Hilton Head Island's Best Waterfront Restaurants
Hudson's Seafood On the Docks, 1 Hudson Road, Hilton Head Island
Enjoy breathtaking views as well as delicious food while dining at Hudson's.
It's a Hilton Head Island tradition since 1967. They purchase their seafood from local fisherman, making sure it's as fresh as possible. Andrew Carmines - the founder and president of the Shell Ring Oyster Company and general manager of Hudson's Seafood on the Docks says that seafood on Hilton Head is extra special becasue we are truly blessed to has rich, bountiful bodies of water at our fingertips.
I asked Andrew for his tips on how to enjoy oysters for those who are first-timers and have never tried them. "Go to an oyster roast. Try them lightly steamed before you decide to eat them raw."
Ela's on the Water, Shelter Cove Harbor
Ela's offers seafood, prime cut steaks and beautiful views of the cove. their contemporary decor, romantic garden patio, and chich bar with live music make Ela's a favorite destination for casual dining.
The Quarterdeck, Harbour Town
Located. adjacent to Harbour Town's iconic lighthouse, it has become one of the hottest reservations town.
The landmark restaurant, which was first opened in 1971, was demolished in early 2021 and has been reconstructed. The new, much larger restaurant includes indooor and outdoor seating with a wraparound deck, an indoor bar and dining area on the first floor, and a rooftop oyster bar. The views include 270-degree views of Harbour Town Yacht Basin, the 18th hole of Harbour Town Golf Links and the Calibogue Sound.
Poseidon Coastal Cuisine at Shelter Cove
The biggest tip I learned from chef Carge is to stop cooking all the flavor out of your fish. If you're looking for that juicy, nice piece of fish, you want a little pink in the middle - that's perfect. For example, when cooking ,mahi, 2 to 3 minutes per side should do it, and then right at the end do a little dollop of butter - baste and serve."
Thanksgiving thoughts
I asked, "what do you suggest for Thanksgiving?" "Get out of your holiday ruts and try something different this year. Try somethiing new when you have family and friends over. For example, last year I got some lobsters, had our neighbors over and for Christmas dinner we baked lobster with miso butter and everybody loved it."
One of his favorite dishes to prepare is Cioppino, especially when he can find delicious littleneck clams.
Coast, 87 N. Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head
Coast offers some of the best seafood in the island and spectacular views of the ocean.
It's located in the prestigious Sea Pines Beach Club.