a tunnel of bamboo at Hinoki, which has arguably the best sushi on the island. Try the Hilton Head roll, which is whitefish tempura and avocado; the Hinoki roll with asparagus, spicy fish roe, tuna and avocado; or the amazing tuna sashimi salad with spicy mayo, cucumbers, onions, salmon roe, and crabmeat.

    37 New Orleans Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–9800

    Known For

    • Super-fresh sushi with more than 50 menu items
    • Extensive sake menu
    • Udon noodle dishes and bento boxes

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch Mon. and Sat., Credit cards accepted
  • 15. Johnson Creek Tavern

    $$

    There are times when you just want a cold one accompanied by some raw oysters. If that's the case, head out to Harbor Island to this relaxed hangout with outside seating and lovely marsh views. The stellar location and friendly atmosphere make Johnson Creek Tavern a worthy Lowcountry destination.

    2141 Sea Island Pkwy., Harbor Island, South Carolina, 29920, USA
    843-838–4166

    Known For

    • Friendly atmosphere
    • Fresh seafood
    • Cheap happy hour specials
  • 16. Kenny B's French Quarter Cafe

    $ | South End

    Surrounded by Mardi Gras memorabilia, owner Kenny himself cooks up jambalaya, gumbo, and muffaletta sandwiches at this family-run, Cajun-inspired restaurant that has been serving locals and tourists since 1999. The extensive menu also features Southern staples such as crab cakes and shrimp and grits.

    70 Pope Ave., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-785–3315

    Known For

    • Colorful mural and decor
    • No reservations, so be prepared to wait
    • Beignets like they're made in New Orleans

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues., Credit cards accepted
  • 17. Mi Tierra

    $$ | South End

    This traditional Mexican restaurant has tile floors, colorful sombreros, and paintings of chili peppers hanging on the walls. Don't forget to order the guacamole and bean dip with your margarita and try the enchiladas suizas, tortillas filled with chicken and topped with green tomatillo sauce, sour cream, and avocado.

    130 Arrow Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-342–3409

    Known For

    • Authentic Mexican comfort food
    • Signature dish arroz con camarones—butterfly shrimp sautéed with garlic butter and vegetables
    • Daily specials and affordable kids' menu

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted
  • 18. Old Daufuskie Crab Company Restaurant

    $$

    This outpost, with its rough-hewn tables facing the water, serves up Gullah-inspired fare with specialties such as Daufuskie deviled crab and chicken salad on buttery grilled rolls. Entrées include shrimp and local seafood, while the Lowcountry buffet features pulled pork, fried chicken, and sides like butter beans and potato salad.

    1 Cooper River Landing Rd., Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, 29915, USA
    843-785–6652

    Known For

    • Incredible sunsets
    • Colorful bar
    • Reggae and rock music

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted
  • 19. One Hot Mama's

    $$ | South End

    This barbecue joint has an upbeat atmosphere, colorful walls, multiple flat-screen TVs, and an outdoor patio with a big brick fireplace. With baby back ribs, award-winning pulled pork sandwiches, great burgers, and a fun kids' menu, you should expect to bring your appetite to One Hot Mama's. There is a location on the south end of the island, and also one in Bluffton.

    7A Greenwood Dr., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29928, USA
    843-682–6262

    Known For

    • Lots of fun in the “Barmuda Triangle” (other bars are just steps away)
    • Award-winning wings with sauces like strawberry-jalapeño
    • A delectable rib sampler that includes "Hot Asian" and chocolate barbecue
  • 20. Skull Creek Boathouse

    $$ | North End

    Soak up the salty atmosphere in this complex of dining areas where almost every table has a view of the water. Outside is a third dining area and a bar called the Marker 13 Buoy Bar, where Adirondack chairs invite you to sit back, listen to live music, and catch the sunset.

    397 Squire Pope Rd., Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 29926, USA
    843-681–3663

    Known For

    • An adjacent outdoor Sunset Landing beer garden
    • Tasty sandwiches and po'boys with a Southern twist
    • Sushi, ceviche, and carpaccio from the Dive Bar

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted

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